PD Observer

Report list

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  Observer: US needs actions to prove its declaration of re-engagement

  Engaging with the world once again has been one of the core policies of US President Joe Biden. Unlike the previous administration, which repeatedly withdrew from international organizations and flouted international rules, the current administration clearly wants to reassert US leadership around the world.However, so far Americas actions have fallen far short of world expectations and even those of its own elites. On March 29 an article with the headline “The United States Must Pay the United Nations What It Owes” was published on the Foreign Policy website, signed by politicians including former US Secretary of State Madeleine K Albright. The article said the Biden administration had done very much very quickly to restore US leadership on the world stage, while leaving a critical part of the US foreign-policy equation unaddressed: paying the dues of more than $1 billion the country owes to the UN peacekeeping budget.The US spent more than $700 billion last year on its military, 700 times more than it owes to the UN for peacekeeping. For this reason alone, apart from the unpaid $1 billion in UN peacekeeping bills, the US should pay the UN all overdue payments sooner rather than later. As the worlds largest economy, the US oddly has become the biggest delinquent payer in the world. Far from serving US domestic politics, this embarrassing title is likely to embarrass Americans.But this title does not seem to offend the elite policymakers in Washington, who have a history of complying with international rules when the occasion serves their own interests. Back in the 1980s, the Reagan administration often used unpaid dues to pressure the UN to overpower the Soviet Union in terms of staffing and resolutions in some important departments. For the next 30 years, the US repeatedly used this tool to firmly enhance its voice in and control over the UN.Although the US claims to be the world leader, by wantonly pursuing unilateralism and disdaining the international ...

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  Observer: US is in reality the worst abuser of international law and human rights

  It is clear that the US is determined to hinder Chinas successful rise upon the global stage and is willing to do anything necessary to do so no matter how irrational or destructive to global peace and stability. US fabrications about labor in Chinas Xinjiang are just one part of a much wider propaganda campaign to undermine Chinas global image giving the US leeway when pressing forward with other sanctions.Brian Berletic (Photo provided to Peoples Daily)Accusing China of supposed "human rights abuses" allows the US to apply sanctions on China, and if successful, Washington will use the move as a stepping stone toward other economic, political, and perhaps even military means of encircling and containing China.The US acting unilaterally to impose sanctions and other penalties on other nations including China completely undermines international law as well as peace and stability. In order for US sanctions to be effective the US must coerce all other nations on Earth to adhere to them often entailing legal, economic, and even military threats. The US wields sanctions unilaterally outside of the United Nations many mechanisms specifically because these sanctions are predicated on baseless claims that would not hold up under scrutiny.It is an irony that the US poses as the global arbiter in terms of international law and human rights yet is in reality the worst abuser of both including throughout its self-appointed role when "enforcing" them.I really dont need to have gone to Xinjiang to understand both what was happening there in reality and also the absolute lack of real evidence provided by the US when making its many claims about alleged abuses taking place there. When serious claims are made by Washington, an equally serious effort in providing convincing evidence must follow. Of course the US has never provided that evidence and has a long track record of making serious but baseless claims against its adversaries.R...

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  Observer: America's giant war machine threatens global security

  The US Department of Defense recently released its 2021 Global Posture Review (GPR), claiming that the US will enhance military infrastructure in Guam and Australia. The report, which is full of Cold-War mentality, is the embodiment of the country’s age-old hegemonic mindset and the result of its habit of maintaining hegemony with military means.Over the years, the US has been wantonly flaunting its military power around the world. For the ultimate purpose of maintaining US hegemony, it has frequently imposed military pressure on other countries and even provoked conflicts and wars.To the US, hegemony always goes hand in hand with war. As a matter of fact, from the Westward Movement to the Mexican-American War and then the Spanish-American War, a series of expansions accompanied the US in the early stage of its development.After the end of World War II, the US became the world’s strongest country in terms of comprehensive national strength and war became an important means for the country to maintain the hegemony.Its ambition to maintain US hegemony has inflicted one war after another upon foreign countries, including the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the US Invasion of Panama, the Kosovo War, the War in Afghanistan, the Iraq War, the Libyan Civil War and the Syrian Civil War. Even the huge cost of defeat didn’t stop the country from waging more wars.US magazine The National Interest quoted Dakota Wood, senior research fellow for defense programs at the Heritage Foundation, as saying that in “every 15 years or so,” the US would get involved in a conflict.From Asia to America, from Europe to Africa, the places where the evil war machine of the US goes are deprived of peace and tranquility.In order to maintain its hegemony, the US has operated a giant war machine and even established military bases all over the world. Since 1945, the country has built nearly 800 military bases in more than 70 countries around the world and constantly bolstered its military presence.The...

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  Observer: Understanding whole-process people's democracy

  Chinas second centenary goal is to build China into a great modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious, and beautiful by the middle of the century. Promoting democracy, as China defines it, is an important part of the plan. Chinese President Xi Jinping pointed out that democracy is a common value of humanity and an ideal that has always been cherished by the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese people. What is this kind of democracy?At present, under the leadership of the CPC, China states that it is developing peoples democracy throughout the whole process, expanding orderly political participation of the people, strengthening legal protection of human rights, and ensuring that the people enjoy extensive rights and freedoms in accordance with the law.Whole-process peoples democracy is said to enable the role of the people — who, according to CPC theory, are masters of the country — to be better reflected in the countrys political and social life. To promote whole-process peoples democracy, the CPC adheres to and improves the system of peoples congresses. While exercising their rights through certain kinds of elections, the people also participate in extensive consultations in various ways before and during policy decisions on major issues concerning the countrys reform, development and stability as well as on issues concerning their own interests. For example, the process of preparing the annual reports on the work of the Chinese government solicits opinions and suggestions from government officials, experts, scholars and people from all walks of life. These documents take months to draft, and many proposed changes are made through deliberation.The Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) is playing an increasingly important role in consultative democracy. CPPCC members come from all walks of life with professional knowledge and social influence....

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  Observer: US should take extra lessons of democracy

  The Chinese Foreign Ministry recently issued a report titled “The State of Democracy in the United States” on its website. The 15,000-word report, enumerating facts, statistics and the observations of experts, takes stock of the alienation and three malaises of democracy in the US. It came right on time for all the people that care about human progress.Democracy is a fruit of the development of human civilization, and a common value shared by all humanity. However, over the years, the US, despite the structural flaws and problematic practice of its democratic system, has claimed itself as the “model of democracy.” It has incessantly interfered in other countries’ internal affairs and waged wars under the guise of “democracy”, creating regional turbulence and humanitarian disasters. What the country has done is a humiliation to democracy, a word that should sound delightful.The dust raised by the assault on the Capitol has not been totally dispelled, and the desperate plea of George Floyd is still resonating. From Iraq to Libya, and from Syria to Afghanistan, the awful mess created by the US export of “democracy” is still hurting the world.However, the US turns a blind eye to such facts and is shamelessly planning the so-called Summit for Democracy, trying to act a “godfather of democracy” and provoke separation and confrontation with ideological differences.The issuance of “The State of Democracy in the United States” is particularly necessary as it reveals the hypocritical and hegemonic essence of the US democracy.The report helps the world better understand democracy. It clearly explains what democracy is and who should define it. Democracy is not an adornment or publicity stunt; rather, it is meant to be used to solve problems faced by the people. To judge whether a country is democratic, it is important to see whether its people run their own country. There is no perfect system of democracy in the world, nor is there a political system that fits all countries.De...

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  Observer: Alarming COVID-19 deaths in 2021 expose flawed systems in US

  American readers who got used to seeing front page stories about their government’s flawed COVID-19 response during the Trump era may seldom see the same type of scenario today. However, the US is still riven by deadly COVID failures.The country has recently surpassed another grim milestone in its fight against the pandemic. More Americans died from COVID-19 so far this year than in 2020, according to data from the country’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Despite a combination of factors such as the highly contagious Delta variant, the US government has a lot of explaining to do to its people on rising infections and deaths in 2021, especially when the roll-out of vaccinations starting in December was supposed to help.The world’s most technologically advanced country has failed in its pandemic performance. The US government has no excuse for its ineptitude during the crisis. From a sluggish government response at the early stage to distrust of scientists and the continuing debate over mask and vaccine mandates, many US politicians showed more care for partisan interests than ordinary American lives. The world has witnessed the flawed systems and divided society of the US more clearly than ever during the pandemic.The quick spread of the Omicron variant in southern African countries in the past few days is a stark reminder of vaccine inequality. The WHO has warned that nations with a low vaccination rate pose a risk of breeding variants. As one of the countries with the most ample supplies of vaccine, the US not only failed to protect American lives, but also hoarded and wasted vaccines, hindering developing countries’ anti-pandemic efforts. The US government has reportedly let some unused doses expire rather than share them with countries in desperate need.Overcoming the pandemic is arduous for any country. China has battled re-emerging local outbreaks for two years. The Chinese government, putting people first, has taken swift and comprehensive action, ...

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  Observer: Improving Hong Kong's electoral system important for developing high-quality democracy

  The fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC) opened in Beijing on Friday. Wang Chen, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of NPC, explained a draft decision on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region at the opening meeting of the session.The explanation said that implementing the principles of “patriots governing Hong Kong” and filling up loopholes in the electoral system has allowed Hong Kong people to see hope for getting rid of their political conflicts, and let the world see China’s determination to ensure the sound and steady development of the "one country, two systems" policy and maintain Hong Kongs stability.It is the central government’s power and responsibility to lead the improvement of Hong Kong’s electoral system. The central government leads the improvement to ensure Hong Kongs democratic system will develop more smoothly in a healthy way. Hong Kong people have been tortured by endless political disputes and social divides for a long time, and they have long desired that the central government take action to solve these issues. This is for the welfare of Hong Kong. And it is a matter of internal affairs for China.However, complaints came from the outside world. Some Western politicians jumped to make indiscriminate accusations, and some public opinion organizations followed, quickly accusing China of "suppressing Hong Kongs democracy." The trick that turns things upside down reveals their ideological prejudice and ignorance of Hong Kong’s real situation. Who is the true defender of Hong Kongs democracy? Who is disrupting Hong Kongs political order, prosperity and stability? Slander cannot conceal the facts, and justice is in people’s hearts.To comment on an issue, we must first figure out the ins and outs, otherwise the comment will be likely to be preconceived and not take into account other vantage points. Britain had ruled Hong Kong for more ...

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  Observer: Turnaround of China-US relations requires strategic vision

  The establishment of the Biden administration provides an opportunity for the readjustment of Sino-US relations. However, opinions of experts in both countries are still fraught with concern as they look at the future of the relationship. It is not difficult to point out the problems that beset the relationship. The real challenge is to provide feasible solutions for the two sides to ease tensions and substantially change the current impasse.In the US, members of Congress and strategists who support hawkish China policies remain active. The Biden administrations statements on China policy so far have clearly taken into account these voices, and the administration appears to be wary of being criticized as “weak." To change the confrontational China policies inherited from the Trump administration, Biden’s team needs not only an objective assessment of reality, but also strategic courage. As put by Stephen Orlins, president of the National Committee on US-China Relations, the Trump administration took needlessly confrontational positions that have set back American interests, and a reversal of these policies would “immediately benefit Americans and improve the tone of the bilateral relationship.”When dealing with China, the US needs to find a more strategic perspective. This year marks the 50th anniversary of "Ping-Pong Diplomacy,” and also the 50th anniversary of Dr Kissingers secret visit to China. At the beginning of the contemporary Sino-US relationship, the Nixon administration overcame the political difficulties that hindered the contact between China and the US for two decades, and saw from a long-term perspective the benefits of breaking the absolute isolation between the two countries to the global strategic balance. Today, China-US relations need such a vision again.China and the US stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation. Cooperation is the only right choice for both sides. This is a basic lesson drawn from the develop...

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  Observer: Washington's new 'political correctness' endangers China-US relations

  The US Senate confirmed Linda Thomas-Greenfield as US ambassador to the United Nations on February 23. Challenged by some GOP lawmakers, Thomas-Greenfield called China a “strategic adversary” and claimed regretting her decision to deliver a speech two years ago which praised China’s effort on the Belt and Road Initiative in Africa.In less than two years, the veteran diplomat strongly contradicted herself on China. Thomas-Greenfield’s inconsistency further confirmed hostility against China, which has gradually become Washington’s new “political correctness.”The world’s sole superpower seems to have a rise in hostility or “fears” about China and its fast-growing economy. China has undergone tremendous development, with its GDP surging to new highs, and nearly 100 million people lifted out of extreme poverty since 2012. The country has also provided solutions to global challenges such as alleviating poverty and maintaining peace. China has become a pillar of the multilateral system. Some US politicians find it hard to accept China’s rapid but peaceful rise, clinging to a Cold War mindset and hyping new rounds of the “China threat” theory.While China plays a bigger role on the global stage, the US is encountering a number of crises at home and abroad, which has aggravated their anxiety in losing global dominance. Some US officials attempt to transfer domestic stress outward and unreasonably “hold China accountable” for a wide range of issues, from epidemic control to human rights. The US has scapegoated China for its own failures and showed no respect to the basic facts about China’s situation, allowing anti-China sentiment to further simmer.In the shadow of political polarization, Democrats and Republicans have picked China as a “common enemy” to woo voters. Attacking China seems to have become a core component of US political discourse.Nevertheless, Washington’s new “political correctness” does nothing to help itself, let alone bilateral relations. It hampers American...

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  Observer: China's poverty alleviation accomplishments are a developmental miracle

  On July 31, 2019, PBS SoCal, the PBS flagship public television station in Southern California in the United States, premiered my documentary on China’s historic poverty alleviation campaign: “Voices from the Frontline: China’s War on Poverty” (Adam Zhu, executive producer; Peter Getzels, director), the inside story of China’s race to eradicate all absolute poverty by 2020, the first in-depth documentary about China’s poverty alleviation campaign to be broadcast abroad. In May 2020 it was broadcast again in the U.S.Working with the CPC Organization Department, the State Council Leading Group Office of Poverty Alleviation and Development, and with CGTN, our production partner, our international film crew had unprecedented access to travel across China, embedded in the country’s massive poverty alleviation programs. We met poor villagers, local officials, special monitors — those being lifted out of poverty, those assigned to do the lifting, and those recruited to do the checking.For example, the last step in deciding who is poor and who is not — and who can be said to have been lifted out of poverty — is what is called the “democratic appraisal meeting”. It is where the villagers themselves get a chance to vote. I attended one such meeting in a remote village of Wanling Township in central Hainan’s Qiongzhong Li and Miao Autonomous County, where villagers voted into poverty status one young man whose father has cancer (and thus benefitted from favorable policies) and cheered when another man was raised out of poverty. The villagers were not shy in voicing their opinions.As much as I thought I knew China, I was startled to discover that every poor family in China has its own file, each with its “targeted” plan to lift each above the line of absolute poverty — that’s millions of poor families with customized plans, each checked monthly, recorded on paper, and digitized for central compilation and analysis. That’s millions of households!Equally startling, young Party ca...

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  Observer: New agency underpins next level of China's rural development

  A new central government rural agency was unveiled on Thursday, marking a shift in Chinas rural policies from poverty alleviation toward rural vitalization.Seen as the latest development in Chinas rural policies, the agency, the national administration for rural vitalization, comes after China achieved a complete victory in its fight against absolute poverty and shows the Chinese government will now focus on rural vitalization.Early in December, participants in a central rural work conference concluded that after securing victory in poverty alleviation, China should push forward with rural vitalization in an all-round way as "a historic shift" of focus for agriculture, rural areas and farmers.Chinas first policy statement for 2021 released Sunday stressed efforts to "comprehensively push forward rural vitalization." Dubbed as the "No.1 central document," it indicated Chinas rural priorities and the direction for Chinas rural development during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).Through rural vitalization, China is seeking to consolidate on the successes of its poverty alleviation.During the last eight years, China has made great achievements with poverty alleviation. China has lifted 98.99 million rural residents out of poverty, with all 832 impoverished counties and 128,000 impoverished villages removed from the poverty list.Being lifted out of absolute poverty is not an end, but a starting point for a new life. China still faces problems caused by unbalanced and inadequate development. Chinas rural vitalization strategy includes vigorous measures to prevent rural residents from falling back into poverty.The goal of rural vitalization is highly consistent with the main goal and path of poverty alleviation, but the standard requirements are much higher, according to Ke Bingsheng, a member of the expert advisory committee on rural vitalization of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.China pr...

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  Observer: RCEP accelerates economic shift towards Asia

  The signing of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in November revives world confidence in multilateralism. Made up of 10 Southeast Asian countries as well as South Korea, China, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, the megadeal shows that the pursuit of free trade and an open world economy is the consensus of the global community.The significance of RCEP lies in the fact that it will reduce tariffs among countries that account for about a third of the world’s population and 29 percent of global GDP within the next 20 years, while in the meantime adding provisions on intellectual property, telecommunications, financial services, e-commerce and professional services.According to the Peterson Institute for International Economics, the megadeal can be expected to increase global economy by $186 billion annually by 2030 and add 0.2 percent to the economy of its member states.Thanks to RCEP, trade within the region is likely to grow faster than trade with other parts of the world, thereby adding weight to the region’s value chain for RCEP countries.Grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, the trade bloc will also serve as a game-changer and accelerator for Asian countries recovering from the economic fallout of the coronavirus.Seang Thay, secretary of state and spokesman for Cambodias Commerce Ministry said the RCEP will bring a broader market and promote the further development of trade and investment within member states, which will contribute largely to the recovery of countries within the region from COVID-19 and elevate the region’s role in global trade and economics.“The agreement will not only reinforce ASEAN centrality but also further deepen and broaden economic integration in our region at a very crucial moment as we seek to redouble efforts to reinvigorate our economies from the impact of COVID-19,” said Don Pramudwinai, deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs of Thailand in an interview with the People’s Daily.Pramudwinai said that...

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  Observer: Oppression against Chinese media fully reveals hypocrisy of UK

  The unreasonable oppression against Chinese media has fully revealed the hypocrisy of the UK which always brags about freedom of the press in its territory.Using the excuse of the so-called political attributes, Britain’s media regulator Ofcom revoked China Global Television Network’s (CGTN) license to broadcast in the UK on February 4.A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson called Ofcom’s oppression against CGTN “for political reasons based on ideological bias and its politicization of technical issues” at a press conference on February 5.“China reserves the right to make necessary reactions to uphold the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese media,” the spokesperson Wang Wenbin said.The arbitrary move of the UK has put up artificial barriers to prevent Chinese media from carrying out normal reporting activities, seriously damaged the reputation of Chinese media, and interfered with normal people-to-people and cultural exchanges between China and the UK.The signs of Ofcom’s political oppression against Chinese media could be spotted early last year, when the communications regulator was manipulated by some far-right groups and anti-China forces into suddenly starting an investigation into English-language satellite news channel CGTN’s license to broadcast in the UK.Later in May 2020, Ofcom claimed that it intended to sanction CGTN for a “serious failure of compliance” in coverage of violent protests in China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).CGTN’s objective reports on the use of violence by protesters in Hong Kong were unjustifiably identified as biased coverage, for which the media was accused of breaching the “Ofcom Broadcasting Code for failing to preserve due impartiality in its coverage of the Hong Kong protests”.While nit-picking over CGTN’s normal reporting activities, Ofcom has indulged the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) with frequent Hong Kong-related programs that deliberately concealed the violent acts of protesters and thei...

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  Observer: Alleged 'demographic genocide' baseless, won't hinder Xinjiang's development

  Allegations of the so-called “demographic genocide” in Xinjiang by some Western politicians are groundless, and aim to generate hatred among ethnic groups and destabilize the region.The definition of genocide as contained in Article II of the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide codified by the United Nations General Assembly is to destroy a national, ethnical, racial or religious group by killing members of the group, causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group, deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part, imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group and forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.Official population figures stand as concrete evidence against the wild accusations of mass killings in Xinjiang. From 2010 to 2018, Xinjiangs permanent population increased by 3.05 million, or 13.99 percent, to reach 24.87 million. In that period, the Uyghur population increased by 2.55 million, or 25.04 percent, to 12.72 million, while the population of the Han ethnic group in the region increased by 176,900, or 2.0 percent, to reach 9 million, according to a report by the Xinjiang Development Research Agency.Physical destruction in the region doesn’t exist either. With the concerted efforts of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang, the region is socially stable, economy gaining momentum and people live in contentment. For four consecutive years, there have been no terrorist cases in Xinjiang and the number of criminal cases, public security and safety cases largely declined. From 2014 to 2019, the GDP of Xinjiang increased from 919.59 billion yuan ($142.41 billion) to 1.36 trillion yuan with an annual GDP growth rate of 7.2 percent and annual GDP per capita growth rate of 9.1 percent.Concerning the living conditions in Xinjiang, the autonomous region has lifted a total of 3.089 million people out of pov...

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  Observer: World expects stable, predictable China-US relations

  As one of the worlds most important bilateral relationships, China-US relations have a direct bearing on the well-being of the two peoples as well as peace and prosperity of the world. When the new US administration took office last month, the world was watching closely as to where this relationship was heading.With a Cold War mindset, the previous US government viewed China as an adversary and adopted misguided policies, plunging the relationship into its most difficult time since the establishment of diplomatic ties and causing great uncertainty to the global economy and international relations.The arrival of a new administration in the US provides an opportunity to reset the tone of interactions. Yet there are still worries of building blocks to counter one or the other. Some state leaders have already expressed fears and unwillingness to have to pick sides between the world’s biggest economies.“I would very much wish to avoid the building of blocs," German Chancellor Angela Merkel said at the virtual Davos World Economic Forum on January 26. She rejected calls for Europe to pick sides between the US and China.She said: "I don’t think it would do justice to many societies if we were to say this is the United States and over there is China and we are grouping around either the one or the other. This is not my understanding of how things ought to be.”Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also stood out to reject a potential scenario where China and the US fall into destructive confrontation, and smaller countries like Singapore have to choose sides.“We all want to work together with the US, we all want to work together with other vibrant economies, we would like to cooperate within the region,” Lee said at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in November last year. “I think not very many countries would like to join a coalition against those who have been excluded, chief of whom will be China.”Back in the US, even in times of great difficulty for bilat...

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  Observer: Racial equity a long-awaited public expectation in the US

  Racial inequality has drawn wide criticism inside and outside the United States. President Joe Biden devoted his administration to advance racial equity as one of the four major priorities, calling for unity and healing as “a cry for racial justice some 400 years in the making moves us” in his inaugural address. The new president has to contend with “a national reckoning on racial justice,” Time magazine reported.In fact, racial injustice has long been a universal and systematic issue in the US and the eye-catching, news-making international headlines were only the tip of the iceberg. The challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic further reflect the systematic inequality that different races in the country face in terms of economic and social resources. Dr Anthony Fauci, the longtime director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease who became the top US medical official addressing the coronavirus pandemic, called the higher infection and death rates of COVID-19 among minority communities a "very disturbing phenomenon."“Look in our community: You see food deserts, transportation deserts and education deserts,” Dr Celia J. Maxwell, an infectious disease physician and associate dean at Howard University College of Medicine, was quoted as saying by National Geographic Magazine. “All the social determinants of health that you would look to in order to keep the community in good health are missing from our communities of color.”The vulnerability of racial and ethnic minorities has been further exposed by the pandemic. According to a study issued by the Kaiser Family Foundation in 2020, the number of African Americans without Medicare is 1.5 times that of white people and the number of Latin Americans without Medicare is over 2.5 times that of whites. The high medical expenses have forced racial and ethnic minorities to quit medical treatment.The treatment of minority groups has been far from equal at hospitals. As the New York Times reporte...

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  Observer: UK's use of BNO passport to interfere in HK affairs a waste of effort

  China has withdrawn its recognition of the so-called British National Overseas (BNO) passports as a valid travel and ID document starting January 31, as the British government made available a new visa for almost 3 million Hong Kong BNO status holders on the same day.The decision was also fully supported by the government of China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), stating that it would not recognize BNO passports as a valid travel document and proof of identity.Britain’s move unilaterally changed the consensus between the two countries, seriously infringed upon China’s sovereignty, grossly interfered in Hong Kong affairs and China’s internal affairs. It also seriously violated international law and the basic norms of international relations.China has made it clear that there is no room for concessions on issues involving China’s national sovereignty and core interests. If the UK continues its wrong actions, China reserves the right to take further actions.The Chinese and British governments reached consensus long ago on how to deal with the issue of Hong Kong residents holding BNO passports and exchanged memoranda on the understanding.In its memorandum, Britain clearly pledged not to confer the right of abode in Britain on those holders who are Chinese nationals in Hong Kong. From the beginning to the end, the BNO passport is a travel document that does not carry citizenship rights.However, the current move of the UK has substantively changed the nature of the BNO passport in the name of “safeguarding the freedom and autonomy of Hong Kong” and “fulfilling its historical responsibility to the Hong Kong people”, and is a fundamental violation of its pledge in its memorandum.The fact is that after the handover, the UK has no sovereignty, no jurisdiction and no right to supervise Hong Kong. There is no so-called “responsibility” whatsoever.The UK’s rapid upgrading of the BNO policy is a maneuver to use the right of abode and naturalization as a lure to ...

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  Observer: Major countries shall work together for global cooperation against COVID-19

  COVID-19 is a common challenge faced by mankind, and only solidarity and cooperation can defeat it.International society is looking forward to an early control of the virus in the US, as US President Joe Biden recently unveiled the countrys national strategy to cope with the pandemic and signed executive orders to mobilize resources and curb the COVID-19 spread.The world is also expecting the new US administration to enhance solidarity and cooperation with the rest of the world, so as to jointly safeguard global public health security.The Trump administration shocked the world with its COVID-19 response. It attacked and withdrew from the WHO at a critical moment and undermined global health governance system, played political and stigmatizing games by slandering other countries and shifting responsibilities, and fanned up the so-called "decoupling" in the name of the pandemic, which seriously threatened the security of global industrial and supply chains.All these racist and protectionist conduct damaged global solidarity and triggered broad criticism. Stephen Walt, professor of international affairs at Harvard University, once criticized the Trump administration for its "belated, self-centered, haphazard, and tone-deaf response" that ended up costing Americans trillions of dollars and thousands of otherwise preventable deaths. What the administration did also "tarnished the US reputation as a country," he said.The US is going through the darkest hours since the pandemic broke out. Around 70,000 Americans lost their lives because of COVID-19 last December alone. The New York Times recently reported that during some weeks this month, the average deaths per day exceeded 3,300, more than the number of people killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.Facing such a fatal crisis, the Americans hope the new administration can turn the table and enhance cooperation with other countries, so as to play the due role of the country in safeguard...

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  Observer: Davos Agenda shows renewed hope for multilateralism, yet much work to be done

  Davos attendees often recall President Xi’s unequivocal endorsement of globalization in his 2017 speech which took place in the wake of protectionist, populist and nationalist rhetoric that shaped much of the US presidential election campaign in 2016.It was a moment in time when many believed that globalization was the cause of “frequent regional conflicts, global challenges like terrorism and refugees, as well as poverty, unemployment and a widening income gap,” but President Xi made it clear then that “many of the problems troubling the world are not caused by economic globalization” and reminded everyone that “just blaming economic globalization for the world’s problems is inconsistent with reality, and it will not help solve the problems.”However, four years later, the COVID-19 pandemic has replaced economic globalization as the primary source of uncertainty about the future. This is not surprising because the effects of a global pandemic are felt at both the national and local level. But what is most unsettling about a pandemic is that no country alone can prevent such occurrences or mitigate their impact.A sign of the World Economic Forum (WEF) is seen ahead of the opening of the 2019 World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting on January 20, 2019 in Davos, eastern Switzerland. (File photo: AFP)And therefore, this past week, President Xi reminded the international community once again that “no global problem can be solved by any one country alone. There must be global action, global response and global cooperation.” He shared this observation in his opening speech of the Davos Agenda, the first virtual edition of the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting. He also emphasized that the future of multilateralism required a strong commitment “to consultation and cooperation instead of conflict and confrontation.”His comments struck a deep chord with the international community not only because the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic but also because...

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  Observer: China, US are no strangers to cooperation on climate change

  China’s ambitious pledge to have CO2 emissions peak before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060 shows the country’s firm determination to fight climate change, widely hailed by the international community. However, some western politicians still accuse China of inadequate action on this issue. Such remarks are false narratives and can be misleading in a time that calls for global cooperation.Some call China out for giving itself a longer timeline to eliminate greenhouse gas emission, ten years later than the deadline of the European Union (EU) and the United States.This simple comparison overlooks the fact that China is still a developing country, while the rest are developed ones, most of which have already seen their emission peak. For instance, the EU’s CO2 emissions plateaued in the 1990s while the US reached its peak in 2007, leaving them 50 to 60 years to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. China vows to realize the goal from carbon peak to neutrality in just 30 years, which shows extraordinary commitment and requires strenuous efforts.Others may argue China is now the world’s biggest CO2 emitter, and needs to do more. Yet from a historical perspective, the US has been the world’s largest emitter with the most greenhouse gas emissions in cumulative terms, roughly three times that of China. In per capita terms, the US has long been among the biggest carbon emitter, registering 14.6 tons of per capita CO2 emissions from fossil fuel in 2017, 3.3 times the global average and more than twice that of China.Doing the math here is not for playing the blame game since each country has its own national conditions and development stage. As climate change is a pressing global challenge that requires joint efforts, countries should honor their respective commitment and respect international consensus.Over the years, China has actively implemented the Paris Agreement and achieved its 2020 climate change targets ahead of schedule. Satellite data show that more than ...

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  Observer: China still strong magnet to global investors despite pandemic

  Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into China continued to rise, making the country the world’s largest FDI recipient, showcasing its attractiveness to foreign investors against the backdrop of a deep global recession and a pandemic.China saw its FDI inflow rise 4 percent to $163 billion in 2020, making it the world’s top FDI recipient as global FDI plummeted by 42 percent, according to a report released by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) on Sunday.With the world economy wrecked by the pandemic, China’s economic resilience was first underlined by swift and effective measures to contain the epidemic and resume economic activity. They included a strict lockdown and mass early testing with broad public support.The government relaunched the economy in the midst of epidemic control measures. On the premise of virus containment, different measures were implemented around the country to ensure the resumption of normal economic activities. FDI in China began to rise. From April, FDI inflows to China increased every month.The latest survey by China’s Commerce Ministry showed that nearly 60 percent of foreign-funded enterprises in China achieved growth or the same income and profit in 2020. Nearly 95 percent of foreign-funded enterprise representatives reportedly expressed optimism or cautious optimism about the future.China’s attractiveness as an investment destination and its economic resilience lie in its complete supply chain and massive market. As the worlds factory and the largest developing economy, China boasts all the industrial categories classified by the UN. China ranks first in terms of output in nearly half of more than 500 major industrial products in the world.In a pandemic-ravaged 2020, China staged an impressive V-shaped GDP recovery and is expected to be the only major economy to post growth, laying a solid foundation for investment recovery.China in 2020 continued to facilitate foreign investment, retaining its att...

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  Observer: Restoring rationality crucial to set Sino-US relations back on track

  At an unusual inauguration closed to the public due to the raging coronavirus pandemic, Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the US on Wednesday at the West Front of the Capitol, which was breached two weeks ago by violent protesters trying to overturn his election victory.Just hours after his inauguration, he signed a record-breaking 17 executive orders, including returning the US to the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change, rejoining WHO, and requiring masks and physical distancing in epidemic prevention, dismantling his predecessors policies faster and more aggressively than any other modern US president.What Biden inherited from the prior administration is a wrecked economy, deteriorating COVID-19 situation, worsening social inequality, and a tarnished international reputation, especially a severely bruised Sino-US relationship, battered by a handful of anti-China hawks.The past four years have witnessed a downward spiral of relations between the world’s two largest economies. The fundamental reason lies in the serious misconceptions of US policymakers about China.Some China hawks in the Trump administration kidnapped bilateral relations for their personal political gain, hysterically hardening attacks against China, which ended up harming the interests of people in both countries and causing severe disruptions to the world.A recent report by the US-China Business Council and Oxford Economics warns that if the US continues its attempt to “decouple” from China, the US economy would generate $1.6 trillion less in real GDP terms over the next five years, 732,000 fewer jobs in 2022 and 320,000 fewer jobs in 2025.Instead of seeing China as its enemy, the new US administration should return to a sensible approach, and exercise rationality to the bilateral relations.As two major countries in the world, China and the US have important interwoven interests. Fighting the pandemic, tackling climate change, reviving the economy...These top priorities on Bi...

