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This is the Beijing Hour.
Examining the events that impact and shape China, and the rest of the world.
This is the Beijing Hour.
One hour of news and information brought to you every weekday.
Now here's your host, Shane Begomithu, on this Tuesday, December 31st, 2024.
We're listening to the Beijing Hour, coming to you live from the Chinese capital.
On today's program, South Korean authorities have issued an arrest warrant against the country's president.
China's unveiled development plans as it vows to promote water conservation.
People around the world are remembering humanitarian and former U .S.
President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday.
In business, China's manufacturing sector continued to recover through December.
In sports, China's top tennis stars make it to the quarterfinals of the United Cup.
In culture and entertainment, the U .U .N.
Garden Lantern Festival celebrates 30 years.
Now checking the day's top stories.
South Korean courts issued an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Seok -hyul and a search of the presidential residence.
But investigators have not set a schedule for the execution of the warrants.
It marks the first time in modern history that South Korea has issued an arrest warrant against a sitting president.
Yoon faces a criminal investigation into possible insurrection charges over his martial law declaration.
And Soo -min Yoo has more from Seoul.
This is a constitutional first for South Korea, which makes President Yoon Seok -hyeul the first sitting South Korean president to face an arrest while in office.
Now the Seoul Western District Court has issued an arrest warrant earlier today against President Yoon Seok -hyul.
Now this warrant was requested by the Corruption Investigation Office for high ranking officials, and includes charges of insurrection and obstructing the exercise of right through abuse of authority.
Now this comes after Yoon has rejected all three previous summons from the CIO to appear for questioning over the short -lived imposition of martial law.
Now the court has also approved a search warrant for the presidential residence in Hannam -dong Yongsan -gu District, where President Yoon has been staying.
Now the CIO is expected to move quickly to actually execute the arrest warrant and head to President Yoon's residence in Hannam -dong Yongsan -gu District to execute.
But this is probably going to involve some high -stakes operation.
Now after the court's issuance of arrest warrant, an official from the presidential security office has said that this will be taken in accordance with the due process regarding the search warrant.
Concerns have been brewing over the potential clashes of presidential security service, which has previously obstructed law enforcement efforts.
Well typically, an arrest warrant remains valid for one week from the date of issuance.
But given the heightened level of security and resistance from the presidential security service, the next 48 hours will be crucial.
Now President Yoon remains suspended from his duties following the impeachment by the National Assembly earlier this month.
And the Constitutional Court has up to six months to rule on whether to uphold or overturn the impeachment.
Acting President Choi Sang -Wook has recently been booked by the police along with other high ranking officials with charges relevant to insurrection further complicating the matters.
Now the issuance of this arrest warrant is really sending shockwaves across the political circle as it signifies the gravity of this very case.
That was Soo Min -yoo reporting.
South Korean police have vowed to speed up identifying the bodies of victims killed in a plane crash on the weekend.
The Jeju Air flight burst into flames after a failed landing attempt at Muen International Airport killing over 170 people.
The airport will remain closed until January 7th.
Authorities are racing to uncover the cause of the tragedy as families demand answers.
Shane Ham has more.
The fateful Jeju Air flight 7C2216 reportedly suffered a bird strike just minutes before touchdown.
South Korea's transport ministry says the pilots declared an emergency and signaled their intent to go around.
The control tower advised the pilot with the phrase caution bird activity.
At 859 a .m. the pilot reported an emergency declaration and go around due to a bird strike.
The pilot declared Mayday Mayday Mayday three times and used the terms bird strike and go around.
Despite the warning the plane belly landed and then skidded off the runway into a concrete embankment and erupted in flames.
Experts are questioning why such a wall existed at the end of the runway rather than safety systems designed to stop overrunning aircraft.
Right now the focus is on analyzing the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder which sustained damage in the crash.
Officials meanwhile say identifying all the victims may take days.
All the while families are demanding answers and support.
The bodies are so severely damaged that we are in a situation where we need to recover and piece them together one by one.
That's the current reality.
Additionally we have requested more medical personnel and resources to be deployed to this area.
South Korea's acting president Chisang Mok has ordered an emergency inspection of all airlines beginning with the 101 Boeing 737 -800 aircraft currently operated by South Korean carriers.
Since the accidents occurred we plan to conduct a special inspection of the B737 -800 first look closely at the maintenance management system and decide on further measures.
As investigators examine potential mechanical failures in pilot decision making, grieving families are left waiting for closure.
That was Shane Hamm reporting.
A UN spokesperson said that the Secretary General was deeply saddened by the news of the plane crash in South Korea.
Florencia Sotonino Martinez said the Secretary General extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with the people and governments of the Republic of Korea, in which a swift and full recovery to those injured in this tragic incident.
The accident killed 179 people with two flight attendants as the only survivors.
Further investigations underway.
UN Secretary General Antoni Guterres says hope was hard to find in 2024, describing it as a year of wars, division and inequality.
In his New Year's message, the UN chief pledged to forge a more peaceful, equal, stable and healthy future for all people in 2025.
In 2025 countries must put the world on a safer path by dramatically slashing emissions and supporting the transition to a renewable future.
