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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 bigham, with you on this wednesday, september 3rd 2025.
If you're listening to the beijing hour coming to you, live from the chinese capital.
On today's program, the Chinese president called on all countries to eliminate the root causes of war as he addressed the country's V-Day military parade and commemorations in Beijing.
Other nations have also marked the 80th anniversary of China's victory in the war against Japanese aggression.
Suicide bombers struck the headquarters of one of the most powerful military units in Libya.
In business, service sector activity is gaining strength in China.
In sports, setting up the semifinals at the U.S.
Open.
In culture and entertainment.
A Chinese movie shot in space with 8K technology makes its debut this week.
Now checking the day's top stories.
China's held a grand military parade at Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese people's war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war.
Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed the gathering, calling on all nations to eliminate the root causes of war and to ensure the tragedies of history are never repeated.
The president highlighted China's contribution to the fight against fascism, stressing that the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is unstoppable.
He also pledged that China will remain committed to the path of peaceful development and work with people around the world to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
Zhao Yunfei reports from central Beijing.
A solemn moment commemorating history and defending justice.
A grand gathering marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese people's war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war.
A patriotic event promoting national dignity.
Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech emphasizing the correct view of World War II.
History cautions us that humanity rises and falls together.
Only when all countries and nations treat each other as equals, coexist in peace and support each other can we uphold common security, eradicate the root cause of war and prevent the reoccurrence of historical tragedies.
The Chinese president reviews formations lining up along the Chang'an Avenue.
A modernized troop that is advancing with strength.
A total of 45 formations and echelons are involved.
Led by the party national and military flags.
Troop formations hold the flags of various military forces, as well as the flag of the People's Armed Police Force.
The battle flag formation carries the names of heroic units from the blood and fire battlefields, reminding decisive moments that turn the tide of war.
The parade is organized under the comprehensive command system.
A series of new generation armaments made public debut, such as fourth generation tanks and aircraft, unmanned and counter-manned equipment and hypersonic missiles.
All the armaments are domestically made and in active service.
It's a display that demonstrates China's ability to safeguard national sovereignty.
Since 1931, China was the first to fight against fascist aggression and sustain the longest resistance.
History is remembered while peace is cherished.
Here at the Tiananmen Square, tens of thousands of people are in the audience.
As people reflect on the past, it's also a moment of gaining confidence, as China is uniting more peace-loving countries to promote a better future.
That was Zhao Yunfei in the Chinese capital.
Leaders from many countries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, also attended the event.
Later in the day, President Xi hosted a reception for visiting world leaders at the Great Hall of the People.
Addressing the reception, the Chinese leader called on all countries to safeguard international fairness and justice, follow a path of peaceful development and strive for the people's well-being.
Wednesday's events also included a commemorative gala titled Justice Will Prevail.
And for more.
Tianlu spoke with Xiaolu, an associate professor at the School of Marxism Studies at Renmin University of China.
President Xi emphasized that China's national rejuvenation is unstoppable.
How should we interpret this wording?
And is it more like a message of historical confidence or a strategic declaration in the face of today's global challenges?
Well actually, in my opinion, at the commemoration, President Xi declared that the rejuvenation of Chinese nation is unstoppable.
I think this statement carries both the historical connotation and the strategic declaration to the outside world.
So, in my opinion actually, in terms of the historical confidence or historical connotation, it affirmed the historical progress and it asserted the confidence not only in history but also in China's system, the system of socialism with Chinese characteristics.
And also not only about the confidence in terms of what we have done, what we have achieved, but also the confidence in terms of the cultural foundation on which we can achieve all this kind of greatness.
And in terms of this strategic declaration, I think it's a very clear statement.
Actually it is a very clear statement amid global challenges, because we are now facing a lot of international, let's say challenge, international predictability.
So it underscores that China's development model has overturned the world's traditional perception of the West and offered a path of peaceful development distinct from the Western expansion and plunder.
So I think that the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is unstoppable, as both the historical confidence and the strategic message.
Strategic declaration.
And following on that through the V-Day commemorations, what kind of message do you think China wants to convey to the international community?
I think the message is very clear, because China has transformed from a traditional image to a very kind of new image.
I think the following three images could be detached from this message.
The first change is from the forgotten ally Previously, China was considered as a forgotten ally.
But according to the message, we know that it's changed from a forgotten ally to this hope, the power with great hope and hope for the future.
So that's the confirmation of China's historical situation in terms of a war.
And that's the first change.
The second change is to the salvation of Chinese nation to the protector of world peace.
Previously, we've only emphasized that During the war, the Chinese Communist Party, the party saved the nation.
So that's the salvation of the nation.
But now that we emphasize that China is not only a salvation of its own nation, but also the protector of the world peace.
So it's a kind of a continuity of this great spirit.
And the third is a change from the victim of humiliation to the builder of world peace, because that is the great change of the role of China played in the international community.