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  Observer: China's growth injects impetus in world economic recovery

  Chinas GDP increased 2.3 percent to 101.60 trillion yuan ($15.67 trillion) last year, the National Bureau of Statistics revealed on Monday.Despite the grave and complex environment posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, economic growth rose back to a pre-pandemic rate of 6.5 percent in the fourth quarter, with full-year GDP exceeding 100 trillion yuan for the first time.China is expected to be the only major economy to secure positive growth in the pandemic-ravaged year. How did China make this happen?Experts say the growth benefited from macro policies.On the one hand, Chinas tax and fee cuts totaled over 2.5 trillion yuan in 2020, or 2.5 percent of GDP. This provided smaller enterprises with much-needed cash flow and left money for consumption.On the other, last year also witnessed one of the strongest fiscal expansions, with a deficit of 3.76 trillion yuan.This 3.7 percent deficit rate not only ensured a reasonable stimulus, but also avoided excessive risk.China also issued 1 trillion yuan special anti-pandemic government bonds to enterprises and people at the grassroots level.In general, the expansion of fiscal expenditure was crucial to stimulating consumption and stabilizing investment, consumption and employment.As China embarks on a new journey to build a modern socialist country and promote constant economic recovery and high-quality development, this growth had a special domestic and global significance.Domestically, the growth marked the continuous enhancement of Chinas comprehensive national strength, constantly improving scientific and technological strength and significantly increased industrial and agricultural production capacity.In 2020, China’s per capita GDP exceeded US $10,000 for the second consecutive year, ranking among upper middle-income countries, and the development gap with high-income countries continues to narrow.Scientific and technological achievements continued to emerge in 2020 and injected vitality into high-quality economi...

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  Observer: US shows absurd logic in discriminating between violent demonstrations in its own territory and other countries

  A violent demonstration was staged in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 6 local time, when some protesters broke into the US Capitol and forcibly stopped a joint session of the US Congress.During the incident, four protesters died. The other day, a US Capitol Police officer lost his life due to injuries caused amid the violence at the Capitol.While taking powerful measures to suppress such protests at home, the US has no problem with violent demonstrations in other countries and regions.In total disregard of the chaos and social unrest, disturbance in and destruction of normal social order, the US described rioters’ savage acts of violence and vandalism in China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as “a beautiful sight to behold”.Some human rights officials and experts with international organizations and certain Western media outlets have simply adhered to a “politically correct” approach to demonstrations, especially when they happen in developing countries, including China.It looks like they believe civil groups are always right and their attacks on the government are always justified.It seems to them that human rights could be used as a tool and weapon to attack and criticize the government of other countries at any time, an extreme view in violation of legal logic and the rule of law.Human rights are not supposed to be a slogan or a simple political label, as they have legal implications and boundaries of rights, obligations and responsibilities.Human rights, the rule of law, and development are important criteria for assessing the process of social development.Respecting and protecting human rights are the essential pursuit of the rule of law, as well as the intrinsic goal of development.The evolution of human rights cant be separated from the actual conditions of a country or the support and guarantee of the rule of law.The extended and large-scale social turmoil brought about by the anti-amendment movement in Hong Kong was targeted at the political system ...

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  Observer: Myths of US democracy have come to an end

  On January 6, a violent demonstration stormed the US capital Washington. Some protesters ran into the US Capitol building and clashed with security officers. The conflict left four protesters dead and a US Capitol police officer lost his life too. It also blocked a session to certify President-elect Joe Bidens victory in the 2020 election.This is a major failure of the US political system.Praising itself as a lighthouse country for democracy, the US has always been acting as a role model in practicing democracy. It made up numerous myths of American democracy and tried everything to sell them to other countries, even by force. However, the Capitol chaos this time laid bare the American democracy, proving the US is not a Garden of Eden for democracy. The US democracy has its flaws at the fundamental level.The US democracy is not able to guarantee a peaceful transition of power. One of the myths built by American democracy is that elections can avoid intensive conflicts and civil wars caused by power struggles and thus ensure a smooth transition of power. Thats why the US is always fanning up the superiority of its regular renewing of administrations and requesting others to follow. Whenever a problem of power transition occurs to a country, the US attributes it to the lack of an American-style election. However, many followers of US democracy always had conflicts and civil wars, and the US was either turning a blind eye to them or just declaring that they were not learning the essence. Today, the reality show of the Capitol chaos, which was broadcast live to the globe, proved that elections cannot always guarantee the smooth and peaceful transition of power.The US democracy failed to maintain political stability. The US believes elections offer the most stable foundation of legality and effectively make modern countries rightful, which ensures long-term security and stability. This is completely a lie. Since the end of the World War II, especially the Cold ...

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  Observer: It's high time US fixes its own problems

  “If the United States saw what the United States is doing in the United States, the United States would invade the United States to liberate the United States from the tyranny of the United States,” Mohamad Safa, a Permanent Representative of Patriotic Vision at United Nations, tweeted on Thursday, following the US Capitol Building being besieged by pro-Donald Trump protesters.The Chinese equivalent of the tweet has gone viral on social media. The deadly violence which claimed four lives had also become the subject of heated discussions in China. When I was having lunch in the canteen, I overheard people sitting next to me asking “what on earth went wrong in the US?”Indeed, it is a question worth pondering. I still remember years ago when I visited Capitol Hill, I watched an introductory video on American democracy. One of my most memorable takeaways from its self-boasted democracy is that “compromise is the essence.” However, this compromise is gradually diminishing in US society, especially in the last decades. Perhaps this is exactly what’s wrong in the US democratic system.According to a 2016 Pew Survey, 49 percent of Republicans and 55 percent of Democrats said the other party makes them “afraid.” A recent study by political scientists Danny Hayes and Liliana Mason shows that about 60 percent of Democrats and Republicans said they believe the other party was a “serious threat to the United States.”This deepening polarization between the two parties makes it more and more difficult for them to reach consensus on major issues, leading to government shutdowns, attempt to pack the Supreme Court, partisan impeachments, lingering accusations about the fairness of elections...The lack of compromise has also plunged the US government into dysfunction. Its slow response to the COVID-19 pandemic is only the latest and most lethal manifestation, not to mention the standstill on the most important problems in US society-- from immigration to climate change to healthcare.As...

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  Observer: China, EU investment deal boosts international community's confidence in economic globalization, free trade

  A landmark China-European Union (EU) investment deal was agreed upon Wednesday night after almost seven years of negotiations, enriching the already-close China-EU cooperation, which will also boost the international communitys confidence in economic globalization and free trade at a time of a gloomy world economy and surging protectionism.For China and the EU, the treaty is definitely a win-win.This year, China surpassed the US as the largest trade partner of the EU. while the EU is Chinas second largest trading partner, third largest source of investment and third largest investment destination.Last year, China’s trade volume with the EU reached $705.1 billion, roughly over $1 million per minute. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and stifling economic woes, trade between China and the EU grew by 3.5 percent in the first eleven months of 2020, showing strong resilience.According to Chinas Ministry of Commerce (MOC), the China-EU investment treaty matches high-level international economic and trade rules and mainly focuses on institutional openness. It covers far more areas than traditional bilateral investment agreements, with the negotiation outcomes involving market access commitments, rules on fair competition, sustainable development and dispute settlement.The treaty will bring more investment opportunities for companies from both sides and provide a better business environment by making high-level market access commitments and adopting high-level fair competition rules.For China, as President Xi Jinping said Wednesday in a videoconference with European leaders, the balanced, high-quality and mutually beneficial agreement demonstrates Chinas resolve and confidence to promote high-level opening-up.According to the MOC, the agreement adopts pre-establishment national treatment plus a negative list on market access. For the first time, China promises to introduce negative lists for all industries, including service and non-service sectors, to align...

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  Observer: China a role model in observing international rules, fulfilling obligations

  Despite their own constant breach of international rules and ignorance of international obligations, some western countries often accuse China of being the rule breaker. The truth is that China always honors its commitments.As the second-largest contributor to the United Nations (UN) regular budget and its peacekeeping budget, China has actively fulfilled its obligations, supporting the UN in playing the core role in international affairs and upholding multilateralism.Facing tremendous economic and fiscal pressure from the COVID-19 epidemic, China has managed to complete its full payment to the UN regular budget for the year 2020, which amounts to $336 million. The country has also decided to provide additional financial support of $50 million to the COVID-19 Global Humanitarian Response Plan of the UN and establish a third-phase South-South Cooperation Trust Fund with the Food and Agriculture Organization totaling $50 million.China has also joined the global vaccine initiative known as COVAX, led by the World Health Organization, as it honors its commitment to turning COVID-19 vaccines into a global public good.As a major contribution to the global response to climate change, China has also fulfilled international obligations on climate change and has been obeying multilateral environmental treaties, safeguarding the global progress in environmental protection.China has made important contributions to adopting the Paris Agreement and has attained its 2020 climate action targets two years ahead of schedule. This year, it has expanded its commitments to the climate pack, aiming to have CO2 emissions peak before 2030, and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.The country has honored its commitment to eliminate absolute poverty 10 years ahead of the schedule set by the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.Over the past 40-plus years of reform and opening up, more than 700 million people in China have been lifted out of poverty, contributing more than ...

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  Observer: Approving Jimmy Lai ’s bail harmful to Hong Kong’s rule of law

  Hong Kong’s High Court on December 23 granted bail to Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, a Hong Kong riot instigator who was suspected of violating the national security law for Hong Kong and conspiring to commit fraud.The news immediately shocked the public. People from different sectors in Hong Kong, including many legal professionals, voiced their opposition. The Department of Justice of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government resolutely lodged an appeal. Only a few rioters welcomed it. There is widespread suspicion both inside and outside Hong Kong that who could be responsible if Lai, who was charged with a felony, jumps bail or continues to cause chaos in Hong Kong during bail.Making a ruling based on the law is a basic principle of the rule of law and a criterion that judges must follow. Lai has been charged with multiple crimes, including violating the national security law. According to the law’s Article 42, “No bail shall be granted to a criminal suspect or defendant unless the judge has sufficient grounds for believing that the criminal suspect or defendant will not continue to commit acts endangering national security.”The article is very clear that “no bail shall be granted” is the norm unless under special circumstances where the judge does not “have grounds for believing” but must “have sufficient grounds for believing” that the suspect will not continue to be evil after being released on bail. It means that granting bail is an exception, and the threshold is so high in order to prevent suspects from continuing to endanger national security during bail. Lai is notorious and extremely dangerous, but he has become the first person to be granted bail among all the suspects arrested in Hong Kong on charges of breaching the national security law. After the national security law was enacted, if a Hong Kong riot instigator like Lai can be released on bail, who else cannot?Even so, the opposition jumped out again to slander the bail conditions as "t...

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  Observer: There is no room for great power conflict in post-pandemic world

  Notwithstanding the miracles of modern science, the post-COVID world is in need of more than just a vaccine. The global economy has struggled to emerge from the unprecedented plunge of early 2020. Like a swimmer gasping for air after surfacing from a deep dive, there was a powerful rebound as lockdowns came to an end. But reopening after a sudden stop hardly qualifies as a self-sustaining economic recovery. Vaccine or not, the outlook for 2021 is likely to be far more challenging than a post-lockdown bounce might suggest.History speaks to long shadows of major pandemics. Permanent disruptions to both aggregate supply and demand, reinforced by a rethinking of behavioral norms, tend to compromise the economic healing process. As a result, post-pandemic economies are typically afflicted by a lingering vulnerability that is highly susceptible to aftershocks. The post-COVID world is unlikely to be an exception.The first half of 2021 seems poised for just such a setback. Apart from China, where the discipline of public health practices took precedent over economic stimulus, the long-feared second wave of COVID-19 infections is now at hand. This has prompted a new round of lockdowns in most major developed economies — especially the United States, Europe, Japan, and Canada. To be sure, these lockdowns are not as severe as they were when the first wave hit, but they are still likely to result in significant disruptions to economic activity. And they are coming at a time when seasonal shopping tends to peak — pointing to a pronounced shortfall in seasonally-adjusted activity.For both the US and European economies, that spells heightened risks of “double-dip” recessions in the months immediately ahead. The relapse scenario stands in sharp contrast to the V-shaped recovery that financial markets seem to be counting on. Optimism rests more on the zero interest rate policies of major central banks rather than on resilient growth trajectories. That may end up being a wel...

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  Observer: Containing of Qingdao’s recent coronavirus outbreak a demonstration of unity

  File photoThe source of the recent COVID-19 outbreak in Qingdao, East Chinas Shandong Province was confirmed Friday to be the result of nosocomial cross-infections, and no community transmission has occurred.The city reported three asymptomatic cases on Sunday. Of the three asymptomatic cases, two cases tested positive for the coronavirus when they went to the hospital as normal patients, and one person was found during a screening for close contacts of confirmed cases.As domestic and global observers keep a close eye on the city, Qingdao, with incredible speed, managed to contain the epidemic in less than a week.Qingdao registered no new coronavirus cases on Friday and as of the same day, the total cases of this flare-up stood at only 13.The epidemic broke out in Qingdao, and it is totally reasonable for Chinese people to gasp that the coastal city is famous for its beaches, exotic buildings, seafood cuisines and busy harbors.Qingdao received over 4.47 million passenger trips during the National Day holidays in early October. If the outbreak were not well contained, the virus would hitchhike and spread to the whole country.However, Chinese people did not panic. Instead of holding it in contempt, Chinese people have gained full confidence in the Communist Party of China (CPC), the local and central governments, to cope with the outbreak.Since the epidemic broke out last winter in Wuhan, China has put out epidemic sparks in the country time and time again. Heilongjiang Province, Beijing, Jilin Province, Xinjiang Autonomous Region--China overcame one re-emergence after another in the war against the virus. It has been proven repeatedly that China’s principle of people’s lives always stand first. Preventing a domestic epidemic from rebounding, and preventing imported cases are the correct and practical ones in the prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic.Simultaneously, Chinese people have a clearer understanding that only by being obedient to t...

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  Observer: Setting SEZs as new model of reform and opening-up in new era

  Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech Wednesday at a grand gathering celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in South Chinas Guangdong Province. In the speech, Xi said the establishment of SEZs is a great innovative move made by the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the country in advancing reform and opening-up as well as socialist modernization.Four decades ago, after the reform and opening-up policy was adopted, the Central Committee of the CPC set the cities of Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Shantou and Xiamen in South and East China as four special economic zones, implementing special and flexible policies and measures.Seen as windows and models of the reform and opening-up and the socialist modernization for the whole country, Shenzhen and other SEZs have been striding on the forefront of China’s reform and opening-up.Born and prosperous because of the reform and opening-up policy, Shenzhen SEZ has become a charming, robust and innovative international city. The city’s GDP in 2019 reached 2.69 trillion yuan ($400.5 billion), and experienced an average 20.7 percent of annual GDP growth for the last 40 years, which is a miracle in the world’s history of industrialization, urbanization and modernization.Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, Shenzhen thoroughly implemented President Xi Jinping’s instructions, undertaking the missions to building a pioneer and demonstration zone of socialism with Chinese characteristics and a model city of a socialist modernized powerful nation. By continuing to explore and innovate, Shenzhen has made new achievements, created new advantages and taken new steps.Shenzhen is a miniature of China’s SEZs that they act as test fields in the systematic reforms, as well as important windows for opening up. The SEZs made great contribution in opening up and modernization on a national scale.The practice of SEZs has proven the Central Commit...

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  Observer: US provoking political confrontation by smearing China’s human rights records exposes hypocrisy

  When the US and a few other countries made groundless accusations against China on human rights issues during the general debate of the Third Committee of the 75th session of the UN General Assembly, its ulterior motive to interfere in China’s internal affairs and attempt to create instability to disrupt China’s development was self-evident.For many years, the US has touted itself as a human rights defender worldwide, but turned a deaf ear and a blind eye to the persistent, systematic and large-scale human rights violations within itself.By wantonly distorting and belittling the human rights situation in countries and regions that did not conform with its strategic interests, the US has mastered the art of weaponizing the rights issue as a means to maintain its global hegemony.However, this attempt failed, as people can tell right from wrong. Not only have nearly 70 countries voiced their support for China on human rights issues at the UN, but China was elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Tuesday.The world today is at a critical juncture. World leaders have called for solidarity and cooperation in fighting COVID-19 and addressing global challenges. The US, having failed to learn from the failure of its anti-China campaign and paying no attention to the calls of member states for unity and cooperation, abused the UN platform to spread rumors and provoke political confrontation to serve its domestic politics, which completely goes against the trend of the times.Before accusing others, perhaps the US needs to take a good look at itself in the mirror. As of Tuesday, the confirmed cases of COVID-19 and death toll have topped 7.8 million and 210,000, respectively. For a country which boasts the strongest economic and technological strength and the most abundant medical resources in the world, these striking numbers exposed the Trump administration’s ineffective response to the pandemic, and its failure to protect the most ...

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  Observer: China promotes common development through high-level opening-up

  China’s tourism sector witnessed a robust rebound during the combined Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday that lasted from October 1 to 8.More than 600 million Chinese made domestic trips during the eight-day holiday, when the sales of key retail and catering firms monitored by China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOC) totaled 1.6 trillion yuan (about $239 billion), with average daily sales rising 4.9 percent compared with the National Day holiday last year, data from the MOC showed.Such figures mirrored the strong vitality of the domestic circulation of the country.While global tourism is estimated to suffer from a loss of over $1 trillion this year, China’s tourism industry has almost returned to normal, said an article published on Hamburger Morgenpost, a daily German newspaper.The whole country was on the move as hundreds of millions of Chinese visited their relatives and friends or took trips to tourist destinations during the past eight-day Golden Week holiday, a scene that was seen only 9 months after the global outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, the article described.China has injected dynamism into economic development by making efforts to facilitate the movement of people and goods. The experience could also be helpful for other countries.China has speeded up creating a “dual circulation” development pattern whereby domestic and foreign markets can boost each other, with the domestic market as the mainstay.It is a strategic decision made by the country in accordance with its development stage, environment, and conditions.Facts have shown that China has continuously unleashed the potential of domestic demand and witnessed growing vitality of the domestic circulation. Meanwhile, international circulation has constantly gained new momentum as China has continued to expand opening-up.China’s foreign trade rose 6 percent year on year in August, registering an increase for the fifth consecutive month.The country has recently released a master plan for three ne...

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  Observer: China joins COVAX, a concrete step to contribute to vaccine accessibility and affordability for developing countries

  China signed an agreement with the WHO-led COVAX on Thursday in a bid to make COVID-19 vaccines globally available, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying. China also vowed to provide developing countries with COVID-19 vaccines first."Joining COVAX marks Chinas commitment to make the COVID-19 vaccine globally available," Hua said. "China is taking action to promote a fair distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and called on more countries that have the ability to join and support COVAX."Launched in April 2020, the COVAX is co-led by the Vaccine Alliance Gavi, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The humanitarian project is aimed at delivering coronavirus vaccines to low and middle income countries, and the worlds poorest people. COVAXs aim is to buy 2 billion doses by the end of 2021, and countries taking part in the project can either buy vaccines from COVAX or get them for free, if needed.(Photo: agencies)The ambitious project also faces doubts in terms of its feasibility, especially the assurance of the supply of vaccines. But with China, a country with several vaccines in advanced stages of research and development, and with ample production capacity, joining, there will be brighter light shed on the prospects for COVAX, improving the prognosis of less developed countries overcoming the pandemic.Since the coronavirus outbreak, China’s virologists and immunologists have initiated research and development of the vaccine, which, so far, is one of the most promising methods to end the COVID-19 pandemic, given that no definite cure to the virus has been found. More importantly, China’s research has witnessed great success.By the end of September, there were 11 COVID-19 vaccine candidates in clinical trials in China, with four of them having entered phase III clinical trials. The four vaccines consist of three inactivated vaccines, and one recombinant adenovir...

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  Observer: US future remains bleak as COVID-19 death toll surpasses 200,000

  The US has hit another bleak milestone in the coronavirus pandemic on Tuesday when the death toll topped 200,000, by far the highest in the world, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.The real toll is thought to be much higher, as many COVID-19 deaths were probably blamed on other causes, especially when there was no widespread testing in the US.Seven months have passed since the first known COVID-19 death was reported in the US on February 6, during which time the US government could have bent the curve of deaths downward.The reality is that the Trump administration squandered every possible opportunity to contain the pandemic, leaving an average of more than 850 people dead from the disease every day."The idea of 200,000 deaths is really very sobering, in some respects, stunning," Dr. Anthony Fauci, the US top infectious disease expert, said on CNN.Truly, the death toll of 200,000 is not a cold, abstract figure, but vibrant lives who once lived on this planet.Dr. Fauci had predicted and warned as early as in March that the pandemic could take away 200,000 lives in the US, but the administration just ignored his warning, and some officials even accused him of fear-mongering at that time.CBS News reported that science has to rule the day; otherwise mistakes will be made, causing more lives lost. The Associated Press used harsher words, describing the grim milestone as "unfathomable," citing an emergency physicians words that the US failed miserably in the test of COVID-19.It seems that not only the US media and public health experts are disappointed at the US containment of the pandemic. The countrys allies are also frustrated as a recent survey by Pew Research Center shows the US has seen a sharp decline in its reputation among its key allies and partners, reaching record lows, partly because of the countrys bad handling of the pandemic.After all, there is still no unified national plan to contain the disease— no contac...

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  Observer: China's 'dual circulation' policy to foster open economy on higher level with more opportunities

  The latest official statistics show Chinas economic recovery accelerated in August, as retail sales rose for the first time this year by half a percent from a year ago, value-added industrial output climbed 5.6 percent, and exports by 9.5 percent.This indicates a brighter economic prospect as well as prominent outcomes in Chinas efforts to coordinate epidemic containment and socio-economic development.Some western media attributed Chinas recent economic recovery to its measures of enhancing domestic consumption, and even said that the new development strategy -"dual circulation"- is a sign that China is turning its back on the world.This interpretation, however, is completely at odds with what the new policy is about.The "dual circulation" development pattern, a concept first mentioned by Chinese President Xi Jinping in May, means a new development mode takes the domestic market as the mainstay, while letting domestic and foreign markets boost each other.This dual-cycle development mode is never a closed domestic loop, but an open dual-cycle of domestic and international growth.On various occasions, President Xi has reiterated the opening of the economy, drawing in foreign investment and treating foreign businesses equally.Take the latest meeting to deepen Chinas overall reform. President Xi stressed the "dual circulation" development pattern, pointing out that China will continue to promote the innovative development of foreign trade, implement new development concepts, focus on building a new development pattern, enhance supply-side structural reforms and technological innovation, further promote trade facilitation and optimize the foreign trade environment.It can clearly be seen that the formation of this new development pattern is a strategic decision made in accordance with Chinas development stage, environment and conditions."The Chinese economy has entered a new phase of development featuring a dual ...

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  Observer: COVID-19 fight shows China’s institutional advantages

  The COVID-19 pandemic is the worst pandemicto hithumanity in a century. It has causedaserious impacton the economic and social development of various countries, and has testedgovernance around the world.In the face of the unexpected pandemic, China has fought a great war againstthe novel coronavirus in the past eight months, during which it made great efforts and created another heroic feat in the history of mankind’s battle against diseases.Under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, China has brought into full playits institutional advantages and quickly organized and mobilized various forces in a fight against the COVID-19 outbreak.State-owned enterprises and public hospitals havetaken on responsibilitiesfor the fight; more than 4.6 million grassroots Party organizations have foughtthe virus on the frontline; over 4 million community workers have performed their duties day and night in 650,000 rural and urban communities across the country; various organizations,including private companies and hospitals, charity organizations, old people’s homes, and charity houses have made active efforts to fight the pandemic; CPC members and cadres have taken the lead in contributing to the nationwide fightagainst the disease; several million delivery peoplehave stuck to their posts and risen to the challenge amid the pandemic; 1.8 million sanitation workers have worked from dawn to night despite difficulties; and numerous volunteers and ordinary people across the country have contributed to an early victory over the COVID-19 in their own way.It was its remarkable organization and mobilization capabilities that enabled China to unite its huge number of diverse social groups in a short period of time,and form a mighty force in the face of the public health crisis,with everyone being of one mind and sharing weal and woe in solidarity.&nbs...

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  Observer: Playing Taiwan card only ends up with nothing

  Last month, Alex Azar, Secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services, visited Chinas Taiwan. Just a month later, Keith Krach, another US senior official, is scheduled to visit the island this Saturday.Such a move of the US severely contravened its own commitments on the Taiwan question.For China-US relations, the Taiwan question is one of the most important, with the highest level of sensitivity, and the one-China principle is its political foundation.China has repeatedly urged the US to adhere to the one-China principle and the three joint communiques, stop having official interactions of any kind with Taiwan, and handle Taiwan-related issues prudently and properly to avoid severely damaging China-US relations, and peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits.Recent moves by the US, however, have provoked China on the Taiwan question and placed obstacles to China-US relations.What the US government truly wants is that certain politicians play the Taiwan card as a distraction to shift attention from its domestic problems and appeal to certain groups of voters. After all, the US is mired in the pandemic, racial strife, and economic recession.After Azars visit, the Taiwan authority decided to import pork containing ractopamine and open its market to US beef for cattle aged over 30 months, without informing the public or consulting the local industry, and without a review by the legislature or a proper evaluation of its risks.This has caused resentment on the island. Non-government organizations, legislators, and health experts in Taiwan have continued to challenge this decision.The separatist Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in the island of Taiwan should know that besides grabbing financial benefits from Taiwan, Washington will guarantee nothing on security issues, as the island is just a chess piece to confront the mainland. Once the situation turns around, Taiwan authorities will lose miserably.Anyone with vision a...

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  Observer: People's safety should be US government's first concern amid epidemic

  The US House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis recently released reports, saying what the government officials told the public contradicted reports they privately issued to states. The cover-up led to the death of over 58,000 additional Americans and left millions of American lives at risk.The reports sparked new accusations of the US government’s botched response to control the disease and safeguard its people, a sharp contrast with China’s successful fight against the pandemic. Warnings went up again for the US government to put people’s safety as the biggest priority.At the early stages of the outbreak, few confirmed cases were reported in the US when China suspended outbound traffic from Wuhan to prevent the virus from spreading. Chinas suspension of traffic sent an early warning to the world. Then, American airlines suspended direct flights between the US and China, and closed borders to all Chinese citizens.However within just a few months, the infections and death toll skyrocketed in America, with more than 6 million people confirmed as of this week. How can a country, with sufficient time to prepare, one of the most advanced medical systems globally, perform so poorly amid the pandemic?Firstly, the Trump administration prioritizes political interests over peoples lives. They used unscrupulous divisive tactics to prepare for reelection. When the pandemic deteriorated, some US politicians smeared China’s anti-virus efforts and interfered in China’s internal affairs to deflect blame from its poor control of the virus.Secondly, the Trump administration also shows contempt for science. Staff members at the White House were not ordered to wear masks until the epidemic had raged on for months. Trump ridiculously floated the idea of injecting disinfectant to fight COVID-19.Meanwhile, rather than saved lives, some US politicians used the pandemic as a weapon to attack political opponents, and viewed it as an opportunity to seize power and partis...

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  Observer: Experts who smear national security law for HK have no credibility

  It has been two months since the implementation of the Lawof the Peoples Republic of China onSafeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. To evaluate how the law works and its effects, it is always the 1.4 billion Chinese people, including Hong Kong compatriots, who have the final say on it. However, a group of special rapporteurs from the United Nations Human Right Council, including Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, wrote in an open letter that disregarded the facts, maliciously slandered Chinas human rights situation and smeared the Hong Kong national security law. Chinese people will never accept their behavior.In response, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson advised them to respect the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, discard ignorance, prejudice and double standards, and stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and Chinas internal affairs. The spokesperson of the Chinese Mission to the UN Office at Geneva also said that China firmly opposes and completely rejects it.The purpose of enacting the Hong Kong national security law is to plug the legal loopholes in Hong Kong, and to prevent, stop and punish the four categories of criminal acts that seriously endanger national security. As the national security was "undefended", Hong Kong secessionists and radical forces were rampant, escalating violent terrorist activities. The external forces blatantly intervened in Hong Kong affairs, which cast a shadow over the "Pearl of the Orient". The enactment of the Hong Kong national security law is compelling and imperative.Ensuring national security through legislation is a common practice globally. The groundless accusations made by the experts against the Hong Kong national security law are untenable. They falsely claimed that the Hong Kong national security law "appears to criminalize freedom of expression or any form of criticism." In fact, the Hong Kong national security law cle...

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  Observer: True gold fears no fire in China-Philippines ties

  China and the Philippines, neighbors with a long-standing friendship, have always moved forward steadily for mutual benefitand progress despite their differences.However, an instigatoris never tired of creatingtrouble. The US, once again, imposed illegitimate sanctions recently on Chinese companies and citizens "responsible for or complicit in militarization of and illegal activities in the South China Sea."As we allknow, the South China Sea has been Chinas territory since ancient times. China has the right to safeguard its territorial sovereignty, not to say the legitimate and lawful right to domestic construction activities participated by its companies and people.The development of China in all aspects, which the US is still unwilling to admit, seems to “threaten” its dominance of the world. Instead of fair cooperation or common development, the US prefers to play tricks in a dishonorableand unjust way to contain China. The sanction move grossly interferes in China’s internal affairs and aims to drive a wedge between China and regional countries, using a poor excuse.Fortunately, the trick fails to fool anyone. Philippine President Duterte clearly stated that the country will not follow the directive of the Americans because “we are a free and independent nation and we need investors from China.”“We are not a vassal state of any foreign power and we will pursue our national interest,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque alsosaid,promisingthat all the projects involving Chinese companies that were banned in the US can continue in the Philippines.It’s grateful to see how the country charted its own national interests at the core even under such oppressive pressure. The pursuit of an independent foreign policy is in line with the fundamental interests of not only China and the Philippines, but also their peoples.This June marked the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China ...

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  Observer: Western conspiracy on Uygur population cannot affect Xinjiang's peace, stability

  Recently, an anti-China pseudo-scholar from Germany named Adrian Zenz published a report accusing China of implementing sterilization procedures on ethnic minorities in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to limit the population of Uygurs. His claim that "Xinjiangs natural population growth has declined dramatically" is undoubtedly wrong and absurd, since he deliberately used false statistics and highly misleading interviews.Zenzs claim neither conforms to scientific research methods and academic norms nor accords with the reality in Xinjiang. The basic human rights of residents of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang are effectively guaranteed, and the people are living a safe and happy life.For a long time, certain forces in the international community, especially Western forces, have been hyping up misinformation about Xinjiang-related affairs. Now, they are using the population issue as a new lever to discredit China.However, it is a fact that the population in Xinjiang has grown continuously in recent years and the so-called "demographic genocide" is baseless. Uygur population in Xinjiang has grown from 5.55 million to 11.68 million in the past 40 years. The increase is clear.The growth of the Uygur ethnic group is higher than the growth of the total population of the region, figures released by the regional government show. During the same period, the Han ethnic group population increased 2 percent to 9 million in the region.A decline in Xinjiangs population growth in 2018 is a result of the full implementation of Chinas family planning policy, economic and social development, and the shift in the desired number of children by people of all ethnic groups. Still, the regions population growth rate is higher than the average figure in other parts of China. In fact, ethnic minorities in China have enjoyed preferential treatment. In particular, the national family-planning policy is relatively loose for them.The media has rep...

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  Observer: Shared COVID-19 vaccine development, deployment China’s commitment to world

  “COVID-19 vaccine development and deployment in China, when available, will be made a global public good.” This is China’s firm determination, as announced by President Xi Jinping at the opening of the 73rd World Health Assembly (WHA), to promote cooperation with the world to ensure COVID-19 vaccine accessibility and affordability in developing countries.The COVID-19 pandemic has turned into the most serious global public health emergency since the end of World War II. With more than 210 countries and regions hit, the virus has infected over 25 million people around the world, and claimed more than 840,000 lives.Appropriate, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines that all countries have equal access to are vital for the world’s recovery from the pandemic. China, in dealing with the COVID-19 infection, has been effectively containing the epidemic by making painstaking efforts and enormous sacrifices. The country has underscored its will on many occasions to work with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other governments to ensure vaccines are available in developing countries.As a leading country in the field of COVID-19 vaccine R&D, China has approved nine vaccine candidates’ entry into clinical trials, of which four have been approved for Phase III clinical trials in foreign countries.China’s vaccine companies strictly follow scientific and regulatory rules, as the country attaches great importance to safety and effectiveness. Chinese authorities and the companies expressed their support to the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access (COVAX), and agreed to jointly advance global research, development, production and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines on Tuesday while communicating with the WHO.To further ensure the vaccine’s accessibility worldwide, cooperation between China and developing countries has begun. The country will value its commitments and continue conducting international cooperation in COVID-19 vaccine R&D, manufacturing and distribution.The COVID-19...