It is essential and it is possible.
Even in the darkest days, I've seen hope power change.
I see hope in activists, young and old, raising their voices for progress.
I see hope in humanitarian heroes, overcoming enormous obstacles to support the most vulnerable people.
I see hope in developing countries, fighting for financial and climate justice.
Guterres listed conflict and climate change as the drivers of suffering.
He said a gathering of leaders who came together in September to adopt the pact for the future also gave a new push to building peace through disarmament and prevention.
Coming up, China's plan for supporting water conservation.
Dive into news like never before with Deep Dive, the podcast from CGTN radio.
Join our global reporters for captivating stories and thought -provoking conversations.
Search Deep Dive on your favorite podcast platforms and get ready to dive in.
Eight minutes past the hour, China's vowed to promote the high -quality development of the water conservancy sector for national water security.
Authorities have unveiled the country's progress in the sector and outlined development plans for the future.
Soon Tianyuan has more.
China's Ministry of Water Resources highlighted key achievements from the past year, accelerating the development of the National Water Network.
It was one of the major tasks in 2024.
To give you an overview, China is a country facing water shortages and uneven distribution.
Over the past year, about 40 major water network projects were launched.
These connections aim to balance regional water resources and support sustainable economic growth.
The Ministry noted that water infrastructure investment had played a crucial role in boosting economic stability and employment.
This year, more than 47 ,000 water projects were implemented, with total investment surpassing a record -breaking 1 .3 trillion yuan.
That's about US $180 billion.
These projects have also created jobs for over 3 million people.
In terms of rural water supply, the Ministry says over 20 ,000 such projects were completed in rural areas over the past year.
Tap water coverage now stands at 94 percent.
The project has improved access for more than 100 million rural residents and helped mitigate drought impacts to support China's record food production in 2024.
Besides drought, the country was also dealing with flooding.
The Ministry pointed out the weather conditions were challenging over the past year, issued more than millions of earnings warnings during the flood season while advanced technologies like digital twins were used to simulate and enhance flood management.
Over 140 billion cubic meters of flood water were intercepted and diverted to protect people's lives and properties.
While authorities also reported progress in water conservation and ecological protection of rivers and lakes, they promised to continue pushing high -quality development and ensuring China's water security in a year to come.
That was Sun Tienyuan reporting.
China's growth towards visa -free transit and travel has fueled a surge in international arrivals.
Pablo Gutierrez spoke to some of the visitors from Budapest who have made use of this policy.
Viktor Bereb has been promoting Hungary and Central Europe as a destination for Chinese tourists for over a decade.
But now many Europeans are taking a chance to go the other way.
Bereb says China's new visa -free policy for citizens from 38 European countries will open many new opportunities.
China is a very, very fascinating and interesting country.
On one side they have their rich history that goes back 5 ,000 years, and on the other hand that rapid and robust development that they have been through in the past 20 years, 30 years, 40 years.
I think you have to see this.
Europeans have to see this.
While the visa -free policy currently applies to tourists, many young people hope it could pave the way for more academic exchanges with China.
Then you can really see what society there is really like and be a part of it and learn all of it basically more than you would as a tourist.
Under the new policy, travelers can now visit for up to 30 days without navigating a lengthy visa application process.
This visa -free policy will remain in effect until the end of 2025, giving travelers plenty of time to explore China.
Travel experts say China's visa -free policy is expected to boost opportunities for Europeans from exploring cultural sites to strengthening business ties with the world's second -largest economy.
In Slovakia, before the pandemic, around 18 ,000 tourists visited China each year.
Experts say that number could triple.
We want to promote China's luxury destination.
You can fly very good business class, you can stay in five -star hotels, and you can explore the traditional culture.
And this will be the main topic of our campaign.
And of course, without visa, it's so easy.
In Croatia, local tourism agencies like IDEA Travel are also gearing up for a boom in bookings to destinations like Beijing and Shanghai.
Meanwhile, China has become the second most popular destination for German business travelers after the United States due to strong economic ties.
China is Germany's largest trading partner with trade reaching $320 billion last year.
Many say the new policy is also advantageous for Beijing.
Generally speaking, I think it's way from the Chinese side to improve relations to the European Union and its member states.
Budapest Airport, a key hub in central Europe, has been gearing up for more travel to China.
With 13 weekly flights connecting Budapest to four Chinese cities, travel between the two countries is expected to grow.
Meanwhile, Hungarian travel experts like Verev are working with Chinese tourism officials to promote the country as a must -see destination.
That was Pablo Gutierrez reporting.
Coming up, remembrances around the world for humanitarian and former U .S.
President Jimmy Carter.
Fourteen minutes past the hour, many people around the world are remembering former U .S.
President Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100 on Sunday.
Jim Spellman has more.
Former U .S. President Jimmy Carter leaves behind a legacy of promoting peace and international relations.
In China, Carter is remembered for his role in normalizing relations between Washington and Beijing as president in the late 1970s, and he visited China multiple times after his time in office.
In a statement, Chinese President Xi Jinping noted Carter's commitment to good relations between China and the U .S.
and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs commented on Carter's passing.
