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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 Bingham with you on this Monday, May 12th, 2025.
You're listening to the Beijing Hour, coming to you live from the Chinese capital.
On today's program, the US and China have reached an agreement on significant tariff reductions, at least for 90 days.
China and the community of Latin American and Caribbean states plan to adopt several documents on cooperation.
Ukraine says it's ready for direct peace talks with Russia if Moscow accepts Kiev's ceasefire proposal.
In business, Chinese EV battery maker aims to raise billions with the Hong Kong IPO.
In sports, a dramatic comeback in the latest El Clasico.
in culture and entertainment, a Chinese dance drama on famous stages in Russia.
Now checking the day's top stories.
China and the US have agreed to remove most of the tariffs on each other's goods following high level talks in Geneva.
According to a joint statement, the two sides remove 91 % of tariffs and suspend 24 % for a period of 90 days, while further talks continue.
After the adjustment, both sides will retain a 10 percent baseline tariff, while a 20 percent fentanyl link levy the U .S. imposed earlier this year will remain.
The two sides will establish a system to continue discussions about economic and trade relations.
Vice Premier Hu Li -Feng is the representative from the Chinese side.
Treasury Secretary Scott Besant and Trade Representative Jameson Greer represent the U .S. A Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesperson says the joint statement on China -U .S and trade meeting in Geneva is an important step toward resolving differences between the two countries through equal dialogue and consultation.
Chinese Vice Premier He Li Feng says the two day talks with the US Treasury Secretary and trade representative have seen substantial progress.
Ken Brown has more from the Swiss city.
Well, after two days of high level economic and trade talks, the Chinese delegation held a press conference of the China mission to the world trade building.
Chinese vice premier He Li Feng state that both sides engaged in thorough discussions on economic and trade issues of mutual concern.
The talks were described as candid thorough and constructive with substantial progress made and specific consensus reached.
Here's a little bit more of what he said.
So the two sides agreed on establishing a consultation mechanism for trade and economic issues.
Identify the lead persons on each side and we'll carry on further consultations related to trade and economic issues of their respective concerns.
We also heard US lead Treasury Secretary Scott Besant, he talked up the positive nature of these talks too.
Both thanked their Swiss hosts here in Geneva for providing the platform for these exchanges.
Here's a bit more from what the US Treasury Secretary said.
I can tell you that the talks were productive.
We had the vice premier, two vice ministers who were integrally involved, Ambassador Jamison and myself, and I spoke to President Trump, as did Ambassador Jamison.
And he is fully informed of what is going on.
This was, as the Secretary pointed out, a very constructive two days.
It's important to understand how quickly we were able to come to agreement, which reflects that perhaps the differences were not so large as maybe thought.
So both sides characterizing these as positive talks How is Ken Brown reporting?
The Chinese vice premier says the country will continue to support the World Trade Organization as a stabilizer of global trade.
He Lifeng made the remarks on meeting with WTO Secretary General Ngozi Okonjo -Aiwila in Geneva.
The vice premier said, the multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its core, is the cornerstone of international trade, and he urged all parties to jointly uphold multilateralism and free trade.
The vice premier also briefed the WTO chief on high -level economic and trade meetings with the US, and Gozi Okonjo -Aiwila said that she is pleased with the positive outcomes of the meeting.
She called on WTO members to jointly defend the multilateral trading system, and strengthen dialogue and cooperation on international trade issues.
Investors have expressed optimism over the China -U .S. Economic and Trade meeting, with Wall Street showing signs of rebound.
The S &P 500 futures rose by 1 .1 % while Nasdaq futures added 1 .4%.
Some investors in New York say the meeting marks a step in the right direction.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has reaffirmed his country's stance on eliminating the U .S. tariffs as talks continue.
Ishiba had warned that the Japanese auto industry will not be able to continue investing in the US if it's hit hard by the tariffs.
He says his country will push for zero tariffs as it faces a 25 % levy on auto exports to the US.
Japan's auto exports made up nearly 28 percent of its total exports to the US last year.
A British economist believes that the recent trade deal between the United Kingdom and the United States has a limited effect.
Mark and investor services international?
I think the important aspects are, it reduces the overall impact of basic tariffs to round about 7 % from 10%.
But a few months ago, we were on zero.
So, you know, it's not as bad as it would have been without it, but it's not good either.
This is also a signal moment for the rest of the world looking to negotiate with the US.
Under the agreement, levies on British steel and aluminum exports to the U .S. will be eliminated, and duties on up to 100 ,000 British -made vehicles per year will be lowered from over 25 % to 10%.
In return, the U .K. will allow a tariff -free quota for 13 ,000 metric tons of U .S. beef and scrap tariffs on American ethanol imports.
The economist said, the modest relief from the tariffs is still shadowed by tight quotas and long -term uncertainty in the automotive industry.
The auto sector tariff reductions are a reminder that the 10 % remains in place even though it's better than 25.
Significantly, it's on a quota of 100 ,000.
Now, for the UK, that's probably okay.
It probably doesn't have much more of a capacity, but if the sector were to build up in coming years, then that would obviously be a problem and it does basically place a cap on growth of UK auto exports to the US." We also caution that the deal's benefits are even murkier when considering the globalized nature of UK supply chains and indirect trade routes.
As US tariffs have disrupted global economic order, many of China's export -oriented businesses are tapping into the country's domestic market.
Biren has more from Shanghai.