And I think the very important, very precise message to the outside world is that China has always standing on the right side in history.
And also China is making progress of not only itself, but also this entire humanity, mankind.
And also the other aspect of this message is that China, or Chinese people, is not only dwelling on the history, is not dwelling on historical humiliation and other kind of atrocity, but to the future.
So China is always making progress, not only to itself, but also to the world peace, to the cooperation and win-win development and also the justice and the rightful thing in the world.
So that's the contribution to the common prosperity of the entire, let's say, international community.
That was Professor Xiaolu at Renmin University of China.
President Xi has held bilateral talks with the visiting leaders.
In a meeting with his Indonesian counterpart, Prabowo Subianto, Xi Jinping urged the two countries to expand opening up, as well as cooperation in critical minerals, the digital economy and artificial intelligence.
Ahead of the commemorative events, the Chinese leader also spoke with guests, including the presidents of Russia Mongolia, Iran and the prime ministers of Pakistan and Malaysia.
As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the grand ceremony and military parade held earlier at Tiananmen Square have left a profound impression.
The solemn atmosphere and the spirit of unity deeply resonated with many.
Tung Ho Lam, from Macau, shared her thoughts on the event, the future and the Special Administrative Region's role as a bridge to the world.
Our military parade is beyond a display of strengths in technology, military finance and other fields.
It's a showcase of our commitment to the world's peaceful development.
Amidst the ongoing transformation of the geopolitical landscape, where all countries have the opportunity to pursue fair and equitable development, this location marks the beginning of a new future.
I am grateful to be a Macau Gen Z.
Macau has fully leveraged its role as the national window, creating more opportunities for every young individual.
Hong Kong entrepreneur Li Pak-hung expressed his pride after watching the V-Day parade, emphasizing that the people of China are united and younger generations in Hong Kong should cherish peace as part of the Chinese nation.
I feel very touched.
I saw our soldiers were well organized in a high spirit, and a lot of military equipment and weapons were impressive.
Over the past 80 years, Our country has continuously worked hard to protect us and has paid a lot, which makes us current pace and a stable life.
I feel that the people of our country is very united.
Our country has always given Hong Kong very great support.
Now we must remember the history and keep to learn from 5000 years of the traditional Chinese culture and history.
Chess, please live today, recognize our own Chinese nation identity.
With more, I'm now joined by Xu Yewen, who was at the scene this morning.
Thanks for joining us.
Yewen, having witnessed the commemorative ceremony and the parade, what stood out to you the most?
Thanks for having me, Shen.
So there were so many unforgettable moments.
One that really stood out to me was seeing hundreds of thousands of spectators singing in unison with the choir.
Without the Communist Party, there would be no new China.
That was just incredibly powerful.
Another striking moment was when the National Flag Honor Guard marched in neat and resolute formation accompanied by 80 ceremonial gun salutes, a tribute to the 80th anniversary of China's victory in the War of Resistance against the Japanese aggression.
The symbolism and solemnity of that moment really hit me.
And for the first time I have noticed that aerospace, cyberspace and information support forces participated in a parade.
That's a clear reflection of how China's military is evolving, with modern warfare and technological development.
But if I had to pick just one thing that impressed me the most, it would be the military parade itself, especially in the moment when the Dongfeng 5C was introduced.
It's a liquid-filled intercontinental strategic nuclear missile with global strike capability.
And when it was announced, the entire audience erupted with applause and cheers.
And moments later, the news of Dongfeng 5C topped the trending list on China's domestic social media platform Weibo, and was widely reported by international media.
And finally, the release of 80000 doves and balloons over Tiananmen Square as symbols of peace was a truly moving end to a powerful day.
Well, how did the audience and the foreign guests react to this occasion?
Well, I actually spoke to a few foreign reporters who participated in the commemorative event.
A journalist from Cameroon Africa, told me here at TMS Square earlier that this commemorative event taught him what really happened on the Eastern battlefield during the Second World War.
He said that he had not known much about how the Chinese people fought against the Japanese aggression for 14 years.
But after attending today's event, he said it gave him a deeper respect for China's role in a global fight against fascism, a chapter of history often overlooked in both the West and Africa.
I asked him about the military parade today, especially the unveiling of China's new armaments.
He was saying that China is a peaceful promoter.
China is a peace promoter and the army, in this context, is a key force in reserving peace, not provoking conflict.
I also spoke with another journalist from Russia, and he shared a similar sentiment.
He said the event was not only visually impressive, but also emotionally powerful.
He described the scale of the parade as a strong expression of national pride and historical memory.
He told me, what struck him most was the event's emphasis on peace and international cooperation, especially coming from a country like China, which played such a critical role on the Eastern Front during the Second World War.
He also told me he felt a deep emotional connection between the sacrifices made by the Russian and Chinese people, which is the shared history that still resonates today.
All right.