China expresses deep condolences for the passing of former U .S.
President Jimmy Carter.
Former President Carter was a promoter and decision -maker in establishing diplomatic relations between China and the U .S.
He made significant contributions to the development of China -U .S.
relations over the years.
In Europe, U .S. allies are praising Carter's legacy.
On social media, U .K.
Prime Minister Kier Starmer noted Carter's selfless public service.
French President Emmanuel Macron posted that Carter tirelessly fought for peace, and German Chancellor Olaf Schulz wrote, The world has lost a great mediator for peace in the Middle East and for human rights.
As President, Carter focused on peace between Israel and Arab countries, culminating in the Camp David accords between Egypt and Israel in 1978, and the historic peace treaty between the two countries that followed the next year.
So let us now play a side war.
Let us now reward all the children of Abraham who hunger for a comprehensive peace.
He remained committed to peace in the Middle East after his time in office, including visiting Gaza.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el -Sisi wrote on X, And Carter's spirit will live on through the work of Habitat for Humanity, the nonprofit organization that builds houses for those in need in the U .S.
and more than 70 countries around the world.
While dating back to the 1980s, Carter could often be found volunteering for the organization.
Jimmy Carter is remembered as a man who took on the biggest challenges on the world stage, but also as a man who led by example, living a homeable life dedicated to serving others.
So I say peace and human rights and treating everybody the same has been what I hope will be my legacy.
That was a report on the worldwide remembrance for former U .S.
President Jimmy Carter.
UN humanitarians warn that Israel's attacks in Gaza are dismantling the very means of survival in this trip.
They say Israel has been crippling humanitarian access and launching attacks on civilians, healthcare and emergency services.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs issued the warning following an Israeli raid on Kamal Adman Hospital, and the detention of 240 people, including the hospital's director.
The WHO says the raids forced the last major health facility in northern Gaza to close.
Displaced Palestinians are also suffering from cold weather.
There have been reports of newborns frozen to death amid bitter winter conditions and lack of shelter.
Ami Abigail has more from Haniness.
People here are unable to manage, with the storms hitting the territory from time to time, especially during this winter time.
Recently, the people had their tents torn apart because of the storm and the rains, the heavy rains that fill on them on the tents in Dar al -Bala in Haniness.
And the flooding of the water, floods of the water, enter the tents and waking them up forcibly in the middle of night.
This situation is repeated in the territory amidst the lack of supplies needed to repair the tents that, according to local estimates, 80 % of those tents that shelter about hundreds of thousands of people are being torn about and need immediate repair.
This comes against the backdrop of the United Nations suggestion or warnings, recent warnings by United Nations, that hundreds of tons of supplies needed for the tents and grilling blankets and other supplies needed for the shelter tents are stuck on the border lines on the Egyptian side of the border
because of the border closure, the Rafah crossing terminal.
This is for the displaced people for under these storms.
Actually, in terms of the Northern Gaza Strip hospitals and United Nations warnings against the Israeli actions against hospitals, today the Indonesian hospital in Northern Gaza Strip was stormed, was actually surrounded by Israeli army, and 10 patients were transferred from the Indonesian hospital
to the al -Shifa hospital in Gaza city.
Four of them were reported, four of them were reportedly detained by the Israeli army.
Also I'd like to note here that the Israeli media report suggests that 106 Palestinian militants have been killed in an Israeli raid from the sea and the air after these people of these militants were preparing to leave the Northern Gaza towards Gaza city.
This is the situation, Jamie, for the time being, ending Gaza Strip.
That was Rami Amagari in Southern Gaza.
Israel continues to target Syrian weapons and military infrastructure.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says an Israeli airstrike close to Damascus on the weekend killed at least 11 people.
The Israeli military did not comment on the strike.
Jonathan Regev has more from Tel Aviv.
Israeli forces are present in Syria.
We do know that Israeli sources have said in the past, they've been quoted as saying that until Israel understands that there's some responsible factor on the other side that can assume the power all over Syria, but especially on the border area, Israel has no plans to move.
Therefore, at least for the moment, Israeli forces are staying there.
There is some criticism, even from within the army, on the presence of Israeli forces in the area.
There are officers within the army, unnamed officers, we have to say, that combat units should be fighting, should be in their combat positions in Gaza, and not sort of watching agricultures who are working on the Syrian side of the border.
This is what is being said among some officers of the Israeli army, but the official stance for now is that the IDF will maintain its presence on the Syrian side of the border, since Israel does not really know who is this regime on the other side, who are the people controlling there.
We know that Foreign Minister Gidon Sa 'ar, for example, said that these are jihadist militants and Israel does not have faith in them for the moment, at least until there's some kind of a change in that policy, or until we know the direction that Syria is heading to, this will be the Israeli policy
and the IDF forces will remain in Syrian territory.
That was Jonathan Regev reporting.
A top UN official expressed grave concern over attacks in Israel, Yemen, and the Red Sea.
Mohammed Khaled Khiari is the Assistant Secretary General for the Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific, and he warned that with further military escalation, millions throughout the region would continue to bear the brunt of conflict with no end.