Faced with US tariff hikes, Chinese exporters are looking inward. At a yong hui superstore in Shanghai's Kudong, export to domestic goods draw crowds.
I always support meeting China goods.
When I saw these export -quality products, I thought, I have to try this fish.
I'd love to see more like this.
Most of these products are from China's manufacturing hubs like Guangdong, Zhejiang and Jiangsu take the standard of last pic as an example.
It comes from Yangzhou city in Jiangsu province and its packaging has been localized into Chinese for domestic sales, though some traces of English remain, and according to the company figures, this particular item has seen a strong performance so far.
I caught up with the store manager while he was still on the phone, coordinating with export suppliers about the next steps.
Exporters are eager to enter major domestic supermarkets.
We have received over 500 emails and are in talks with 300 -plus suppliers across categories like food, daily goods, and textiles.
Many of them previously supplied Kostasco and Sam's Club in the US.
To ease inventory pressure, Yong Hui launched a fast -track program for Chinese manufacturers to get products on shelves within 15 days and renovate the stores for more open space.
So far, 13 SKUs from four brands are already on Yonghe's shelves in major cities like Beijing, Fuzhou, Shanghai and Hangzhou.
Since April, Wuxiang Group has spread over 100 ,000 export products into the supermarkets in Central China's Wuhan.
We've set up six dedicated sections for expert goods across the city.
Based on the sales and customer feedback we've adjusted the layout.
Data sales now averaged 200 ,000 yuan.
Looking ahead garments, shoes and daily essentials will be added to the mix.
Beyond emails, both Wuxian and Yong Hui are working with local commerce authorities to fast track this shift online and offline.
Tapping into over 2 trillion yuan in export capacity fits China's broader push to de -risk its supply chains.
Experts say it's more than a short -term response to tariffs but a strategic move toward greater self -reliance and resilience.
That was Bi Ren reporting.
Coming up the China Sea -Leg forum will adopt several cooperation documents.
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Ten minutes past the hour, the Chinese foreign ministry says the upcoming fourth ministerial meeting of a forum between China and the community of Latin American and Caribbean states will see the adoption of several documents on cooperation.
The documents cover areas such as technological innovation, economic and trade investment, artificial intelligence, and Belt and Road cooperation.
The fourth ministerial meeting of the China Sealeck Forum will convene in Beijing on Tuesday.
Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the opening ceremony and deliver a speech. Beijing says the meeting demonstrates both sides' commitment to working together to jointly address international challenges.
Participants including the presidents of Brazil and Colombia have arrived in the Chinese capital, Guo Tianxi has more on the China -Columbia ties.
Colombian President Gustavo Peddleau's airplane landed in Beijing.
President Peddleau is the first left -wing president in the recent history of Colombia, and the frequent exchanges between the two heads of state attach great importance to developing China -Columbia relations.
In February this year, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Colombian President Peddleau congratulated each other on the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the bilateral ties between the two countries.
In October 2023, President Pedelal also paid a successful state visit to China during which the two heads of state had a fruitful meeting and jointly announced the establishment of a strategic partnership between the two countries guiding China -Columbia relations into a new era.
During that trip, Colombian President Pedelal also noted that the bilateral vote ties have been steadily strengthened with a continuous increase of trade and investment.
Colombia is willing to work with China to jointly advance the global agenda for mutual concern including world peace, energy transition and tackling climate change.
That was Guo Tianxi reporting.
And for more on the meeting, Huan Na spoke to Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute for International Affairs at Redman University of China.
So, according to China's foreign ministry, it says the two key documents are expected to be adopted at the ministerial meeting of the China SELIC Forum.
So what are your expectations of the outcome?
Well, this year marks the 10th year's anniversary of the China, Caribbean, and Latin American cooperation, this forum.
And this forum also tightened the relations between China, the Caribbean, and Latin American both political, economic and also cultural linkage, and contribute to build the committee of the shared future between China and the Caribbean and Latin Americans, and also be the platform of contributed for the cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.
Among the 33 countries of the Caribbean and Latin Americans, actually 22 decided the Belt Road Initiative cooperation with the Chinese government.
Well, Professor Wan, in a congratulatory message to the SILAC Summit held in Honduras last month, President Xi Jinping said China and Latin, American and Caribbean states have set a good example for South -South cooperation.
So what do you think are the main cooperation mechanisms under the China -SILAC Forum?
Well, indeed, all the Caribbean and Latin Americans, they are global hosts.
Clearly, under the leadership of Brazil, you know, BRICS, and also the Global South Cooperation, I think China, the Caribbean, and the Latin Americans are four that contribute both in the intergovernmental dialogues, as, for instance, the foreign minister dialogue and minister dialogue, but also in the professional fields dialogue and cooperation on the, for instance, in infrastructure, energy, but now more and more focus on green and digital transformation including the AI cooperation will be highlighted this form.
That was Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute for International Affairs at Rehman University of China, sharing his insights on the fourth ministerial meeting of the China CELAC Forum.
A Colombian coffee is seen as an important export from the South American country that has big potential for the Chinese market.
Michelle Begay has more from Bogota.
Colombian coffee, amor perfecto, which means perfect love in English.
Got its start by simply serving a good cup of coffee at their store, which was started out as a gift shop.
In 1997, they acted on the request from clients and began to produce their own coffee brand.
Decades later, they have exported to several countries, and now want to cordially invite Chinese citizens to enjoy what some call the best cup of coffee and educate their palate.