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  Observer: US needs real action to solve racial injustice

  Kenosha has become the latest focal point of anger over police brutality and severe racial discrimination issues in the US, after the shooting of African American Jacob Blake who was walking away from police when officers followed him with weapons drawn, and shot him.The accident sparked racial tensions anew, and left trauma for Blake, for Black Americans, and for the country. Massive protests calling for racial equality and defunding the police broke out in many cities across the nation.It was merely months away from the death of another Black man, George Floyd, who died after being pinned down by a Minneapolis police officer with his knee on Floyds neck for nearly nine minutes.Yet, US President Donald Trump decried the violence at recent racial justice protests as "domestic terror”, and denied there was systemic racism within US law enforcement when he paid a visit to Kenosha, Wisconsin on Tuesday. He even offered support to law enforcement officers and toured shops damaged by protesters. But he never mentioned Blake’s name, nor spoke to his family.The overt lack of respect for the black community who deserve to be treated with dignity, partly led to those tragedies.The mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic by the Trump administration further exposed the deep-rooted racial injustice. Data showed that the share of African Americans among all people with the novel coronavirus was almost twice as high as their population share due to limited access to medical resources and protective equipment.What’s worse, the racism issue has been used as a tool by US politicians to gain interests rather than to strive for the rights of minority groups. Some senior Democrats, for example, vowed to press legislation to undo systemic racism, but they havent brought about anything pragmatic.More concrete work than slogans is needed to resolve racial justice issues, as they cannot be dismissed any longer, and are vital to the US.Policy steps need to be race-conscious to p...

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  Observer: US strategy to contain China hotbed of troubles, harm

  Strategic misjudgment resulting from short-sightedness and shallowness is regarded as the worst mistake in the development of China-US relations. Unfortunately, the US side has been repeating the mistake over and over again for a long time.In its official documents from the National Security Strategy introduced in December 2017 to the National Defense Strategy released in January 2018 and then the United States Strategic Approach to the People’s Republic of China released in May 2020, the US has deliberately misrepresented China’s political system and development goals time after time, wantonly hyped up the so-called “China threat”, and used it as an excuse to agitate for adopting tough policies to contain China in all aspects.Whether China and the US should benefit from cooperation together or lose from confrontation is actually a simple question. It’s a pity that certain politicians in the US, who cannot understand history, grasp reality, or predict the future due to their narrow vision and shallow minds, have been obsessed with the paranoid delusion that wherever China gains, the US loses.The urge of some US politicians to provoke a so-called “new Cold War” against China is getting increasingly wild and their attempt to jeopardize China-US relations for selfish political gains is becoming clearer and clearer with each passing day.It can never be ignored or distorted that in the globalized world today, China’s development means win-win results for both China and the world. In this sense, to hinder the development of China is the same as sabotaging the development of the whole world, including the US.Certain US politicians have lately intensified their efforts to fabricate lies out of thin air to slander the CPC, making such malicious accusation as “CPC’s designed for hegemony”, and tried to incite other countries to join its anti-China camp.Given that the interests of China and the US are so closely intertwined, containing China’s development is not at all in line...

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  Observer: Scapegoating China won't cure the US

  As the Republicans stage the national convention, the US president boasted about the country’s pandemic response and again used the description of “Chinese virus”, contradicting his earlier call to stop “politicizing” the virus.The backdrop to this years US presidential election cannot be ignored: an unprecedented global public health crisis. There are more than 5 million cases in the US and more than 170,000 deaths in the country--more than any other nation. The US stands alone as the only affluent nation to have suffered a severe, sustained outbreak for more than four months.The US response to the epidemic inevitably became a key topic when two parties trade blame for lost lives and stalled economy. Obviously, the White House is racking their brains to peddle lies all over the world to maliciously attack and slander China to defend its stumbled response to the pandemic.US officials labeled the virus “Chinese” or befouled China to hide the truth. They insisted the term is accurate because the Chinese city Wuhan reported the first cases while the US CDC has confirmed the strains that prevailed in New York, the former US coronavirus epicenter, came from European hot spots, not China.Why such a failed response? Caitlin Rivers, an epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, said that it seems the White House never had a science-based plan or strategy to control the novel coronavirus.The White House frequently departed from expert advice and at the beginning of the epidemic, said the virus was not serious, predicted it would disappear, spent weeks questioning the need for masks, encouraged states to reopen even with large and growing caseloads, and promoted medical disinformation. Even new cases were spiking in various states, the officials claimed the pandemic is “receding.”When facing challenges questioning the anti-pandemic strategy, buck-passing, particularly, scapegoating China, becomes the "standard answer" for some US politician...

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  Observer: China returns to normalcy as the pandemic is still raging worldwide

  Life in China’s capital city Beijing is regaining its glamor and vitality in the hot summer season,as epidemic prevention and control has achieved decisive success. Shops, malls, and cinemas are once again abuzz with peoplewho are returning to various recreational activities. The city has returned toits routine morning and evening peak hours,and commuters are once again confronted with crowded subway trains and traffic jams.With zero domestic COVID-19 cases for nine consecutive days, schools are prepared for their reopening in the fall semester,and life has been returningto the days before the outbreak, even ifpeople have gottenused to wearing a maskin public. Only sixareas,mostly in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and southeast China’s Guangdong Province,remainas medium-risk and high-risk zones for COVID-19.China’s gradual return to normalcy reflects the success of its epidemic prevention and control measures. From the top-down level, the country has adopted a strong national strategy,including travel restrictions, enclosed community management, citywide nucleic acid testing,and a series of quarantine measures to cut further transmissions of the virus. From Wuhan to Beijing, Dalian to Urumqi, cities with newly emerging COVID-19 cases have been given priority to identifythe source of the virus,and to locatecontacts of confirmed cases. The country’s stringent measures in dealing with such an unprecedented public health crisis hasprevented it from a potential second or third waveof outbreak.To be totally scientific in its handlings of the COVID-19, China has attached great importance to expert discussions and summarizing the expertise of frontline medics. Dr. Zhong Nanshan was awarded the Medal of the Republic for his outstanding contributions to the fight against the COVID-19. In comparison, Dr.AnthonyFauci,&nbsp...

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  Observer: Bannon doomed to fail in manipulating anti-China plays

  Former Trump adviser Stephen K. Bannon was charged on Thursday with defrauding donors of a private fund-raising effort called We Build the Wall, which was intended to bolster the president’s initiative along the Mexican border. According to the New York Times, the fund-raising effort collected more than $25 million, and prosecutors said Bannon used nearly $1 million of it for personal expenses.Bannon has been one of Washington’s most strident China hawks, addicted to selling his China-smearing remarks and outdated Cold War zero-sum game theories after he stepped down from the White House in August 2017, sparing no efforts to blackmail China for his own political gain.As a far-right fringe extremist, Bannon has constantly been claiming that China poses a threat to the US in order to save his doomed political career, and gain wider attention. When Bannon reassured the public he would use the money for a project that could reduce illegal immigration, it turned out that he and his co-conspirators pocketed millions of dollars in donations and used it to pay for their lavish lifestyles and expenses, including "travel, hotels, consumer goods, and personal credit card debt”, according to the indictment.His hypocrisy can explain the reason why he’s so keen on creating tensions between China and the US and causing trouble to bilateral relations between the world’s two major powers. The fraud he committed once again proves that he was involved in the so-called “anti-China” business to seek benefits for himself, regardless of the wider good for the US and its people. In an interview with Asia Times in June, Bannon even said Trump could increase the chances of getting re-elected if he focused on attacking China and criticizing Joe Biden’s “China connections”.The China card is what he excels at to steer bilateral relations in the wrong direction. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bannon was a bane to the global anti-virus fight. He exhausted all kinds of tricks to spread r...

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  Observer: Common interests concern well-being of Chinese and American people ​

  Social division of labor will become more specialized as a result of growing productivity, and the international division of labor and global market are the preconditions for economic globalization. Without the international division of labor, productivity and social wealth will not increase.The global industrial chain and supply chain based on the international division of labor constitute the most important results of economic globalization and the bases for the continuous economic development of all countries around the world.However, some US politicians have tried to turn the clock back, repeatedly claiming that their country “suffered loss” to gain extra advantage by unfair means. Selfish, shallow, and short-sighted, they even alleged that China has swallowed the US in an unprecedented way for decades, which causes trouble to the international division of labor and damage to both itself and others.The basic fact that China-US economic and trade cooperation is good for China, for the US and the whole world cannot be denied by some US politicians. As a matter of fact, both countries’ common interests far outweigh their differences and have long become an important force promoting them closer to each other.It was recognized by American politicians who handled international relations with a strategic and long-term perspective many years ago.During US President Richard Nixon’s visit to China in February 1972, he said “What brings us together is that we have common interests which transcend those differences.”The handshake between Chinese and American officials back then and cooperation across the Pacific have created many common interests for China and the US. However, some short-sighted US politicians cannot figure it out and are unwilling to accept that.A normal economic and trade relationship is a mutually beneficial one based on fair trade, not a zero-sum game. The theory of comparative advantage in international economics shows that one country’s trade gain doe...

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  Observer: It’s vital for China and US to communicate sincerely

  China-US relations are at the most difficult period since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.Certain politicians in the US have been bombarding the international community with various fallacies about China and deliberately distorting and completely denying the history of China-US relations during the past nearly 50 years, trying their best to attack the Communist Party of China (CPC) and China’s political system, with ulterior motives. The US side’s misconceptions about China and China-US relations as well as its spiteful remarks and misdeeds might further aggravate the bilateral relations between the two countries.In the history of China-US relations, strategic miscalculations have had serious consequences. However, more often than not, the two sides have managed to prevent the situation from getting worse through wise and rational actions. The first thing the two sides should keep in mind is that they need to keep communication channels open.Communication between countries was rather difficult during the Cold War, when China and the US could only communicate with each other with the help of a third party or through various indirect ways.In the harsh conditions of the Cold War around the 1950s and the 1960s, China and the US maintained the communication channel of ambassador talks, which played an important role in solving some issues.At present, China and the US are in sore need of new dialogue.The Chinese side has made it clear that China’s door to dialogue remains open and that it is willing to resume dialogue mechanisms at all levels and in all fields at any time.There might be disagreements during dialogue. However, what really matters is that the two sides can talk with each other in good faith.Empty shouts and finger-pointing will not solve any problem, but can trigger new misunderstanding instead. China and the US should maintain a rational and objective attitude toward each other and base judgment on facts rather than ideologic...

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  Observer: The US is its own biggest rival

  Since 2018, the U.S. has issued several strategic reports, painting China as its biggest strategic rival. In practice, some American politicians have been unscrupulously suppressing China on many fronts and provoking the latter on its core interests. China-U.S. relationship is faced with the most severe challenge since the establishment of diplomatic ties.However, the U.S. might fail to figure out who is its biggest rival.The U.S. has been plagued by serious problems in the past decade. Economically, the gap between the rich and the poor has continued to expand. Due to the lack of internal driving forces for growth, it has sought temporary relief regardless of the consequences through excessive fiscal and financial stimulus policies.Politically, democracy has become a tool of ferocious partisan struggles and a profit-making tool for interest groups.The country is hitting a bottleneck in its development, with shrinking advantages and rising anxiety.How did the U.S. get here? The reason lies in the problems of the design and operation of its political and economic systems. It’s also the inevitable result of the shortsighted pursuit of profits.The U.S. cannot make it great again by suppressing China. The U.S. instigated trade frictions, but it didn’t see its trade deficit be significantly reduced and failed to bring the manufacturing sector back home. In contrast, Americans paid an additional $50 billion in tariffs in 2019 alone.Scapegoating China for the COVID-19 pandemic by the U.S. can’t change its disastrous failure to curb the spread of the virus in the country. The pandemic leads to the biggest economic decline in the U.S. since World War II, with soaring national debts, and the dollar is losing ground as the world’s reserve currency.While fostering an ideological struggle and provoking confrontation between the Chinese and American people, some U.S. politicians didn’t change the reality of their country’s ineffective governance and intensified social conflicts. ...

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  Observer: Hong Kong’s destiny not determined by US

  Without the US, Hong Kong “can never succeed” having China run it, US President Donald Trump recently said in an interview, bragging about America’s “contributions” to the city, claiming that nobody’s going to do business in Hong Kong anymore.After Trump signed the so-called “Hong Kong Autonomy Act” a month ago, he also asserted that “with it goes Hong Kong.”It seemed that Trump is never tired of blowing his own trumpet again and again and resorting to intimidation. However, the international community has long disliked such behaviors.Hong Kong’s repute as the “Pearl of the Orient” is not a handout from other countries. With a special historical background, Hong Kong has always been a gateway for foreign investors to enter or exit China, and a window for Chinese businessmen to explore international markets in a century.Hong Kong’s status as an international financial, trade and shipping center is the result of the hard work of generations of Hong Kong people, and China’s continuous deepening of reform and opening-up as well as its strongest support for the city, rather than the “grace” from the US.Thanks to the dual advantages given under “one country, two systems,” Hong Kong has pursued regional cooperation and explored overseas markets with the motherland’s support since its return.Despite the 1997 Asian financial turmoil, the 2003 SARS epidemic, and the 2008 international financial crisis, Hong Kong, with the strong support of the central government, has pressed ahead and maintained the strong momentum of economic growth. That is the result of implementing and safeguarding the “one country, two systems,” which cannot be taken away by the US.Even last year’s turbulence over the proposed amendmentsto the extradition laws caused an unprecedented crisis in Hong Kong, the city is not going down. According to statistics, all IPOs in Hong Kong totaled US$40 billion last year, ranking first globally again. As of the end of July this year, IPOs in Hong Kong reached ...

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  Observer: Why China launched an anti-food waste campaign

  Recently, China issued important instructions to stop food waste, called for promoting thrift and emphasized effective measures to establish a long-term mechanism to resolutely stop food waste.Chinese President Xi Jinping said Chinas food waste problem was "shocking and distressing" and despite several years of bumper harvests the country needed to "maintain a sense of crisis about food security, especially amid the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic."Following Xis instruction, the Wuhan Catering Industry Association urged restaurants in the city to limit the number of dishes served to diners - implementing a system where groups must order one dish less than the number of diners. Chinese state agency CCTV also called out livestreamers who typically film themselves eating large amounts of food.Chinas anti-food waste campaign sparked speculation by some media that China may be facing a food crisis. Experts say the world indeed faces a food shortage, but for China, the real threat to food security comes more from food wastage than epidemics or floods.In the medium and long term, Chinas grain production and demand will remain in a "tight balance,” and the country cannot relax for a moment while ensuring national food security, Chinas discipline inspection and supervisory authorities said.President Xi has always advocated being "strictly frugal and opposing waste." As early as 2013, he gave instructions on the issue, emphasizing that "the wind of waste must be stopped."Many people no longer feel the need to save food. One of the important reasons for this is that China has an adequate food supply. According to Chinas National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration reports, in terms of grain production, by 2019, China had achieved a historic "16 consecutive year harvest,” with grain output reaching more than 650 billion kilograms for five consecutive years.In the face of the COVID-19 epidemi...

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  Observer: Life under sunshine in NW China’s Xinjiang

  Over the past few years, some western countries like the US have spared no efforts to fabricate lies and conspiracies about people’s livelihood in Northwest Chinas Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, alleging that women were forcibly subjected to methods of birth control and children were separated from their parents,which totallydefied the truth.Due to social and economic factors, the vulnerable groups in Xinjiang,especially women and children,faced certain challenges in terms of personal development,as well asprotection of their rights and interests. For example, women are relatively disadvantaged in terms of social division of labor and allocation of resources,as the pursuits of women for health are not fully satisfied,and they are in a relatively lower tier indecision-making and managerial functions in the workplace. Children, too,encounter certain hurdles,as not all of them have gained access to education,and the mortality rate of infants and children is relatively higher.The local government has attached great importance to resolving such issues by dedicating a significant portion of medical and health care resources to the locals. Certain groundless accusations turned a blind eye to the policies and incentives of the local government to guarantee that women could give birth safely. According to the White Paper on Human Rights in Xinjiang published in 2017, free cervical cancer and breast cancer screeningshadbeen given to women living in urban communities, and free health examinationsfor poorwomen. By the end of 2016, 95.45 percent of pregnant and lying-in women were receiving prenatal examinations, with the hospital delivery rate reaching 98.78 percent, and the mortality rate of pregnant and lying-in women droppingto 33.14 per 100,000.Meanwhile,the social status of women has been improving. Onoccupations of women in Xinjiang, in 2018, the propo...

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  Observer: Jimmy Lai will eventually be brought to justice after receiving bail

  Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, ringleader of anti-China radicalsinHong Kong,was released on bail on August 12, about 40 hours after he was arrested on suspicion of crimes including breaching the law on safeguarding national security in theHong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)and conspiracy to commit fraud.Lai’s bail was set at HK$300,000 (US$38,461), plus a HK$200,000 surety. His assets worthHK$50 million werefrozen. In addition, Lai and other suspects who were released under investigationmust report to the police in early September.According to incomplete statistics, Lai, 72, has already committed 5 criminal cases and isfacing sevencharges including criminal intimidation and organization and participation in illegal assembly.Acting as aproxy of external forces, Lai betraysHong Kong but claims that he loves the city. Relying on his media company, he has long been attacking the HKSARand the rule of law in the city, funding local extremist organizationswith secret bank accounts, and contacting localist groupsto collude with foreign forces, in an attempt to wage a Hong Kong version of the “color revolution.”Any behavior that endangers national security will be severely punished in accordance with the law on safeguarding national security in the HKSAR. This is what Lai and others participating in anti-China activities should have expected from the very beginning.As legal experts put it, the arrest of anti-China radicalLai by the Hong Kong police in accordance with the law is a normal law enforcement action and targeted legal punishment on himis an important part to eliminatethe root causesthat trigger problemsin Hong Kong.Lai’s release on bail is a just move to let him be eventually punished by law. Due to the rule of law in Hong Kong, meticulous and precise investigations and evidence collectionare required to handle cases involving national security....

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  Observer: Freefall of US-China ties serves no one’s interests

  China imposed sanctions on 11 American politicians and officials, a fair response to a prior move punishing Chinese officials over the enactment of national security law in Hong Kong.Senator Tom Cotton, one of 11 persons on China’s sanctions list, in a bizarre statement, took the Chinese fightback like an honor badge granted for his lies and politically-motivated approach to China.The Chinese Foreign Ministry explained that Cotton and 10 others are being targeted for their “egregious records” on Hong Kong affairs. “Egregious” is accurate to describe this GOP extremist and people like him in Washington.The Arkansans Senator attracted the ire of many Americans when he called on military troops to quell violent protests in a New York Times op-ed. While watching rampant vandalism unfold on Hong Kong streets, he changed his tone, blaming local law enforcers’ efforts to restore law and order.Hong Kong is one chapter of Cotton’s anti-China playbook. He sided with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on China as the origin of the COVID-19 virus, despite scientists still being puzzled by when and how the virus jumped from animals to humans. He supported a “digital iron curtain” against Chinese firms, even though it will come at the cost to America, and restlessly depicted Chinese students and scholars as spies who are greedy for America’s top secrets.Chinese people have sensed a terrifying pattern among American officials: blame China for every misstep the US has made and decouple from China on every aspect. The US government’s policy-making has developed into a knee jerk anti-China campaign. Fear, ignorance and self-conflict dominate the process.The Chinese community and businesses in the US have felt a chill down their spine. Chinese and other Asian minorities are facing mounting racial harassment. According to the latest survey on the business climate in America, over 50 percent of the 200 Chinese enterprises surveyed complained that their operations were adve...

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  Observer: Any attempt that challenges 'one-China principle' is doomed to fail

  Alex Azar, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, arrived in Taiwan on August 9 and began a 3-day-long visit. Such a move of the U.S. is a serious breach of its commitments pledged on the Taiwan question.China is consistently and firmly opposed to the official interactions between the U.S. and Taiwan, and has lodged stern representations with the U.S. side.It is only recently that the U.S. has announced that it would withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and refused to do its part for global public health.However, it now sends officials to Taiwan to discuss cooperation in combating the COVID-19 epidemic, which is merely another clumsy trick of the U.S. trying to politicize the pandemic.The Taiwan question is the most important and sensitive issue in China-U.S. relations, and the one-China principle is the political foundation of the bilateral relationship.In December 1978, the U.S. government accepted the three principles proposed by the Chinese government for the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, namely, the U.S. should sever “diplomatic relations” and abrogate the “mutual defense treaty” with the Taiwan authorities and withdraw U.S. military forces from Taiwan.On this basis, the U.S. reached an agreement with China on properly handing Taiwan-related issues.“The United States of America recognizes the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government of China. Within this context, the people of the United States will maintain cultural, commercial and other unofficial relations with the people of Taiwan,” as stated clearly in the Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations issued by both countries on December 16, 1978.On January 1, 1979, China and the U.S. formally established diplomatic relations. Normalization of China-U.S. relations was thus achieved.China has repeatedly urged the U.S. to handle Taiwan-related issues prudently, stop any official exchanges ...

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  Observer: Hong Kong is not a pawn between China and US

  Stung by China’s national security law, the Trump administration opted to further strain its relations with China by imposing sanctions against Hong Kong.On August 7, the US sanctioned 11 Hong Kong and Chinese mainland officials, including Carrie Lam, chief executive of the Hong Kong SAR government, for their role in the enforcement of the national security law. The targeted officials may have their assets in the US seized and will be barred from doing business within the country, according to a statement released by the US Treasury Department.Chinese officials fired back, saying the “clowninh actions” will not intimidate China. Lam stated earlier that she has no assets in the US. Lam also said on Facebook that she doesn’t want to visit the US anyway.The US has no legal standing to impose such sanctions in the first place, but it’s a flagrant and barbaric interference in China’s internal affairs.If national security is a country’s immunity system, the US is one of the most protected countries in the world, with at least 20 laws, including the Protect America Act of 2007 and the USA Freedom Act. However, US politicians, long known for their double standards, do everything they can to obstruct other countries from doing the same. They went out of their way to condemn the postponement of the Legislative Council General Election, a decision made by the Hong Kong government for the safety of the residents, as the city tackles its third wave of coronavirus infections. Ironically, the double standards of the US government came a day after Trump floated the idea of delaying the presidential election in a tweet.In the statement issued last Friday, the Pentagon alleged that the national security law “undermined Hong Kong’s autonomy.” Here, the word “autonomy” has been frequently taken out of context in a series of Western politicians’ narratives slamming China. These politicians give people a false impression that the freedoms granted to Hong Kong are the equivalent of “indep...

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  Observer: US 'Clean Network' program risks geopolitical tensions on internet

  File photo: AgenciesFollowing the US government’s “clean network” program to target Chinese apps and web services, US President Donald Trump issued on Thursday an executive orders banning US transactions with Chinese tech companies ByteDance and Tencent, claiming they pose a threat to US national security.Such a program has triggered concerns that the global internet is prone to get increasingly “Balkan-ized,” with US citizens unable to access certain Chinese apps or web services simply due to rising geopolitical tensions. Invisible walls are set to be built between China and the US in the online environment.The ban on Tiktok, provided by ByteDance and Wechat, and the previous move to discredit Huawei in the name of dismantling national threats, is groundless. ByteDance announced it would sue the Trump Administration as the executive order was issued without due process.As China turns into the hive of high-tech developments in recent years and breeds tech giants, including Baidu, Alibaba, Tencent, Huawei and Bytedance, with numerous advancements that few Silicon Valley companies are able to catch up with. The US scheme is to hinder the development of Chinese tech companies so that its monopoly on information technology can be further strengthened.Feeling incompetent against Chinese tech enterprises, the US can only resort to hegemony and its state power to elbow out its Chinese counterparts with the ridiculous excuse of protecting US citizens privacy and its companies most sensitive information from aggressive intrusions by maligning actors, according to Pompeo in an announcement of the “clean network” program. This in essence would start a tech cold war, restricting the international expansion of the Chinese tech industry.In response to the US statement, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said the US practice has no factual basis, and is sheer slander and political manipulation, which is a typical hegemonic behavior that runs against market pri...

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  Observer: China’s new development pattern amid uncertainties

  As overseas demand is expected to remain subdued due to the coronavirus pandemic, China brought to the table a new development pattern to steer the worlds second-largest economy.It called for the need to give full play to the advantage of a huge domestic market, so that a new development pattern will gradually be created whereby domestic and foreign markets can boost each other, with the domestic market as the mainstay.This means it will throw more policy weight to a massive consumer market and robust industrial prowess to cope with fast evolving external risks, as top policymakers start to draft a key document that would set the tone for economic and social development for at least the next few years.Taking the domestic market as the mainstay is not meant to slow down opening-up or lessen interaction with foreign markets. It will exploit the potential of domestic market demand to facilitate better connectivity between domestic and foreign markets for more resilient and sustainable growth.The new development pattern, or dual circulation, is more of a solution proposed by China at a time full of uncertainties for high-quality development, to boost both its economic resilience and that of the worlds.Since the response to the Asian financial crisis in 1998, China has shifted its economic development to expanding domestic demand, and has been transforming in this direction for more than 20 years. In recent years, China has formed a domestic demand-driven economy. Accelerating the transformation of the development model is the general trend.(Photo: VCG)China has worked to tap the potential of the domestic market from both the demand and the supply side. On the demand side, the country pledged to unleash the potential of consumption by stimulating consumer spending and increasing public spending, as well as expanding investment in infrastructure and emerging strategic industries, especially in new infrastructures like 5G, AI and cloud com...

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  Observer: Will evicting Chinese journalists save a sinking Mayflower?

  It’s not news that Donald Trump sees media as an enemy. Yet the former TV personality’s draconian attitude towards Chinese media is shocking the world.Following a round of restrictions on Chinese media, the Trump administration in June labeled four Chinese media organizations, the People’s Daily, China Central Television, the China News Service, and the Global Times, as “foreign missions.” Under this new rule, staff at those organizations will have to register with the federal government for any reporting activities and could even be forced to leave the country if their visas are not renewed every three months.According to a People’s Daily reporter based in Washington DC, his review was still being processed after submitting his fingerprints. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin also confirmed that almost all Chinese journalists have filed their visa renewal request but none received approval from the US government.The suppression on Chinese journalists has been seen as another attack by the White House to fuel the “China threat” theory and cover up their misgovernment.America is facing an unprecedented health crisis that is taking a huge economic toll. The number of reported coronavirus cases in the country has surpassed 4.8 million, with GDP shrinking 32.9 percent in the second quarter. As protests against racial injustice and policing continue for months, policymakers in Washington are not focused on dealing with the urgent matters at hand.Instead, they spread conspiracy theories to scapegoat China, criticize China’s national security law, shut down the Chinese consulate in Houston, call for a joint international rejection of Huawei, and make provocations on the South China Sea, bringing the relationship between the two countries to the brink of a new cold war.White House advisors may believe that this anti-China strategy could stop Trump from losing more votes in the 2020 presidential election in November. It is unfortunate that Chinese journali...

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  Observer: HK has motherland’s resolute backing to overcome the epidemic

  On August 2, seven members of a nucleic acid testing team from Chinese mainland arrived in HKSAR to assist in laboratory work. Meanwhile, another team from the mainland had also assembled a makeshift hospital as support.As the epidemic rages, the fight against it cannot be delayed. The third wave of the epidemic continues in Hong Kong, with over 100 cases confirmed for 12 straight days from an unknown source. Hong Kong’s healthcare system is overstretched and quarantine facilities are insufficient.Under this circumstance, the central government provided the necessary support to tackle the deteriorating situation at the request of the HKSAR government and Hong Kong citizens, injecting strong impetus into Hong Kong’s fight against the epidemic.Hong Kong has always been a part of China. To help each other in times of difficulty demonstrates the mutual assistance concept among Hong Kong citizens, as well as the fine tradition of the Chinese nation. At the very beginning of the epidemic, the central government helped arranged a large number of anti-disease materials to Hong Kong, ensured the stability of living materials, and assisted Hong Kong residents stranded in the mainland and overseas to returnhome.The central government has given full support to the HKSAR government’s efforts in epidemic prevention and control, provided assistance in enhancing nucleic acid testing capabilities and the construction of temporary quarantine and treatment centers. History has shown, and will continue to show, that the central government and mainland have always been Hong Kongs resolute backing, and have taken consistent care of the lives and health of Hong Kong compatriots.In the fight against the epidemic, the mainland has mobilized a large number of resources and gained rich experience. The members of the two teams are not only well-chosen medical personnel, but also veterans from the frontline.The Guangzhou Medical Team performed excellently in the fight against t...

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  Observer: Postponing LegCo election in order to fight pandemic a responsible choice

  "Life comes first. If you risk people’s lives, how can Hong Kong go on in the future?"The pandemic in Hong Kong is getting grimmer, with the number of daily new cases surpassing 100 for 10 consecutive days.With the increasing risk of a major outbreak, people from all walks of life have called for a postponement for the Legislative Council (LegCo) election.On July 31, after a careful assessment on the impact of the pandemic, the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) made a decision to move back the seventh LegCo election for one year in accordance with the law."This decision is the most difficult one since the pandemic outbreak seven months ago,” said HKSAR Chief Executive Carrie Lam. It is not hard to understand how tough the decision was.The latest outbreak in Hong Kong is fierce. A number of medical experts have judged that the possibility of the epidemic coming to an end in a short period is "almost zero."From July 8 to 30, 1,852 new cases had been reported in the city, far exceeding the 1,300 accumulated cases in the past six months. Various industries and districts were impacted. Ninety percent of the new cases were local infections. The source is unknown for nearly half of the cases. Fighting the pandemic in Hong Kong is now at the most critical moment.Amid such a public health crisis, if we hold the LegCo election and carry out activities such as canvassing, campaigning and voting, it will certainly lead to large-scale gatherings, resulting in the rapid spread of the virus, undermining all previous efforts to fight the epidemic and putting public health at severe risk.Previously, the opposition ignored the pandemic and carried out illegal gatherings and illegal "primaries," which have aggravated the risk of spreading the virus. This mistake, which came at a huge price, must not be repeated.The postponement of the election and giving priority to the fight against...

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  Observer: US politicians’ attempt to ‘induce change inside of China’ ridiculous

  For a while, some US politicians, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, have been racking their brains to peddle lies all over the world to maliciously attack and slander China.However, no matter how hard they try to disguise themselves, their intentions behind the so-called “failed US attempt to induce change inside of China”have already been exposed to the entire world.These rumor-mongering politicians have tried literally every means to “change”China indeed. They have comprehensively denied the history of China-US relations, obstructedChina’s developmentin an all-round way, challengedChinas core interests, attackedthe social system chosen by the Chinese people, and smearedthe ruling party of China that enjoys close ties with and are inseparable from the Chinese people.“Mike Pompeo is botching his job,”US media put bluntly.In fact, Pompeo and some like-minded US politicians have earned a bad reputation for being ignorant and evil-minded. They have made irresponsible remarks out of ulterior motives, trying to hinder Chinas development. As it turned out, such deeds have only made themselves clowns in the world and snubbed at all places.Out of their deep-rooted idea of pursuing political interests and narrow-mindedness, some American politicians are too ignorant to accept the fact that the Communist Party of China (CPC) has made it.The CPC has no special interests of its own apart from the interests of the working class and the broadest masses of the people, as stated clearly in the constitution of the Party.TheParty has always adhered to its original aspiration and mission of seeking happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation, and always maintained itsflesh and blood tieswith the Chinese people by standing together with them through thick and thin, which is the fundamentalreason why the CPChas been able to develop from a small party with only ...

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  Observer: Pompeo’s attempt to reverse trend of history will never succeed

  US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s China policy speech that was delivered last week in the Richard Nixon library undermined a legacy left by the former president’s historic visit to China half a century ago.The speech was full of lies and prejudice held by the former spy agency chief, demonstrating a toxic atmosphere of immense hostility and obsolete cold war mentality that shrouds Washington.Alleging that China is a threat for the US economy, liberty and even “the future of free democracies around the world,” Pompeo spared no effort to stigmatize and smear China and in the meantime mislead the international community into containing China.The speech for making explicit the government’s views and strategy, however, contained no real strategy to deal with China. Richard Haass, the president of the US Council on Foreign Relations, pointed out in an article in the Washington Post that Pompeo was not only “undiplomatic,” but also failed to suggest “a coherent or viable path forward for managing a relationship that more than any other will define this era.”Although Pompeo did not to mention the cold war in his carefully prepared speech, his sinister intention to pull China and the US into a new round of confrontation has been fully revealed. Even if Pompeo insists on becoming the “common enemy of mankind,” he should also consider whether the US could afford to start another cold war.Dan Coats, former US director of national intelligence, said, “A new cold war between the US and China would be something else entirely. It is difficult to see how it could be fought effectively, not to mention successfully.”History will make it perfectly clear eventually that all attempts that go against the desire of the Chinese and American people to strengthen exchanges and cooperation and insist on reversing the trend of history will never succeed.During the past nearly 50 years, both China and the US have gained a lot from good Sino-US exchanges. However, US politicia...