Since 13 December, the Houthis have claimed at least 11 attacks targeting Israel using ballistic missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles.
On 19 December, Israel conducted air strikes that targeted energy and port infrastructures in the Houthi -controlled ports of Hudaydah, Salif and Ras Isa, as well as Sana 'a.
Khiari said the UN continues to call for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN and other personnel arbitrarily detained by the Houthis.
The top UN officials said attacks in Israel and Yemen, as well as in the Red Sea, are of grave concern, warning that further military escalation could jeopardize regional stability.
Chinese envoy has called on the UN Security Council to work out effective solutions to the Middle East issues in the new year.
Gangxuang is China's deputy permanent representative of the UN.
He made their marks at a Security Council meeting on the current situation in the Middle East.
Gangxuang said this year has witnessed escalating conflicts and spreading tensions in the region.
As the year -end approaches, the tensions in Yemen are heating up rapidly.
The Houthi militants are frequently attacking merchant ships in the Red Sea, disrupting international shipping and trade.
The United States, Israel and other countries have continued to strike Yemen, resulting in significant casualties.
The Houthi militants in Israel are becoming more bold and exchanging threats, further escalating the already tense situation.
This is deeply concerning.
The envoy said an immediate and long -lasting ceasefire in Gaza is a prerequisite for all efforts.
He also urged the Houthis to stop harassing commercial shipping and other attacks, adding that airstrikes in Yemen should also be halted.
Gangxuang said China calls for a just and long -lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue.
The facts have repeatedly proven that the Palestinian issue is at the core of the Middle East crisis.
Only by sorrow resolving the Palestinian issue can the Middle East truly realize peace and stability.
The international community should take urgent action to create the political framework for a two -state solution.
The envoy also called on countries in the Middle East to respect each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity and settle disputes and conflicts through dialogue and negotiation.
Research from a Global Food Monitor claims that there are acute levels of hunger in five Sudanese regions.
It says another 17 areas will face the threat of famine next year, but the Sudanese government has rejected the claim.
The civil war between the Sudanese armed forces and the rapid support forces has left millions of people displaced.
Nabhat Mohadeen has more from Port Sudan.
The Sudanese government has come out strongly against the latest report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification System, or IPC, a standardized system thus designed to help governments, UN agencies and other organizations analyze and communicate the severity of food insecurity and malnutrition.
Officials had been cooperating with the IPC amid a devastating civil war that, according to the UN, has brought widest -bred hunger across the country.
However, last week the Sudan government decided to pull out, accusing it of issuing unreliable reports that undermine Sudan's sovereignty and dignity.
The government held a briefing in the temporary capital of Port Sudan to explain, on the one hand, its anger over the revelations, and on another, what the army's been doing to alleviate the suffering in the hardest -hit places.
The report referred to five states under the threat of famine from October 2024 to February 2025, not already suffering hunger crisis.
The report also talked about statistics of 15 states out of 18 states, but they didn't have access on the ground to evaluate the situation, and they relied on old data of 2022 and estimated the figures.
It's not accurate, nor realistic.
The Sudanese government has delivered over 1 ,700 trucks of food and aid in the past months for four Dafur states, except al -Fashir, as it's being besieged by the RSF militia and they are not allowing aid delivery.
There is no hunger crisis, but the RSF is using intentional starvation and should end it now, following the Security Council's decision to end the siege of al -Fashir.
Fighting broke out in Sudan in April 2023 over a power struggle between the army and a paramilitary group called the Rabbit Support Forces, or the RSF.
It quickly expanded from the capital cartoon to affect most parts of the country.
That was Nabhat Mohadeen reporting.
He says the hearing will be on January 14.
He warned that they will issue an arrest warrant if Morales does not appear.
Morales served as president from 2006 to 19, and is facing charges of human trafficking and rape.
He's denied the charges, claiming a violation of his constitutional rights.
28 past the hour, checking the forecast at the break.
In Beijing, it's down to minus 3 overnight, sunny skies in 6 degrees on Wednesday.
Nansheng is down to 4, then sunny in 16.
Elsewhere, Islam abeds 7 overnight, then cloudy skies in 18 Wednesday.
Vientiane is down to 15, then sunny in 28.
Phnom Penh is at 24 this evening and then sunshine in 31.
In Africa, in Nairobi, it will see sunny skies in 26 degrees on Wednesday.
Compile is down to 17 and then sunny conditions in 28.
Finally, to Oceania, Port Vilep, 24 overnight, moderate rainfall in 29 degrees Celsius on Wednesday.
The Pia will see cloudy skies in 28 degrees Celsius tomorrow.
It's time for a short break so far this hour.
South Korean authorities have issued an arrest warrant against the country's president.
China's unveiled development plans as it vows to promote water conservation.
And people around the world are remembering humanitarian and former U .S.
President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday.
Shane Viggen with you.
Stay with us here on The Beijing Hour.
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Examining the events that impact and shape China and the rest of the world.
This is The Beijing Hour.
One hour of news and information brought to you every weekday.