For Colombian coffee exporters like Velles, the potential for exporting to China is huge.
Colombia's Coffee Federation says exports to the Asia giant are growing exponentially.
If the trend continues, they could be Colombian coffee's second destination in exports in the coming year coming from the sixth spot in 2023.
In China, government data shows coffee imports from Colombia have been booming.
Coffee consumption in China is growing faster than any other country in East Asia.
The nation that introduced tea drinking to the world and even ritualized it into an art form now has more coffee shops than any other nation on earth, including the U .S. The high quality of Colombian coffee beans helps make better cups of coffee and it's growers practice sustainability.
But they need help in entering the Chinese market.
It'll be an opportunity to explore in forums like CELAC.
Colombian coffee, cacao, and meat are all leading the way for other agricultural products in China.
China is looking for new experiences and are constantly changing, and Colombia needs to learn to adapt to their high demands in technology, and we will need investment and support to do that.
That was a report on Colombian coffee's potential in the Chinese market.
In the South American nation of Guyana, a team of Chinese doctors has been quietly transforming lives, bringing not only medical medical expertise but also hope and healing to thousands.
Since 1993 they've worked with local professionals earning admiration for their dedication and skill.
A Lei Shungping has the story.
At Georgetown public hospital in the heart of Guyana's capital, 11 Chinese doctors are on the front lines of care.
They are part of the 20th team from Nantong in Jiangsu province.
Together, they provide services across departments including ophthalmology, orthopedics, burns, and traditional Chinese medicine.
One of their long time patients is 65 years old, Qin Yan, battling advanced glaucoma along with severe diabetes.
He recently visited the hospital for a follow -up with Dr. Huang Xiaobo who reminded him of the importance of regular check -ups.
Over the years Chenea has seen multiple Chinese doctors under credit them with saving his sight.
I have actually met with three Chinese doctors, Dr. Shi, Dr. Lu and now Dr. Wong.
And the treatment I have received so far is excellent I can say, because prior to that I had no vision in his eye, and I must say thanks to the doctors.
I would also like to give my thanks to the People's Republic of China for affording Guyana the opportunity of these doctors coming here.
According to Dr. Hua, Guyana's strong sunlight, paired with high rates of diabetes, has led to rise in renal diseases.
He sees as many as 50 patients a day and says having them regain their health is deeply fulfilling.
To relieve patients' suffering using what we've learned, that's the most fundamental aspiration of being a doctor.
One of the most touching moments is when we wear uniforms with Chinese medical team written in Chinese and English and people great on a summer street with Ni Hao and Xie Xie.
That heartfelt friendship means more than any number.
Beyond eye care, Chinese doctors are saving lives in other fields, too.
Aiden, a 7 -year -old boy, suffered burns over 30 % of his body in a fire.
His condition was critical.
Dr. Gong Zhenghua, a burn specialist, used advanced techniques from China to create a treatment plan.
After weeks of intensive care, Aiden was stable enough to go home.
Aiden is now in the recovery phase and will soon be discharged.
Before that, I will make sure his doctors, nurses and family understand how to continue his care.
The hospital has adopted many of China's advanced techniques and treatment methods for burn patients.
Over three decades, Chinese medical teams have done more than treat illness.
they have trained the local healthcare workers, living a lasting impact on Guyana's medical system.
Georgetown Public Hospital CEO Robi Robaran says their work is transformative.
There's an old saying, if you give a man to fish, a fish, you just feed him for a day.
If you teach him to fish, you feed him forever.
And that's the kind of what the Chinese medical team are doing here, is training our staff capacity -building transfer of skills.
Guiana Medical Council Chairman Navi Rabouran says the Chinese team has even introduced the groundbreaking surgical procedures.
Well, there have been many groundbreaking surgeries and firsts that the China medical team members have done.
Particularly one and the most recent that comes to mind is the anterior approach to a hip replacement that was done by our current member of this team and this allowed faster recovery and our patient was able to go home in a very short period compared to the usual.
Whenever the China Medical team doctors come they are really skilled and they're able to impart those skills and knowledge.
Since arriving last September the 20th Chinese Medical team has treated a newly 7 ,000 patients, handed over 1 ,600 hospitalizations, performed around 700 surgeries, and saved close to 100 critically ill individuals.
They have also hosted free clinics, embodying their spirit of compassion and commitment.
Team leader Du Boqiang says their mission goes beyond medicine.
The idea of a global community of Health4All is central to our work.
Through collaboration with Guyana, we are building local capacity and contributing to global health governance.
With a population of around 800 ,000, Guyana continues to face shortages in medical resources.
But thanks to the long -standing efforts of the Chinese medical teams, Many local residents have enjoyed the better health and the new generation of local doctors is learning from their example.
For the Beijing Labour This is Lei Shanping in Georgetown, Guyana.
Coming up the latest on the proposed peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
Online on air and on your phone.
Take today wherever you go and stay ahead of what's changing our world.
from politics and the economy to business and technology today covers regional and international issues that affect China and the world keep up to date with today about 23 minutes past the hour Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his country is ready to resume direct talks with Russia if it agrees to a key proposed ceasefire Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed holding direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on Thursday Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has confirmed his country's readiness to host the peace negotiations between the two countries.
Mihael Bartaevid has more.
Late Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin made the proposal.
He suggested that Moscow and Kiev should hold direct peace talks in Istanbul on Thursday.