Thank you very much.
That was Xu Yuan joining us live in Beijing.
This year marks the second time since 2015 that China staged a military parade on September 3rd to mark its victory day.
But why this date and not August 15th, the day that Japan announced its surrender in 1945?
Our next story takes a closer look.
Japan's announcement of surrender was on August 15th, 1945.
A little afternoon, Emperor Hirohito declared Japan's acceptance of the terms of the Potsdam Declaration and its unconditional surrender.
The message was broadcast by radio across the nation.
However, without the formal signing over the terms of surrender, it didn't have any legal standing.
So on September the 2nd, representatives from Japan, China and eight other allied powers gathered on the deck of the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.
They signed the official Japanese instrument of surrender.
The ceremony lasted over 20 minutes and was broadcast throughout the world.
The next day, September 3rd, the Japanese army in China formally surrendered to the Chinese government.
The entire nation rejoiced.
Celebrations erupted across China.
It marked the first outright victory over a foreign invasion in Chinese modern history.
Therefore, September 3rd was chosen as China's official victory day.
In 2014, China's top legislative body ratified September 3 as the Victory Day of Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.
Enshrining this date as a national holiday will ensure the people reflect on the lessons of war, commemorate the heroic sacrifices and demonstrates China's strong will to safeguard national sovereignty, territorial solidarity and world peace.
And now it's a report explaining why China observes Victory Day on September 3rd.
Coming up retracing the footsteps of a US general who helped China defend itself from Japanese aggression.
United in purpose.
During World War II, the Chinese military and people stood as one, fearlessly resisting Japanese fascism.
China's unwavering whole-nation effort forged the pivotal Eastern Front.
Through fierce battles, immense sacrifices, heroic endurance and decisive support to the allies on the European and Pacific battlefields, China has helped secure liberation, the final victory and the lasting legacy for global peace and human progress.
Resolve and Resilience, the main eastern battlefield of World War II, only on CGTN.
We're 19 past the hour.
The descendants of the late U.S.
Army General Joseph Stilwell are on a historical journey across China this week, retracing the footsteps of the man who stood with China in his fight against fascism during World War II.
Now the great-grandson and great-granddaughter of the American war veteran, together with their families, have visited the Great Wall on the outskirts of Beijing, a symbol of China's indomitable spirit.
And Zheng Chunying has the story.
Step by step.
The Stilwell family climbed the Great Wall in Beijing, one of China's most enduring symbol.
But the moment was not just about experiencing the World Heritage Site, but about remembering a man whose wartime service left a lasting mark on China-US relations General Joseph Stilwell.
Stillwell commanded American forces in the China-Burma-India theater, working side by side with Chinese soldiers in the fight against fascism.
It's just been amazing to hear stories about Stillwell that I hadn't heard and understand the deep respect he had for the Chinese people and from the Chinese people to Stillwell as well.
So I just feel honored to be here and kind of represent him as part of his family.
And just the admiration he had for the country and the language and the people, it's just inspiring.
The visit comes as China commemorates the 80th anniversary of victory in the war of resistance against Japanese aggression.
The family's journey also brought them to the 13 Ming tombs, a solemn site that reflects the depth of China's history and culture.
So this is where history meets legacy.
I'm sure that for the Stilwell family, the visit this time is not just about remembering the past, but about keeping alive the values of courage, cooperation and friendship between China and the United States.
The Stilwell family has long engaged with China, supporting museums and cultural exchanges that preserve and carry forward the legacy of wartime cooperation.
We are always pleased to come back to the warmth of the Chinese people and to celebrate the relationships that General Stilwell began so many years ago and that we've continued throughout the years.
And it's really wonderful to see our children learn about those friendships and those relationships, with the hopes that through their generation they will continue to do so.
The Stilwell family's visit is a reminder that the sacrifices of the past continue to inspire cooperation today.
Their journey reflects a simple truth.
Remembering history is also about building common ground for generations to come.
That was Zheng Chunying reporting.
San Francisco has hosted an event marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the organizers highlighted a part of history often overlooked the victory of the Chinese people's war resistance against Japanese aggression.
Mark Neal reports.
At San Francisco Chinatown, inside Victory Hall, people come together for a symposium on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
For some tragic memories remain, like for Li Baochun, who recalls his father being killed by Japanese soldiers right before his eyes.
Jennifer Chung remembers her father describing how he was held prisoner by Japanese soldiers in his village in southern China, but managed to escape.
I grew up by my father telling me when the Japanese come into our village.
He almost got shot because the bullet just flew right through his head.
And when I was little, I thought he was telling me a story, like making up a story.
So until 2005, he took me to the village and he pointed the bullet hole to me.
Chung recently raised funds to rent out two theaters to invite people to watch Dead to Rights, a film about the Nanjing Massacre.
And then after the movie, I have an African-American friend told me I don't know anything about this.
My ancestors have gone through the similar experience in the past.