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  Observer: ‘Mutual destruction’ activities in HK hinder fight against COVID-19

  Hong Kong has seen a significant rebound in COVID-19 cases recently, with more than 100 confirmed cases in 7 straight days and a rising trend. China’s central government said all necessary support will be provided at the request of the HKSAR government at any time, especially on the improvement of virus-testing capacity, and the construction of makeshift hospitals.Since the new wave of COVID-19 outbreak in Hong Kong, the HKSAR government has been stepping up contingency measures to contain the spread of the virus, while the central government has been paying close attention to the resurgence of newly confirmed cases, and helping arrange a large number of anti-disease materials to Hong Kong to provide for its urgent needs.However, the opposition camp in Hong Kong ignores the severe situation of epidemic, carrying out illegal ralliesand primaries to incite people to the streets, causing large-scale assemblies, putting the safety of citizens behind political expedience, and increasing the risk of transmission of the virus.Hong Kong is now taking a toll from the coronavirus. A handful of people in Hong Kong even put forward strange remarks. When the HKSAR government introduced nucleic acid testing capabilities from the Chinese mainland, they cried out that this was a “genetic extradition to China” and spread rumors that “these diagnostic centers from the Chinese mainland may spread the epidemic”. When the HKSAR government requested medic support, they arrogantly said the “medics cannot communicate in English”, and falsely claimed “no need for support from the Chinese mainland, because Hong Kong is sufficient in medical resources and staff”. Such blatant attempts totally ignored the health and safety of Hong Kong citizens.The opposition camp isstill “politicizing” the issues and creating political separation. Medical teams from China went to other countries to carry out cooperation in the fight against COVID-19 and were heaped with praise. When they tried to ...

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  Observer: Hong Kong will have way out if 'mutual destruction' activities eradicated

  Hong Kong is taking a toll from both the coronavirus and a “political virus.” Facing the grim reality of spiking cases and black-clad violence, everyone who cares about Hong Kong will have to think: Where will it go?Because of the “mutual destruction” activities that are ravaging Hong Kong, the city’s future has become a source of worry.When the coronavirus epidemic broke out, protesters held unlawful assemblies instead of working together to contain the outbreak. Stores cannot open for business because violent protesters may attack them since they hold a different political position.Those who run for the Legislation Council (LegCo) clamor for paralyzing the HKSAR government instead of seeking the well-being of Hongkongers.Hong Kong is fighting for its future on multiple fronts. How can the coronavirus outbreak be contained to protect citizens’ health? How can businesses be supported to guarantee employment and solve record high unemployment? How can the underlying issues of housing, healthcare and retirement be solved? How can the downward trend of the economy be rebooted and reversed?These are the practical questions in today’s Hong Kong, which LegCo hopefuls need to answer. And these questions are where the future of Hong Kong lies. Regardless of political stances, the only correct choice is to accept the political order the Basic Law of Hong Kong has determined, give up unrealistic political chimeras, and focus on Hong Kong’s economic development and improving the livelihood of citizens.While the chaos created by “mutual destruction” proponents clouded the future of Hong Kong, many constructive powers have stepped up, calling for improving the economy and citizens’ well-being, securing the rule of law and prosperity, and doing the work to promote livelihood.They also called for reform, the rule of law, peace and development, and refused to politicize livelihood issues. Hong Kong needs people like them to deepen reform, concentrate o...

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  Observer: Pompeo’s dangerous, mean attempts doomed to fail

  In a speech delivered by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library on Thursday local time, the U.S. politician once gain made hypes of the so-called China threat and distorted China-U.S. relations, like he always did.It was another round of attacks and slandering on China planned by certain U.S. politicians in recent month. Pompeo’s remarks were not fact-based and called white black, and the whole speech was characterized by ideological prejudices and Cold War mentality, representing the typical lies recently fabricated by high-ranking U.S. officials about China.Lies never stand the test of facts. Pompeo, who chose the Richard Nixon Presidential Library as the venue to deliver his speech, has drained his brain to stage such a ridiculous farce, following those who had done similar deeds, such as Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs Robert C. O’Brien, FBI Director Christopher Wray and U.S. Attorney General William Barr.However, any attempt to fabricate or distort the history is never tolerated. According to the Shanghai Communique, which was released by the two countries when former U.S. President Richard Nixon visited China in 1972, there are essential differences between China and the U.S. in their social systems and foreign policies. However, the two sides agreed that countries, regardless of their social systems, should conduct their relations on the principles of respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, noninterference in the internal affairs of other states, as well as equality and mutual benefit.Under the efforts of both China and the U.S., their bilateral relations made historic breakthroughs over the past 40 some years. However, Pompeo is neitherrespecting history nor facing the facts. He made conceptual shift and said the U.S. aims to “induce change” in developing relationship with China. He also painstakingly fabricated a “tearjerker” in which he fantasizes that China ...

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  Observer: Protestors like Joshua Wong will pay price for their “mutual destruction” of Hong Kong

  Recently the Legislative Council in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region(HKSAR) started its nomination of members. Protestor Joshua Wong applied for the election in Kowloon East but refused to endorse the HKSAR Basic Law and didn’t pledge loyalty to the HKSAR in a written acknowledgement. It clearly shows Wong’s evil intention to destroy Hong Kong.In any country, it is a basic obligation for the public servants to identify with their countries and pledge political loyalty. In China’s HKSAR, all the candidates for the election should espouse the HKSAR as well as its Basic Law. All the staff governing Hong Kong affairs should love China and Hong Kong. It’s a basic condition and a red line.Let’s look at protestor Joshua Wong. He has vigorously for many years propagated claims promoting Hong Kong independence, such as “self-determination,” and blatantly denied that the HKSAR is part of China. He has intentionally instigated secessionist, subversive and terrorist activities that severely threaten national security to hammer the established political systems in HKSAR. During last year’s disturbance over proposed legislative amendments in Hong Kong, he repeatedly colluded with foreign forces. For example, he secretly met some foreign working staff based in Hong Kong, attended a so-called “human rights hearing” in US, and travelled to some countries begging for support for interference in Hong Kong and bans on China. His numerous behaviors are meant to oppose China and sabotage Hong Kong.Wong has been one of the troublemakers who created the violence and evil activities in Hong Kong, and in reality is the dangerous source of the destruction of stability and prosperity in Hong Kong. He is also a pawn who helped foreign forces meddle in China’s internal affairs. Since Wong chose to stand against China and the interests of Hong Kong, how dare he claim to be qualified to represent Hong Kong residents?Of course, his aim in participation in fact is not for th...

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  Observer: Pompeo's ideological war poses global risks

  "The past is never dead. Its not even past." William Faulkners wisdom is always reflected in new realities. When the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo came to the Nixon Presidential Library to deliver his speech on China, the world he had in mind was undoubtedly the same cold war world he saw while stationed in Germany in the 1980s, where the entire international system boiled down to an ideological Armageddon.Pompeos team has apparently done a lot of planning for this speech. Senior Trump administration officials, including NSA Robert OBrien, FBI Director Christopher Wray and AG William Barr, have already given the warm-up addresses. His choice of venue— Nixon Presidential Library — also has special significance, relating to the starting point of contemporary China-US relations. Perhaps Pompeo formulated this speech with Churchill, Reagan and other cold war superstars in mind. Will he join the ranks? If thats the real intention, Pompeo indulges his own fantasies.The China Pompeo talked about in the speech was out of touch with reality. He imagined that he could induce a wedge between the Chinese people and the CPC. This is clearly a misjudgment of todays China. A recent study by the Ashish Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at Harvard University found that more than 93 percent of Chinese people are satisfied with the central government. The study also concluded that the ruling Communist Party is on solid footing, and that its resilience stems from widespread popular support.If Pompeo doubts the accuracy of this Harvard study, he might as well take a look at the Chinese social media platforms to see what people are saying about him. He may indeed find some difference in how he is viewed by the Chinese public and the Chinese government — the latter is more reserved.Pompeos vision of China-US relations is also unfounded. In his view, there is an all-out war going on between China and the US th...

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  Observer: US politicians are putting on an ugly show for the world

  The US has abruptly ordered China to close its Consulate General in Houston, which came as a surprise as such a move could be very damaging to the diplomatic relations between the two countries.However, such an act is not entirely unexpected as it is merely one of the evil deeds conducted by some US politicians recently. The Chinese government and people are well prepared for any tricks that the US is trying to play.It is a political provocation unilaterally launched by the US against China, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in China.China urges the US to immediately revoke the wrong decision, or China will make legitimate and necessary responses.It is well known that countries in the world have formed international treaties and bilateral agreements concerning diplomatic agencies and diplomats, formulated basic principles and reached consensus on the issue.Trampling on such principles and consensus in front of the world equals an evildoing that will only leave stains on history.Such a move of the US seriously violates international law and basic norms governing international relations and seriously violates the bilateral consular agreement between China and the US.The US, however, has claimed that the attempt meant to protect American intellectual property and Americans private information, which is absolutely absurd.The Chinese diplomatic missions in the US have always been committed to promoting mutual understanding and friendship between the Chinese and American peoples. China has also facilitated the performance of duties of US diplomatic agencies and personnel in China.In contrast, the US has imposed unwarranted restrictions on Chinese diplomats in its country twice--in October last year and June this year, even opened Chinese diplomatic bags privately on many occasions, and seized Chinese official supplies.Due to US recent wanton stigmatization and incitement to hatred toward the Chinese side, the Chinese Embassy in the US has recently received...

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  Observer: HK LegCo cannot be manipulated by those who threatened ‘mutual destruction’ to seize political power

  A fair and just environment for the general election for the seventh-term Legislative Council (LegCo) in China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) concerns the overall interests and the well-being of the Hong Kong people.However, the opposition camp in Hong Kong, who have been obsessed with the idea of “mutual destruction,” recently eyed the crucial election and have attempted to use it to wrest political power and destroy the peace and stability of Hong Kong.The HKSAR Basic Law endowed the LegCo with various powers and responsibilities with the purpose of enabling the latter to build Hong Kong, advance the city’s economic development and improve the livelihood of Hong Kong people.Members of the LegCo ought to fulfill their obligations to defend rule of law and safeguard the HKSAR. Unfortunately, those opposition politicians who have been obsessed with “mutual destruction” have brazenly started the so-called “primaries” when the nomination hasn’t even begun, scheming to realize their “35-plus” plan, a wild ambition of winning more than 35 seats in the LegCo in the upcoming election in September.It’s shocking that not a word of their declarations of candidacy was about people’s livelihood or constructive ideas about Hong Kong’s development. Benny Tai Yiu-ting, a major touter of “mutual destruction” and schemer behind the illegal “primaries,” blatantly claimed that the only thing the opposition wants from the 2020 LegCo General Election is to use the weapons of the ballot tickets in the hands of Hong Kong people to snatch a more powerful weapon.Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, a major instigator of the riots in Hong Kong, said that the LegCo is an extremely important platform for their protest movements in the future.In the eyes of these home-grown terrorists, their participation in the LegCo election is not at all for serving the voters and the development of Hong Kong, but only a way to realize their ultimate g...

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  Observer: 'Political viruses' shall not get in the way of Hong Kong's fight against the epidemic

  Recently, the COVID-19 pandemic seems to have made its way back to Hong Kong. By Saturday, Hong Kong reported a total of 1,885 cases, exceeding the number of infected cases during the SARS epidemic 17 years ago, and over 600 more than the number at the end of June.The fact that the confirmed cases in Hong Kong have soared over about half a month makes people wonder how Hong Kong, once a straight-A student in combating the coronavirus, suddenly seems defenseless against COVID-19.To find the answer, it is necessary to learn about what exactly happened in Hong Kong during that period.On July 1, "mutual destruction" mobsters instigated demonstrations and took part in mass gatherings regardless of bans. Later, on July 11 and 12, they hosted the 2020 Hong Kong illegal primaries and incited people to vote at over 250 polling booths.Evidence suggests the recent outbreak in Hong Kong is closely connected with the mass demonstrations and illegal primaries held by the mobsters advocating mutual destruction.It was about one week after the illegal demonstrations on July 1 that the epidemic started to break out. Several days after the so-called primaries, Hong Kong set a record in its newly confirmed cases within one day.Many medical experts in Hong Kong pointed out that the outbreak coincided with the two activities held by the mobsters. Many recent cases were discovered close to the polling booths set up by the rioters.For the sake of politics, "mutual destruction" advocates have treated life with indifference and put Hong Kong at risk.They have revealed their true colors by choosing voting over life, disregarding the novel coronavirus and spreading “political viruses”.Even worse, the government of Hong Kong recently introduced testing organizations from the Chinese mainland to conduct testing on high-risk groups in Hong Kong for free, which was misrepresented by the rioters as "collecting the DNA of Hong Kong residents".It is clear that to defeat ...

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  Observer: Stigmatizing China is self-defeating tactic to revive US

  Some US officials seem to have formed a gang of rumormongers to stigmatize China.US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, national security adviser Robert OBrien, FBI director Christopher Wray, and US Attorney General William Barr lined up to peddle the China threat theory.Barr alleged that China is engaged in an "economic blitzkrieg" to replace the US as the worlds only superpower, which is absolutely absurd. It is in fact the US that has gone out of its way to suppress and threaten other countries.They are reluctant to face the situation at home and failed to find solutions to problems related to governance. They have adopted a narrow and distorted mindset to defame the achievements other countries have made through hard work.These politicians also started a series of rumors against China, the Communist Party of China (CPC), the strategic intention and future development of the country, which fully exposed their deep-rooted Cold War thinking and ideological bias.The most important national condition of China is the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC). The CPC has been chosen by history and people as the ruling party of the country, and is firmly supported by about 1.4 billion Chinese people.More than 93 percent of Chinese people support and are satisfied with the government under the leadership of the CPC, according to a survey conducted by the Harvard Kennedy School that lasted for 13 years. It fully demonstrates that any attempt to separate the CPC from the Chinese people is doomed to fail.Some US politicians, however, want to remake China based on their political schemes, when they should really have listened to former US President Richard Nixon, who pointed out that a system that works for the US may not work for others with different experiences."We believe in our values, but a basic tenet of these values is not to impose them on others," the former president said.It should be noted that the mutually beneficial and c...

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  Observer: Hong Kong affairs allow no interference from Pompeo and his ilk

  Despite the resurgence of COVID-19 cases in Hong Kong, Hong Kong opposition lobbyists held a round of primary elections on July 11 and 12, in an attempt to rig the vote, control the Legislative Council, andtopple the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo congratulated the Hong Kongopposition for their “successfulprimaryelection” immediately, and also said the United States “will be watching developments closely.”The so-called “primary election” is illegal and hasaroused condemnationfrom various parties and complaints from the residents of Hong Kong.However, Pompeo backed the Hong Kongopposition, and sugarcoated these acts as the pursuit of human rights and democracy. In addition, the US signed into law the so-called Hong Kong Autonomy Act on July 14. How could these things have coincided with each other if Hong Kong opposition hadn’t colluded with external forces?If you take a look at Pompeo, whoclamors for “freedom” and “fairness”, one will find the truth is not like that. Under the pretext of democracy, the Hong Kong opposition, through backroom deals, misled the voters and violated the lawful rights and interests of other candidates. There is no “freedom” and “fairness” as they have claimed. Instead, it simply shows that Pompeo isdriven by ill intentions.Since the turbulence over an extradition bill last year, Pompeo has kept interfering in Hong Kong’s own affairs, including personally meeting with anti-China figures who attempted to disrupt Hong Kong, and threatening todeprive Hong Kong of its special status.His true intentions are laid bare for all to see.Pompeo once said that what is at stake with Hong Kong is that it is a bastion of freedom that can be used to influence China. In the eyes of Pompeo and his kind, it is their freedom to interfere in the affairs of Hong Kong, and to jeopardize China’s national security and contain China...

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  Observer: Saving education saves Hong Kong

  After the implementation of the national security law for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), national security education has also been placed high on the agenda. The opposition has long used politicsto disrupt Hong Kongs education system, causing chaos on and off campus. It is a turning point for Hong Kong to let the education return to its essence, and let the students study back on track.In the social unrest since last June, some young people in Hong Kong have been instigated by anti-government forces to engage in illegal and violent activities, openly challenging the red line of the "one country, two systems" principle.Data shows that over 3,000 students have been arrested for involvement in illegal assemblies and violent protests over the extradition bill issue, accounting for 40 percent of those arrested, with the youngest being only 12 years old.Some teachers along with several media outlets, attempted to politicize the HKSARs education system, promoting misrepresentations of history and the arbitrary smearing of the government and law enforcement agencies. All these are reflected in textbooks, classroom instruction, test questions and extracurricular activities. Campuses seem to have become "hotbeds of violence".Chief Executive of the HKSAR Carrie Lam said at an education forum Saturday that she has asked the HKSAR governments secretary for education to make a plan for school education on the Constitution, the Basic Law, National Anthem Ordinance and the national security law for Hong Kong.The purpose of national security education is to cultivate a new generation with a sense of national identity, and to prevent violations of relevant laws. Helping students develop an understanding of laws, history and national conditions is to get education, and hopefully, the whole society, back on track.Students are the future of Hong Kong, and saving education saves Hong Kong. Neither the governm...

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  Observer: Gross interference in Hong Kong affairs doomed to fail

  The White House signed the so-called Hong Kong Autonomy Act into law despite solemn representations from China.China strongly condemns and opposes such gross interference in Hong Kong affairs and Chinas internal affairs. The US, maliciously denigrating the national security legislation for Hong Kong and threatening to impose sanctions on China, has seriously violated international law and the basic norms underpinning international relations.No matter how external forces try to exert pressure, they cannot shake Chinas resolution and will to safeguard sovereignty and security and uphold Hong Kongs stability and prosperity. The US attempts to thwart implementation of the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) are doomed to fail.The so-called Hong Kong Autonomy Act is an evil act, which reveals US politicians’ ignorance of and prejudice against the "one country, two systems" principle. The so-called "rights" and "freedoms" they assert they are upholding are just their "rights" to contain Chinas development through chaos in Hong Kong, and the "freedom" to meddle in Chinas domestic affairs.The act’s approval and the decision to make it a law, which were completed after the proclamation and implementation of the national security law for HKSAR, fully exposed the hegemonic attitude of the US toward Hong Kong affairs.The legal basis of Chinas governance over the HKSAR lies in the Chinese Constitution and the Basic Law of the HKSAR, not the Sino-British Joint Declaration, whose essence is Chinas resuming the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong.After Hong Kongs return to its motherland, the principles and policies proposed by the central government of China in the declaration concerning Hong Kong have all been included in the Hong Kong Basic Law, and they have also been comprehensively and effectively implemented. The alleged China&...

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  Observer: Why the US hasn’t flattened the curve

  While some in the US still believe the countrys response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been great, the reality they face is increasingly exposing their absurdity. In recent weeks, daily new infection cases in the country have frequently passed 50,000. Anthony S. Fauci, the top infectious disease expert on the White House COVID-19 task force, recently admitted: “When you compare us to other countries, I don’t think you can say we’re doing great. I mean, we’re just not.”Fauci was telling the plain truth, of course, but many people here just don’t want to hear it, including that well-known impatient listener in the White House. For now, one thing health experts agree and more of the public have come to realize is that, unlike most European countries, the US has never been able to flatten the curve in the past months.Just a few weeks ago, some policymakers here were so eager to pretend the outbreak was gone that health experts who oppose reopening in a too early fashion were almost treated as saboteurs of the American economy. Thats exactly why the US is seeing another surge in cases in recent weeks. "We did not shut down entirely," Fauci said. "And thats the reason -- when we went up, we started to come down, and then we plateaued at a level that was really quite high, about 20,000 infections a day. Then, as we started to reopen, we re seeing the surges that we re seeing today as we speak."US President Donald Trump has previously said the new surge in infections was only due to the large number of testing. On this, health experts disagree again. Former CDC director Tom Frieden wrote on the Fox News website that “there is no doubt that we are seeing a real increase in COVID-19, not an increase because of more testing. The proportion of tests coming back positive has increased further in most of the United States, a key indicator that more people are getting infected.”So far, most health experts have been surprised or even ange...

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  Observer: Photoshopped 'slave labor' picture discredits US reputation

  The US diplomatic missions in China on Sunday retweeted a US State Department spokesperson’s post which used a picture of clothing tag that read “made by slave labor in China” to accuse China of abusing human rights. It was soon determined that the image was photoshopped, drawing taunts from Chinese netizens.Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying on Monday said the US unscrupulously jumped at this shoddily made photoshopped picture to discredit China.Who would have imagined that the US Embassy would make such a contemptible move? What was its reasoning and value behind such an awkward, abominable and ridiculous action that shocked the world?Anyone with integrity would scoff at such a despicable trick. However, some US politicians never tire of playing dirty tricks to pursue selfish political interests. It’s ridiculous that they would stoop so low.Slavery is the darkest part of America’s history. Even to this day, the hangover of slavery continues to have an impact on the country.However, some US politicians have turned a blind eye to the recent chaos and violence in the country caused by severe racial discrimination. Instead of reflecting upon the history and realities of the US, the embassy made absurd remarks through irresponsible labeling and slander, claiming that “many products made in China are made by slave labor” without any solid proof.What on earth is the intention of the US diplomatic agency in tweeting a photoshopped picture to smear China? Where does the reputation of the US embassy lie?These US politicians are addicted to demonizing China, and they have recently been doing everything to do so, hitting a new low time and time again.There are two reasons behind the smear campaign. The first one is that they have exhausted all their tricks. To defame China, they even fabricate evidence. Those who are intent on maligning others will easily find a pretext.The second one is that they can only appear to be tough outwardly but remain ti...

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  Observer: US Cold War mentality shall come to an end

  Some US politicians are just doing everything to politically persecute China, and everything about China.FBI Director Christopher Wray fanned up the so-called "China threat" in his speech delivered at the Hudson Institute last week, shamelessly undermining the regular nation-to-nation relations with political lies.When the world is seeing the urgency of cooperation and mutual assistance, such Cold War mentality and ideological prejudice are extremely dangerous and alarming.Before Wray made his speech, US Presidents National Security Adviser Robert OBrien and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had repeatedly staged similar farces, and US Attorney General William Barr is also expected to do the same soon.Such organized political persecution by these US politicians is a weird practice in international relations. The ridiculous farces they staged are not only undermining China-US ties, but also impacting international order.Chinas development is not a free lunch, or granted by others. It is achieved by the diligent, wise and courageous Chinese people of all ethnic groups under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC).When assessing Chinas development, one should not only see what benefits the Chinese people have gained, but also how much hard effort they have put in, not just what achievements China has made, but also what contributions China has made to the world.China pursues a path of common development through opening-up, and aims to benefit other countries and their people as much as possible while pursuing development at home. It is a fact that will not be changed no matter how these US politicians are viciously and ridiculously labeling China.The world is facing huge pressure from the COVID-19 pandemic, and a deep recession is inevitable. China and the US, as the worlds largest developing and developed countries, should properly handle their relations in a way thats responsible for the mankind, the history and...

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  Observer: National security law will not undermine Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy

  “The central government shows high trust in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the SAR government,” HKSAR Chief Executive Carrie Lam reiterated at a press conference on July 7 before attending the Executive Council meeting.Lam gave detailed information at the press conference on work of the HKSAR government since the promulgation of the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the HKSAR, and reassured reporters that the central government has shown high trust in the SAR government in various procedures from the establishment of relevant agencies to the composition of personnel.National security is a matter belonging to the powers of the central government, which is an indisputable fact in all sovereign states. It means that the Chinese central government has direct jurisdiction over all criminal cases take place in Hong Kong that endanger the country’s national security.Nevertheless, based on the “one country, two systems” principle and its respect for the independent judicial power and the power of final adjudication of the SAR government, the central government of China has made Hong Kong take the main responsibility for relevant cases.The move has shown the greatest trust of the central government in the SAR government, for seldom had any country put a local government in charge of national security affairs like China has done.The genuine trust has also been demonstrated in the design of concrete systems.Hong Kong has established the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the HKSAR in accordance with the newly introduced national security law.The committee is expected to make work plans, formulate policies, and coordinate major work and important operations for safeguarding national security in the HKSAR.The SAR has also established specialized departments, arranged special resources, and designated professional staff for the handling of relevant cases in every link from law enforcement a...

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  Observer: Solidarity, cooperation the right way to deal with COVID-19

  The threats made by some US politicians to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) in the previous months finally turned real.US officials confirmed on Monday the White House submitted to the United Nations(UN)its notice to quit the UN health body by July2021. The move coincided with an alarming spike in COVID-19 cases in the US in recent weeks.The US is acting like a deserter in the battle, and standing against global anti-pandemic cooperation.Such irresponsible and hegemonic unilateralism is a total disgrace.As seen by all, some US politicians are inclined to distract public attention away from their disastrous handling of the pandemic by scapegoating the WHO.When the White House announced to defund WHO, it triggered widespread concerns. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres stressed it was time for unity and for the international community to work together in solidarity to stop this virus and its shattering consequences. Guterres said the WHO must be supported, as it is absolutely critical to the world’s efforts to win the war against COVID-19.An American expert pointed out that the disaster in the US was not caused by the WHO, but the White Houses consistent ignoranceofWHOs warnings. A commentary in the New York Times called the US move a dangerous attempt to find a scapegoat for its own failings. "It is like taking away a fire department’s trucks in the middle of a blaze," the article said.However, some US politicians are still going their own way. On May 18, the White House threatened to quit the WHO if the organization "does not commit to major substantive improvements within the next 30 days." Eleven days later, it terminated ties with the UN health body.If the US government tookmore time listening to the WHO, rather than trying to destroy it, then tens of thousands of Americans wouldhave been saved today - that is the wish ofUS citizens. However, such a voice was n...

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  Observer: Aussie think tank a political agenda puppet

  Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), a so-called independent think tank whose researchfocuseson promoting China as Australias "No. 1 strategic threat", is a puppet operated under a malicious political agenda.Reports from APAC News show that the ASPI, despite its claim of independence, is actually an anti-China lobby group. In addition to an annual grant of four million Australian dollars from the Australian Department of Defense, it receives funds from foreign governments (including the US and the UK), major weaponsmakers, and some technology companies.Comparedtoits firm “China threat” narrative, it is far less forthcoming about its funders and specific funding figures, while many believe that its stance against China is closely linked to its sources of funding.Former Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr has slammed the institute for pushing a "one-sided, pro-American view of the world", andformer Australian Ambassador to China Geoff Raby has said the ASPI is "the architect of the China threat theory in Australia." These arguments can beproventhrough disinformation fabricated by ASPI.The ASPI issued a report titled Uygurs for Saleon March, claiming that there were at least 80,000 Ugyurs transferred to factories across China between 2017 and 2019 by Xinjiang to further control them.This report on so-called "forced labor" in Xinjiang was highly controversial. Ajit Singh, a journalist, said it relies "more on sensationalism and speculation than concrete evidence",presenting "no original evidence" from workers alleged to have been forced to work. He further pointed out that it is a Cold War “PR blitz" launched by the West.“Due to the limited job opportunities in the severely-underdeveloped Southern Xinjiang area, local authorities took active measures to help the surplus labor from poor households in the area to get emplo...

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  Observer: The opposition bent on ‘mutual destruction’ will be abandoned by HK residents

  The first batch of eligible Hong Kong permanent residents received a cash payout of HK$10,000 (about $1,298) by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government on July 6.As an important measure of a budget unveiled by the HKSAR government to support enterprises, safeguard jobs, stimulate the economy, and smoothen livelihoods, the widely anticipatedcash payoutscheme has garnered wide attention.However, the bailout policy that directly benefited Hong Kong residents had been obstructed by the opposition in the city.When voting on the second round HK$137.5 billion anti-epidemic fund launched by the HKSAR government, none of the opposition members voted in favor and they even tried to delay the passage of the budget, which includes the cash payout scheme, and impeded the implementation of the one-off relief measure.What’sworse, some opposition politicians have been determined to unscrupulouslyachieve theirpolitical purposes. They incited black-clad riotersto engagein acts of destroying subways, smashing shops, firebombing banksand beating tourists and local people.They hyped up the so-called“yellow economic circle”, caused social separation, and made trouble for innocent merchants.These behaviors revealed that some politicians were taking the people’s livelihood hostage by means ofpolitics, and dragging down Hong Kong’s economy by the “mutual destruction”activities. They are enemies of Hong Kong people and the city’s future.Due to the “mutual destruction” activities, the region lost its title as the world’s freest economy, which it has maintained for 25 consecutive years. Last year, its GDP contracted for the first time in a decade. The city’s iconic Jumbo Kingdom floating restaurants that spark memories for generations of locals closed their doors.Due to the “mutual destruction” activities, restaurants wereforced to shorten their business hours or even closed. Single mothers living in...

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  Observer: UK’s new attempt on BNO passports hypocritical offer

  UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK will extend residency rights and a path to citizenship for up to 3 million people in Hong Kong, a move which was criticized as a “hypocritical”offer.History serves as a strong dose of sobriety. The British National Overseas (BNO) Passports were issued by the UK government right before Hong Kong’s handover in1997. At that time, some people in Hong Kong were uncertain about the future and wanted to come to the UK, but the UK was worried that it would increase its own employment difficulties.As a compromise, the passport is basically a travel document which allows its carriers to visit Britain visa-free for six months, but they do not have the right of abode and cannot work in the country, nor do they have access to public funds, like government benefits.Under the British government’s current plan, about 350,000 BNO passport holders, and 2.6 million others eligible, will be able to come to the UK, including the right to work and study, for five years.At this point, they will be able to apply for settled status, and after a further year, seek British citizenship.Last year, a group of Hong Kong residents holding BNO passports signed a letter calling for the UK to give BNO passport "comprehensive British citizenship", and the British government made it clear to refuse. Whyitchangedits mind in over ayear and at this specific moment is somethingworth thinking about.The Chinese Embassy in Britain expressed China’s firm opposition to this offer on Thursday. “All Chinese compatriots in Hong Kong are Chinese citizens, whether they hold a BNO passport or not,” the spokesperson said.In memoranda exchanged between the two sides, the UKdeclared it would not confer the right of abode to Chinese citizens in Hong Kong holding BNO passports. "If the British side makes unilateral changes to the relevant practice, it will breach its own position and pledges,as well as in...

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  Observer: US attempts to interfere in China's domestic affairs will never succeed

  Over 70 countries recently voiced support to Chinas adoption of the law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). It demonstrates that Chinas passage of the law is a justified move winning the recognition of the world.Avessel heads for the Star Ferry Pierat the Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong, July 27, 2019. (Photo: Peoples Daily/Duan Changzheng)However, some US politicians are stubbornly standing at the opposite side of justice, groundlessly stigmatizing the legislation and China in the name of the so-called human rights protection and freedom, a "conventional" trick always played by the White House, which fully demonstrates their vicious intention to seek hegemony by political manipulation.The rights and freedoms of residents will be guaranteed to themaximum extentpossible, if the security of a country is guaranteed and its society remains stable. The law on Safeguarding National Security in theHKSAR clearly defines the important principle of the rule of lawthat Hong Kong shall follow to safeguard national security, stressing in its General Principles that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR.The rights and freedoms, including the freedoms of speech, of the press, of publication, of association, of assembly, of procession and of demonstration, which HK residents enjoy under the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong, shall be protected in accordance with the law.The law defines rights and interests. The one who breaks the limits shall be held accountable accordingly. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rightsclearly stipulates that the f...

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  Observer: HK national security law protects the public, constrains rioters

  The national security law for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has brought hope for safeguarding peace and security in Hong Kong.On the eve of the 23rd anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, the Standing Committee of the 13th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s top legislature, voted at the 20th session to adopt the Law of the Peoples Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the HKSAR on June 30. Published in the gazette, the law took effect at 11 pm local time on the same day.The law is a turning point to save Hong Kong out of its predicament, turning chaos into governance.Article 39 of the law explicitly stipulates that “this law shall apply to acts committed after its entry into force for the purpose of conviction and imposition of punishment.” The law is not retroactive, in other words. That is to say, the law passed today will not be used to punish past behaviors. This is not only a solemn notice to reassure the people, but also a resolute implementation of the basic principles of the rule of law.This provision is consistent with the usual provisions of international criminal law, in line with international common practice, and conducive to Hong Kong’s revival. Since the turbulence over the amendment bill in June last year, some citizens of Hong Kong, especially a group of young people, have been misled by anti-China forces and committed mistakes or even crimes. However, the law is not retroactive, and it will not convict past crimes with current charges or punish past crimes with current sentencing. This regulation actually creates an opportunity and space for them to turn over a new leaf and return to society.Since the return of Hong Kong to the motherland, some opposition politicians have indeed made outrageous statements and even committed serious illegal actions. But followinglegal principles,criminal chargesand sentences should be dictated by laws. Making clear that the law is not...