Now here's your host Shane Bigam with you on this Tuesday.
Still to come? In business, China's manufacturing sector continued to recover through December.
In sports, China's top tennis stars make the quarterfinals at the United Cup.
In culture and entertainment, the UUN Garden Lantern Festival celebrates 30 years.
To contact us you can email radio at cgtn .com or follow our X account at CGTN Radio.
First of all, check out the day's headline news.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged a united effort to build a strong country.
He made the remarks at a gathering of the country's top political advisory body to usher in the New Year.
President Xi said China has met its major economic and social development targets for 2024.
He said efforts will be made to implement more proactive policies in 2025 to promote sustained economic recovery, enhance living standards, and maintain social harmony and stability.
The Chinese presidents exchanged New Year greetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
President Xi said China and Russia are moving forward on a path of non -alliance, non -confrontation, and no targeting of any third party.
He said that political mutual trust and coordination between the two sides have reached a higher level under the strategic guidance of the two leaders.
The Chinese leader said that he's ready to maintain close exchanges with President Putin and maintain the general direction of China -Russia cooperation, consolidating and deepening China -Russia ties.
Train tickets for China's upcoming Spring Festival travel rush are now on sale.
Hundreds of millions of people will return home for family reunions.
The 40 -day peak travel period starts on January 14.
The railway -booking platform has added new services for passengers this year, including ticket preregistration and sales.
A South Korean court issued a warrant to arrest impeached President Yoon Seok -yul and search the presidential residence.
But investigators have not yet set a schedule for the execution of the warrants.
It marks the first time in modern history that South Korea has issued an arrest warrant against a sitting president.
Yoon faces a criminal investigation into possible insurrection charges over his martial law declaration.
United Arab Emirates says it successfully mediated the exchange of 300 captives between Russia and Ukraine.
It said that each sided freed 150 war captives, bringing the total number of captives released to 2 ,484 on the year.
The UAE Foreign Ministry reiterated its dedication to pursuing peaceful solutions to the Ukraine conflict.
This marked the tenth successful exchange of Russian and Ukrainian captives mediated by the UAE in 2024.
A UN spokesperson said that over 1 .7 million people received bread assistance in one month, but insecurity is hampering broader aid efforts.
Florencia Soto Nino Martinez said that violence and insecurity persist in key areas, including Aleppo, Homs, and Hama.
Despite these challenges, humanitarian partners delivered critical assistance.
On 27 December, hostilities were reported in Deir Ezzor, approximately one kilometer from our UN offices there.
From our part and our response, actual reports across Syria, over 1 .7 million people have received bread assistance in one month.
And that is as of 29 December, and that's a total of 265 ,109 people were also provided with other food assistance.
The official said that rapid needs assessments are ongoing in affected regions as aid agencies attempt to address growing humanitarian needs.
A spike in deadly gang violence has prompted the Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago to implement a countrywide state of emergency.
Acting Attorney General Stuart Young said the state of emergency will not see a curfew.
Authorities have told residents to expect an increased police and military presence.
At this stage, the government has taken the decision there is not going to be any curfew.
That decision is because the targeting of this national public state of emergency is on those who engage in criminal activity with criminal intent.
Law enforcement officers would also have the ability to conduct searches, detain suspects for 48 hours and conduct arrests without a warrant.
Schools, businesses and the upcoming New Year celebrations were expected to proceed as scheduled.
The declaration followed a weekend marred by a spate of gang -related violence that resulted in many deaths.
This is Shane Bingham in the Chinese Capital.
Coming up in business, China's manufacturing sector continued to recover through December.
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36 past the hour. In business, stock markets on the Chinese mainland closed lower on Tuesday.
At the Shanghai composite, it was down more than 1 .6%.
The Shenzhen component lost 2 .4%.
The forestry and the natural gas sectors were among the top gainers, though.
The Heng -Seng index was almost flat.
In Japan, the Nikkei dipped nearly 1%.
China's manufacturing sector continued its recovery in December, with the purchasing managers' index standing at 50 .1%.
The figure marks three consecutive months in the expansion zone.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the country's economic recovery momentum persisted this month, supported by policy efforts.
Liu Yu -hong from the China Logistics Information Centre says the achievements laid a solid foundation for a strong start in 2025.
In the fourth quarter, the balance between supply and demand in social production and business activities further improved, stabilizing the long -term positive trajectory of the national economy.
The incremental policies have effectively boosted business expectations, while the Central Economic Work Conference injected stronger confidence into the market.
The new orders index rose to 51, marking the fourth consecutive month in growth territory and the second gain in two months.
Meantime, the PMI for the non -manufacturing sector came in at 52 .2%.
That was up from 50, even in November.
This year, China's foreign trade has exhibited remarkable resilience and vitality despite a sluggish global economic recovery.
New developments are emerging rapidly, and innovative driving forces are evolving at an accelerated pace.
At the same time, China's further solidified its role in the international division of labor with a shift towards the mid to high end of the global value chain.
He Qianli spoke with experts to get their insights.
At Heiko Airport's bonded zone, the zero -torus policy Hainan Freight Report is attracting many planes from countries such as Thailand and Qatar for maintenance.