I related this.
This is horrible.
They need to apologize.
Myself, I grew up here in the United States.
I don't really know much about more history about the Chinese or Asia has been invaded by the Japanese military.
So I feel there's got to be a channel to educate the world.
Retired San Francisco Judge Julie Tang is co-founder of the Comfort Women Justice Coalition.
A lot of the speakers talk about learning from what happened in World War II.
The United States and China joined forces at that time to forge peace.
And I think that these are two big powers of the world right now.
We are two superpowers and I think that the success of one country will affect the success of the other.
During the war overseas Chinese in America raised money to send to China to help in the resistance against Japanese aggression.
By the time Japan surrendered this money, they were still, you know, raising money.
At that time, you know, the war was already over.
So they used the remaining sun to build this place in order to tell people that we've won the war and we want to continue peace.
This very venue is now known as Victory Hall.
And Consul General Zhang hopes its symbolic ideals will carry on for generations.
It's an important way for people to realize how much peace is cherished.
You know, sometimes peace is just like electricity and water.
You only realize how valuable it is once it's absent.
Attendees here tell me they hope this meeting will serve as a reminder that, whether it be politics, trade or climate change, both China and the US can overcome any challenge if they work together.
That was Martin Yeo reporting from the U.S.
An international academic symposium in the Chinese capital has commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
The conference showcased the latest research findings from domestic and international scholars on the history of China's resistance and the global fight against fascism.
It also addressed current theoretical concerns and helped build broader consensus on major historical issues.
Coming up, a suicide bomber attacks the headquarters of a military unit in Libya.
US President Donald Trump has defended his decision to issue 600000 Chinese student visas, despite opposition from his supporters.
Beijing welcomed the move, but questions remain.
Is this a genuine shift or just political maneuvering?
Can the promises be trusted when Chinese students still face interrogations and deportations at US airports?
To explore the backlash, the stakes for American universities and what it all means for the future of education exchanges.
Join us this week at the Chat Lounge, wherever you get your podcasts, and on CGTN Radio.
We're at 26 minutes past the hour.
A suicide car bomb has struck the headquarters of one of Libya's most powerful military units in the town of Bani Walid, about 170 kilometers southeast of Tripoli.
In a statement, the 444th Combat Brigade said an attacker detonated a vehicle packed with explosives outside the headquarters.
The unit released images showing damaged buildings and debris scattered across the site.
The statement stressed that the situation was under control and that the brigade continues to carry out its duties.
The brigades operating under the UN-recognized Government of National Unity in Tripoli.
The attack comes at a time of heightened tensions around the capital, though.
In recent days, armed groups have mobilized near Tripoli following reports of sporadic clashes.
On Tuesday, the United Nations support mission in Libya said it was gravely alarmed by the escalating military buildup, warning that it could spark a new round of fighting.
Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Abul Gait also voiced concern, urging rival groups in western Libya to exercise restraint and resolve disputes through dialogue.
The North African country has been mired in political division since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi.
The country is now split between two rival administrations.
The Chinese embassy in Afghanistan donated earthquake relief supplies for victims of the recent quake in Kunar and nearby provinces.
The earthquake over the weekend has killed more than 1,400 people and injured over 3,100 others.
Sharjah Fair, Bao Shu Hui handed over the donations to Mohammad Alam Alamyar, General Director of Afghanistan's National Disaster Management Authority.
Bao said, the disaster, which caused heavy casualties and damage, has deeply touched the Chinese people.
He noted that the embassy, Chinese institutions and the overseas Chinese association quickly raised funds and supplies to help affected communities recover.
Lam Yar thanked China for its timely assistance, calling it a sign of true friendship, and pledged to dedicate the donations fully to disaster relief and reconstruction.
The United Nations Refugee Agency says around 850000 Syrians have returned from neighboring countries since December.
The agency said its expanded support to ensure returns are voluntary, safe and dignified.
Assistance includes financial aid transportation, shelter and livelihood programs in communities of return.
Lebanon, which still holds hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees, has recorded nearly 200000 returns this year.
At the same time, new arrivals of fleeing fresh violence in Syria continue to cross into Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing volatility of this displacement crisis.
UN Deputy High Commissioner for Refugees, Kelly Clements, has urged the international community to take an active role to help Syrians rebuild their country.
At 29 past the hour, Beijing's down to 22 degrees on Wednesday evening.
Cloudy conditions, turning overcast later on Thursday with a high of 31.
Nanchang's 27 overnight, then cloudy in 35.
Also in Asia Islamabad's down to 13, then clouds clearing later on on Thursday with a high of 31 degrees.
The NTN is 16 overnight, then a light rainfall, turning to moderate rain in 32.
Phnom Penh is 24 overnight, then heavy rainfall in 31 degrees.
In Africa, Nairobi will see a light rainfall, turning cloudy later with a high of 25 on Thursday.