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  Observer: National security law solid underpinning for rights, freedoms of HK residents

  The Law of the Peoples Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) was passed unanimously by the Standing Committee of the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC), Chinas top legislature, on June 30.The NPC Standing Committee also listed it in Annex III to the HKSAR Basic Law to be gazetted and enacted in Hong Kong by the SAR government.As a strong support for the long-term and sustained implementation of “one country, two systems” principle, it will help Hong Kong go back to the right track and start again, and guarantee the rights and interests, as well as freedoms of Hong Kong residents.It is also in compliance with the universal truth that the rights and freedoms of residents will be guaranteed to themaximum extent possible, if the security of a country is guaranteed and its society remains stable.Chinese President Xi Jinping remarked, “Without a harmonious and stable environment, how can people live in peace and enjoy their work!” What he said was particularly proved true in the protests over the proposed amendments to the HKSAR’s extradition bill in June 2019.Planed and instigated by anti-China forces who attempt to disrupt Hong Kong, black-clad rioters and “mutual destruction” tactic once swept the HKSAR. Extremists and violent radicals set fire and hurled petrol bombs, confronted the police enforcement with violence, restricted and beat up policemenandcivilians, illegally possessed guns and ammunition, installed explosive devices, created fear and panic and made many terrorist attacks.Living and working in peace and contentment, and enjoying the rights and freedoms has become a luxury when the most basic personal safety and daily life are threatened.Today, people are fully aware that those who provoke violence and apply "mutual destruction" tactic are the biggest enemies of the rights and freedom of the residents of Hong Kong.Anti-China forces attempting to...

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  Observer: Newly passed national security law a seawall safeguarding long-term prosperity, stability for HK

  The Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) adopted on June 30 by the Standing Committee of the 13th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s top legislature, has established a seawall safeguarding the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.Listed by the NPC Standing Committee in Annex III to the HKSAR Basic Law, the national security legislation is expected to terminate the region’s long-standing “unguarded” condition in national security after being applied in the HKSAR.Since the protests over the proposed amendments to the HKSAR’s extradition bill in June 2019, “Hong Kong independence” forces, radical separatist forces, and the opposition in the region have grossly trampled on the rule of law and social stability of Hong Kong, inflicted heavy losses on its economy, damaged its business environment and international image, and undermined foreign investors’ confidence in the HKSAR.With international agencies downgrading Hong Kong’s credit rating because of its social unrest, the region lost its title as the world’s freest economy, which it has maintained for 25 consecutive years. Besides, the city’s ranking among global financial centers has also dropped to the 6th.The region logged an 8.9-percent year-on-year slump in its GDP in the first quarter of the year, representing the sharpest quarterly decline on record.In addition, the HKSAR’s unemployment rate rocketed to 5.9 percent from March to May, a record high in 15 years. Unbelievable as it is, yet it’s the reality Hong Kong faces. Safeguarding national security is the foundation and a prerequisite for Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability.The rapidly evolving situation in the region during the past more than a year has fully demonstrated that prosperity and stability is totally out of the question without the guarantee of national security.It must be understood clearly that legal loopholes regarding...

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  Observer: HK national security law helps ensure long-term stability of 'one country, two systems'

  On June 30, the Standing Committee of the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC) passed the Law of the Peoples Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and adopted a decision to list the law in Annex III to the HKSAR Basic Law.As a major move of the central peoples government to manage Hong Kong affairs since its return to the motherland, the law will fully and faithfully implement the principle of “one country, two systems” and the HKSAR Basic Law, help safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, maintain Hong Kongs lasting prosperity and stability, and ensure the long-term stability of "one country, two systems". It bears both practical and historical significance.The practice of "one country, two systems" has achieved a universally recognized success in Hong Kong since its return to the motherland. However, it has also encountered new circumstances and problems.Especially since the turbulence over proposed anti-extradition bill amendments last June, the "anti-China" forces in Hong Kong have publicly supported "Hong Kongs independence," "self-determination" and "referendum" and engaged in activities to undermine the national unity and separate Hong Kong from China.Meanwhile, some foreign and external forces blatantly interfered in Hong Kong affairs, supporting and protecting the "anti-China" in Hong Kong and using Hong Kong to damage the national security of China.The Chinese people, including the Hong Kong compatriots, have realized more than ever that the long-term absence of a national security law in Hong Kong has plunged the special administrative region into the gravest situation since its return to the motherland and that the collusion of "anti-China" forces inside and outside Hong Kong has greatly hindered the long-term stability of the "one country, two systems...

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  Observer: Foreign investors remain confident in China's economy, opportunities

  In its latest World Economic Outlook, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects global growth to contract 4.9 percent in 2020, 1.9 percentage points below its own forecast in April.This negative projection mainly resulted from the coronavirus pandemic. The COVID-19 crisis has caused far wider and deeper damage to global economic activity than hoped, while the recovery seems more gradual than anticipated, even if many economies have already begun to reopen.But among all the economies of the world, China stands out as the only major economy now expected to show positive growth in 2020. This is credited to the countrys orderly resumption of work and production after a string of effective and efficient measures to control the pandemic.Chinas official data released on Sunday saw industrial profits rebound 6 percent in May. It was the first rebound since November last year, reversing a 4.3 percent fall in April. The rebound strongly testifies to a recovery of Chinas economy and smooth resumption of industrial firms, showing the countrys economic growth remains resilient under controllable impacts from COVID-19.Under the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic, the economic perspective is very much dictated by countries COVID-19 responses. Obviously Chinas swift response to the pandemic has led its economy in a positive direction and gained credit from international organizations.Graphic: IMFIt is fair to say that foreign capital still holds confidence and interest in investing in China."Despite the difficult global environment and uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, European companies overall remain strongly committed to China, which remains a top three investment destination for 63 percent of respondents," said Denis Depoux, global managing director of Roland Berger, according to a business confidence survey released in June by the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China.Another survey, released much earlier this yea...

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  Observer: Playing 'Hong Kong card' gets US nowhere

  The US on June 25 passed the so-called "Hong Kong Autonomy Act", attempting to hinder Hong Kong’s legislation on safeguarding national security through imposing sanctions.The passage of the act is a blatant interference in Chinas internal affairs and a serious violation of international conventions and norms governing international relations. It exposed the double standards and hegemonic logic of the US government. The trick will yield no success.The Hong Kong citizens and the central government are in the best position to judge whether the city enjoys a high degree of autonomy and follows the “one country, two systems” principle.The US, while signing numerous laws to safeguard its own national security, has been stigmatizing China for plugging its national security loopholes. The so-called sanctions by the US government are extremely insolent, unreasonable and shameless, and reveal the purpose of certain American politicians to hinder China’s development through destroying Hong Kong.Certain American politicians have acted as “black hands” behind escalating violence in Hong Kong after the turbulence over proposed extradition bill amendments last June.US Vice President Mike Pence and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi met Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, an instigator of Hong Kong riots and Joshua Wong Chi-fung, leader of a Hong Kong political group advocating "independence". The National Endowment for Democracy of the US fueled Hong Kong protests, and the US media distorted their reports on Hong Kong and created rumors.The US claimed in its Country Reports on Terrorism 2019 that no terrorist incidents were reported in Hong Kong in 2019. However, it called the nationwide racial riots on its own territory terrorism.Calling Hong Kong a “bastion of freedom”, the US has been attempting to replace the political system of the Chinese mainland with the “Hong Kong model”. What it intends to do is not to let Hong Kong enjoy “self-rule”, stability and prosperity, but to o...

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  Observer: Split attitudes towards science drags America’s COVID-19 response

  In America, where the news cycle has always been measured only in days or even hours, the novel coronavirus’ continuous dominance of the headlines has apparently left many people feeling anxious and angry. However, such feelings, strong as they are, do not affect the stubborn spread of the virus.In the past days, there has been a clear resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the US. More than 40,000 new cases were reported on Saturday. This is an irksome reminder to many Americans busy rebooting the economy that the pandemic is not gone yet.For the moment, the US still has the highest number of infections and deaths in the world. This very fact is both tragic and, to a large extent, incomprehensible. Most people will admit that the US has the most advanced health-care system in the world. At the same time, the country was not among the first hit by the epidemic. In other words, the US has plenty of time to prepare. But it turns out that, even at this moment, the country is still not ready.This is a virus that punishes slow action. Why has America been unable to catch up? Many public health experts believe that the failure of public officials, especially the White House, to communicate the threat with one voice during the outbreak has led to a muddle in the information needed to contain the epidemic. To this day, the idea that the virus is just another flu is still resonant with many people. This was exactly what the concierge at my apartment building told me not long ago. When the nice lady spoke to me, her mask was hanging under her chin.It has been proven not easy to convince some Americans that claims from the White House or president are not necessarily true. According to a Pew poll, almost three in ten Americans believe that novel Coronavirus was created in a lab, even though scientists have determined that it cannot be artificial. Faced with such figures, you cant even blame the people who believe the false claim. After all, their sources are the president or Ame...

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  Observer: China-EU relationship to grow more solid, mature

  China and the EU have to be two major forces for world peace and stability, two major markets for world development and prosperity, and two major civilizations for upholding multilateralism and improving global governance, said Chinese President Xi Jinping.Xi made the remarks when meeting with President of the European Council Charles Michel and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen via video link on the evening of June 22.Xi’s proposal has chartered the course for the China-EU relationship to grow more solid and mature and reach greater heights in the post-COVID-19 era. China and EU account for 1/3 of the global economy. Their sound interaction carried out at the critical moment of the global fight against the pandemic not only has sent a positive signal for joint anti-pandemic efforts, cooperation and global economic recovery, but also will inject more stability and positive energy into the instable and uncertain world.Cooperation and win-win results have always remained a basis for the bilateral relationship between China and European Union (EU) in the past 45 years. The trade volume between the two sides now is 300 times more than that when they just established diplomatic ties, and eight million visits are exchanged between them every year. China and the EU have established dozens of dialogue and consultation mechanisms in different areas and at different levels, and their cooperation has been extended to peace and security, environment, science and technology, culture, education and health.China and the EU have jointly built a partnership for peace, growth, reform and civilization, and continuously deepened their comprehensive strategic partnership. They enhanced cooperation under multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations (UN), jointly promoted global public health government, and worked together to cope with global challenges such as climate change, so as to make their relationship more globalized and strategy-oriented. China-EU c...

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  Observer: Actual situation of HKSAR given full consideration in national security legislation

  The actual situation of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has been given consideration to the greatest extent in efforts to draft the legislation on safeguarding national security in Hong Kong, according to a statement on the draft of national security legislation for Hong Kong.The draft law has been modified and improved repeatedly under the spirit of absorbing opinions and suggestions put forward by the HKSAR government as much as possible, disclosed the recent statement made by the Commission of Legislative Affairs of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee.Such detailed information in the statement was appreciated by Hong Kong residents, with people from all walks of life believing that the draft law respects Hong Kong and its actual situation.The view has a solid factual basis. For instance, the draft law can well integrate with and complement relevant laws of the country and local laws of the SAR.In particular, the draft law takes into account relevant concerns of the Hong Kong society in terms of content and wording, making it easy to be accepted by Hong Kong citizens who have a good understanding of the rule of law.Relevant national security legislation agrees with the existing legal system of Hong Kong and will not affect the city’s common law system, said a scholar of City University of Hong Kong. The view is believed to represent the mainstream voice in Hong Kong.Nevertheless, certain members of the opposition in Hong Kong are still trying to confuse the public and stir up trouble for the introduction of the legislation by launching groundless attacks.The draft of the national security legislation stipulates that the Chief Executive of Hong Kong will have the power to appoint judges to hear cases of crimes jeopardizing national security, which was called an unprecedented provision by vice chairman of the Hong Kong Bar Association.As a matter of fact, Hong Kong has witnessed its Chief Executive designating judges for...

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  Observer: Swift response, precise epidemic control measures pay off for Beijing

  Beijing has seen a clear downward trend of daily increases of new COVID-19 cases, which shows its swift response and precise epidemic control measures are gradually paying off.The precise control measures mean the capital has adopted a more targeted approach to tackling the resurgence of the coronavirus outbreak linked to the Xinfadi market cluster since June 11, mitigating its impact on residents daily work and life.This more targeted approach includes tracing people who went to the market within 14 days, conducting large scale of nucleic acid tests, hospitalizing all confirmed and suspected patients, restricting mobility especially for people in medium- and high-risk areas, and a region-specific, multilevel classification lockdown strategy.In China, different risk levels mean varied restriction degrees. Non-residents and non-resident vehicles are not allowed to enter medium- and high-risk areas. High-risk neighborhoods are totally closed off and residents not allowed to leave.Beijing now has categorized the risk levels in sub-districts and townships instead of classifying the COVID-19 risk based on districts. A sub-district is an urban administrative division one level lower than a district, and consists of several residential communities or neighborhoods. The city has over 300 sub-districts and townships, and as of 3 pm Monday, 39 of them were listed as medium-risk and four as high-risk.This type of classification and a more specific lockdown strategy have reduced to a minimum the impact of epidemic containment on citizens’ daily lives and the city’s economic recovery.Another noteworthy measure is that the capital strives to expand its COVID-19 testing capability to make sure anyone who should or needs be tested gets a nucleic acid test, and this cuts down on potential transmissions of the virus.People working in the Xinfadi market, residents of nearby communities, and people who had a travel history to the market within 14 days have been identified and orde...

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  Observer: HKSAR is trusted, responsible to safeguard national security

  China’s top legislature Saturday reviewed a draft law on safeguarding national security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) at the 19th session of the Standing Committee of the 13th National People’s Congress. Chief Executive of HKSAR Carrie Lam responded that the HKSAR government gives its full support and will perform its duty to ensure the effective implementation of relevant laws in Hong Kong.According to the explanation of the draft law given by the Legislative Affairs Commission of the NPC Standing Committee, the legislation clearly stipulates the respective responsibilities of the central government and the HKSAR government, the responsibility and functions of relevant institutions, and case jurisdiction, application of law and procedures. The national security legislation has shown the utmost trust and reliance of the central government on the HKSAR, and the persistent upholding of the policy of "one country, two systems" and Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy.Trusting in the HKSAR to the greatest extent is mainly reflected in highlighting the responsible subjects and allowing the Hong Kong SAR to fulfill its constitutional and main responsibilities for maintaining national security. In other words, no country in the world has handed over the safeguarding of national security to local governments. This not only demonstrates the central government’s determination and courage to safeguard national security, but also shows its great trust in the HKSAR government.Concretely speaking, the draft law has specified that law enforcement, prosecution and judicial work, including the majority of cases, are handed over to the HKSAR. The central government exercises limited and self-restraint law enforcement and jurisdiction. Only when the HKSAR cannot manage or fails to manage, will the central government take action. The central government will neither replace the responsibilities of the relevant institution...

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  Observer: US’ interference in Xinjiang will increase friction with China

  US President Donald Trump signed a bill related to Xinjiang on Wednesday, adding a new point of friction to an already fraught relationship. At this moment, how China-US relations will shape up in the coming months is one of the top geopolitical concerns of the international community.The US interference in Xinjiang has always been strongly opposed by the Chinese government. Xinjiang-related issues are internal affairs of China. The US governments repeated attacks on China over Xinjiang-related issues are clear interference in Chinas internal affairs and therefore violate international law and the basic norms governing international relations.The Xinjiang-related issues are not, in essence, issues of human rights, but issues of combating terrorism. Xinjiang was once a victim of terrorism. In the face of the severe situation, the government of the Xinjiang Autonomous Region has cracked down on terrorist activities, and at the same time, made efforts to eliminate the breeding ground for terrorism, actively promoting economic development, ethnic unity and social stability. These measures have ensured that Xinjiang has not suffered a single terrorist attack in recent years.The US eagerness to play up the so-called human rights issue in Xinjiang does not really establish it as a defender of human rights in the international community. Historically, the US has shown obvious selectivity and double standards in conducting human rights diplomacy. The human rights criticism of the US is always directed at countries that Washington strategically identifies as adversaries or enemies. When human rights issues arise in the US itself or among its allies, Washington has shown little resolve to really address the problems.The current focus of global attention is the human rights crisis in the US, namely, the continued protests and demonstrations triggered by the death of African-American man George Floyd. Floyds tragic death laid bare the systemic racial injustic...

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  Observer: China-Africa friendship strengthened in COVID-19 fight

  Chinese President Xi Jinping will deliver a keynote speech at the extraordinary China-Africa summit on solidarity against COVID-19 on Wednesday.The meeting, held via video link, starts at a pivotal moment as the pandemic continues to rage globally, and some African nations are struggling with limited medical resources. It also highlights the necessity and significance of China-Africa joint efforts to curb the virus and overcome difficulties based on their long mutual help and traditional friendship.After the epidemic hit the world, China and African countries have been using multiple channels to support and encourage each other.When China was at the peak of its battle against the virus earlier this year, African countries supported it as much as possible.African people, from leaders to ordinary citizens, also voiced their support for China and made relentless efforts to provide donations and other supplies to China. In Wuhan, some African students worked as volunteers, whilst others wrote an open letter praying for China.When its pandemic died down, China appreciated and thanked their African brothers by helping them weather difficult times. People from government officials to business people and civil groups donated much-needed supplies to Africa, including ventilators, test kits, N95 masks and protective gear. Chinese and African government officials and think tank experts have also held multiple video conferences to share information and experience in combating the epidemic.In the meantime, Chinese medical teams stationed across Africa organized various training and healthcare activities to help locals improve their capabilities in pandemic prevention and control.China has also demonstrated its commitment to building a community of shared health for mankind and a China-Africa community with a shared future. The pledge was further cemented when President Xi said, "We must provide greater support to Africa," at the opening of the 73rd World Health Assembl...

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  Observer: Racial inequality- the US' bleeding wound

  Another fatal shooting of an African American by a white police officer happened again, this time in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 12, which has fueled outrage and protests over the deaths of African-Americans at the hands of law enforcement and accusations of systemic racism in the police force.Rayshard Brooks, 27, was shot dead by police at a Wendys drive-through after officials said he resisted arrest and grabbed a Taser from the officer. Afterwards local media reported that the autopsy of Brooks showed he was shot twice in the back and died from organ damage and blood loss. The manner of death was listed as a homicide.This incident is such a completely unexpected case of “out of the frying pan into the fire,” which is really shocking.Brooks death came just two-and-a-half weeks after the death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man extra-judicially killed by a white Minneapolis police officer. The death of Floyd ignited a wave of raging protests for racial justice and police reform across the whole US.What is more appalling is that Brooks’ death is this year’s 48th police shooting that the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been asked to probe. It is conceivable that the figure is much larger when it comes to the entire country.US racial inequality is hence again under the spotlight."There is not a single era in United States history in which the police were not a force of violence against black people," wrote Mariame Kaba in the New York Times, pointing out that the police violence against African Americans has long existed in the US.CNN, meanwhile, drew more attention to the persistent inequalities in wealth, health and opportunity between black and white Americans. “Those disparities exist because of a long history of policies that excluded and exploited black Americans,” said Valerie Wilson, a program director at the Economic Policy Institute.The US spent a century outlawing racial segregation after the abolition of slavery in the country, and...

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  Observer: Beijing experienced, ready to tackle new outbreak

  Beijing on Sunday saw a sudden spike of 79 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the past four days, after 56 consecutive days before June 11 of no reported local infections.The capital authorities launched strict prevention and control measures, showcasing Chinas strong organizational capacity and emergency response capabilities.Immediate epidemiological investigations found the newly reported cases had direct or indirect contacts with the Xinfadi wholesale food market in Fengtai District.The district government soon declared a state of "wartime management," with Xinfadi shut down and 11 adjacent residential communities locked down. Officials who failed in their prevention and control duties were removed from their posts. Other districts like Xicheng, Haidian and Shijingshan adjusted their public health emergency response to level two.A powerful anti-epidemic infrastructure has been fully activated. Government employed big data technology to track people related to Xinfadi and its surroundings. The authorities required anyone who had been to Xinfadi or had any contact with the market since May 30 to be tested. Up to 76,499 people in the capital underwent nucleic acid tests on Sunday, with 59 showing positive results.All these moves show the citys resolve to combat the virus.Stressing its openness and transparency, the municipal government has provided timely updates and information.Within a day, Beijings authorities on Sunday held two press briefings to respond to domestic and overseas concerns over the outbreak, and disclosed in detail confirmed cases and reminded residents to be on alert.Beijing has enacted more precision measures to control the virus this time and upgraded the emergency response within certain areas to reduce the impact on the whole city.The aim of the more targeted response is also to reduce irrational panic and suspicion. The public now have full confidence in the governments ability to contain the pandemic and ...

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  Observer: Pompeo's despicable buck-passing trick, lies bound to come to light

  What on earth does a U.S. Secretary of State do? The question has been really confusing the world since Mike Pompeo took up the post. What the man has done showed the world that he never intends to solve problems for the U.S., but only wants to stir up troubles for the world.At present, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S. topped 2 million, and protests against racism and police brutality triggered by the death of African American man Gorge Floyd have continued to take place across the country for two weeks.Under such circumstances, no one has seen Pompeo make efforts to put forward a plan or any idea to cope with the severe situation. All he has been doing were issuing statements or tweeting, racking his brains to cook up rumors against and slander China shamelessly. He even falsely accused China of using George Floyd’s death for propaganda.In the final analysis, Pompeo is just too arrogant to quit the old trick of shifting blame onto others. How absurd is that!Making such great efforts to play the blame game that doesn’t work, Pompeo’s despicable act will end up achieving nothing but making a laughingstock of himself before the world.The age-old systemic racism in the U.S. society exposed by Gorge Floyd’s death, which people from all walks of life in the U.S. are reflecting on, is the country’s well-known persistent malady, rather than something that can be created out of nothing.Recently, four former presidents of the U.S. have made statements on the deeply entrenched racism in the country, expressing dissatisfaction with how relevant authorities have been handling the current crisis.United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet urged in a recent press statement that U.S. authorities must address the deep-seated grievances at the heart of the protests that have erupted in hundreds of U.S. cities.“The voices calling for an end to police violence need to be heard. And the voices calling for an end to the endemic and st...

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  Observer: China's road to prosperity leaves no one behind

  Although the world has been deluged with complicated global issues, 2020 will still mark a new era for China to secure a well-off society.During an inspection tour of Northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Chinese President Xi Jinping again stressed efforts to secure a decisive victory in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects and eradicating poverty.The commitment, equally effective for all ethnic groups, embodies the significance of the Chinese tradition of unity and socialism with Chinese characteristics.As a treasured land with intoxicating scenery, Ningxia has nonetheless long been haunted by poverty-stricken issues. After decades of practice and reform, the Ningxia government has developed its own way of improving tourism, the ethnic cultural industry, specialist farming and breeding.Measures have been expanded including poverty alleviation workshops in collaboration with interested companies, improving technical levels, promoting high-valueindustries and concentrating on environmental protection and ethnic unity.Based on years of development, Xi’s remarks about overcoming the impact of COVID-19 and giving priority to ensuring stable employment and peoples livelihoodshave instilled confidence in people, particularly ethnic minority groups, to further create their own glorious future.Not only now, China has always prioritized the aspirations of all ethnic groups for a better life and ensured a moderate prosperity and modernization to the same level.Ethnic unity has achieved a new high throughout China with multiple ethnic groups in northwestern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and in southwestern Yunnan Province. China has witnessed rapid changes in ethnic lives from poverty to prosperity.“No single ethnic minority group should be left behind in the countrys building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects,” President Xi said.Despite long suffering doubts and slanders from the Western media, China has...

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  Observer: China’s COVID-19 response indicate the country’s 'life first' philosophy

  To combat the sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic calls for well-coordinated prevention, control and treatment.China’s epidemic response is universally recognized as an example, as it has ensured that all those in need have been tested, quarantined, hospitalized or treated, and effectively blocked the transmission routes of the virus.China’s State Council Information Office recently published a white paper titled “Fighting COVID-19: China in Action.” The document, systematically summarizes and analyzes China’s experiences and practices, said that the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese government have always put people’s lives and health first, acted swiftly to fight the virus and provide medical treatment for patients, and adopted the most thorough, rigorous and comprehensive prevention and control measures.China’s selfless sharing of experiences is also hailed by foreigners, who said the country’s practice will help the world better cope with the epidemic.China’s well-coordinated prevention, control and treatment came from its centralized and efficient command. Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core, China has put in place an efficient system under which the central authorities exercise overall command, while local authorities and all sectors follow the leadership and instructions of the central authorities, perform their respective duties, and cooperate with each other.This highly efficient system has made it possible for China to win its all-out people’s war against the virus. General Secretary Xi Jinping takes charge of Covid-19 response, while government departments have made well-coordinated control efforts and local authorities and other stakeholders have lived up to their responsibilities.Adjusting response measures in view of the evolving Covid-19 dynamics, China has not only ensured domestic prevention and control, but also actively launched international cooperation to combat the virus. ...

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  Observer: Hainan FTP plan reaffirms China's resolve to further open up

  China released an overall plan for the construction of Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) on June 1, and held a press briefing on Monday to elucidate the plan, reaffirming China’s resolve to further open up.The plan, a mega project to turn China’s southernmost province into a globally-influential free trade port, will surely generate a huge impact on the nation’s economy and accelerate its integration into the global economic system.This plan comes naturally as a result of historical developments. Back in the 1980s, the island was designated a special economic zone. Hainan thus has grown from a remote island into an indispensable window of Chinas reform and opening-up. Then in 2018, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the decision to build a pilot free trade zone covering the whole island and explore the establishment of a free trade port with Chinese characteristics.Hainan has such a “privilege” thanks to its unique geographic location. At the center of the Asia-Pacific economic circle, the island province is a key link on the Belt and Road, with ready access to international shipping routes of the South China Sea. From January to April this year, Hainans actual use of foreign investment reached around $316 million, up 252.3 percent year on year. The province saw 110 newly-established foreign-funded companies, covering fields of trade, investment, medicine and logistics. Its ecological advantages and abundant tourism resources make it known as China’s Hawaii.Building the Hainan FTP is also a corollary to the ongoing global situation. Facing a new round of major changes and adjustments, with protectionism and unilateralism on the rise and the havoc of COVID-19 pandemic, economic globalization is encountering greater headwinds. The release of Hainan FTP at this time demonstrates to the world Chinas firm determination to safeguard economic globalization.The mega plan promises better and more expanded liberalization and facilitation of trade, investment, cr...

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  Observer: White paper on COVID-19 fight represents China’s rebuttal to criticism

  China unveiled the white paper "Fighting COVID-19: China in Action" on Sunday, chronicling its arduous fight against the pandemic, with concrete numbers, detailed measures and a specific timeline, sharing its experience with the international community and clarifying its philosophy in responding to a global health crisis.The pandemic is the most extensive to afflict humanity in a century, and China was the first country hit hard by this unknown and unexpected disease. China, however, spent one month or so flattening the curve, and about two months bringing daily increases in domestic cases down to single digits.As of May 31, 2020, a total of 83,017 confirmed cases were reported on the Chinese mainland, 78,307 infected people were cured and discharged from hospital, and 4,634 people died, bringing the cure rate to 94.3 percent with a 5.6 percent fatality rate.For a country with 1.4 billion people, the number of infected cases and fatality rate is so low that some Western media and politicians doubt the authenticity of the numbers. Yet, here comes this white paper, giving a strong rebuttal to their questions and unlocking the secrets of how China won the battle.Putting peoples lives and health as its first priority until the very end, China has made painstaking efforts and tremendous sacrifices to contain the pandemic. Centralized and efficient command, city lockdowns, breaking the chains of transmission through early intervention, an all-out effort to save lives, and timely, transparent information sharing are why China has kept the pandemic under control.The war on the virus is not a war involving a few people but the whole country. Irrespective of their gender, age, and occupation, Chinese people plunged themselves into the battle. Resilient and united, Chinas 1.4 billion people all were soldiers amid this fight, forging a formidable force.The novel coronavirus is currently wreaking havoc throughout the world. China, even while under the t...

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  Observer: US politicians' absurd act of scapegoating China won’t change facts

  In a dark, windy night, a gang of extremely vicious terrorists launched a sudden assault on a village. The household which was attacked first was quickly filled with gunfire and flames, and burst into flames.As the family struggled to survive, another family in the village not only stood by and let the situation get worse, but made sarcastic remarks on the misfortune, saying that “this family must had irritated the terrorists, and thus incurred the revenge now.”A protester holds up a placard near the White House in Washington, DC, on June 5 2020, amid ongoing demonstrations over the death of George Floyd in police custody. (Photo: AFP)To its surprise, the family that was brutally assaulted fought back against the attackers desperately and wouldn’t flinch in the face of life-threatening danger.After battling with the family for a long time, the terrorists got frustrated and realized that they had unwisely started the war by attacking a tough family that won’t yield. Then the Mob decided to shift their focus somewhere else. Surprisingly, the family that mocked the victims became the new target of the terrorist attack and was caught unprepared.Serious lack of precautions or prompt response to the attack made the second family completely overwhelmed as the attackers drove straight in its house and wantonly slaughtered its family members, causing massive casualties and tremendous damage to its home.Shocking as it sounds, at the critical moment when the terrorists were still killing more of its family members, the second family didn’t reflect on its own failure in anticipating the situation and coping with the catastrophe, but started to complain that the first family hadn’t captured and killed the terrorists, and even demanded that the first family compensates it for its losses…Does this story sound just like what happened on the earth since the COVID-19 outbreak?Today, the US is still faced with severe epidemic situation....

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  Observer: US ban on Chinese students, researchers is turning back the clock

  The Trump Administration’s recent move to put visa restrictions on certain Chinese students and researchers from entering the US runs counter to its commitment to boosting bilateral cooperation in education and technology between the two major powers in the world, which is detrimental to maintaining normal cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two sides. The US action is stark political persecution and racial discrimination, seriously violating the rights of Chinese students and scholars in the US.The expulsion of the so-called “high risk students and researchers” is a serious stigmatization. Trump claimed such groups of Chinese nationals "implement or support Chinas Military-Civil Fusion (MCF) strategy," and the action aims to “dismantle China’s ability to use graduate students to steal intellectual property and technology from the United States”. Such allegations are totally groundless, prone to fueling discrimination and xenophobic attitudes especially amid the ongoing anti-Asian sentiments in the US.More importantly, at a time when the world is still grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, cooperation in scientific researches is vital for the entire human race to weather the outbreak. Banning Chinese students and researchers will “erode the collaborative nature of scientific research that yields new discoveries and medicines at a time when humans need them the most”, the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology said in a statement.For over 40 years, education and other humanistic exchanges have been widely supported in the two countries, serving as a key pillar for bilateral ties. There are more than 400,000 Chinese students in the US and China has been the No.1 source of international students in the US for several consecutive years. In 2018, Chinese nationals accounted for 13.5 percent of all of the 42,227 students earning doctorates in science and engineering fields at US universities. The massive scale of bilateral c...

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  Observer: Amid pandemic and protests, Asian Americans stuck in crumbling houses

  First it’s the pandemic, then protests erupt and gradually go out of control. Asian Americans find themselves stuck in a crumbling house and are wondering what’s next.The coronavirus pandemic has claimed the lives of more than 100,000 Americans and infected 1,894,376 as of Thursday. Following US President Donald Trump’s notorious “Ask China” response to CBS reporter Weijia Jiang, Natasha Chen, a CNN reporter, also encountered racial taunting while she was reporting from a beach in South Carolina.Fueled by virus stigmatization and conspiracy theories, the stories of Jiang and Chen are just two examples of a series of attacks, sometimes even physical, against the Asian American community. On May 13, STOP AAPI HATE, an online page created by the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Civil Rights Organization, released a report that says it has received over 1,700 reports of verbal and physical assaults from 45 states in six weeks. The report says nine out of 10 respondents believe they were harassed because of their race and 37 percent of the incidents took place in public places including streets, parks and transits.As protests over the death of George Floyd continue across the country, some rioters have vandalized shops and businesses owned by Asian Americans. Although there’s no evidence suggesting that Asian Americans are targeted, it undoubtedly adds to their financial insecurities and brings the intricate relationship between Asian and the black community back into the picture.The Asian American community has long been perceived as quiet. From the Harvard admissions policy lawsuit to the inappropriate remarks made by white TV hosts and Hollywood figures, Asian Americans, almost on a daily basis, struggle with discrimination and stereotypes that are prevalent in US society. They have to work harder than the majority in order to succeed. Even so, chances are their efforts will not be recognized because a “diversified” society has to honor all communities. Of cours...