Following some hesitation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has agreed to the meeting, but stated that he expects Moscow to implement a ceasefire starting Monday.
On social media platform X, Zelensky said a ceasefire would provide the necessary basis for diplomacy and that he would personally be waiting for Putin in Turkey.
Western leaders who are part of the so -called Coalition of the Willing had met with Zelensky in Kiev on Saturday and demanded Putin agree to a 30 -day unconditional cease -fire or face massive new sanctions.
Though the EU had the support of the U .S. in its threat of sanctions, it was U .S. President Donald Trump that appeared to make the biggest push for talks.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump told Zelensky that he should agree to meet Putin immediately.
Have the meeting now, Trump wrote.
Shortly afterwards Zelensky confirmed his participation.
If held as planned, the talks will coincide with the second day of an informal NATO Foreign Ministers meeting also taking place in Turkey, though in the city of Antalya.
On Sunday, President Putin spoke by phone with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with Ankara confirming it is ready to host the talks in Istanbul.
That was Mihal Bardavit reporting.
A ceasefire between India and Pakistan's underway though the two countries have traded accusations of violations.
People displaced by the conflict have begun returning to their homes.
Over 60 people from both countries have died over the past days after India launched attacks inside Pakistan.
India's blamed Pakistan for an attack that killed 26 tourists in Indian controlled Kashmir.
Pakistan's denied any involvement.
Anis Zargar spoke to some locals on the ceasefire.
Residents in the Indian -administered Kashmir heaved a sigh of relief after India and Pakistan announced ceasefire after days of cross -border hostilities.
Locals are returning to normal lives after tensions ran high for more than two weeks.
Markets and shops are reopening without the fear of any further escalation.
Here in Kashmir, the atmosphere has been tense and business had to come to a standstill, So there's hope now that things will get better.
The ceasefire that was announced yesterday, if we look at the build up over the past week, starting with what happened in Pahalgam, and then the escalation between the two countries, we must keep in mind that these are nuclear powers.
In the past week, over a dozen civilians, including children, lost their lives in the fighting along the border between India and Pakistan.
While both the countries were locked in a severe conflict, residents mostly stayed indoors fearing the escalating violence.
We Kashmiris have always longed for peace.
We have never wanted violence nor will we ever want it.
But the peace we seek should not be the peace of a graveyard. We want peace in the real sense and spirit.
The ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan has not just brought relief to the people living along the line of control and the international border but also to the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
Even if there is uncertainty about how long this peace agreement would last but people believe that this might mark the beginning of something that will last for a longer period of time.
That was Anis Zargar reporting.
Hamas says it's engaged in direct talks with the U .S. on a cease -fire and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Washington's envoy to Israel says a U .S.-backed system for getting aid into Gaza should take effect soon.
Israel cut off all supplies to the 2 .3 million residents of Gaza in early March. It ended the January ceasefire agreement with Hamas on March 18th and renewed its military campaign.
Israel says it plans to further expand in Gaza.
Amid talks with Hamas, U .S. President Donald Trump will travel to the Middle East The first major overseas trip of his second term.
The White House says that trip will focus on trade and investment.
Jim Spellman has more.
U .S. President Donald Trump will depart Washington on Monday and spend much of the coming week in the Middle East. The president looks forward to embarking on his historic return to the Middle East, visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates next week, where he will focus on strengthening ties between our nations." Key issues on the agenda include negotiations with Iran over a new nuclear deal and the conflict in Gaza, but the White House says trade and business are the top priorities for the trip.
Trump is scheduled to attend a US - Saudi business conference in Riyadh and is expected to highlight commitments by Saudi Arabia to invest at least $600 billion in the US over the next four years and the UAE's pledge to invest 1 .4 trillion over the next decade.
Critics worry Trump will use the trip to advance his family's business interests in the region.
The White House declined to say if any family members will travel with the president, but denied Trump will use the trip for personal financial gain.
Trump is also expected to visit U .S. troops stationed in Qatar and has suggested he may use the trip to announce the U .S. will begin referring to the Persian Gulf as the Gulf of Arabia, a possibility that has created fierce backlash in Iran." As Jim Spellman reporting.
Iran and the United States have held a fourth round of negotiations in Oman over Tehran's nuclear program.
That comes just ahead of the visit by the U .S. President of the Middle East this week.
A spokesperson for the Iranian foreign ministry has called the talks so far difficult but useful.
A U .S. official said the two countries had agreed to move forward with the talks to continue working through technical elements.
And the US looks forward to the next meeting.
We're at 29 past the hour.
Beijing's down to 17 degrees Monday evening.
Thunderstorms in 29 on Tuesday, Nanchang's at 18 overnight then sunny in 31.
Elsewhere in Asia, Islamabad's at 18 this evening then sunny in 38.
Vientiane's down to 24 degrees then a slight rain in 34.
Phnom Penh dips to 24 overnight then a slight rain and 34 degrees.
In Africa, Nairobi is getting some rainfall in 25 on Tuesday.
Compel is at 20 overnight then a slight rain in 24.
juba is down to 22.
and then a slight rain in 34.
Finally, Tohsiana poured villas 23 this evening, a slight rain and 29 tomorrow.
Appiah will have moderate rainfall and 29 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
It's time for a short break.
So far this hour. The US and China have reached an agreement on significant tariff reductions at least for 90 days.
China and the community of Latin American and Caribbean states plan to adopt several documents on cooperation.