Kampala is down to 13, then a slight rain in 26.
Juba is 20 overnight, then a slight rain in 32.
That's time for a short break now.
And so far.
This hour, the Chinese president called on all countries to eliminate the root causes of war as he addressed the country's V-Day military parade and commemorations in Beijing.
And other nations have also marked the 80th anniversary of China's victory in the war against Japanese aggression.
Suicide bombers struck the headquarters of one of the most powerful military units in Libya.
Shane Bigham with you.
Stay with us here on The Beijing Hour.
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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?
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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 Bigham with you on this Wednesday.
Still to come.
In business, service sector activity is gaining strength in China.
In sports, setting up the semifinals at the U.S.
Open.
In culture and entertainment.
A Chinese movie shot in space with 8K technology makes its debut this week.
To contact us, you can email radio at cgtn.com or follow our ex-account at CGTN Radio.
Now checking the day's headlines, here's Tianli.
Thank you, Shane.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has pledged that China will remain committed to the path of peaceful development and work with people around the world to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
He was speaking at a gathering in Beijing marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
President Xi highlighted the pivotal role China played in World War II.
The Chinese people's war of resistance against Japanese aggression was an important part of the world anti-fascist war.
With huge national sacrifice, the Chinese people made major contributions to saving human civilization and safeguarding world peace.
He warned that the world today again has to choose between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation, win-win cooperation and zero-sum games.
History cautions us that humanity rises and falls together.
Only when all countries and nations treat each other as equals, coexist in peace and support each other can we uphold common security, eradicate the root cause of war and prevent the reoccurrence of historical tragedies.
Around 50000 people gathered at Tiananmen Square for the commemoration, which included a military parade.
The procession through the square featured 45 formations and aerial units, showcasing traditional battle forces and new domain forces with new combat capabilities.
Many new types of military hardware were shown for the first time.
Leaders from many countries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, attended the gathering.
Later in the day, President Xi hosted a reception for visiting both leaders at the Great Hall of the People.
Addressing the reception, the Chinese leader called on all countries to safeguard international fairness and justice, follow a path of peaceful development and strive for the people's well-being.
Wednesday's events also include a commemorative gala titled Justice Will Prevail.
President Xi has held bilateral talks with the visiting leaders.
In a meeting with his Indonesian counterpart, Prabowo Subianto, Xi Jinping urged the two countries to expand opening up, as well as cooperation in critical minerals, the digital economy and artificial intelligence.
Ahead of the commemorative events, the Chinese leader also spoke with guests, including the presidents of Russia Mongolia Iran, as well as the prime ministers of Pakistan and Malaysia.
Thailand's acting prime minister says his caretaker government has moved to dissolve the lower house of parliament, potentially leading to an early general election.
Putam Vichayachai said restoring political stability is essential to prevent further economic decline, stressing that returning decision-making authority to the electorate is the appropriate course of action.
Thailand's ruling.
Pertai Party has lost its majority in the lower house and is struggling to form a new government following a constitutional court ruling that removed Patanjali Srinivasan from her premiership.
The main opposition, People's Party, has decided to back the Bhujia Thai Party candidate as the next prime minister.
A US federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration violated a 19th century law when it deployed National Guard troops and Marines of Los Angeles in June to quell protests against federal immigration raids.
The ruling said the Trump administration violated the Posse Comitatus Act that prohibits the use of the US military to execute domestic law without approval from Congress.
It bars the Trump administration from deploying ordering instructing, training or using the National Guard deployed in California and any military troops deployed in the state to execute the laws.
The White House said in response that once again, a rogue judge is trying to usurp the authority of the commandering chief to protect American cities from violence and destruction.
All right.
Thank you very much.
That's Tian Liu with Headlines.
Coming up in business, service sector activity is gaining strength in China.
Thank you Shane.
Stock markets on the Chinese mainland closed lower on Wednesday.
The Shanghai Composite was down nearly 1.2%.
The Shenzhen Component lost nearly 0.7%.
Photovoltaic and telecommunications equipment shares led the gainers.
Elsewhere in China, the Hong Kong stock market ended lower, with the Hang Seng down nearly 0.6%.
Meantime, stocks in Japan also ended lower on this trading day.
The Nikkei lost almost 0.9%.
A private sector survey shows China's services activity grew at its fastest pace in 15 months in August, driven by stronger domestic demand and a rebound in export orders.
Rating DOC's General Services PMI by SP Global rose to 53 from July's 526, the highest since May 2024.
The uptick aligns with the official PMI, though RatingBlock's index captures smaller export-focused firms along the coast.
New businesses rose at the fastest rate and new export orders grew the most since February, on the back of tourism.
An industry report shows that high-end manufacturers such as military industrial enterprises, new energy firms and medical device makers outpaced others.
Leading earnings growing.
Leading earnings growth among China's A-share listed companies in the first half of this year.