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  Observer: Releasing test results marks ‘mental reopening’ of China’s hardest-hit city

  Wuhan, China’s hardest-hit city by the COVID-19 epidemic, announced on Tuesday the results of its city-wide coronavirus testing. It’s reported that a total of 300 asymptomatic patients were found among 9.89 million residents that were tested, with no confirmed COVID-19 cases.The 10-day battle that mobilized thousands of medics and other workers and cost 900 million yuan ($126.58 million), marks a milestone in not only the city’s anti-virus battle, but also China’s decisive success in combating the COVID-19.Releasing results of the large-scale testing is a strong counter strike to the allegations of some Western politicians and foreign media that China covered up countless COVID-19 cases in Wuhan and is not transparent in data releasing. Instead, with concrete numbers and solid evidence, Wuhan’s government has demonstrated that the city has tamed the outbreak and dispelled worries of a potential second outbreak.The expense of the all-encompassing nucleic acid testing will be shouldered by the Wuhan government, according to a local official. The ambitious and people-oriented move will play an irreplaceable role in restoring public confidence as daily life of Wuhan residents gradually returns to normalcy and resumption of work and production is underway.Without getting tested, locals will be restricted to go to public places like schools and supermarkets, with their health codes downgrading to yellow. In this way, residents can be assured of their safety of getting out without any psychological burdens.In a way, the mental lockdown of Wuhan has eased with the completion of the large-scale testing. The city embraces a real reopening as people’s livelihoods and health are now guaranteed, making way for a safe and healthy environment. As experts noted, with centralized screening and big data analysis, the government will get a clearer knowledge of the loopholes and weak points in disease prevention and control.Neighborhoods and districts with asymp...

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  Observer: America’s dual crises expose long-term systemic problems

  As dual crises confront America at the same time, the countrys longstanding systemic problems are becoming harder to hide. For days, protests and riots over the death of George Floyd have been tearing apart the racial scars of American society. Meanwhile, the country is still far from containing the coronavirus outbreak, with more than 24,000 new cases reported on Tuesday.While the dual crises seem to have been triggered by “accidents,” the countrys chronic inaction on some structural issues has clearly affected how they develop.Photo:Protest over the death of George Floyd in Lafayette Square, Washington DC./Hu ZexiIn the face of continuing protests against racial injustice, President Donald Trump opted for a tough stance, claiming he’ll unhesitatingly use force to stop the unrest, but he still seems unable to grasp the intensity of the crisis. The protests quickly spread across the nation, a sign of impatience with decades lacking progress on racial issues. It can be seen from the various slogans put forward by the protesters that what they are striving for is nothing more than a basic recognition of the existence of racial problems in American society.If this is still a battle of political narratives for both parties in Washington, then for many ordinary Americans, it has become a struggle that shape how they view their country and their lives. Todays protests are not only happening in the streets and parks, but also in the hearts and minds of ordinary Americans.One of my white friends said he does not know how to express his sorrow over the current situation and feels the only thing he can do is to raise his children, a 7-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy, in a way that they’ll be able to stand up for racial justice. In Arlington County, where I live, the director of the local public library wrote in a letter, saying "It is not enough to share a social media post describing racial injustice or to add an emoji. It is not enough to ...

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  Observer: US won't succeed in interfering with HK national security law

  As protests over the death of George Floyd spread nationwide and the death toll from COVID-19 in the US tops 100,000, US President Donald Trump seems to be working on a "strong response" to China. Rather than putting out fires of fury and saving Americans from the virus, the president went out of his way to interfere in other countries internal affairs. It is obviously a trick to divert public attention. However, such tricks cannot scare the Chinese people and will definitely not affect the process of enacting Chinas national security legislation for Hong Kong.Its not surprising that the US government made frivolous remarks about Chinas "one country, two systems" practice and even threatened to end Hong Kongs preferential treatment. US double standards have reached an unprecedented level: On one hand, the US government safeguards its national security and suppresses protesters by using "the most fierce weapons." On the other hand, when China strengthens its own national security legislation in accordance with international conventions, the US makes ludicrous accusations and even meddles. In fact, making national security laws has never been within the scope of Hong Kongs autonomy. The National Peoples Congress of China is the legislature that has the ultimate power.Who is undermining the security and prosperity of Hong Kong? What role has the US government played in Hong Kongs riots since last year? The US dare not tell the truth. The more the US opposes the Hong Kong national security law, the more it shows that that China has made the right move. Once those foreign powers give the signal, their accomplices in Hong Kong will carry on their riotous and illegal activities again, like they did last year. But this time, Chinas central government remains determined in defending its national security and the Hong Kong people will not be tricked by their schemes.Hong Kongs preferential treatme...

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  Observer: US schemes won’t terrify Chinese people

  On Friday, US President Donald Trump said at a White House press conference that the US will take action to end Hong Kongs preferential treatment as a separate customs and travel territory of China. His administration will also impose sanctions on officials who are detrimental to "Hong Kongs Autonomy" and suspend the entry of Chinese students deemed to be detrimental to US national security.Early on, some US politicians already threatened to impose sanctions on Hong Kong regarding the Hong Kong national security legislation. Its not surprising when the day finally came but the sanctions are ridiculous throughout.Hong Kong is Chinas Hong Kong. To get involved in the business of Hong Kong is to interfere in Chinas internal affairs. It is constitutional, legal, and reasonable for the National Peoples Congress to advance the Hong Kong national security law on a national level, which is a consensus of all the Chinese people. This major decision involving Hong Kong is in accordance with the Constitution and the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and in line with the fundamental interests of all Chinese people including Hong Kong compatriots.It is Chinas internal affair to safeguard its national security and maintain the stability of Hong Kong. On what grounds do US politicians think they have any say on this matter? Who gives the US government the power to sanction China? If this kind of interference in Chinas internal affairs is not hegemony, then what is?The most ridiculous thing is that some US politicians recently threatened to revoke Hong Kongs status as an independent customs territory. It is not only unconscionable, but also ignorant. Hong Kongs status as an independent customs territory was given by the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), the predecessor of the World Trade Organization (WTO), not by these politicians. Does the US really see the WTO as its own institution? ...

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  Observer: US blame-shifting bills are worsening global pandemic situation

  More than 20 bills have so far been introduced to the US Congress to impose sanctions over China’s handling of the pandemic, according to the US Congress website.While frontline workers and essential workers in the US are risking their lives performing their most-needed job duties, policymakers keep their hands tied to slandering China and pulling the public’s focus away from the immense life and economic costs of COVID-19 as a result of a poor response mechanism.The US has become the hardest-hit country by the pandemic: The death toll of COVID-19 in the US has just exceeded 100,000 on Thursday. Data from the US Department of Labor shows that the unemployment rate has jumped to 14.7 percent in April, the highest since the Great Depression. Although US President Donald Trump repeatedly claimed that the US leads the world in testing capacity, the Associated Press reported on Sunday that the White House failed to meet its goal of testing every resident and staff at nursing homes across the country.The virus knows no borders. It’s heart-wrenching to see the number of infections and deaths from the virus rise every day in the US even as a foreigner. Still, it shocked me that the current administration turned a blind eye to China’s efforts in the global battle against the pandemic, including direct exports and donations of emergent supplies to the US, and misled their people by blaming China for their own mistakes.In addition, several lawsuits have been filed in the US to sue China for damages related to COVID-19. But the nature of such lawsuits is seen through by legal experts in the US, with one law professor describing these lawsuits as “symbolic”and “political”in an article published on Los Angeles Times.Some Republicans early on proposed the so-called “Stop China-Originated Viral Infectious Diseases (COVID) Act,”a bill that will empower Americans to take China in courts without encountering legal restrictions by the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act ...

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  Observer: HK national security legislation the only way to end chaos

  The Chinese central governments decision to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to safeguard national security is a necessary move to better maintain the principle of "one country, two systems," and help the city escape chaos.Hong Kong has suffered enough from violent protests as lives and social order have been seriously disrupted by rioters and separatists. Hong Kong would be pushed to the brink of destruction if no necessary legal actions were taken.More and more Hong Kong residents have realized that the HK national security legislation is the only way to save the "Pearl of the Orient," and they have demonstrated resolution and strong will to support the legislation.Four primary real estate agents in Hong Kong have recently announced their support for the legislation, saying that it will bring a safer and more stable social environment which will safeguard future investment.The Hong Kong Association of Banks said in its statement that the move would boost investor confidence and inject fresh momentum into Hong Kong’s industries.Over the past three days, thousands of street stands have been set up across Hong Kong to collect public signatures, according to the organizer - United Front Supporting National Security Legislation.In addition, more than 1.1 million Hong Kong residents, including several Hong Kong senior officials, have signed the petition online and in the street.Those facts showed that it has become a consensus among local residents that national security is the premise for Hong Kongs long-term prosperity and stability.The facts prove that those who want to threaten national security will be doomed to fail. In recent days, some rioters have tried to incite violence online to attack the legislation and the National Anthem Bill.They wanted to instigate protesters to besiege the Legislative Council and cause major traffic blockages. However...

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  Observer: National security legislation for HK is consensus of society

  The ACYF HK Members Association and the Y.Elites Association, two Hong Kong youth organizations, recently pledged support for China’s new national security legislation for Hong Kong Special Administrative region (HKSAR) amid rampant activities of secession, subversion and terrorism that sow trouble in Hong Kong society.Hong Kong’s business tycoon Li Ka-shing also defended the bill in a written response to the Ta Kung Pao. “It is within each and every nation’s sovereign right to address its national security concerns,” the 91-year-old billionaire said. “We probably need not over-interpret it. Hopefully the proposed new law can allay concerns the central government has in Hong Kong and give rise to a positive outlook from there.”Some voices outside China claimed that the bill will deprive Hong Kong of its freedom and discourage foreign investors from conducting business in the city. Such accusations, whether driven by ignorance or malicious intentions, don’t hold the water. Just take a look at international financial centers around the world: New York, Tokyo and London are all governed by national security laws. The US is one of the first countries in the world to introduce national security laws and tops the world in the number of bills relevant to national security.Fixing loopholes in the legal system of the Hong Kong society will create a more secure environment for business growth. Last year, the anti-extradition bill incident caused a heavy blow to the economy of Hong Kong, causing unemployment for many, especially young Hong Kong people who just graduated from university. Fitch Ratings has downgraded Hong Kong’s credit rating a second time from AA to AA-. Revitalizing the economy and stabilizing the market of Hong Kong has become an urgent task for the Hong Kong government. Without a sound legal system that guarantees national security, it’s unlikely that Hong Kong will rebuild confidence in investors and create new opportunities for development.For ...

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  Observer: Interference and hegemonism in US politician’s remarks on draft bill for HK

  US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday threatened to reassess the special status of Hong Kong after the National People’s Congress of China deliberated on a bill aimed at strengthening the national security of the city. Such an act of interference has once again exposed the hypocrisy of US politicians.It’s an international convention to make laws protecting national security. The US can testify to that using itself as an example: In 1798, the country passed four laws under the name of the Alien Sedition Act of 1798. Following the September 11, 2001 incident, it issued the USA Patriotic Act and Homeland Security Act of 2002. Today, there are countless bills on national security in the US, covering treason, spying activities, and terrorism. The US has added layers of protection itself, but won’t let China fix a loophole for national security. The US has done everything it could to safeguard its national security but makes carping remarks on other countries’ national security matters.The US has committed a long list of crimes that violate human rights and infringe on international justice. Because of national security concerns, the US has wiretapped not only officials in foreign countries but also its own citizens. With groundless accusations, the US exercises long arm jurisdiction on foreign enterprises like Huawei. By claiming a test tube filled with white powder was proof of a chemical weapon, the US lied to the world and thrusted Iraq into chaos and turbulence.It is conventional for China to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanism for Hong Kong to safeguard national security. The safety measures proposed only target some sorts of practices like secession, subversion, terrorism and external interference. These measures are the basics for all countries to safeguard national security, and cannot even rival US national protections.The greater the opposition by the US, the higher the possibility that the draft bill will hit the Achilles’ he...

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  Observer: Draft decision on HK national security legislation critical move to maintain stability of 'one country, two systems' principle

  A draft decision on establishing and improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to safeguard national security was submitted to Chinas national legislature for deliberation on Friday.The draft is regarded as an important measure to safeguard Chinas national security, and also a decisive effort to maintain the "one country, two systems" principle.There is no doubt that Hong Kong has become a risky loophole within Chinas national security. This has been demonstrated by the rising atrocities carried out by Hong Kong independence activists and extreme separatists who want to destroy the citys society, economy and political system.As an added threat, external forces have interfered in Hong Kong affairs and with the coordinated conspiracy from Taiwan separatists, thus enlarging the city’s legislative vulnerabilities. They have not only challenged the bottom line of the "one country, two systems" principle, but have also undermined Chinas national sovereignty. The benefits of Hong Kong residents will be placed at risk if these crimes are ignored and tolerated.The conspirators have revealed their plot against Hong Kong to the world. Apple Daily boss Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, who reportedly instigated the protesters to “fight for the US” has since been denounced by many HK residents as an “obedient lackey of US.”Protestor mastermind Benny Tai Yiu-ting has touted a detailed “road map” on how to force the central government to declare a state-of-emergency in Hong Kong so that Western countries can impose political and economic sanctions on China. Hong Kongs former Chief Secretary Anson Chan Fang On-sang has repeatedly sought political resources from Western anti-China forces while following their instructions, asking for instructions and resources.All of those deeds have endangered Chinas national security. Today, Hong Kong faces the danger imposed b...

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  Observer: Chinese corporations stable, reliant despite Luckin Coffee’s misstep

  Luckin Coffee resumed trading on Nasdaq Tuesday night after announcing that on May 15 it had received a written notice from the stock market’ s Listing Qualifications Staff that its securities were determined to be delisted from Nasdaq, more than 40 days after its disclosure of financial fraud.After Luckin Coffees revelation of its accounting and reporting improprieties, the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) immediately stated its firm stance against all forms of fraud by listed companies. CSRC said that it would investigate the case in line with any international investigation, strongly condemned any financial misconduct and protect the lawful rights and interests of investors across the globe.Given the sensitive timing, with the US market being hit hard amid the pandemic, Luckins alleged fraud not only damages the interests of investors and harms employees, but also damages the reputation of listed Chinese companies. However, the Luckin case does not represent the behavior of Chinese listed companies in the US, let alone the epitome of Chinese listed companies around the world.Overseas listings help diversify investment options and enhance investment returns in the host capital market. It has already proven to bring win-win benefits. This incident has cast a negative light on China concept stocks to a certain extent, but those listed Chinese companies managed to deliver fundamentally stable performances despite recent rattling of the stock market.Statistics show that the performance of Alibaba, JD.com, Pinduoduo, Bilibili and other high-quality Chinese stocks in the past year still outperformed the broader market index. The successful listing of Kingsoft Cloud on Nasdaq also displayed international investors undiminished confidence of Chinese concept stocks.It is a universal norm and standard that a company shall abide by laws and exercise honesty. Any company in breach of laws and regulations shall be subject to correspondin...

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  Observer: Global cooperation, the most powerful weapon against pandemic

  Every country must do everything they can to contain the pandemic, a task the Chinese president identified as the most urgent one as he addressed the global virtual meeting of the 73rd session of World Health Assembly (WHA) on Monday.The novel coronavirus has turned the world upside down over the past few months but the fight is far from over as there is still no cure at hand. Health experts have warned of no quick end of the COVID-19 pandemic and more effort is needed to figure out the unsolved mysteries of the virus and develop safe vaccines, which is likely the best way out of current crisis.As always, the COVID-19 pandemic is accompanied with many severe side effects like xenophobia and rampant conspiracy theories. At this critical moment of saving lives as a paramount task, we see politicians in some countries exploit people’s fear and sense of uncertainty, attempting to distract from their own failures and seek political gains at the cost of eroding global cooperation.A typical example is when seven wealthy countries convened in March for working out collective principles and actions to confront the coronavirus. The meeting ended up with division because US State Secretary Mike Pompeo insisted to include the discriminative description of “Wuhan virus” into the joint statement.Some governments launched relentless attacks against the World Health Organization (WHO) when the world is looking at the UN body to offer response guidelines and coordinate global resources for people and countries that are vulnerable.Previous pandemics have proven before that global health crises need united and coordinated solutions. As the country where the novel pathogen was first reported, China shared the hard-earned information and experience in a timely, open and transparent manner.When the dire situation abated at home, China immediately reached out to other countries with medical professionals and supplies to help other parts of the world to ...

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  Observer: Playing China-hawk game leaves out real problems

  Competing to be tougher on China seems to be the latest fad in the US Congress. A bill to intervene in the Xinjiang affairs passed the Senate on Thursday, and another to intervene in Tibet is in the works. Before that, dozens of proposals had been drafted to shift the blame for the COVID-19 outbreak to China.Republicans in the House of Representatives recently formed a China task force whose objective seems nothing but brought more troubles for the US-China relations. China has been the focus of congressional foreign policy in recent years, but the current frenzy to attack China is closely linked to the COVID-19 outbreak. In the US, the pandemic has brought not only a health crisis but also unprecedented economic and social challenges. For Congress, hypersensitive to social sentiments, there seems to be no more natural way to distract voters than to blame China.Attacking China will not solve the US problems. The US is now the hardest-hit nation by the coronavirus, and the outbreak is far from being contained. As most of its scientists and foreign policy experts point out, China and the US need to strengthen communication and coordination on everything from vaccine and treatment research to economic policy coordination to avoid a global recession.Congress has chosen to ignore these needs. They are more concerned with the short-term effects on the ballot box. In the face of a crisis, putting the onus on others and projecting an image of an adversary or even an enemy can give politicians a close look, which in American politics is often more important than solving real problems. This is precisely the underlying reasoning of the recently-publicized 57-page Republican memo -- party candidates were taught to attack China to make voters forget Trumps mistakes. Their unspoken subtext is that people can be manipulated.Many stress that the current US discontentment with China is bipartisan. However, the pitfalls here should not be overlooked. To a large degree...

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  Observer: City-wide coronavirus testing a boost to Wuhan’s reopening

  Wuhan, the hardest hit city in China by the COVID-19 outbreak announced a 10-day city-wide coronavirus test of all residents starting on Wednesday. It’s a “10-day battle” in response to six newly reported confirmed cases over the last weekend, the first in 35 consecutive days.The large-scale testing targets at-risk groups, including previous confirmed patients and close-contact teachers, medical workers, public transport workers, public service workers in shopping malls and others. Old neighborhoods, densely populated communities and communities with mobile populations are also key areas to be screened and tested. “The testing for the city with a 12-million population will probably cost over two billion yuan,” said a doctor from a Grade-A tertiary hospital in Wuhan.Such an all-encompassing testing that requires large spending for the local government marks the true reopening of Wuhan, coupled with the comprehensive resumption of work and production in the transportation hub as well as disease prevention and control work turning into a new normal. As testing for all city residents will expose asymptomatic patients and cut transmission channels, this will act as a solution to eradicate the problem of clustered infections so that a second wave of epidemic in the city won’t be possible.Wuhan’s rigorous move is also a bold answer to some Western politicians’ allegations that China’s data of confirmed cases and deaths of COVID-19 is unreliable. The Chinese government has always upheld the principles of authenticity, transparency and openness in data sharing. On April 17, the Wuhan government revised some official figures, including the citys confirmed cases and accumulated death toll. Data revisions and city-wide testing reflects the Chinese government’s commitment to the world that it will never hide the truth of the epidemic and will always be responsible in containing the spread of the virus.All expenses of the testing will be covered by the government, which is v...

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  Observer: What makes US politicians fail to see the truth of the virus?

  Speaking in an interview with CBS, American scientist Peter Daszak, who has collaborated with the Wuhan Institute of Virology for years, stated there is no evidence showing COVID-19 was connected toa lab in China, and then, two weeks ago, had his coronavirus research project in China grant terminated by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH).Daszak is a British-born American zoologist whos spent a career discovering dangerous viruses in wildlife and the president of a nonprofit research organization EcoHealth Alliance. The organization has worked for 15 years with the Wuhan Institute of Virology and cataloged hundreds of bat viruses, research that is critical amid the current outbreak.He said in an interview with 60 Minutes, the networks flagship news program, that the pandemic crossed over from wildlife. Dr. Elodie Ghedin, a molecular parasitologist and virologist at New York University, reconfirmed the virus is not engineered by humans.“Theres just no evidence that anybody had it in a lab anywhere in the world prior to the outbreak,” said Ghedin, adding that most experts believe the virus passed from a wild animal to humans. She emphasized that the virus is clearly not an engineered one, according to its genetic information, and there are no similar viruses in the Wuhan lab inventory.However, EcoHealth’s research funding has been cut aftera political disinformation campaign was launched to smearChina, even though the researchers are working on a breakthrough drug for COVID-19, which is getting ready to be tested.Maureen Miller, an epidemiologist at Columbia University, told CBS this is the very first time that NIH grants were terminated without any solid reason. “It stops the research thats essential to understanding where pandemics like the one were going through, where they start.”US President Donald Trump lashed out at CBS on Twitter, accusing the network of seeking potential business benefits from taking a stance ...

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  Observer: Time to end the blame game and facilitate China-US cooperation

  Chinese Vice Premier Liu He held a phone conversation with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Friday, in an effort to create conditions for the implementation of the China-US phase one trade deal and cooperation in public health.The pandemic could have been a crucial moment for both countries to conquer differences and overcome a common challenge. But the bilateral ties between the world’s two largest economies have encountered setbacks as the Trump administration passed the buck over its reckless handling of the pandemic and threatened tariffs on China.As China has made utmost efforts to offer essential personal protective equipment to support America’s efforts to curb the epidemic, some US officials portray China’s motives as driven by geopolitics and even go further to scapegoat China, accusing China of restricting the export of COVID-19 materials.What both sides need is not tariffs or confrontation but enhancing cooperation on disease prevention and control as well as trade consultation.China has gradually weathered the public health crisis and the resumption of work and production is underway, but the pandemic still extracts a considerably heavy toll on the world’s second largest economy.Despite better-than-expected April figures, the latest official data indicated China’s foreign trade is facing mounting challenges including order cancellations or delays, difficulty in signing new orders and poor logistics.With over 129 million infections of COVID-19 in the US, the world’s largest economy was hit by another blow: the jobless rate last month reaching a record high of 14.7 percent.As China’s biggest trade partner and the world’s hub of international finance and trade, whether the US can contain the spread of the virus is crucial not only to itself but also China and every other country in this interconnected world.“The blaming China mindset risks decoupling China and the United States and hurting our efforts to fig...

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  Observer: Stabilizing employment prioritized in China amid the pandemic

  Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, the Chinese government has taken a string of measures to mitigate the impact of the pandemic and boost employment. It’s reported that a national campaign, dubbed a 100-day dash, targeting the employment and entrepreneurship of college graduates, will be launched in May and run until August.During the campaign, jointly implemented by the Ministry of Education and five other departments and units, various measures have been outlined, including expanding enrollment for higher education and creating more jobs at the grassroots level.Employment has always been a critical issue that the Chinese government prioritizes, as it is closely related to people’s livelihood and social stability. With the economic downward trend likely to continue over the short term as the resumption of work and production is underway, making sure that university graduates have places to go after they get out of campus is increasingly urgent and necessary.Due to the backdrop of the pandemic, 2020 is a difficult time, with a record high of over 8.74 million university graduates and a smaller pool of jobs. As pursuing a higher degree is a desired option for many students who are not that eager to enter a career path, the Chinese government has made utmost efforts to expand postgraduate enrollment by nearly 190,000 this year.For those who are seeking jobs and starting their own businesses, the government has expanded its channels of employment and entrepreneurship. A targeted plan to increase job offers at the grassroots level has been initiated, with a recruitment campaign for teachers at special positions set up to increase the number of positions by 5,000 to a total of 105,000. Such grassroots positions cover a wide range of areas including scientific research, community service and medical care. Meanwhile, more college graduates will be enlisted into the army for those who fancy wearing military uniforms.Not only will such policies benefit the graduates, but also...

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  Observer: China-Africa's long-lasting friendship cannot be misled by infodemic

  The World Health Organization (WHO) warned on April 18 that Africa could be the next epicenter of the coronavirus. The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa also predicted that the pandemic will take a heavy toll and push nearly 30 million people into poverty on the continent.According to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of 9 am EAT Tuesday, a total of 47,118 COVID-19 cases and 1,843 deaths have been reported in 53 African countries. Since the last briefing on last Tuesday, the number of COVID-19 cases has increased by 42 percent.Regarding why there are fewer cases compared with Europe and the US, WHO Africa director Dr Matshidiso Moeti said in an interview with BBC, "Africa has fewer people who are traveling internationally." Now that the virus is within Africa and spreading from the urban areas to “the hinterlands”, WHO is “acting under the assumption that it will spread just as quickly as elsewhere”.In addition, Africa has a "very, very limited" and “very, very strained” testing capacity, said John Nkengasong, director of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Medical experts also indicated that “the surge in infections on the continent is almost certainly under-reported and even higher in reality”.The limited resources, weak health care systems and poor living condition of its large populations, as well as the insecure economic and financial situation of numerous countries, have aroused great concern from the WHO and international community.From March 1 to April 30, China has sent over 71.2 billion yuan (10 billion dollars) in medical equipment (27.8 billion masks, 170 million protective clothes, 73.41 million coronavirus testing kits and 49,100 ventilators, according to Chinese customs) to other countries worldwide, including in Africa. Relief funds were offered and many Chinese medical teams have been sent to Africa, joining the virus fight with the local people.Furthermore,...

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  Observer: Bannon's smears against China to erode global solidarity

  The COVID-19 pandemic has infected over 3 million people with 230,000 fatalities by the start of May. In the hardest-hit country, the United States, medical staff are striving to save lives while media outlets cry out for joint international anti-pandemic efforts. However, a manipulated crisis behind the disastrous disease looms large, as some US politicians exploit the raging epidemic to alienate China from the world, and sow discord to prevent global solidarity in the face of the outbreak.Former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon is a notorious demagogue among this group. Trying to end his oblivion in American politics, Bannon is again reaching for spotlight by accusing China of its “poor handling” of the health crisis and trumpeting the conspiracy theory of a virus leak from a Wuhan lab. Bannon is callous enough to capitalize on the dire situation for his own agenda, calling for China to be financially accountable for the outbreak, with trillions of dollars as compensation.Bannons words are nothing more than groundless and ridiculous clamor. Its "the mismanagement of Trumps administration,” rather than Bannon’s so-called "Chinas cover-up" that escalated the US outbreak, according to the New York Times. China has responded to the epidemic and shared relevant information in an open, transparent, timely and responsible manner. The World Health Organization appreciated China’s rapid and massive response, rarely seen in the world, establishing a strong line of defense.Seeing millions of jobless benefits claims and strained resources to save lives, Bannon is certain to know what in fact his country is enduring and why it coped poorly. But he turned a blind eye to that, alternatively selling his obsolete confrontational take on China-US relations. He proceeded to advocate the conspiracy theory that the virus leaked out of a laboratory in China, a repeated tactic to deflect domestic anger and secure the core demographics likely t...

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  Observer: Targeting China is a populist stunt in the US

  US Republican Senator Tom Cotton recently publicly suggested stopping visiting Chinese students from learning quantum computing and artificial intelligence at US universities, and only allowing them to study Shakespeare and the Federalist Papers. He said it is a scandal to train Chinese nationals to "go back to China to compete for Americans jobs and to take their business."The Cold War rhetoric of the Arkansas lawmaker sparked a great outcry for being racist, violating the democratic spirit purported to be upheld by the US, and being ignorant, as Shakespeare was a Briton instead of American. Critics alleged the visa ban on Chinese students is effectively an act of "self-sabotage," saying barring the best and brightest from studying in the country will only handicap the ability of the US to compete.However, the facts have not changed US officials attitudes toward Chinese students, who continue to be seen as a threat to US national security. The US has witnessed a significant decline in the number of Chinese students. Since 2018, the US government has widely shortened the visa validity of Chinese graduate students in high-tech majors such as robotics, aviation, and high-end manufacturing. Chinese scholars making educational visits to the US are also under political pressure. Dozens have had their visas canceled on suspicions of espionage, commercial theft, and political interference. The US, which has long followed an open, pluralistic and inclusive path in the academic field, began to move toward being closed, conservative and exclusive, stepping into the abyss of isolationism.Cotton is considered an onrushing anti-China vanguard in the Capitol. Described as having "deranged ideology," he was one of the first lawmakers to spread the lie that COVID-19 was manipulated in a Wuhan lab -- an idea mocked as a "conspiracy theory" and repeatedly refuted by scientists worldwide and the World Health Organization. A 57-page mem...

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  Observer: GOP talking points poison China-US relations

  The COVID-19 pandemic threatens the China-US bilateral ties. It even further undermines future global stability as some politicians in the United States continue to take a hard line against China out of pure political interests. Recently a memo sent by the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) to GOP campaigns has urged Republican candidates to address the COVID-19 pandemic by aggressively attacking China.Three main lines of assault are emphasized in the 57-page talking points, leaked by Politico last Friday: that China caused the virus "by covering it up," that Democrats are "soft on China," and that Republicans will "push for sanctions on China for its role in spreading this pandemic".As the battle against the virus requires large-scale global cooperation, China-US coordination is irreplaceable. The US buck-passing actions by fabricating a conspiracy theory that the COVID-19 was man-made at Wuhan Institute of Virology worsened the bilateral cooperation, impeded potential assistance, and hence poisoned the bilateral relations."By planting fake news about Chinese evildoing through anonymous US officials and dodgy document dumps, the White House appears to hope that an escalated conflict abroad will paper over its failures at home," said a report of the Grey Zone, an independent news website.Though the US and China differ a lot, similar models in disease prevention and control may not be compatible in both countries, Chinas experiences in mobilizing national resources to battle the virus are still worthy to draw lessons from in many aspects. Compared with foreign assistance and international cooperation projects with other countries, China-US cooperation lags.The fundamental reason lies in the fact that American hardliners tried to strengthen the competition with China, scapegoating China for all problems of the US, said Fu Ying, director of the Center for International Strategy and Security from Tsinghua Univers...

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  Observer: Wuhan's recovery offers hope to the world

  Wuhan, the city hit hardest by the coronavirus outbreak in China, cleared all COVID-19 cases in hospital on Sunday. The Yellow Crane Tower, a landmark tourist attraction in the city, will also start to welcome tourists from Wednesday.These positive signals once again showed that Chinas nationwide anti-virus efforts had achieved preliminary victory, following the lifting of the citys outbound travel restrictions on April 8 after being put into lockdown for almost 11 weeks.Though it is hard-won and the city still needs to stay vigilant to prevent a resurgence, it "offers hope for how a strong rebound from this crisis can happen," according to Dr. Ali Obaid Al Dhaheri, UAEs Ambassador to China, in an opinion piece published in the Gulf News recently.The lockdown decision for a city of 11 million residents, advised by epidemiologists and announced by political leaders, was without precedent. It turned out to be completely effective in curbing the virus from spreading both inside and outside Wuhan.A blocked Wuhan not only bought time for the country and the world, but also served as a warning to the world on the severity of the virus. Its people, who have made great sacrifices and fought a brave war against the common enemy of humanity, deserve sympathy and respect.Now Wuhan is attracting extensive attention worldwide as the city faces another test to strike a delicate balance between maintaining an effective epidemic response and restoring ordinary life and work. It was reported that more than 40 foreign media came to Wuhan for interviews since its re-opening.As the auto hub in China, Wuhan is also home to high-tech industries such as chip-making, bearing great economic significance to the central hinterland. At the beginning of April, its work resumption rate has far exceeded expectations by surpassing 97%.In its latest meeting on the economic situation, the Municipal government aimed to sure 100% work resumption rate by the end of this mo...