And Ukraine says it's ready for direct peace talks with Russia if Moscow accepts Kyiv's ceasefire proposal.
Shane Begem with you, stay with us here on The Beijing Hour.
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From the stem of trees to the gurgle of rivers, from the silent strength of mountains to the to the icy whispers of glaciers even the solid ground beneath our feet right there in the midst of all beats the heart of humanity what if those other heartbeats were to stop would ours keep on ticking ever wondered what's actually going on in africa through the perspective of an african How are things really going between China and Africa?
What's the narrative of this relationship?
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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 Begum with you on this Monday.
Still to come in business, a Chinese EV battery maker aims to raise billions with the Hong Kong IPO in sports, a dramatic comeback in the latest El Clasico in culture and entertainment Chinese dance drama on famous stages in Russia.
To contact us, you can email radio at cgtn .com or follow our X account But now, a check of the day's headline news.
China and the United States have agreed to major tariff reductions for 90 days.
The delegations from the two countries released a joint statement in Geneva on Monday, after two days of economic and trade negotiations.
China will cut tariffs on U .S. goods from 125 % down to 10%.
The U .S. will reduce tariffs on Chinese goods from 145 % to 30%.
the U .S. tariffs are composed of 10 % basic tariffs and 20 % fentanyl -linked tariffs the U .S. imposed earlier this year.
The two sides will continue discussions about economic and trade relations.
Vice Premier Hellefong is the representative from the Chinese side.
U .S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant and Trade Representative Jameson Greer will lead the U .S. team.
The two sides have committed to take action by May 14.
The Chinese Commerce Ministry said the joint statements and important step toward resolving differences between the two countries through equal dialogue and consultation.
China's State Council information office has released a white paper on the country's national security in the new era.
It says the move aims to provide an explanation of the innovative concepts, practices and achievements in China's national security efforts.
It says the document will also enhance the international community's understanding of China's national security.
A giant panda in Hong Kong has received Mother's Day gifts.
Hong Kong Ocean Park prepared presents and flower bouquets for a giant panda at Ying Ying as Sunday marked Mother's Day.
One visitor brought her family for a special holiday outing at the park.
Today is Mother's Day and it holds a special meaning for me as a mother myself.
off. It's also my son's birthday, so I've brought both my mother and him here.
Seeing giant panda Ying Ying also a mother together makes this experience really meaningful." The giant panda Ying Ying gave birth to twins at Hong Kong Ocean Park last August. South Korea has kicked off an official campaign for the snap presidential election on June 3.
Seven candidates have registered with the National Election Commission.
They include Lee Jae Myung of the Liberal Democratic Party and Kim Moon -soo of the Conservative People Power Party.
The election follows the ouster of former Conservative President Yoon Seok -yol over his botched martial law bid last December.
Lee lost the presidential election to Yoon in 2022.
Hundreds of locals who fled Pakistan -administered Kashmir have returned to their homes after Islamabad and New Delhi agreed to a ceasefire.
Pakistan and India reached the agreement on Saturday after days of clashes that involved missile strikes and cross -border firing.
Kashmir resident Shahid Pirzada is relieved that the fighting is paused.
As soon as we heard that a peace agreement had been reached and the firing has stopped, we felt it in our hearts.
We returned it to our homes, and thanks to God, we are still here.
It feels as if we have been given a new life and we are truly happy.
The escalation and violence began last week after a massacre of tourists in Indian -controlled Kashmir.
The two countries have blamed the other for starting the skirmishes.
The Sudanese government says at least 20 prisoners have been killed, and 50 others wounded after a suspected drone attack by the paramilitary rapid support forces.
They strike in a prison in the city of Obeid.
It's the latest in a series of drone strikes by the RSF across the country.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the cabinet of his second term.
The announcement came ahead of a swearing -in ceremony with Governor -General Sam Mostyn.
Coming up in business, Chinese EV battery maker aims to raise billions with the Hong Kong IPO.
36 past now, turning to business, and here's Tianyu.
Thank you, Shane. Chinese mainland markets climbed to their highest levels in over a month after the US and China reported what they described as substantial progress in talks over trade tensions in Geneva.
The Shanghai Composite Index gained 0 .8 % while the Shenzhen Component Index surged more than 1 .7%.
Tag stocks led the rally with standout performances from East Money, Avid Chengdu, and Luxshare Precision.
Elsewhere, Hong Kong's Hang Seng index surged 2 .9 percent after Beijing and Washington released details on pulsing most tariffs on each other's goods.
Japan's Nikkei was up 0 .4 percent.
Chinese battery giant Kato is aiming to raise about USD $4 billion through its Hong Kong listing the biggest global IPO so far this year.
The EV battery maker plans to sell around 118 million shares with a maximum offer price of nearly US $34 per share.
Pricing will take place between Tuesday and Friday, with the final price set to be announced by May 19.
China's car production and sales saw double -digit growth in the first four months, with over 10 million vehicles made and sold during that time.
Among them, new energy vehicle production surged 48 % to 4 .4 million units, with sales up by 46%.
6%. New energy vehicles also made up more than 40 % of all new car sales in China from January to April.
China's auto exports also edged up, growing 6 % to nearly 2 million units.
Trade tensions from tariffs have disrupted many manufacturing sectors, including the global automobile industry.
But so far this year, demand and sales of Chinese vehicles remains strong.
Demand has been growing in many developing countries, including Mexico.
Frank Kontrez has more.