According to the China Association for Public Companies, net profits for new energy vehicle companies surged over 30, supported by the trade-in policy that has boosted the productions and sales of NEVs.
The home appliance industry also saw signs of growth, with revenue and net profit growth each exceeding 9.
Cultural consumption showed robust momentum, with gaming and cinema chains reporting revenue increases and net profit growth surpassing 70.
Logistics activity remained strong, with five major listed courier firms posting a 10 rise in revenue.
New consumption patterns among younger people, such as pet-related products and IP-driven merchandise, filled shop gains for listed companies in the two sectors.
Chinese listed firms demonstrated resilience in overseas markets as well, with international revenue reaching 49 trillion yuan, or around US686 billion.
This represented a 45 increase, marking the third consecutive year of increased share in total earnings.
The Chinese shipbuilding industry outperformed other global players, with export delivery value rising nearly 39.
Listed shipbuilders reported a 23% increase in revenue and a 135% jump in net profits.
China's 42 A-share listed banks steadily improved the quality and efficiency in their support of the real economy, while maintaining steady development in the first half of the year.
According to their 2025 interim results, these listed firms' banks reported operating revenue of more than 2.9 trillion yuan , representing an increase of over 1%.
Their net profit attributable to parent companies reached 1.1 trillion yuan, up 0.8%.
The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, the China Construction Bank and the Bank of China each recorded a net profit exceeding 100 billion yuan.
The non-performing loan ratio of the country's six major commercial banks, including ICBC, the BOC and the Postal Savings Bank of China, remained at low levels.
Since the beginning of the year, technology sectors related to new quality productive forces have become key recipients of the support from the banks, which significantly increased their funding.
Trade volume involving the China, Central and Eastern European countries' economic and trade cooperation demonstration zone has exceeded 36 billion yuan, or around US5 billion, as of mid-August up 12.
According to Ningbo Customs in the eastern province of Zhejiang, since its official launch in the year 2018, the demonstration zone's cumulative imports and exports have surpassed 300 billion yuan, with an average annual growth rate of 172.
Covering an area of 120 square kilometers in Ningbo.
The area is the first demonstration zone in China featuring relations with the Central and Eastern European nations.
The demonstration zone encompasses three major areas the central urban area, the Ningbo area of the Zhejiang Pilot Free Trade Zone and the Qianwan New Area.
Turning to the US Territory Secretary Scott Besant says the White House has a backup plan if the Supreme Court opposes the ruling that the Trump administration's tariffs are illegal.
Besant says the case will address decades of trade imbalances and drug trafficking into the United States.
Last week, an appeals court ruled that the tariffs constituted overreach by President Trump.
Nick Harper has more.
Well Jamie, there seems to be a certain amount of optimism surrounding the Treasury Secretary, feeling that the Trump administration will be able to iron things out.
This call comes off the back of an appeals court on Friday ruling that Donald Trump quite simply didn't have the authority to impose these sweeping tariffs, ruling that they are illegal.
Now remember he used an emergency economic powers act dating back to 1977 to put these reciprocal tariffs in place against countries right around the world.
For the time being, those tariffs will stay in place until October the 14th.
The court is allowing that essentially to give the Trump administration time to appeal to the Supreme Court.
And that's where Scott Besant comes in, because he has told a news broadcaster here in the United States that he's currently working on a legal brief in order to appeal to the Supreme Court, the highest court in the land but also saying that he is confident the Supreme Court will uphold the president's authority and allow these tariffs to remain in effect.
Simply put, the Supreme Court, the highest in the land, will be making a decision on, on this central part of Donald Trump's economic policy whether or not he can keep these tariffs in place and have these duties against countries right around the world.
But Scott Besant also said that if the Supreme Court were to rule against the Trump administration, that would not be the end of tariffs.
He said essentially they have a backup plan, saying there are other authorities that can be used.
He said they're not as efficient, not as powerful.
But there are other ways around this and other laws that the Trump administration would then look to in order to make sure that they are on the right side of the law.
I think it's just worth noting that the Supreme Court, in terms of the makeup of it, there are nine justices.
Six of those nine are conservative leaning, three of them appointed by President Trump during his first term.
And therefore there is always the possibility that their decisions would reflect the will and ambition of the president.
There was Nick Harper reporting.
Now.
China's logistics sector expanded at a faster pace in August, indicating that the country's economic recovery is gaining more solid footing.
The index tracking the logistics market activity came in at 509, climbing 04 points compared with the reading in the previous month.
The total business volume index has remained in expansion territory for six consecutive months, while the new order index has remained expensive for the seventh straight month.
According to the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing, the supply and demand in logistics have been recovering and improving, which has shown that the foundation for the entire economic recovery is becoming more consolidated.
The fixed asset investment completion index remained in the expansion zone, with investment continuing to show sustained momentum of growth.