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  Observer: Pompeo should stop spreading political contagion and act like a top diplomat

  US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Thursday that China might have known about the new coronavirus as early as November in an interview, renewing his continuous accusations that Beijing has not been transparent in its handling of the virus.The US is the new epicenter of the pandemic. Cases are surging, and deaths are mounting every day. Instead of concentrating on actual control and prevention work, Pompeo has been obsessed with attacking China.He blamed China for causing "an enormous amount of pain, loss of life and now a huge challenge for the global economy," and he accused China of taking advantage of the pandemic to "bully" neighbors, even as he welcomed Chinas provision of essential medical supplies.He reiterated claims that China had destroyed early virus samples and failed to share samples with the outside world, "making it impossible to track the diseases evolution."However, the WHO has publicly praised China several times for its transparency and timely response. Now Pompeo has extended his allegations to the WHO for its "mismanagement and mishandling of the pandemic."This string of groundless and irresponsible accusations has aroused intense discontent even inside the US.Susan Rice, the former US national security adviser, criticized Pompeos handling of the virus situation "shameful and divisive."The Washington Post also condemned "Pompeos crusade against China" as "senseless." "He has dedicated himself to affixing blame to Beijing for the epidemic, seemingly in an attempt to counter growing Chinese efforts to aid other nations — initiatives that the Trump administration has failed to match."The Post commented that "Pompeos pandemic performance ensures his place among the worst secretaries of state ever."Before joining the Trump administration, Pompeo served as director of the Central Intelligence Agency with a United States Military Ac...

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  Observer: New infrastructure contributes to combating COVID-19, boosting economy

  Intelligent technologies have been integrated into Chinas annual political calendar amid the COVID-19 outbreak as the National Peoples Congress (NPC) made an announcement on its official WeChat account on Wednesday that the 16th session of the Standing Committee of the 13th NPC, Chinas top legislature, was held in an innovative way in which Beijing deputies were video conferencing with non-Beijing deputies, marking a historical first.The landmark step was taken under the special circumstances which fulfilled the requirements of disease prevention and control, and in the meantime ensured the effective and efficient operation of the legislature, said Yue Zhongming, spokesperson for the Legislative Affairs Commission of the NPC Standing Committee. This may also signal a potential format for this years upcoming two sessions, which were postponed due to the outbreak.Video conferencing is not only emerging in China, but around the world as well. This years G20 meetings were also held virtually, an extraordinary form to coordinate a multilateral response. The number of daily active users of Zoom, a US-based remote conference service, has surged by 67 percent since early January, according to media reports.This is also happening with similar remote working apps in China such as DingTalk, launched by Chinas tech giant Alibaba. It recorded a 356 percent increase in downloads from smartphones in the Chinese mainland from February 2 to February 29 compared with January 5 to February 1.The daily active user base for Tencent Meeting surpassed 10 million within two months after its launch in December.The increasing roles intelligent technologies have played in combating COVID-19 echo Chinas steps in accelerating the deployment of new infrastructure, a new campaign mentioned during a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committeeon March 4th and earlier policy meetings ...

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  Observer: COVID-19 origin to be determined by science, not conspiracy

  A recent remark of a World Health Organization official has rebuked the rumor that the novel coronavirus was man-made, leaking from Wuhan Institute of Virology. "All available evidence suggests the virus has an animal origin and is not a manipulated or constructed virus in a lab or somewhere else," said Fadela Chaib, WHO spokeswoman, to reporters on Tuesday. This statement is based on scientific evidence, clarifying fallacies to help the international community distinguish right from wrong and reinforce concerted efforts in the fight against the virus.As the pandemic took over the world, the source of the coronavirus has become a global concern. It should be noted that this matter should be based on scientific evidence and experts evaluation instead of giving the microphone to conspiracy theorists. On February 18, a group of 27 public health scientists who have studied the virus published a statement in The Lancet, noting that the coronavirus "originated in wildlife", just like many other viruses that have recently emerged in humans.This conclusion is echoed by researchers and medical experts, includingthe academe in the United States. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a member of the White House coronavirus task force, said in an interview that studies of the virus genome have strongly indicated that it was transmitted from an animal to a human rather than created or enhanced in a laboratory setting. This is backed up by a study published in Nature Medicine in mid-March by computational biologist Kristian Andersen. "We do not believe that any type of laboratory-based scenario is plausible," according to the analysis of the study. Scientists and researchers have yet to reach a firm conclusion about where the animal-to-human transmission first occurred, but throwing cold water onto the conspiracies hyped by some right-wing media in the US.Passing the ...

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  Observer: Pursuing progress while ensuring stability, China revives economy in consolidated manner

  Chinas GDP in the first quarter has declined by 6.8 percent compared to last year due to the unprecedented impact of the coronavirus outbreak, while Hubei, the previous epicenter, saw a shrinking of nearly 40 percent. However, the pandemic, with phasedimpacts, did not and will not change China’s sound long-term economic fundamentals thanks to its strong domestic marketing and smooth economic cycle.Since March, the decline of Chinas main indicators has significantly narrowed, showing a high resilience in the economy.Thanks to the orderly resumptionof production and work,the service industry and high-tech manufacturing industry have been boosted. Nevertheless, the challenges the country faces remains critical due to the spreading pandemic and intensified economic downturn risks in the outside world. Therefore, the current economic recovery, to reduce uncertainty, should find a balance between economic progress and epidemic stability.Chinese President Xi Jinping chaired a Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee meeting on April 17, and urged them to take the initiative to advance work resumption while continuing the epidemic fight, in a bid to ensure that the epidemic will not rebound while steadying the economic fundamentals and securing peoples basic livelihoods.To stabilize the economy, expanding domestic demand is the top priority. In the current situation of insufficient external demand as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) gave a prediction on the global economy, domestic demand is expected to provide support for Chinas economy through unleashing the potential of consumption and expanding effective investment.In the next phase, potential of consumption will be further released both in the promotion of traditional sectors such as automobiles, home appliances andnew sectors such as 5G and new energy vehicles, which will help drive the upstream and downstream industry chain and give a...

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  Observer: Hype of racism against Africans in China against common sense

  As a Chinese correspondent who worked for three years in South Africa, where apartheid only ended in 1994, I know exactly how people could suffer from racial discrimination. Not only South Africa, the whole African continent is still fresh in its memory on the colonial history, which largely nurtures racism against them.China also suffered foreign aggression. It was this similar pain that bonded them together, to support in their efforts in fighting against imperialism and colonialism, in seeking economic development and better livelihood. For years, the Chinese has intimately called African people as the African brothers and sisters.When recent reports from mainly western media hyped up the narrative that Africans are being discriminated against in Guangzhou, capital city of southern Chinas Guangdong province, my first thought is that this is against common sense.Pew Research Centers 2019 Global Attitudes survey shows that majorities in sub-Saharan African countries surveyed have a favorable view of China, including 70% who have a favorable opinion in Nigeria. Since 2009, China has remained Africas biggest trading partner for the last decade. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of people are traveling across the two lands each year. Guangzhou, a commercial hub and a magnet for fortune-seeking people, is also home to one of the largest African communities in Asia. If racial discrimination against Africans is persistent in China, none of the above-mentioned things would have been reality.Then why this racism narrative is so hyped up among western media at a time when solidarity is mostly needed to cope with the pandemic?If you dig into these one-sided reports and fragmented video clips which surfaced on overseas social media, especially on Twitter, its not difficult to notice their hidden political agendas.Some Africans living in China have offered the other side of the story which was missed, saying the allegations of discrimination are not tr...

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  Observer: US should concentrate on saving lives rather than blame game

  Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus task force coordinator, recently said it wasn’t until the beginning of March that the US could all fully see how contagious this virus was. The remark was refuted by US pandemic expert Dena Grayson on Twitter, saying the international community had been warning US President Donald Trump of the coronavirus pandemic, and US experts including herself had called for nucleic acid testing at an early stage.Birxs thoughts on the coronavirus sound disappointing and unprofessional, considering her role as a leading specialist on infectious disease. The virus has arrived in the US far before March. It was the Trump administration’s awareness of its high transmission rate and severity that came late.Since the US recorded the first coronavirus cases in January 21, the president gave bungled responses and false assurances, after being repeatedly warned by officials, experts and the World Health Organization. From the first confirmed death to the declaration of a national emergency, blind faith has led his administration to waste a valuable two months to prepare for a pandemic, as well as the three key weeks in February that could have been spent enacting mitigatory measures against the virus.Due to lack of preparedness, the administration is unable to send out enough test kits for patients and protective equipment for frontline medical workers. When awareness finally came to the Oval Office, the situation was already out of control.On March 26, the US became the new epicenter of the outbreak with the most confirmed cases in the world. At this time, the Trump administration started the blame game to shift public attention, a move to boost the presidents reelection prospects. Trump said he himself took no responsibility at all, while denigrating China through racist remarks, defunding the WHO over disagreeing with him, pinning the test kit failure on the Obama administration, rebuking the media for "overhyping the threat...

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  Observer: Pandemic amplifies US structural inequality

  When the US President Donald Trump acknowledged last Tuesday African Americans are disproportionately getting sick and dying of COVID-19 at the White House task force briefing, it highlighted a fact that the US COVID-19 strategy is failing the poor.According to a recent Associated Press analysis, of the victims whose demographic data was publicly shared, about 42% of the nations deaths were black, while African Americans account for roughly 21% of the total population covered by the analysis.Analysts believe this racial disparity of COVID-19 infection and deaths is largely due to the deep-rooted structural inequity in access to health care and economic opportunity, which has made many minority communities far more vulnerable to the virus.On one hand, communities of color in the US face a persistent racial wealth gap, who are working in positions with higher chances of exposure to COVID-19, such as grocery store clerks and public transportation employees who cannot telecommute.On the other hand, higher rates of pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and asthma, within minority communities, may contribute to the phenomenon, as said by Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.Despite these risks, Philip Alston, the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human, has said that "federal relief is not yet reaching many people in need and is fundamentally inadequate in scope and kind gave the magnitude of the crisis and its longer-term impact," adding the US government is focusing primarily on businesses and the well-off, though there are already record layoffs.Despite Trump has said his administration is actively engaging on the diseases increased impacts on the African American community, little detail has been offered so far. An opinion piece by the New York Times Editorial Board headlined "How to Save Black and Hispanic Lives in a Pandemic" called for urgen...

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  Observer: Sharing weal and woe, medical assistance shines at home and abroad

  As the last batch of medical personnel from the Peking Union Medical College Hospital supporting Wuhan left the once hard-hit Hubei Province on Wednesday, medical assistance from other parts of China is wrapped up as the epidemic is subdued in the previous epicenter.The COVID-19 epidemic has witnessed an unprecedented interconnection within China. With Hubei suffering from mounting infections over the past 4 months, medics from other regions of the country formed an ally to assist different cities of the province. They hold the conviction that the whole country can recover only when Hubei tides over the epidemic so the faith of standing with Hubei and Wuhan has been highly cherished.Such a spirit further carries on from China to the whole world as the country gradually weathers the epidemic while outbreaks take place in other parts of the world. Chinese medics bear the responsibilities of bringing the Chinese expertise to the whole world as the globe is a community with a shared future. Through a variety of forms of exchanges including sending medical teams, supplies and equipment, holding online seminars, video conferences, China is willing to share with the world the Chinese experience in laboratory testing, epidemic control, respiratory disease treatment, intensive care and traditional Chinese medicine.Despite such hands-on frontline experiences, medics also play a dispensable role of making the public aware of the ABCs about the disease and popularizing relevant conceptions around the world. Without them, locking down epicenters to cutting off transmissions, social distancing, wearing masks and taking precautions such as washing hands and disinfecting daily necessities frequently will be less accepted.What impresses the world is that the State Council Information Office has specially held two news conferences in English, inviting Chinese medics to discuss their experience with their counterparts overseas including their methods of treating severe COVID-19 cases....

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  Observer: WHO role should be enhanced, not impaired

  US President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that the country will suspend funding to the World Health Organization while it reviews the UN health bodys response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The US provides nearly a quarter of the agencys operational budget and hundreds of millions of dollars more each year for specific initiatives and public health crises, so the suspension will be detrimental in light of the battle against COVID-19. Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesperson said at a press briefing Wednesday that the US decision "will impair WHOs capacities and undermine international cooperation against the epidemic."The suspension is prone to largely jeopardize the agencys reputation and the potential operations it will take in the fight against the virus. As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement, now is not the time to reduce resources in the fight against COVID-19. Currently, with over 2,000,000 confirmed infections globally, the whole human race is racing against time to contain the spread of the coronavirus, as it quickens its pace to develop vaccines. This is the time for a greater mobilization of resources across geographical borders, rather than undermining concerted efforts. Halting funding for the agency at this critical time does greater harm than good.The timing is crucial as the pandemic is spreading all over the world, with confirmed infections concentrated in developed countries like the US, Spain, Italy, Germany and so on. Developing countries like India and regions including Africa and South America face a looming crisis of potential outbreaks, and this can be a real danger as these regions are more vulnerable than Europe and America.As the USAID administrator Mark Green who departed last Friday said in a previous statement, "Funds that are going to the WHO will help the governments of currently affected or at-risk developing countries prepare their laboratories for large-scale testin...

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  Observer: Restart of Wuhan sheds light for the world

  Wuhans Leishenshan makeshift hospital, which was especially built for treating patients infected with the COVID-19, discharged its last group of patients on Tuesday morning and will be closed on Wednesday.This temporary hospital with a capacity of 1,600 beds was built in just 10 days. During its 67-day operation since February 8, the hospital took in 2,011 patients, and the overall fatality rate was 2.3 percent, thanks to the joint efforts of more than 3,000 medical staff from 286 hospitals in 9 provinces and cities.It has been nearly a week since the lifting of Wuhan’s lockdown on April 8. The city gradually woke up after a two-month lockdown and life has returned to normal.In the wave of work resumption, hundreds of cars crowded the citys highways during rush hour and people shared online that even traffic jams brought them happiness for the first time.Businesses have started to recover as well, more and more crowds can be seen on Wuhans famous commercial spots. Many stores on Hanzheng Street, which is the most famous commercial street in Central China, are now open. People busy carrying goods is a reminder of the vitality of the street.Although Wuhan people have waited so long for life to return to normal, their caution remains. Residents continue to wear face masks and avoid crowded places. Monitoring and temperature testing devices are still active in many places. The resumption of work and business are under strict restrictions. They are “cautiously optimistic” about the re-opening of Wuhan, embracing the “new normal” in daily life.Cars can be seen on the streets in Wuhan, Hubei province. (Screenshot from a video on Weibo)After one week’s recovery, now is a time to review what led Wuhan to its current restart.The first factor is the early and decisive intervention of the government. After a spike in confirmed cases in January, China took unprecedented steps to lock down Wuhan and surrounding areas on January 23. Authorities from the provincial l...

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  Observer: White House's attack on VOA reflects sheer bias toward China

  The White House on Friday launched a surprising attack on Voice of America (VOA), the mouth piece of the US government, who has been propagating US foreign policies and values since the 1940s.To the current White House, it seems that VOAs assiduous propaganda isnt biased towards US enough, as it absurdly criticized VOA for calling China’s Wuhan lockdown a successful “model”, and thentweeting out videoof a celebratory light show marking the citys end of quarantine, thus amplifying Beijing’s "propaganda."While it is a widely acknowledged fact that Chinas prevention and control of the COVID-19 has achieved preliminary success, the White House newsletter hypocritically claimed "journalists should report the facts."The newsletter went further to criticize VOA for creating graphics to compare China’s COVID-19 death toll to America’s, a figure that the US has now overtaken Italy as the worlds highest, highlighting the US governments unpreparedness and incompetence to contain the virus.To shift the blame, the US government has spared no effort to slander China. In the newsletter, it implied that China had hidden the true number of domestically infectious cases. But this has been repeatedly rejected by epidemiologists, saying that its almost impossible to hide any infectious disease.Once again, this proves that the so-called freedom of speech in the US has a premise. The White House has taken a variety of restrictions on reporters it doesnt like, including forbidding them to attend the White House briefing, and forcibly expelling and revoking the interview license, among others.This standard doesnt only apply to US media, but also to US citizens. Captain Brett Crozier of the aircraft carrier TheodoreRoosevelt was one of the many examples. He was dismissed for a letter that saved thousands of lives on the carrier. Whats more, many medical workers recently in the US were reportedly di...

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  Observer: Racial discrimination won't help with COVID-19 battle

  In such a difficult time, standing in solidarity with the world against the novel coronavirus is essential for any country. Yet inflammatory racist moves have been incited by some politicians, triggering division, discrimination and xenophobia.Australia’s Federal Liberal MP Jason Wood, who is the assistant minister for Multicultural Affairs, was one of the politicians.Since the COVID-19 outbreak, Wood has posted numerous anti-Chinese media stories on Facebook, which attracted hundreds of comments, many of them extremely racist. One even instigated death to the "Chinese people."Racist sentiments have brought hatred, hostility and division among different ethnic people in Australia. Chinese Australians are stigmatized, insulted and abused as the virus hit the country.It is wrong that China and Chinese people should be held accountable for the coronavirus outbreak. As the virus knows no boundaries, any one could fall victim to it.During mankind’s battle against the virus, Chinese people have made great efforts and sacrifices, which have won wide respect from the world.In Australia, the Chinese community’s help in curbing the spread of coronavirus was appreciated by the country’s prime minister. “You are magnificent,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said of Chinese Australians during an interview with an SBS News reporter.Wood’s posts obviously ignored all those facts and aroused racist sentiment among his supporters using false accusations, which is also against the core value of a country that has flaunted its multiculturalism and inclusiveness for years.Some Western politicians and media often attack China from the perspective of ideology. They attack China because they need to shape a politically stereotyped image for China to gain personal advantages. Therefore their criticisms are mostly preconceived and seldom fact-based.Mankind’s fight against the pandemic has now entered a very critical stage. The virus has infected more than 1.4 million people and caus...

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  Observer: Shanghai provides alternative approach to curbing COVID-19

  As the global number of COVID-19 cases climbed up rapidly, major cities in China such as Beijing and Shanghai have seen no domestically transmitted cases for weeks, proving the effectiveness of Chinese efforts in disease control.Public health emergency response has been a key national concern since the outbreak. On Wednesday, the Shanghai government released a guideline of its public health emergency and emergency response to epidemics by 2025, a further step towards the world-class level.The metropolis, with over 24 million permanent residents and millions of migrant workers each year, has done a great job on prevention and control in the current battle against COVID-19. With its active emergency response, the city only ranked 15th among all provincial-level regions with 552 confirmed cases and took the first batch reaching zero domestic infection early in February.Medical staff aredisinfecting an isolation point in Shanghai. (Photo: Xinhua)The emergency system starts as soon as an unknown disease is found by doctors throughout Shanghai’s fever clinics, who form the first line of defense. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, a tracking system, which includes thousands of disease control personnel and medical staff, will be launched immediately to isolate all close contacts and avoid the spread of the virus.File photo: Xinhua"Shanghai implements a centralized treatment,” Zhang Wenhong, the well-known infectious disease doctor, said of the response system at a press conference on Wednesday.“All the most powerful medical resources are gathered there, which can provide the best treatment conditions of the city for patients.”Public health is a key part of urban security. From early detection to isolation, diagnosis, disease control intervention and tracking, the fast and strictly-followed system helped the city steadily ride out several health crises, including SARS, H1N1 and H7N9, keeping damage to a minimum. “The system is actually beside you in eve...

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  Observer: China-US solidarity, cooperation needed for triumph over COVID-19

  “As the two biggest economies in the world, China and the United States need to lead international efforts in collaborative research into treatments and vaccines, and explore the sharing of pharmaceutical technologies among nations,” says Cui Tiankai, the Chinese ambassador to the United States, in an article published Monday in the New York Times.This is true. The whole world is suffering from a health crisis caused by COVID-19, which necessitates international solidarity and global cooperation to conquer. As the first country hit hard by the virus, China has been providing updates about the disease in a responsible manner and offering tremendous assistance to other countries.New York has become the US’ epicenter of the pandemic and it’s also one of the biggest destinations of China’s assistance.Chinese e-commerce titan Jack Ma sent 500,000 testing kits and a million masks to the US. Chinese telecommunications company Huawei also has donated tens of thousands of protective supplies to New York and Washington, DC.As New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo tweeted on April 4, the Chinese government helped facilitate a donation of 1,000 ventilators which have arrived in New York. He thanked the Chinese government, the Jack Ma Foundation, the Joe and Clara Tsai Foundation and Chinese Consul General in New York Huang Ping.This is exactly the epitome of international solidarity and collaboration. In the early days of the outbreak in China, Americans provided China with much assistance. Now China is returning the favor. As China follows closely the situation in the US, it is hoped that the COVID-19 will be brought under control at an early date.Some US politicians, however, attempted to cover up their own incompetence and delaying time in the prevention and control of the pandemic by blaming China to divert public attention. But the virus knows no borders and the status quo in the US was not caused by China.This is not the time for finger-pointing, but a time for solidarity,...

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  Observer: Countries should adopt serious, adjusted measures to ride out the virus

  Wuhan is accelerating to recuperate from a two-month lockdown and idle business as the hard-hit city in the COVID-19 outbreak sets to lift outbound travel restriction on Wednesday.The ease of restriction marks an important milestone in Chinas battle against the disease which has been under control nationwide. It proved effective for the country to take strict measures and mounting efforts to curb the virus spread.Long incubation and mild symptoms make the virus grow fast and difficult to detect. So the government initiated a much wider range of examination to determine the infected, critically-ill patients and those who should be in two-week quarantine.It also built make-shift hospitals to accommodate mild patients and called for communities to deliver necessities to families in isolation. As for COVID-19 patients in serious condition, the country spared no efforts to treat and tend them. Medical aid teams from each provincial-level region and protective materials delivered by diverse parties concentrated in the worst-hit Hubei Province to help combat the outbreak.Another key in virus containment measures lies in Chinas decision to lock down the epicenter Wuhan. The measure hurts the economy, but with hindsight, it helped prevent the virus transmit and won time for the government to gather enough medical supplies for treatment.Experts warn of two potential risks China should heed. One is the imported cases. As of Monday, the Chinese mainland had reported a total of 983 imported cases, which is on the rise. Another one is the transmission of asymptomatic COVID-19 patients, with dozens of new cases under medical observation this week. As a result, over 70 communities in Wuhan dropped the "virus-free" title to alarm the residents.Other cities also watch closely. "The epidemic prevention and control in Beijing will probably become a long-term normal," a spokesperson for the municipal government said on Sunday. Some cities in South China&#39...

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  Observer: Global health crisis can only be solved by unity, not stigmatization

  Social stigma and discrimination are repeating occurrences through humanity’s history of coping with pandemics. This time is no exception.Pressure on the White House sharply mounted as the US faces grave challenges from both the COVID-19 epidemic and a volatile stock market.Scientists are still tracing the origin of the novel coronavirus, but some American politicians allege China is to blame. Their reaction was not to follow scientific opinions and map out contingency plans but to label the novel coronavirus the “Chinese Virus.”When the World Health Organization named the disease “COVID-19,” it explicitly explained that global experts intended to prevent the use of other names that may be inaccurate or stigmatizing.The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned against stigma-causing language even before the virus demonstrated its destructive power in the United States.The term “Chinese Virus” only contributes to confusion and divisiveness in an uncertain time, infectious disease experts warned. An editorial in the Dallas Morning News on Wednesday urged Americans to stop using it.Another article, from Politico, also disapproved of the term. “The escalating drumbeat against China is worrying some public health experts, who say the attempts to blame Beijing for the coronavirus outbreak could harm efforts to combat the spreading contagion.” Using labels like “Chinese Virus” has done more to degrade trust than build it.“A lot of these emotional and punishment policies will over time come back to bite us,” warned Paul Haenle, a former National Security Council official under the George W Bush and Obama administrations.“Naming a disease after a place stigmatizes that place and that’s why there’s been an intentional move away from that,” said Jeremy Konyndyk, another former Obama administration official who helped lead the US response to the Ebola outbreak in Africa. “Ultimately, diseases are about biology, not geography.”“Let’s remember. C...

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  Observer: Nobody will be left behind in the battle against coronavirus

  An inspection group dispatched by China’s central government to Hubei Province, the epicenter of the novel coronavirus outbreak, said all confirmed or suspected patients should be located and treated. Local authorities are to conduct thorough screenings of each patient’s close contacts and anyone else who has experienced virus-like symptoms."Every minute is a life, and medical care must not be delayed. Medical personnel must race against time and provide aid for patients in need," said the inspection group.China’s Hubei Province has remained the center of the novel coronavirus epidemic. To contain the virus, everyone in the province must contribute in the battle against this epidemic. Such efforts demand comprehensive measures and individual responsibility to prevent the outbreak from spreading. On the path to victory, nobody shall be left behind, and this is how we will win.Since the virus outbreak, the CPC Central Committee has attached great importance in safeguarding human life and health. Epidemic prevention and control efforts are a matter of life and death and cannot afford to hesitate or make the slightest delay. The policy of "ensuring every confirmed or suspected patient is located and treated without leaving anyone unprotected" reveals a general concern over patients and a respect for human life.To ensure "every confirmed or suspected patient is located and attended to without leaving anyone unprotected," we need more advanced procedures and support facilities. Every step must be solid to help doctors and patients in this battle. Whether it’s transferring people to quarantine facilities or providing supplies to medical staff, it is imperative that we work together step-by-step.Its a race against time and a fight against sickness. As the saying goes, "Speed is a soldier’s asset.” We have the confidence and ability to defeat this epidemic as long as we rise to the challenges, react faster...

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  Observer: Racism a bigger threat than coronavirus

  Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 in China, despite seeing countless reports on the number of infections and how hard frontline medical staff fight against the virus, it’s disheartening to witness how racism based on the epidemic is emerging in many countries. Instead of standing in solidarity, Asians and anyone who looks Chinese are stigmatized.In many countries, especially in Europe and North America, it’s common to see passengers resist sitting next to Asian passengers. Shops and malls turn down Asian customers. Asian schoolchildren who attend schools in the West are bullied or singled out by teachers and classmates. On the front page of a French newspaper, big block letters announced “Yellow Alert” next to an image of a Chinese woman wearing a face mask. In fact, Asians wearing surgical masks for the purpose of disease prevention are turning into the targets of discrimination and regarded as carrying certain types of virus. It’s even more ridiculous that Chinatowns in many countries and even Chinese restaurants are shunned and stigmatized.It’s obvious that racism is posing an even bigger threat than the coronavirus amid the outbreak as it breeds inequality, unfairness, hatred and hostility among different groups of people in an increasingly globalized world. Asians and especially Chinese are stigmatized as primitive, unhealthy, eating “dirty” food and carriers of deadly disease. Such stereotyped images are obviously biased, and it should be emphasized that such racial discrimination won’t bring any benefits to public health. On the contrary, exacerbating an even tenser racial climate is prone to cause more conflict as we see Asians beaten on the streets or more school bullying and violence taking place.Racism doesn’t kill the virus, so local governments all around the country need to base their preventive measures on a reasonable and effective grounds. With epidemic prevention and control entering a crucial period, some countries are overreacting and even go to...

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  Observer: Cooperation, not protectionism, needed when curbing pandemic

  If history is any lesson, people have cooperated to fight epidemics for many centuries. Chinese people spread the technique variolation to many countries to help control smallpox in ancient times. English doctor Edward Jenner in 1796 improved the treatment and formed the basis for vaccination. Widespread vaccination made the world free of smallpox by the 1980s.Nonetheless, globalization has been blamed by some parties for the international spread of COVID-19. These parties also instigated discrimination against certain countries and leveraged stigmatization to achieve hidden political ends.Is globalization really in a crisis? No. In fact, people value it more than ever amid the outbreak. The United States is increasing orders for masks from China. Workers in South Korea are speeding up the production of ventilators requested by US President Donald Trump. In Europe, critically ill Italian patients have been transferred to Germany for further treatment.No wonder many entrepreneurs have urgently called for strengthening the worlds supply chain, which was heavily hit by the pandemic, in order to revive business and benefit citizens.G20 trade and commerce ministers on March 30 called for openness and mutual cooperation to mitigate an economic slowdown and curb the spread of COVID-19.In practice, three difficulties should be kept in mind when countries commit to collective efforts. One is the pandemics crippling impact on the whole industrial and commercial situation. Dozens of big economies must contend with sharply reduced trade volume and weak production. A report from a UN trade and development meeting estimated that the worlds foreign direct investment is likely to drop 40 percent because of the disease.Overreaction and panic is the second difficulty. Many countries shut down borders and suspended air service at short notice, disturbing the worlds transportation and logistics networks. Over a hundred passengers were stranded at Frankfurt airport i...

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  Observer: Make health insurance affordable to help people against outbreak

  As the COVID-19 outbreak intensifies globally, careless preparation and strained medical resources of some governments are blamed for the current dangerous situation.The claim is partly right. The shortage of doctors and supplies to fight the disease is a common challenge faced by any country in the early days. It takes time to coordinate multiple departments to focus on the production of medical equipment and transferring relevant staff.The issue is who pays for it and how. The war of curbing the COVID-19 costs mounting efforts of all the frontline heroes, but perhaps wipes out peoples savings if health care is not properly handled.Lets illustrate it with the the United States, which in normal times has public health care for the most vulnerable, while the majority of citizens choose diverse private insurance plans. But when times are not normal, the gaps are highlighted in the limited coverage of health care.The direct consequence is the high price for the virus test and treatment, as commercial health care providers continue to favor revenue over the patients. Even now CDC testing is free under the governments guidelines, but a hospital trip and other treatment procedures still cost thousands of dollars. FAIR Health, an independent healthcare nonprofit organization, recently released a report, showing that uninsured Americans with COVID-19 would pay an estimated average of $73,300 for a 6-day hospital stay.Its getting more complicated when numerous healthcare plans overlapped and troubled patients. According to a report from Business Insider, 2 million people who live in the 14 states that did not expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act will fall into a coverage gap. They are not eligible for Medicaid, but are also ineligible for federal subsidies that make health insurance affordable through the national exchange.“They’re doing healthcare to make money, not to take care of people,” said Dr. Judd Hollander, an emergency medicine ph...

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  Observer: Inward-looking US paying price for its self-centeredness

  “I worked 12 hours in the ER today. We intubated five patients. Four people died. Seasoned nurses were found hiding and crying in storage rooms. Im literally in a war zone and the battle has only just begun. The front line is failing, you guys are on your own now.” An American emergency room nurse named Terter tweeted this on Thursday. A lot of his followers who are also healthcare workers echoed his desperation and anger.A news podcast I’m listening to features a CNN host interviewing a medical expert discussing how bad the COVID-19 situation is in the United States. It’s deja vu all over again for me. We Chinese know exactly how bad the situation could be for a COVID-19 hit city, just like Wuhan.“One of the most painful lessons of this crisis is the extent to which America cannot or will not identify with Chinese pain. Every horror that is happening here happened first in Wuhan. We covered it. Many people did not care,” tweeted a Washington Post journalist who was based in Beijing on Wednesday.“Why didn’t your editors make that coverage a higher priority,” said a comment. “It has been on the front page of the Washington Post for literal months,” she replied.Why did the Chinese pain go unnoticed even though it has been covered by a top national newspaper for months in the US? According to the replies to the tweet, some Americans think things happening in other parts of the world seem too distant to be real to many of them, and others argue that those reports which focused on blaming Chinese government convinced many Americans that they were “somehow immune.” Some Asian Americans find “systematic racism” in this: “If it happens to Asians in Asia, it’s their problem.”For me, a Chinese journalist who was based in Washington, DC, for some time and is still interested in American politics and foreign affairs, it’s mostly about the increasing inward-looking tendency of Americans. Probably it’s true that people in every country tend to care about their ow...

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  Observer: 'Political virus' must be quarantined in global health crisis

  As the world jointly fights the COVID-19 outbreak, some US politicians are engrossed in a battle to spread "political virus."According to the Daily Beast, Washington is launching a communications plan across multiple federal agencies that focuses on accusing China of orchestrating a “cover-up” and creating a global pandemic.By repeatedly calling the coronavirus “the Chinese virus", Washingtons attempts to attack Beijing to divert accusations on its poor and unprepared anti-disease response have failed, as the US government is now burned by outbreaks of both the virus and the criticism on the governing.Its widely acknowledged that China’s effective joint prevention and control has won precious time for the world. Two months ago, the US President expressed optimism over China’s response and praised China for its handling of the outbreak.“China has been working very hard to contain the coronavirus. The United States greatly appreciates their efforts and transparency,” US President Donald Trump tweeted on January 25.Apparently, the public also doesn’t buy Washingtons confusing attitude. The US media has listed various problems of the administration, including three weeks delay to solve inconclusive test kits, passing the buck among different agencies, governments downplaying of the pandemic, the shortage of expensive testing for the public, among others.Instead of fixing the mistakes, Washington spreads fear of a foreign threat to distract attention. As said by the New York Times on March 20 in an opinion piece, the US government is trying to "distract you from their catastrophic failure.”As WHO emphasized, the dangers of vilifying another country and people are greater than the virus itself. Some US politicians should discard prejudice, isolate from “political virus”, take responsibility and actively join in the global efforts against the global health crisis. It’s never too late to fix the mistakes and fol...