From January to November this year, the value of these maintenance services increased by 4 .5 times compared to the same period last year.
In the Meishan port area of Ningbo Jiaotian port, container traffic continues to grow, exceeding 10 million TUs for the first time this year.
This makes Ningbo Jiaotian port the only port in the world, with two terminals that each handle over 10 million TUs.
In Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region, there are now 119 international road transport routes, which is more than one -third of the total in the country.
This region is also experiencing the fastest growth rate in foreign trade in the nation.
This year, the number of China's main trading partners has increased from over 140 countries and regions to over 150, indicating a closer connection to the global economy.
From January to November, the total value of China's Gert Street, both imports and exports, reached nearly 40 trillion yuan.
A year -on -year increase of 4 .9 percent.
Notably, in the first three quarters, the important export value in each quarter exceeded 10 trillion yuan, marking a historic first.
This year, our position as the world's largest goods trading nation has been solidified, supported by a continually optimized trade structure.
The steady growth of foreign trade highlights the effectiveness of our new quality productive forces and showcases the resilience and vitality of our industrial and supply chains.
These elements have been pivotal in driving the recovery and strengthening of our economy.
This year, a series of measures to stabilize foreign trade has been implemented swiftly.
Nine initiatives aim to enhance financing support for foreign trade enterprises and improve shipping guarantees, all designed to promote stable growth in foreign trade.
Additionally, there are plans to gradually relax market access in sectors, such as telecommunications and healthcare, fostering new momentum for the development of service trade through high -level openness.
To drive innovation in digital trade, 18 specific initiatives have been proposed, including easing market access in the digital sector and facilitating and regulating cross -border data flow.
These comprehensive policies are yielding positive results.
With the support of our green, intelligent and high -end development strategies, the export shares of integrated circuits, automobiles, home appliances, and ships have all reached record highs for this period.
China's contribution to global exports has now climbed to 40 percent, reaffirming its status as the largest driver of global trade.
In the first three quarters, the export value of goods benefiting from simplified customs clearance, particularly cross -border e -commerce retail exports, grew by 40 .3 percent compared to the same period last year.
Currently, there are over 120 ,000 cross -border e -commerce enterprises in China.
More than 2 ,500 overseas warehouses have been established, and bilateral e -commerce cooperation mechanisms have been set up with over 30 countries.
That was He Chenli reporting.
Cities across China are staging various celebrations in anticipation of New Year's Day and the upcoming Chinese New Year holiday.
In Beijing, more than 1 ,000 lanterns, themed around fashion and technology, make a colorful display at Wenyue Park.
More revelers are getting into the festive spirit and boosting markets for different goods.
Shanghai authorities have distributed coupons, further stimulating consumer spending during the holiday.
In Jilin province, local authorities have sought to take advantage of the snowy conditions, offering visitors the chance to enjoy a range of snow and ice activities while shopping for spring festival goods.
In Kunmen, over 15 ,000 flowers are available on a special street for Chinese New Year or Spring Festival.
Flower markets also are in full bloom in other places across China, including in Shujhe Zhuang, Taiyuan and He Tian.
Tanzania is the second -largest producer of honey in Africa.
The East African country has recently exported its first shipment of this honey to China.
Isaac Lucando has details.
Celebration as Tanzania's first 10 -ton organic honey consignment heads to China after meeting stringent quality and safety requirements.
The honey was featured at the seventh China International Import Expo last month and procured by a Chinese company specializing in international trade.
Currently, three chief enterprises have the capacity of supplying 10 tons of shuan honey from its appearance in local beekeepers, and we will soon start export of beeswax.
Today, as we deliver our first batch of honey, we are looking forward to receive from China more orders of shuan.
The Tanzanian government says the export of its honey to China reflects the growing trade between the two nations, valued at $8 .87 billion last year.
It says that with a production potential of 138 ,000 metric tons, the current output of 30 ,000 tons leaves a lot of room for expansion.
The Chinese embassy in Tanzania says China's large population needs about 32 million tons of honey per year.
The high demand creates a great opportunity for Tanzania to increase its honey production and grow its share in the global market.
Tanzania traditionally exports its honey to Europe, the Middle East and the United States.
The government now sees exports to China as key in benefiting the over 2 million Tanzanians involved in the beekeeping sector.
China is more than just a commodity.
It is a testament to our country, which is a university in the highest of our farmers.
And then it is a place with vast forests in Savannah that provide a better environment for beekeeping.
However, experts note that the path to success in the beekeeping sector is not an easy one, with a lack of financing and beekeeping skills among the challenges facing the industry.
The government believes that addressing these challenges, coupled with growing relations with China, will bring sweet returns for the country's beekeepers.
That was Isaac Lucando reporting from Dar es Salaam.
As pet ownership has grown worldwide, the international pet market has continued to expand, bringing new opportunities for many Chinese companies.
Shandong Province ranks first in the country in the scale of pet food production and processing.
The eastern province is now exporting pet food to more than 70 countries and regions.
Cheng Zhuyu with Qingdao Custom says they've been providing technical guidance.