The Macau Special Administrative Region in South China and the Macau Chamber of Commerce have jointly launched a Community Consumption Rewards campaign.
The program running from September 1 to November 30 coincides with the upcoming national games and will distribute around US622 million in coupons to support community businesses.
According to the Economic and Technological Development Bureau, residents can obtain electronic coupons via e-wallet transactions at designated merchants.
Each real-name e-wallet account can redeem coupons after first making an eligible purchase from Monday to Friday, with coupons valid during the following weekend.
Coming up in sports, we're setting up the semifinals at the US Open.
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46 past the hour now.
Turning to sports, and we begin with tennis at the U.S.
Open.
Carlos Alcaraz has dismissed Yuri Leheka in straight sets to reach the semis in New York for the third time.
The Spaniards pursuing his sixth Grand Slam title and first on a hard court since winning in Flushing Meadows back in 2022.
If Alcaraz can match or better, defending champion Yannick Sinner's result in New York, he'll return to the world number one spot for the first time since September of 23.
But the 22-year-old shunned the pressure to enjoy the competition.
Well, it's really difficult not to think about it.
I mean, that's obviously.
But every time that I step on the court, I'm trying not to think about it.
If I think about the number one spot too much, I think I'm going to...
I put pressure on myself and I just don't want to do that.
I just want to step on the court, try to do my things, try to follow my goals in the match and try to enjoy as much as I can.
So the number one is there, but I'm trying not to think so much about it.
Aleka is one of just six men to defeat Alcaraz this season, after winning their Doha clash in February.
Alcaraz becomes the fifth man in the Open era to reach nine Grand Slam semifinals before turning 23.
He'll next take on four-time champion Novak Djokovic, who knocked out Taylor Fritz 3-1.
On the women's side, last year's runner-up, Jessica Pegula, has reached the semis in Flushing Meadow for the second straight year.
She beat Barbara Krajkova in straight sets.
Yeah, I think I've been playing some really good tennis.
I've just been playing very solid.
I've been having very good quick start, so I really wanted to do that, especially against someone like her who's very dangerous, and even at the end there it got really tight.
She had a couple really good serves when I was serving up or returns when I was serving up 4-1, and then we all saw what she did against Taylor.
So Yeah, I was happy that we're done.
Pegula is just the second player in the Open era to reach her first two Grand Slam semifinals after turning 30.
In a rematch of last year's final.
The 31-year-old will face world number one and defending champion Irina Sabalenka, after the Belarusian advanced with a walkover due to 2023 Wimbledon champion, Markita Vondrsova, withdrawing because of a knee injury.
In women's doubles, Leila Fernandez and Venus Williams' impressive run at the U.S.
Open has come to an end.
They went down to number one seeds Taylor Townsend and Katarina Sinyakova in the quarterfinals.
The American and Czech duo moved one step away from their third Grand Slam final together.
In football.
Alexander Isaac has taken part in training with the Swedish national team in Stockholm just a day after his record move to Liverpool.
Liverpool signed the 25-year-old striker from Newcastle for a reported £125 million, making him the most expensive player in British soccer history.
Isaac has expressed excitement to join Liverpool.
I feel amazing.
It's been a long journey to get here.
I'm super happy to be a part of this team, this club and everything it stands for.
It's something I'm proud of and I'm really looking forward to.
Isaac also said he has high expectations for the club and the future.
I think it's a mixture of what the club is building, but what they're building on top of what the club already is and the history of the club.
So i think, just me getting the chance to be a part of of this, and you know, i want to create history, i want to win trophies and that's ultimately the, you know, the biggest, biggest motivation for me, and This is a perfect place for me to grow even further and to take my game to the next level and help the team as well.
This transfer makes him the fourth most expensive player ever.
Isaac's now preparing with Sweden for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo.
Other football news.
And former Manchester United midfielder, Andres Pereira, has joined Palmeiras in Brazil.
The 29-year-old arrived at Sao Paulo airport on Tuesday with his family, wearing his new team shirt.
Last week Palmeiras confirmed.
Pereira signed a contract until 2028 in a deal reportedly worth 10 million euros.
The Brazilian football authorities have now finalized the paperwork, so he is eligible to play.
Pereira will likely make his debut next weekend.
Although born in Belgium, he's played for Brazil's national team 10 times.
He made 119 appearances for Fulham after joining from United in 2022.
In golf, European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald selected his 12-man team.
He kept 11 players from the squad that defeated the Americans in Rome two years ago.
The only new name is Rasmus Hoegaard, who qualified for the team in the final week.
His twin brother Nikolai was on the previous team.
Donald used his six captains' picks to add proven winners like John Ram and Victor Hovland.
We're looking for lots of things.
It's a big combination of many things.
Obviously, we look at form.
We need to have showing some form.
We're looking at team continuity.
We're looking at the chemistry between the guys.
We're looking at personality matchups.