Mexicans seeking to purchase new vehicles this year have many choices of brands and available technology.
The country is located near the massive U .S. market and always ranks among the top ten vehicle manufacturers in the world.
Among global automakers, this Latin American giant is considered a sophisticated and highly competitive market.
Since 2020, Chinese automakers have increased their presence in Mexico and Chinese made vehicles have been on the rise here.
President of BYD Mexico Ray Zhu sees significant opportunities for increasing sales in Mexico.
He says this is true for light vehicles using combustion engines and fully electric pickup trucks.
Based on the data, I think in Mexico every year there about between 15 percent of 18 percent of the new cars sold pick up, which means annually it has the potential to have more than 200 ,000 units pick up.
So this is a big, huge market.
For more than 15 years, Mexico has charged a 20 percent tariff on all vehicles imported into the country, but that has not deterred the rising demand.
Sales of Chinese vehicles in Mexico have been on the rise in recent years, and they now account for twelve percent of total market sales in this country.
The President of Mexico's National Association of Automotive Distributors Guillermo Rosales says Chinese vehicles are popular in Mexico because they offer good prices and attractive new technologies.
The average price for a new car in Mexico is around 27 ,000 US dollars.
Products made in China fall into this price range nicely.
This gives Chinese vehicles strong acceptance here.
One out of every five cars sold in Mexico are made in China." Rosales expects no major drop this year in Chinese vehicle sales in Mexico.
Sometimes there is a deficiency in available parts, it's important that they listen to consumers and distributors alike.
But trade tensions do in great part to tariff in positions are expected to slow economic growth in Mexico.
Some automotive industry experts here say that will likely also slow Mexican demand for Chinese -made vehicles in 2026.
This was Front Contrast reporting.
China has carried out its first market -based interprovincial green electricity trade, transferring over 12 million kilowatt hours of renewable energy from Xinjiang to Beijing.
Yu Le is the trading director at Beijing's electricity exchange center.
He says the western region's abundant wind and solar resources can help ease the capital's energy demand.
Market -based mechanisms enable the large power grid to effectively coordinate and optimize resource allocation, fostering energy complementarity between new energy resource -rich areas in the West like Xinjiang, and lot centers in the East like Beijing.
This approach provides fresh perspective on resource allocation in China's power market and has important demonstration significance for promoting cross -regional energy optimization under the build up of a unified national electricity market.
Beijing has been importing more green electricity in recent years, reaching 35 billion kWh in 2024, nearly one third of the city's total power use.
That number is expected to rise to 40 billion kWh by the end of the year.
China's exports grew by over 9 % in April driven by booming trade with more than 150 countries.
In the city of Yiwu, local businesses say their diverse global customer base has provided vital resilience amid economic uncertainty.
Chen Mengfei has more.
It's mind -blowing even by Chinese standards just how big is Yiwu's commodity market.
In light of the trade war, Christmas goods veteran Jiang Jiangping says they're withering the storm peacefully.
Because here at the Yiwu market's Christmas section, we sell to customers worldwide.
The impact from the U .S. tariff has been minimal.
Jiang says big American buyers tend to go to large factories in Guangdong.
His friends there have taken a hit from tariffs, but he's brought customer base offered protection.
I've been busy greeting many customers, including Indians, Southeast Asians, Malaysians, Indonesians, Russians, European customers and Africans.
Beyond EWU, the same applies to the whole country.
Last year trade with Belt and Road countries made up more than half of China's total foreign trade for the first time.
I think this 50 percent is also symbolic.
What we have is a diversified strategy.
When the west goes dark, the east will brighten up.
We are not putting all our eggs in one basket.
China has been laying the infrastructure for this future.
One example is the freight train line that connects Yiwu all the way to London.
But at the heart of it all is Yiwu's unbeatable price.
For example, the factory I sourced this ball from, they make less than a 100th of a cent on this, so they make just a little profit.
And as I assemble all these parts and sell them, I also make just a little profit.
Built on the strength of this supply chain, eCommerce is also thriving in the city.
These newcomers to Yiwu have built a successful business by selling to clients they reach through social media.
When a video goes viral, we get a lot of inquiries.
These are all orders.
1 ,200 unread messages.
Now they're organizing tours for others seeking growth in a challenging economy.
My confidence is rooted in Chinese manufacturing, its reputation and quality, and the vast overseas market.
Just think about how big that market is.
It's big enough for me and my business to weather economic cycles, to have stability, to have scalability.
As long as I build a good team and we put in the work to fulfill every order, serve every client well, and handle every request properly.
For many businesses in Yiwu, the question of whether they can survive and thrive without the U .S. market has already been answered.
That was Chuanmeng Fei reporting.
Japanese investors made a big move into overseas stocks in April, pulling back from bounce, as market volatility picked up following new U .S. tariffs.
They snapped up a net 3 .2 trillion yen, or about 22 billion US dollars, in foreign equities, marking the highest monthly total since at least 2005.
Bank of Japan data released on Monday also showed that in March Japanese investors poured over 2 trillion yen into US equities.
At the same time global investors pumped 3 .6 trillion yen into Japanese markets in April, the largest inflow in two years.
And finally, OpenAI and Microsoft are renegotiating the terms of their multibillion -dollar partnership as the chapped GBT maker prepares for a potential future IPO.
According to a Financial Times report, a key point of discussion is how much equity Microsoft will receive in OpenAI's for -profit entity in return for the more than US $13 billion it has invested to date.