We have sorted out the laws, regulations and technical standards of major markets so as to help more companies take advantage of the pet -related economy.
In the first 11 month of the year, the export value of pet food in Shandong Province reached about US $876 million, accounting for nearly 67 % of the total during the same period, up 23 % year -on -year.
Some industries in the sector have expanded their overseas markets.
Experts say the rapidly increasing demand for smart pet products from the European and American markets could be a new direction for Chinese pet companies.
The China Maldives Free Trade Agreement is set to take effect on Wednesday, according to the Chinese Commerce Ministry.
The vast majority of China's exports to the Maldives, including ships, electrical equipment, furniture and agricultural products, will benefit from the Free Trade Agreement after it's implemented.
The vast majority of the Maldives' aquatic exports to China will enjoy zero tariffs.
The two sides expect the agreement to provide a solid guarantee for trade and investment liberalization, promoting economic and trade relations.
You're listening to The Beijing Hour.
Coming up in sports, China's top tennis stars make it to the quarterfinals of the United Cup.
46. Pass the Hour now.
In sports, we begin with tennis, and China is in the quarterfinals of the United Cup, despite losing to Germany 2 -1.
Gao Xinyu stunned Laura Sigmund in three sets after Zheng Zhezhen fell to Alexander Zivrev in the men's singles tie.
The German players went on to defeat China in mixed doubles and seal the top spot from the group.
China advanced from second place.
In other action, Iga Schwanztek and her Polish team defeated Kaspar Ute's Norway.
Elena Rubikina led Kazakhstan over Greece.
At the table tennis Super League Finals, Lin Shidong's Huangshir squad has reached the final of the men's team competition.
His teammates lost the opening doubles tie but Lin won both singles matches to guarantee a 3 -1 win over Chantal.
The event will crown this year's champions on Wednesday.
The world's top two women's players will clash when Suning Shoppe and Wangmenyu represent Shenzhen and Shandong, respectively.
China's table tennis association says it has assisted Ma Long, Fan Zhendong and Chen Meng in their withdrawal from the world rankings.
The association said it respects the three paddlers' decision and will continue to support them in future competitions.
The association said that it's been speaking with international organizations for the sport to make sure that players' rights are protected.
It said the International Table Tennis Federation has promised to find ways to address the concerns.
The Chinese players announced their decision to quit the world rankings over world table tennis rules to find athletes for non -participation.
In football action from the Premier League, Manchester United is having to settle for its worst placing at the end of a calendar year in more than 30 years.
Reuben Amorim's side is 14th after losing 2 -0 to Newcastle.
That was their fifth defeat in six league games.
The manager said it's embarrassing that relegation battles limit.
I'm not responsible.
I don't like to arrive here and make excuses.
I think people are tired of excuses in this club.
And I think sometimes I talk about relegation because of that.
I think our club needs a shock, you know, needs a shock in the FIA.
And we have to understand that.
It's a very difficult moment and we have to fight for the next game and to implement the idea to win games and to have also performance.
Because I think we are losing some things from the last games.
The last time the Red Devils did so poorly was in 1989 when they finished the year at 15th place.
Meantime, Ipswich has earned its first Premier League home win in more than 22 years at the expense of Chelsea.
Manager Kieran McKenna said it feels good to finally overcome that hurdle after a few close calls.
To get one over the line when we've had, you know, a couple of really close ones to get one over the line at home.
To do it against a team like Chelsea, to do it on a night game, to do it the last game of 2024, it's a pretty special night.
The result moved Ipswich up to 18th on the table, a point adrift of safety.
To no victory handed the Blues their first back -to -back defeats this season.
Chelsea's manager said that it was a strange game and a shame.
LeBron James says he feels like he still has more to offer at the age of 40.
The NBA legend celebrated his birthday by practicing with the Los Angeles Lakers.
James said he could still play at a high level for another five to seven years, but he's not going to stick around for that long.
He said that he's considered retirement and wants to conclude his career with the Lakers.
The veteran's the first NBA player to score 40 ,000 points and the second to play 22 seasons.
He's averaged 23 .5 points, 9 assists, and 7 .9 rebounds per game through 28 games this season already.
The assists average is the third highest of his career.
The International Sports Press Association is named Simone Biles and Armand Duplantis, Athletes of the Year.
Biles won the honor for the fifth time, ahead of women's Blondour winner Ayetana Bhomadi.
The American gymnast won three gold and one silver at Paris 2024.
Polvolter Duplantis edged out Novak Djokovic for the men's top prize.
The Swedish athlete cleared 6 .25 meters at the Paris Olympics to win the gold medal with a new world record.
He then improved that by 1 centimeter at the Diamond League meet in Poland.
A journalist chose Argentina's football team as Team of the Year for successfully defending their Copa America title.
The Paris Olympic Games scooped up the Best Press Facilities award.
More than 500 journalists from 111 countries and regions voted.
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bock has emphasized the importance of values first in his New Year message.
The IOC president reflected on the success of the Paris Games, calling it the youngest, most urban, most inclusive and most sustainable Olympics ever.