We're looking at trying to form the six that have already qualified.
How do the partnerships work?
How do they work with that golf course?
So there's so many things, you know, and I think team culture is really important.
Do these guys understand what representing the flag of the Ryder Cup really means?
And there's many, many things that go into it.
I couldn't be happier with the 12 that we have.
The team now heads to Bethpage Black in New York.
Europe has historically struggled to win on American soil.
Australian surfer Molly Picklem has won her first world championship.
She beat 2023 champion Caroline Marks at the Lexus WSL finals in Fiji.
I'm so speechless, but it really feels like the cherry on top to what I've done, to my career and personally I've really turned my life around and yeah, I don't know, it's such a trip like it's something that you can never take from me, ever and to be a world champion to share it with Iago.
On the men's side Iago Dora won the world title.
Pretty crazy.
Yeah, I can't believe it.
It's hard to find the words to describe the feeling and how much I worked for this to happen.
The victory makes him the fifth Brazilian men's champion since 2014.
Brazilian surfers have won seven of the last 11 men's world titles.
Coming up in culture and entertainment.
A Chinese movie shot in space with 8K technology makes its debut this week.
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54 past the hour now, turning to culture and entertainment.
China's first 8K movie, shot in space, is set to premiere nationwide on Friday.
China Media Group produced the film, Shenzhou 13.
The movie is based on the six-month orbital mission of astronauts Zhai Zhigeng, Wang Yaping and Ye Guangfu aboard China's space station.
Shot entirely with 8K ultra-high definition cameras.
It offers unprecedented views of space, as well as intimate glimpses of daily life aboard the station.
The 2025 Russian Film Festival is now underway in China.
It'll run till September 12th in three cities Beijing and Xining, and Lanzhou in the northwest of the country.
The festival will show eight Russian films to Chinese audiences.
The event is part of a cultural exchange program between the two countries.
Back in May, Russia held a similar festival with eight Chinese films.
A collaborative exhibition featuring cultural heritage collections from museums across SCO member states is ongoing in Beijing.
The exhibition at the National Museum of China will run until the middle of November.
Under the banner of respecting diverse civilizations and pursuing common development.
The show presents more than 200 cultural artifacts from 10 museums.
These include relics from ancient civilizations, as well as those highlighting the exchanges amongst different countries throughout history.
The China Pavilion has been a major highlight at the MIP Africa 2025 film and TV trade event.
It offers African audiences a gateway into Chinese entertainment.
Sponsored by the Chinese government, the pavilion showcased diverse films and TV shows.
Organizers held a special China showcase session to present high-quality film and television productions and enhance cooperation.
The event also featured a signed agreement to broadcast more Chinese content in South Africa.
As one of the largest and most influential events for film and television trading and cooperation in Africa.
MIP Africa focuses on the African market and connects content distribution channels in Europe Asia, North America and other regions.
Over 1500 attendees and 500 international buyers joined the event, which included screenings, exhibitions and networking opportunities.
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Kairos held the latest Egypt-China Cultural Dialogue.
Themed, When the Yangtze meets the Nile, the event celebrated the ancient heritages of both rivers.
Officials from the country spoke at the opening acknowledging the meeting of two histories and cultures.
They also highlighted the growing cultural cooperation between Egypt and China.
The event featured an exhibition with performances, workshops and displays, using photos and videos to help Egyptians learn about Chinese culture.
You're listening to The Beijing Hour 60 minutes of comprehensive news, your window on China and the world.
57 past the hour and checking the weather forecast before we go for the day.
Beijing's down to 22 degrees on Wednesday evening.
Cloudy conditions turning overcast later on Thursday with a high of 31.
Nanchang's down to 27.
Cloudy tomorrow with a high of 35.
Elsewhere in Asia, Islamabad's at 13 this evening.
It starts cloudy on Thursday, clearing up later with a high of 31.
Vientiane is down to 16, a slight rain tomorrow, turning to moderate with a high of 32.
Phnom Penh is 24 overnight, heavy rainfall and 31 for Thursday.
In Africa, Nairobi is getting light rainfall, turning cloudy with a high of 25 on Thursday.
Kampala is down to 13, then a slight rain and 26 degrees.
Juba is 20 overnight, then a slight rain and 32.
And finally to Oceania, Port Vila is 24 this evening, slight rainfall and 28 degrees on Thursday.
That's it for this edition of the Beijing Hour.
Making news today, Chinese President called on all countries to eliminate the root causes of war as he addressed the country's V-Day military parade and commemorations in Beijing.
On behalf of the staff.
This is Shane Biggum 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.
Find The Beijing Hour at precisely 6pm Beijing time.
We meet you on podcast and on air every weekday.
The Beijing Hour, 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 a 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 100 million people live within its water basin, making up nearly 9 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 boatmen 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 a 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, all in our 12-part series, The Yellow River Mosaic, available only on CGTN Radio.