The report says Microsoft is willing to give up part of its equity stakes in exchange for extended access to OpenAI's future technologies beyond the current 2030 agreement.
It says the two companies are also revising the broader terms of their partnership, originally outlined when Microsoft made its initial US $1 billion investment in OpenAI in 2019.
Thank you very much. That was Tianyu with Business.
Coming up in sports, a dramatic comeback in the latest El Clasico.
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The hottest topics, latest events, juiciest stories.
All with a very personal take.
Subscribe to Sideline Story podcast for heated sports discussions.
Covering events that are happening in China and around the world.
I have 47 minutes past the hour, with sports now.
Here is Yang Guan. Thank you Shane.
First in football, Barcelona has staged a dramatic comeback, weighing to beat arch -rival Real Madrid 4 -3 in a power -seeding El Clasico, moving within one win of securing their 28th La Liga title.
The victory extends Barcelona's lead at the top to 7 points, with just three matches remaining.
Real Madrid came out firing with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice early, first converting a penalty after being fouled by keeper Wojciech Szczysny in the fifth minute, then doubling lead nine minutes later of a Phoenicious Junior assist. Barcelona hit back with a furious response.
Erick Garcia, Laming -Yamel and Rafinha scored in a 15 -minute burst to flip the match. Moments later a midfield error by Mbappe and Daniel Ceballos gifted Barça possession and Rafinha capitalized with a composed finish past Thibaut Courtois to make it 4 -2.
Mbappe completed his hat -trick in the 70th minute, finishing another Vinicius -led counter -attack but Madrid couldn't find the equalizer.
Barca head coach Hansi Flick hailed the mentality of his team after the victory.
after the match on Tuesday in Milan, 120 minutes and 2 -0 or behind in this match i think it was not easy but the mentality of my team is unbelievable it's really great to see this that they have the power to come back and it's very fantastic meantime a Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti rules huge mistakes following Real's loss As he said before, in a game like this, you need to defend well and you need to attack well.
I think we attacked well, I looked for chances, but I believe we could have defended better than 30 minutes of the first half as we made huge mistakes that allowed them to score.
With this result, Barcelona has now defeated Real four times across all competitions this season, including twice in less than a month, leaving last year's champion facing a likely trophy -list campaign.
staying in football, Inter Milan has kept their Serie A title hopes alive with the composed 2 -0 win at Torino, closing the gap on leader Napoli to just one point with two matches remaining.
Fresh off their Champions League semi -final win over Barcelona, Inter rotated heavily resting Lautero Martinez, Jan Zouma, and Davide Fratesi.
Nikola Zalewski opened scoring in the 15th minute, and Christian Astellani doubled lead from the penalty spot after Mehdi Teremi was fouled.
Despite heavy rain and a brief weather delay, Inter controlled match with Torino's late goal ruled out for a foul.
Earlier, Napoli dropped points in a dramatic 2 -0 draw with Genoa.
Romelu Lukaku and Giacomo Respadore scored for the host, but a bizarre own goal and Johan Vazquez's 84th minute header denied them victory.
Stanislav Lobotka also limped off early with injury.
Napoli remains top with 78 points, just ahead of Inter.
Defending champions Inter will next face Lazio and Como, while Napoli will face Palma and Cagliari to close the season.
To the Premier League, Arsenal has given champion Liverpool a guard of honor, and then reminded them why they were their closest title challenger, clawing back from two goals down to draw two or in a dramatic clash at Anfield.
Liverpool flew out of the blocks with Cody Gugpo's header and Luis Diaz's tapping putting them up 2 -0 inside 90s.
Arsenal deflated from their midweek Champions League exit responded after the break.
Gabriel Martinelli headed in Leandro Drosaurd's cross early in the second half before Mikel Moreno struck the equalizer in the 70th minute after Martin Odgaard's effort rattled woodwork.
Moreno was sent off nine minutes later for a rash challenge, but Ten Man Arsenal held firm and managed to secure the draw, despite the draw Arsenal manager Michaela Larteta says he is really upset about the result.
Very far away, really upset, yeah, we had a reaction.
I hate reaction, I like action, and especially we want to be there, winning trophies, you want to be a moment that you win it or you don't, and when you don't, that's it, you that's here today and you cannot win it you have to be the best of the rest and i was really really upset." Liverpool already crowned champion with 83 points saw a mixed reception for Trent Alex and Arnold after announcing his summer departure.
Arsenal, now second with 68, is still fighting for Champions League spots.
Elsewhere Newcastle United beat Chelsea 2 -0 at st James Park to move up to 3rd above Manchester City.
And finally, in the NBA share, Guges Alexander scored 25 points, as the visiting Oklahoma City Thunder rallied from 8 point down in the 4th quarter to beat the Denver Nuggets 92 -87 in Game 4 to even the Western Conference semifinal series.
Oklahoma regained home court advantage in the best -of -seven series and will host Game 5 on Wednesday.
Despite 27 points and 13 rebounds from Nikola Jokic, Denver missed an opportunity to put a stronger hold on the series.
Christian Brown and Jamel Murray had 17 points each and Aaron Gordon finished with 15 points and 16 rebounds for the Nuggets.
For the Thunder, Aaron Wiggins and Carson Wallace scored 11 each. Alex Caruso and Jaylen Williams scored 10 apiece.
Isaiah Hartenstein had 14 rebounds and Chad Holmgren grabbed 13 boards.