Bock also expressed optimism about the Olympic movement and revealed plans for a digital future.
He said the IOC has launched the Olympic AI agenda, providing a holistic approach to utilizing the benefits of artificial intelligence responsibly.
In his final New Year message as the IOC president, Bock highlighted the Olympic Games role in bringing the world together through peaceful competition.
Bock is stepping down in June after 12 years in the presidency.
An election is scheduled for March.
Coming up in entertainment, the U .N.
Garden Lantern Festival celebrates 30 years.
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Sixty minutes of comprehensive news.
Your window on China and the world.
Fifty -two past the hour now, the U .N.
Garden Lantern Festival will be celebrating its 30th anniversary when it opens on New Year's Day with a special exhibition on Chinese lantern art.
Organizer Seidel showcased the history, folk culture, craftsmanship, and the unique charm of Chinese lanterns.
The major festival prevents a diverse collection of lanterns featuring Chinese zodiac signs and forest and mountain elements.
The show is inspired by the book Shan Hai Jing, or the classic of mountains and seas.
It's a major source of Chinese mythology and dates back over 2 ,000 years.
Xinjiang served as a key hub of the ancient Silk Road.
The northwestern region is still at the crossroads of diverse cultures.
The regional museum houses some evidence of its glorious past and promising future.
Li Chong has more. Established in 1959, the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum spans nearly 50 ,000 square meters and boasts an impressive collection that draws crowds from near and far.
Visitors are captivated by its vast array of exhibits, including ancient textiles, paper manuscripts, and vividly painted clay sculptures, each piece bearing witness to Xinjiang's unique cultural heritage.
A large interactive display at the museum's entrance provides a digital guide to each artifact, with games and puzzles making history even more engaging for young visitors.
We aim to present materials that reveal historical events, figures, and stories that reflect ancient Chinese values, bringing history to life in a meaningful way.
In the museum's immersive experience hall, visitors encounter ancient sites, like the Xiaohe Cemetery from 4 ,000 years ago.
It leverages virtual reality, body sensing technology, and panoramic views of pre -constructive venues to bring iconic sights to life.
We have digitized over 20 ,000 artifacts in our collection, transcending time and space to let the public enjoy them in all their splendor.
Through a series of engaging and interactive digital experiences, we have truly breathed new life into these cultural relics.
In recent years, the museum's creative cultural products have gained widespread popularity, merging the depths of history with unique eye -catching designs.
We see each creative product as the key to opening the door to Xinjiang's history and culture.
By applying digital technology and 3D modeling, we recreate the enduring history of the Silk Road's western regions.
Static artifacts, text, and stories become dynamic displays and performances for our visitors.
Through a combination of engaging artifacts, exciting multimedia, and creative products, the Xinjiang Museum makes the rich legacy of the Silk Road accessible and engaging for all.
That was Li Cheng reporting.
The ice cover of Chagan Lake in northeastern China is alive with the excitement of its winter fishing festival.
The event welcomed tourists with a ceremony paying tribute to nature's abundance and wishes for a bountiful catch.
Fishermen use ancient techniques to drill holes, set nets, and haul fish, the holoman with horse -drawn winches.
The biggest fish in the first catch, symbolizing good luck, sold for 1 .2 million yuan.
That's roughly US $164 ,000.
The revenue goes into a fund to support the sustainable development of the fishing industry in Jilin Province.
Winter fishing at Chagan Lake is part of the country's national cultural heritage, with a history of more than 1 ,000 years.
Authorities expect the total catch to reach 1 .5 million kilograms this season.
The first one, a film about China's first Formula One driver, has won the best sports film award at the Macau International Film Festival.
Zhou Guanyu and the company behind the movie said they hope that more people will fall in love with racing and support Chinese drivers.
The first one documents the driver's journey from Go Karting to F1.
More than 1 ,000 people attended the premiere in Shanghai in April.
Zhou joined Alfa Romeo in 2022 and secured a point in his debut in Bahrain.
He's left the team now and doesn't have a seat for next season, but Zhou said that he's been in talks with several teams for a backup role and is aiming to return to racing in 2026.
Sightline Story Podcast for heated sports discussions covering events that are happening in China and around the world.
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Elsewhere, Islamabad's at 7 overnight.
Wednesday we'll see cloudy skies in 18.
Be in chance down to 15, then sunny skies in 28.
Put on pants at 24 overnight, sunny in 31 tomorrow.
In Africa, Nairobi will see sunny skies in 26 degrees on Wednesday.
Kampala's down to 17 and then sunny in 28.
Finally to Oceania, Port Vila's 24 this evening, a moderate rainfall in 29 tomorrow.
Pia will see cloudy skies on Wednesday in 28 degrees Celsius.
That's it for this edition of the Beijing Hour.
Making news today, South Korean authorities have issued an arrest warrant against the country's president.
China's unveiled development plans as it vows to promote water conservation.
And China's manufacturing sector continued to recover through the month of December.
On behalf of the staff, this is Shane Bingham in the Chinese Capital, hoping you'll join us for the next edition of the Beijing Hour.
And open a window to the world together.
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