All right thank you very much. That was Yang Guang with sports.
Just ahead in Culture and Entertainment, a chinese dance drama up on famous stages in Russia.
Experience the musical classics of the East. Mingle with the masters of Chinese music.
Music talks, witness the sound of antiquity and modernity.
Let's eat. 53 passed the hour.
In culture and entertainment, Chinese dance drama Wing Chun premiered in Saint Petersburg, Russia with three consecutive performances earlier this month.
Following its debut at the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow last month, the show transitioned to the Mariinsky Theater, becoming the first Chinese original dance drama to grace the stages of two of Russia's most esteemed theaters.
Zhang Mengyuan has more.
Wing Chun has been held as a triumph in the Russian capital.
Tickets for the shows on April the 25th and 26th were completely sold out.
The dance drama, which seamlessly blends traditional Chinese martial arts with contemporary dance, not only showcases the richness of Chinese cultural heritage, but also fosters mutual understanding and appreciation between China and Russia.
It was a captivating show.
I've seen many Chinese dance dramas but this one truly blends drama and dance.
The stage design and the way the story unfolded really drew me in.
The Morinsky Theater with its 242 year history has seen countless classical artworks come to life.
During the performance, the audience was completely absorbed.
When the curtain fell, the applause went on for over 15 minutes, with many audiences shouting, Bravo.
It's unlike any ballet I've seen, the quality of this dance drama, its intricate details and the grand scale of the set design are unlike anything I've experienced.
The story really touched me and everything on stage filled me with genuine admiration and emotion.
It's a truly magnificent piece of work, performed at the iconic Marinsky Theatre in Russia.
I think this is a wonderful gift for the people of St. Petersburg.
The city of St. Petersburg marks the 49th stop on the global tour of Shenzhen's original dance drama Wing Chun.
With this performance, it has now entertained over 340 ,000 audience members.
Alice, Jang Meng Yuan reporting.
Museums across Jiangxi province are having a moment, drawing crowds and sparking a new wave of cultural curiosity.
With engaging exhibitions and a range of innovative products, visitors are flocking to museums in the eastern Chinese province for learning and shopping.
Ding Siyue reports.
The Jingdezhen China Ceramics Museum attracts visitors by hosting monthly exhibitions and interactive events.
The ongoing Encounter Qianlong Porcelain Immersive exhibition utilizes cutting -edge technology to showcase the city's renowned porcelain craftsmanship and rich history.
In this room, I can experience the process of making ceramics firsthand.
I can even feel the heat from the kiln and smell the scent of the ceramics being fired.
It's such an interesting experience.
Beyond the exhibitions, museums are seeing success with their cultural and creative merchandise.
Ceramic blind boxes, inspired by the museum's collections, are proving particularly popular.
It's different from blind boxes I bought before, as these are made of ceramic.
I think they're really cute.
The trend extends to other museums with a mirror inspired by the Seung Dynasty's double dragon design, selling over 120 ,000 units at the Jiangxi Provincial Museum.
Museums are also focusing on original designs and intellectual property.
The Nanqiang Relic Museum of Marquis Haihuan State of Han Dynasty has developed a range of products based on its treasures, including a new series of practical and culturally relevant items. That was Ding Siyue reporting.
The 9th International Symposium on Rose Research & Cultivation is opened in Beijing, marking the event's first time in China in its 40 -year history.
Running through May 15, the five -day event showcases over 1 ,000 -rose varieties from around the world.
The main venue is on Jingxi Rose Island in Montogo District.
We're at 57 past the hour, Beijing down to 17 degrees Monday evening, as thunderstorms in 29 on Tuesday and Nansheng down to 18, followed by sunshine in 31.
Elsewhere in Asia, Islamabad's 18 overnight then sunny in 38, Vientiane is down to 24 degrees, a slight rain and 34 tomorrow.
Phnom Penh is 24 this evening, a slight rain and 34 tomorrow.
In Africa Nairobi is getting some rainfall and 25 degrees on Tuesday.
Kampala is down to 20, then a slight rain and 24.
Juba is 22 this evening, followed by a slight rain and 34 degrees Celsius.
That's it for this edition of the Beijing Hour.
Making news today, the US and China have reached an agreement on significant tariff reductions, at least for 90 days.
and China and the community of Latin American and Caribbean states plan to adopt several documents on cooperation.
On behalf of the staff, this is Shane Bigum in the Chinese capitol hoping you'll join us for the next edition of the Beijing Hour and open a window to the world together.
Your window on China and the rest of the world.
He can't live without the Yellow River in his eyes.
The Yellow River is so noble and elegant.
Both my grandpa and dad made the living from the river.
Would you like to move away from the Yellow River?
I don't think I will.
I love it so much. The Yellow River, the second longest river in China, is regarded as a shaping force in the history, economy and culture of Northern China.
Today, about one hundred million people live within its water basin, making up nearly nine percent of the country's population.
How is climate change felt at its headwaters and what are the locals doing to cope with it?
What are the descendants of the boatman doing?
What has kept some people from leaving their home village by the river and what has drawn others back?
Could the fading fishing community revive in the time of digital transformation?
From 2021 to 2024 our reporters visited the upper, middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, talked to the herders, farmers, boatmen, fishermen and eco -activists who share a close bond with the river, and present their stories in pictures, podcasts and videos.
or in our 12 part series, the Yellow River Mosaic, available only on CGTN Radio.