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  Observer: HK to stay vigilant in a fight against violent acts under the name of 'freedom'

  The Heritage Foundation, an American conservative think tank based in Washington, released the 2020 Index of Economic Freedom report on Tuesday. Chinas Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was ranked second among 180 economies, losing the title of the worlds freest economy, which it has kept for 25 consecutive years.The violent protests that broke out in June last year and led to a deterioration in Hong Kongs public order and the investment environment has played a big role in the drop in ranking.In various evaluation indicators, Hong Kongs investment freedom score dropped sharply from 90 points in the previous year to 80 points.The report is probably the biggest irony for radical protesters and the people who incite and condone violence. It proves that their so-called fighting for freedom is doing massive damage to the freedom of Hong Kong.Since last June, violent rioters conducted a months-long anti-extradition protest in the city. The riots have trampled the rule of law and sabotaged social order. The acts of barbarism include setting fires in the streets, damaging public facilities, looting of shops, attacking civilians with different opinions, setting fire in court, and assaulting police officers and local legislators.Besides that, people who support the rioters have "turned white to black" by trying to justify the violent acts. The disgraceful behavior not only deprived the general public of a stable environment, but also severely impacted Hong Kongs economy and peoples livelihoods.According to a report released by the Hong Kong government, in the fourth quarter, Hong Kongs GDP fell 2.9 percent from a year ago and the economy dropped 1.2 percent year-on-year in 2019, marking the first annual contraction in the past decade. An overall downward trend is also predicted for this year.An economic recession will breed many social issues, including fewer jobs and shrinking incomes. The outbreak of the coronavirus has ju...

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  Observer: Global health crisis can only be solved by unity, not stigmatization

  Social stigma and discrimination are repeating occurrences through humanity’s history of coping with pandemics. This time is no exception.Pressure on the White House sharply mounted as the US faces grave challenges from both the COVID-19 epidemic and a volatile stock market.Scientists are still tracing the origin of the novel coronavirus, but some American politicians allege China is to blame. Their reaction was not to follow scientific opinions and map out contingency plans but to label the novel coronavirus the “Chinese Virus.”When the World Health Organization named the disease “COVID-19,” it explicitly explained that global experts intended to prevent the use of other names that may be inaccurate or stigmatizing.The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned against stigma-causing language even before the virus demonstrated its destructive power in the United States.The term “Chinese Virus” only contributes to confusion and divisiveness in an uncertain time, infectious disease experts warned. An editorial in the Dallas Morning News on Wednesday urged Americans to stop using it.Another article, from Politico, also disapproved of the term. “The escalating drumbeat against China is worrying some public health experts, who say the attempts to blame Beijing for the coronavirus outbreak could harm efforts to combat the spreading contagion.” Using labels like “Chinese Virus” has done more to degrade trust than build it.“A lot of these emotional and punishment policies will over time come back to bite us,” warned Paul Haenle, a former National Security Council official under the George W Bush and Obama administrations.“Naming a disease after a place stigmatizes that place and that’s why there’s been an intentional move away from that,” said Jeremy Konyndyk, another former Obama administration official who helped lead the US response to the Ebola outbreak in Africa. “Ultimately, diseases are about biology, not geography.”“Let’s remember. C...

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  Observer: Everyone is affected in a global pandemic

  The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that the COVID-19 outbreak was a "pandemic" on Wednesday, sounding alarm bells in the global fight against the virus.In response to surging infections in Europe, US President Donald Trump announced that all travel from Europe to the United States will be suspended for 30 days excluding the UK.In light of the spread of the virus, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said countries should "double down and we should be more aggressive" and focus on containment. He encouraged countries to find and test every case, prepare hospitals, train health workers and cooperate.It’s time to give priority to disease prevention and control while taking urgent and aggressive actions to suppress infections.The Chinese government’s capacity to mobilize the country’s resources in disease control, implement a massive quarantine and isolation regime, centralize decisions at the top, and raise public awareness has indeed paid off, as daily new confirmed cases in the country declined from thousands to 15 on Wednesday.China’s experience in battling against the virus was made at a bitter cost in human loss. Though it’s far too early to say the virus fight is close to an end in China, China does offer the world multiple lessons. The whole human race faces the same enemy.Due to social differences, conducting wide-scale quarantine and isolation in residential communities may not be feasible in Europe and other parts of the world. All the world faces similar problems, like shortages of medical supplies and mounting pressure on the public health care system. Local governments should get better prepared for these upcoming challenges.Improving domestic capacity in producing masks, gloves, protective suits and other equipment while aligning with other countries for mega-capacity is a good choice. Tedros emphasized the pandemic “is not just a public health crisis, it is a crisis that will touch every sector" so tha...

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  Observer: China willing to share expertise in virus containment with the world

  At the press conference held by the State Council Information Office on Wednesday, COVID-19 frontline medical workers shared their expertise on the treatment of the disease in China. With infections of the novel coronavirus surging across the globe, reporters from India, Japan and the UK were all concerned about Chinas practices in disease prevention and control. Confronted with the daunting challenges that the virus turned into a human tragedy haunting the human race, China, with Wuhan and Hubei as the epicenter and the first country to mobilize the country to fight a nationwide battle, undoubtedly has some lessons worthy of learning to make other countries better prepared for the epidemic.To take the unprecedented rescue mission, China has made tremendous efforts in popularizing information about the virus so as to raise public awareness and eventually change their behavior. By imposing the largest ever isolation and quarantine measures, postponing school openings and shutting down factories, coupled with media reports on the severity of the virus and how to prevent it, the awareness of wearing masks, reducing public gatherings, washing hands, sterilizing daily necessities and monitoring body temperature is deeply rooted in peoples hearts.Its best to face the truth rather than sugarcoating it. In Italy, with over 3,000 infections of the virus, wearing masks is yet to be recognized by the public. Often, people discriminate against those who wear masks, and even regard such people as carriers of the virus. Theres a much longer way to go for people in Italy and other European countries to take necessary precautions before its too late. Local governments should take the responsibility of informing the public, spreading the knowledge as the first step to make actual changes.More importantly, coming up with a series of contingency plans is what governments around the world should do. In China, the government has done much to track the source of ...

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  Observer: Lai Chee-ying arrest shows HK is enforcing laws

  Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, one of the key anti-government figures in Hong Kong and founder of Next Media Ltd, was detained on Friday for participating in an illegal assembly and criminal intimidation. Defying Hong Kong police, Lai and his lackeys brazenly attended unlawful demonstrations on August 31 in 2019, which massively obstructed local transportation and sparked rounds of damaging actions. In June 2017, Lai used abusive words to insult and menace a journalist of the Oriental Daily News on assignment.Both criminal cases happened in crowded areas. His arrest represents Hong Kong Polices strictness in enforcing the law and shows its lawful governance and intolerance of crimes.Lai-led radicals have been the scourge of Hong Kong for many years. Under the guise of so-called freedom of assembly, press and speech, they have colluded with foreign anti-China forces to agitate political conflict and create social division. Their previous crimes have been enough to nail them to the pillar of shame, including sabotaging the principle of "one country, two systems" and making chaos undermining social stability and prosperity.Lais two suspected crimes had an extreme and damaging impact. Since the controversial extradition bill, his gangsters deliberately resorted to illegal moves in defiance of law and norms, bringing about huge damage to Hong Kongs economic and social development amid the months-long chaotic situation. During the period, Lai helped plot radical movements and offered financial support. He even used his media to agitate various traitorous political activities while shamelessly begging the US for help.The case of intimidating the journalist shows his absurd hypocrisy. The media founded by Lai has always used “press freedom” as cover to bluff and cheat. Who is the biggest destroyer and blasphemer of Hong Kong’s “press freedom” while shamelessly intimidating a journalist from other media?With the outbreak of the COVID-19, Hong Kong’s econ...

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  Observer: Racism a bigger threat than coronavirus

  Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 in China, despite seeing countless reports on the number of infections and how hard frontline medical staff fight against the virus, it’s disheartening to witness how racism based on the epidemic is emerging in many countries. Instead of standing in solidarity, Asians and anyone who looks Chinese are stigmatized.In many countries, especially in Europe and North America, it’s common to see passengers resist sitting next to Asian passengers. Shops and malls turn down Asian customers. Asian schoolchildren who attend schools in the West are bullied or singled out by teachers and classmates. On the front page of a French newspaper, big block letters announced “Yellow Alert” next to an image of a Chinese woman wearing a face mask. In fact, Asians wearing surgical masks for the purpose of disease prevention are turning into the targets of discrimination and regarded as carrying certain types of virus. It’s even more ridiculous that Chinatowns in many countries and even Chinese restaurants are shunned and stigmatized.It’s obvious that racism is posing an even bigger threat than the coronavirus amid the outbreak as it breeds inequality, unfairness, hatred and hostility among different groups of people in an increasingly globalized world. Asians and especially Chinese are stigmatized as primitive, unhealthy, eating “dirty” food and carriers of deadly disease. Such stereotyped images are obviously biased, and it should be emphasized that such racial discrimination won’t bring any benefits to public health. On the contrary, exacerbating an even tenser racial climate is prone to cause more conflict as we see Asians beaten on the streets or more school bullying and violence taking place.Racism doesn’t kill the virus, so local governments all around the country need to base their preventive measures on a reasonable and effective grounds. With epidemic prevention and control entering a crucial period, some countries are overreacting and even go to...

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  Observer: Key CPC meetings set the tone for China’s recovery from epidemic

  The coronavirus outbreak has triggered a crisis and a big test for China, but with timely and coordinated responses, China would navigate through the unprecedented hardship and fulfill the development targets.The epidemic is a major public health emergency that has spread the fastest, caused the most extensive infection and has been the most difficult to contain in the country since the founding of the Peoples Republic of China.This is a key observation given by Chinese President Xi Jinping as he spoke to over 170,000 Chinese officials from top to grassroots level in a video conference on Sunday.The top leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has convened seven times over the past 30 days, figuring out the most pressing issues in virus containment and mapping out strategies.The positive trend in the prevention and control work is now expanding after arduous and coordinated efforts have been put in place, said the latest meeting.New cases and fatalities continue to drop in Hubei and its capital Wuhan for days, the center of the virus fight. Some 24 provincial level regions reported zero new infections on Sunday and six provinces lowered their response level from the highest."It has been proven that the CPC Central Committees judgment on the situation of the epidemic is accurate, all work arrangements are timely, and the measures taken are effective," said Xi.In the Sunday meeting, Chinese officials were urged to remain vigilant and make unremitting efforts as China is delicately balancing between disease control and resumption of normal social and economic growth. These two tasks are intertwined and neither one can be omitted.There is no doubt that the epidemic has dealt a relatively huge blow to China’s economic and social development as production and consumption declined. However, the disease hasn’t weakened the fundamentals of Chinas long-term sound economic growth.The central government takes full use of its policy toolkit...

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  Observer: China's interim name for virus critical move to curtail stigmatization

  Chinas National Health Commission decided to temporarily name the new virus pneumonia as "Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia", or NCP, on Saturday at a press briefing.This came after the World Health Organization (WHO) had earlier recommended the temporary name 2019-nCoV, but many still refer the virus as "Wuhan Virus," by the name of the city where it originated. Some even have called it the "China Virus.”Not only individuals, some media organizations inflammatory and discriminatory reporting has further exacerbated the stigmatization. The Wall Street Journal carried an article headlined as "China is the real sick man of Asia." Australias Herald Suns headline read, “Chinese virus pandamonium.”A French paper ran a front-page article warning of a “Yellow Alert.”Facing an unknown epidemic, it is understandable there is vigilance, but we must not let that vigilance go too far and become racism and discrimination. In history, weve seen certain diseases names provoke an abusive backlash and potential racism against members of particular ethnic communities, create unjustified barriers to travel, commerce and trade, and trigger needless slaughtering of food animals.For instance, we have wrongly called the viruses as "Middle East Respiratory Syndrome" and "Spanish flu", and those names have largely stigmatized entire regions or ethnic groups.The danger of stigmatization and racism is not just driving a wedge between different groups of people. It can also make the sick reluctant to seek medical care, thus counterproductive to the fight against the virus.Given that any negative regional or ethnic discrimination can only inflict more pain on those who suffer the most, it is the responsibility of the whole world to ensure that there is no stigma associated with the disease.To contain the spread of the virus within the shortest time possible, China has implemented the strictest measures, with th...

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  Observer: Nobody will be left behind in the battle against coronavirus

  An inspection group dispatched by China’s central government to Hubei Province, the epicenter of the novel coronavirus outbreak, said all confirmed or suspected patients should be located and treated. Local authorities are to conduct thorough screenings of each patient’s close contacts and anyone else who has experienced virus-like symptoms."Every minute is a life, and medical care must not be delayed. Medical personnel must race against time and provide aid for patients in need," said the inspection group.China’s Hubei Province has remained the center of the novel coronavirus epidemic. To contain the virus, everyone in the province must contribute in the battle against this epidemic. Such efforts demand comprehensive measures and individual responsibility to prevent the outbreak from spreading. On the path to victory, nobody shall be left behind, and this is how we will win.Since the virus outbreak, the CPC Central Committee has attached great importance in safeguarding human life and health. Epidemic prevention and control efforts are a matter of life and death and cannot afford to hesitate or make the slightest delay. The policy of "ensuring every confirmed or suspected patient is located and treated without leaving anyone unprotected" reveals a general concern over patients and a respect for human life.To ensure "every confirmed or suspected patient is located and attended to without leaving anyone unprotected," we need more advanced procedures and support facilities. Every step must be solid to help doctors and patients in this battle. Whether it’s transferring people to quarantine facilities or providing supplies to medical staff, it is imperative that we work together step-by-step.Its a race against time and a fight against sickness. As the saying goes, "Speed is a soldier’s asset.” We have the confidence and ability to defeat this epidemic as long as we rise to the challenges, react faster...

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  Observer: Phase one deal takes a solid step toward healthy China-US ties

  Photo: CGTNChina and the US signeda phase one trade agreement Wednesdayin Washington, setting a truce between the world’s two largest economies.Analysts see the trade agreement as progress towards resolving the trade dispute and beneficial for both sides. Craig Allen, president of the US-China Business Council, told Chinese media that intellectual property rights, financial services and agriculture are three key sectors that will benefit from a trade deal.Some voices noted that the deal may not satisfy everyone, but the consensus on temporary cessation of the Sino-US trade war is still a euphony largely settling the frayed nerves of traders across the world. It is solid evidence showing that the trade dispute can be and should be solved through dialogue and consultation on the basis of equality and mutual respect.Since the US initiated the trade war on China in 2018, the Trump administration has been irrationally trying to eradicate the trade deficit with China once for all by slapping additional tariffs on imported goods from China.The ongoing trade war has made a negative impact on the entire global economy to the edge of a possible recession. From industry magnates to ordinary farmers, Americans took a hard hit from the US-initiated trade war. For the past years, US manufacturers have seen profits shrink both directly and indirectly by the trade war.The prolonged trade war and the Trump administration’s aggressive rhetoric about it did not wear down China’s patience at the negotiation table.For China and the US, conflict can hurt both and cooperation is the only correct choice for both sides. Reaching a phase one trade agreement will serve the core interests of both countries as well as the world.Reaching the phase one trade agreement is a milestone for the years-long trade tensions. The China-US phase one trade agreement sets a good example of effective dialogue and negotiation.The current trade war is also a reminder for the US that it is time to re...

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  Observer: Escalating Iran-US tension raises spectre of conflict over Middle East

  The tension between Iran and the United States has sharply escalated recently following the killing of Qasem Soleimani, commander of the Quds Force of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) in an airstrike launched by the US on Jan.3 in Iraq’s capital of Baghdad.Although the case is unlikely to lead to large-scale military conflicts, the possibility of low-intensity and small-scale direct military conflicts has significantly increased because of it.Iran will probably take revenge on the US in an effort to safeguard its prestige, dignity, national security, and to win the hearts of its people. Iranian senior officials, including supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani, have vowed “severe revenge” on the US, which has made the US urgently dispatched about 3,000 more soldiers to the Middle East.The US has “targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level and important to Iran and the Iranian culture,” US President Donald Trump tweeted on Jan.4. Based on the strategic intent, military strength, combat capability, and available resources of Iran, it can be deduced that the possible retaliatory measures for the US might involve the following aspects.Iran might launch direct attacks on major military targets, facilities, and organizations of the US military near Iran. According to credible statistics, there are a total of 34 US military bases near Iran, with most of which being within the range of Iran’s missiles.Iran might attack US military targets via its supporters. There are a great number of pro-Iran militias in countries including Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Afghanistan. They are important political and military forces that Iran can count on. The country might launch strikes against local sites of allies of the US, such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Israel, and Bahrain. Besides, Iran migh...

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  Observers, netizens slam Netherlands interfering in China’s judiciary after pastor conviction

  Notice about outlawing Early Rain Covenant Church Photo: website of Qingyang district civil affairs bureau. (Photo: Global Times)Chinese observers and netizens have slammed some Western countries, including the Netherlands and the US, for grossly interfering in Chinas internal affairs and judiciary decision after they openly supported a Chinese pastor who was recently sentenced to nine years in prison for attempted subversion of state power and running illegal business operations.Furious Chinese netizens have stormed the commentary section of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in China since Wednesday with comments stating that the Netherlands has no right to point the finger at Chinas internal affairs, and Chinese people will not tolerate such deeds.On New Years Day, the Dutch embassy posted on Weibo, a Twitter-like platform, that a new years wish of the Netherlands is that countries worldwide will unconditionally implement the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It posted a screenshot of the recent court ruling on Wang Yi, a pastor who founded the unregistered Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu, Southwest Chinas Sichuan Province.The Early Rain Covenant Churchs case was handled long ago by the Qingyang district civil affairs bureau in Chengdu, an official with the Department of Ethnic and Religious Affairs of Chengdu told the Global Times. According to a notice on the website of the Qingyang district civil affairs bureau, the church was banned in December 2018. The church was never registered and had organized activities as if it were a registered social organization; therefore it was deemed to be an illegal social organization.Wang was sentenced to nine years in prison for inciting subversion of state power and illegal business operations. He was also deprived of political rights for three years and fined 50,000 yuan ($7,179), according to Chengdu Intermediate Peoples Court on Monday.The D...

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  Observer: Foreign interference to be ceased for the future of Hong Kong

  The government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) issued a statement Wednesday to refute an open letter from a group of overseas politicians and persons to chief executive Carrie Lam. The letter demonstrated a rather biased and groundless view towards the situation in Hong Kong and inherently interfered in Chinas internal affairs.The letters signatories ignore the ways Hong Kong police enforce the laws, which are always in a restrained manner. Over Christmas and even during the past six months, only when protesters held illegal activities would the Hong Kong police resort to minimum and proportionate force necessary to maintain public safety and order.The letter called on the Hong Kong police to "respect the right to peaceful protest". It ignored the ironclad fact that what haunted Hong Kong in the past six months was no longer peaceful protest but rampant violence. Violence swirled out of control and reached an alarming level.Rioters challenged the citys order and rule of law by vandalizing shops, smashing public facilities, setting fires, turning campuses into war zones, hurling petrol bombs and attacking police and ordinary citizens.Let the numbers speak. Its reported that 520 police officers have been injured on duty up to now. Meanwhile, no protesters were killed due to direct police action. On New Years Eve, rioters hurled petrol bombs in various districts, damaging a police vehicle and three private cars.Reconciliation requires the efforts from both sides. Just like local police officers keep saying, if protesters do not use violence, there would not be any necessity for Hong Kong police to resort to lawful use of force to defend themselves. If protesters are peaceful, rational and orderly, the police will not and have no reason to intervene.Supporting radicals is by no means supporting Hong Kong, as the two sides stand on the opposite side of justice, peace and stability. By posing threats to...

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  Observer: No tolerance for violence against medical staff

  A recent homicide in a Beijing hospital has drawn indignation and condemnation from medical professionals and the general public. It also sparked heated discussions in China — again — on how to stop violence against healthcare workers.Doctor Yang Wen, who worked in the emergency department at Civil Aviation General Hospital, was stabbed by a patients family member on December 24 and died the next morning.Sun Wenbin was arrested on charges intentional homicide on last Friday. Police say the alleged attacker held grudge against the hospital on a personal presumption that doctors prescribed the wrong medicine to his 95-year-old mother.The relationship between doctors and patients in China has been repeatedly smeared by disputes and outbursts of assaults verbally and physically against medical workers. Media reported at least 12 violent incidents last year involving medical workers, including two deaths.Abuse against medical staff in China has caught the attention of policy-makers. Six years ago, China’s health and public security authorities issued an advisory on safety measures designed to reduce conflicts in the doctor-patient relationship, which includes more security staff to be deployed in hospitals and the establishment of an appropriate in-house procedure that allows patients to express discontent and give advice.China’s top legislature took a step further on Saturday. It voted to adopt a specific law on the promotion of basic medical and health care, including an article stating that any individual or organization is prohibited from threatening or harming the personal safety of medical staff, or violating their dignity.The newly adopted law has ensured medical staff’s personal safety and dignity from the legislative level. It clarifies the legal responsibilities and penalties for violence against medical personnel, and calls for people in all walks of life to care about and respect medical staff.It’s a common challenge to anni...

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  Observer: Unity, consultation anchor Macao in success amid challenges

  Chinese President Xi Jinping recently delivered a speech at a gathering in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland. In his speech, Xi highly praised the social and cultural atmosphere in Macao. He also complimented Macao’s government and residents for understanding the importance of harmony, unity and consultation, as well as avoiding disputes and internal friction.Xi said that in Macao, different ethnic groups respect each other and help each other, diverse cultures achieve peaceful coexistence and mutual benefit and local residents work together to create a harmonious and mutually supportive society.Xi emphasized that tolerance and harmony are vital factors that stimulate the social vitality of Macao and that consolidate the citys inexhaustible strength in moving forward.With the combination of east and west, Macao is more stylish than ever. A Macao writer once said that Macao is a bridge through which Matteo Ricci, Morrison and other missionaries introduced Western culture to China, and it was also an important starting point at which Chinese nationals like Lin Zexu and Zheng Guanying broadened their perceptions of the world. However, as a previously colony, Macao could not promote its multicultural beauty; only when historical tensions eased could people be immersed in the charm of the human civilization. Since reunification, Macao has enjoyed a perfect combination of various cultural elements, ancient and modern, eastern and western, such as it’s developing cultural industry and foreign exchanges, as well as the title of “gourmet city” and the “Macao historic district", which has been listed as world cultural heritage.With a bird’s eye view of the peninsula from atop Fortress Hill, Macao is expanding from being "gaming only" to a “colorful city", where people live a relaxing life in an environment where commerical development and ancient culture coexist. It is now an internationally renowned cit...

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  Observer: Macao’s prosperity indispensably linked to ‘one country, two systems’ principle

  Chinese President Xi Jinping paid a visit to Macao from Wednesday to Friday in the wake of celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland.Xi attended 19 activities during his 48-hour stay, including meeting with former chief executives of Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) and inspecting the local Chinese Peoples Liberation Army garrison. The tight schedule reflected his high expectations and best wishes for the future of the city. In his speeches, Xi repeatedly mentioned the "one country, two systems" principle, a critical factor in Macaos success.Over the past 20 years, the Macao SAR government together with people from all walks of life have achieved the best ever development and highest standard of living in Macaos history. Macaos economy has grown by leaps and bounds since its return to the motherland, with its per capita GDP soaring to the worlds second highest, its unemployment rate reduced to 1.8 percent and its cumulative fiscal surplus increasing by 193 times. Facts prove that Macaos achievement in economic social development and all these historical changes are grounded in the principle of “one country” and ensured when the unique strengths of “two systems” are brought into play. Xi highlighted that "only by ensuring no distortion of the one country, two systems practice can the cause of one country, two systems progress steadily," when addressing a gathering in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland and the inauguration of the fifth-term government of the Macao SAR.People in Macao have differing opinions on how the City of the Lotus Flower has taken shape in the 20 years since its return. Some say that Macao has changed with more skyscrapers going up and people becoming richer and more patriotic. Others say that life in Macao is the same as it was with dancing, gambling, and motor racing still popular forms ...

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  Observer: Rioters laying down weapons is vital for HK to restore peace

  Hong Kongs police staged a surprise raid and arrested three males for allegedly testing explosives in Tuen Mun on Saturday. One suspect is believed to be a middle school lab assistant.In a separate case, employees with the City University of Hong Kong found several containers filled with petrol bombs on Friday and promptly notified the authorities. Police later discovered smoke bombs and flammable substances like nitric acid.Recently, violence has spread across Hong Kong campuses. It should serve as a warning sign that chemicals and explosives were found in various locations. As reported by the police, had such weapons and bombs been used, they would have severely threatened human life and property.This wasnt the first time Hong Kong police had seized lethal weapons and hazardous chemicals used by the rioters. In the past months, radical protesters shot arrows at police officers and throwing petrol bombs at a police station and anti-riot vehicles. The protesters upgraded their weapons from bricks and metal poles to petrol bombs and powerful archery bows. The weapons helped rioters escalate their violent and emboldened actions.As the saying goes, "a person with a weapon will produce the killing thoughts.” The rioters have shown their brutal side for the past six months.Had lethal weapons been acquired by rioters, they would have become fearless in confronting the police and hurting innocent people, which would have brought catastrophic consequences to Hong Kong.It is time to issue harsh warnings to the radicals that violence will no longer be tolerated, and their attempts to turn the city into a battlefield are doomed to fail.In November, rioters started fires at Hong Kong Polytechnic University and attacked police officers with lethal weapons. Images of burning debris and rubble resembled a warzone and stunned many people. Such turmoil should never be tolerated in the future.Hong Kong belongs to its residents. It is not a lawless jungle where ri...

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  Observer: Purifying HK's education environment imperative

  The recent chaos in Hong Kong has revealed some deep-seated problems. One issue involving unethical behavior demonstrated by teachers has caused great concern.Since the protests began, a few Hong Kong teachers have transitioned into politicians, blurring the boundary between crime and justice, and inciting student participation.As a result, many students have trampled over society’s bottom line by becoming active rioters. Dressed in black and spreading terror, they transformed the Poly University campus into an arsenal and terrorist training camp. A once harmonious campus was denigrated to a lost paradise and made it a tragedy to behold.Data review highlights the problems of Hong Kong’s education system. Since June, almost 6,000 protesters have been arrested, and nearly 40 percent were students, and over 900 were minors.A lack of professional ethics among teachers was reflected in 30 confirmed cases, with another 70 noticeable incidents. According to the statistics among those arrested, it was revealed that not one Hong Kong university was excluded.There is something wrong with the city’s education system. Communities have been negatively influenced. If the rioting does not stop immediately, how many more students will be turned into criminals and regret their actions for the rest of their lives?Teenagers are naive and vulnerable to seditious ideas. However, some teachers have surprised society for blatantly promoting violence. As the saying goes, “Students mirror teacher behavior.”After one Hong Kong teacher insulted the police on social media, saying their family members should go to hell, we can imagine how dirty the “mirror” is.With such obvious facts, teachers should not be trusted with young students. Their behavior will not only mislead students but also bring irreparable loss to a school’s reputation.They are damaging Hong Kong’s civilized society from the inside out, poisoning academic integrity, and making trouble for everyone invol...

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  Observer: Violence no way to make Hong Kong safer

  Bomb disposal experts defused two home-made explosive devices that were found at Wah Yan College in Hong Kongs Wan Chai district on Monday night.Hong Kong police said the two devices contained approximately 10kg of high explosives and shrapnel in the form of nails. Experts estimated the bombs blast radius to be 100 meters. When Hong Kong rioters planted the bombs on campus, they broke the law and also disregarded morality and humanity. It seems that they have distanced themselves from modern civilization and embarked on the path of evolving into terrorists.From hammering metro gates to beating police officers with iron rods, from using modified umbrellas and bricks to incendiary and acid bombs, from large self-made slingshots to home-made bombs, from smearing police stations to burning courts, from desecrating the dead to killing people, the violence by thugs has been escalating in Hong Kong, plunging the city into turmoil and putting its residents in danger. It has been half a year already.Incitement of and indulgence in violence have resulted in social disorder and economic recession. The perpetrators of the violence are still there, ghostly, vowing to destroy peoples dreams of peace and development. Without eradicating violence, without stopping riots, how can safety be guaranteed in Hong Kong?Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced the formal withdrawal of the extradition bill in early September. After that, people exhausted by months of protests decided to focus on solving the deeper root of the unrest, ease society’s concerns and narrow differences. However, radical demonstrators were not satisfied with constructive measures or good will. They decided to continue the black terror and violence in Hong Kong society.They not only paralyzed the citys infrastructure and disrupted social order, but also set fire to an innocent person who blamed them for creating the chaos. Rioters have carried ou...

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  Observer: End lies, violence in Hong Kong

  The demonstrations held in Hong Kong on Sunday were generally peaceful, compared to the previous months. Unfortunately, and once again, black-clad rioters interrupted the city’s residents while they were expressing their demands. Rioters deviated from the police-approved procession route and placed barricades on the streets while raiding and damaging retail shops and restaurants, while starting fires and vandalizing public facilities.Their goal of placing residents’ lives in danger is crystal clear. Since June, they have used the residents as tools and shields. They have crossed the bottom line of law, morals, and humanity, in an attempt to shut down Hong Kong.Wherever core values of Hong Kong exist, that is where they will attack. Wherever traditional advantages exist, they destroy them. The unruly protesters dream of changing Hong Kong through violence and then reconstructing order. They have vowed to attack all existing systems. Truth be told, the executive, legislative, and judicial systems are thorns in their flesh.Peace lovers in Hong Kong should realize that tolerating such violence only encourages the rioters, fuels brutality, and gives them more excuses to spread lies and rumors. In the media coverage, the same rioters have referred to the peaceful demonstrators as their supporters.For those who have encountered travel delays, the rioters have referred to them as “strike participants.” The petrol bombs used by the rioters contain dioxins, which are dangerous and harmful chemicals, yet they blamed the tear gas used by police for the recent chemical air pollution.Rioters also started rumors there were fatal events resulting from the incident in Prince Edward Mass Transit Railway (MTR) Station on August 31. However, it turned out that those so-called victims are alive.Data has revealed that 880 shops were looted, and nearly 500 police officers have been injured. More than 2,000 protesters, incited by the opposition, were arrested....

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  Observer: Violent rioters are culprits of weakening Hong Kong economy

  For the past six months, the anti-extradition bill protests have turned the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) into a battleground dominated by violent extremes and countermeasures by police. Now, the unrest is taking a heavy toll on the economy. According to a preliminary government estimate released in October, Hong Kong’s gross domestic product (GDP) contracted 2.9 percent year-on-year in the third quarter, marking the first contraction for an individual quarter since 2009. HKSAR also cut its GDP forecast for 2019 to a negative 1.3 percent. It indicates that the Hong Kong economy has entered a technical recession. Hong Kong’s economic outlook will continue to deteriorate, and the weakening economy will incur a huge loss as long as the violent protests conitnue in the city.The macro data are shocking and the analysis is even more breathtaking. The number of tourists to Hong Kong has been declining for four consecutive months to 43.7 percent in October; the unemployment rate rose to 3.1 percent from August to October, and that of the catering industry reached 6.1 percent, the highest in nearly six years; retail sales total was down 24.3 percent in October from the same period last year, which was a record-breaking decline. All walks of life have become victims of the unrest and violence in Hong Kong and they are suffering from what they cannot afford.Facts and figures illustrate the consequences of the economic recession in Hong Kong. A senior official of the HKSAR government said on Monday that Hong Kong would likely register its first budget deficit in 15 years for the current fiscal year ending on March 31. Some industries have issued a warning of stagnant wage growth next year, the first time since 2007. Hong Kongs catering industry is also under the weather due to the months of protests. Hundreds of restaurants hve closed in the wake of protests. The rampaging protests are also causing great troubles for local transportation, imposing threats...

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  Observer: Misinformation campaign misleads Hong Kong public

  Various protesters assumed dead return back to life, not as a medical miracle, but because of vicious rumors. The Hong Kong public was informed of several deaths of protesters during a vehement clash at the MTR Prince Edward station with police on August 31.Three months later, a local media ascertained the accusation was a false claim and the six protesters who were believed dead in the alleged random attacks by police said they were actually transferred to hospitals or police stations.For months, police departments, medical services and firefighters have explained that nobody perished in the police operation at the Prince Edward station, but their statements were poorly accepted, particularly by the opposition camp.Since the start of the anti-extradition rallies, Hong Kong has been inundated with false rumors and deliberately fabricated accusations against police, which has largely misled the public.Examples abound with police officers being blamed for tossing petrol bombs to protesters to former district councilor Junius Ho being accused of staging a political stunt after being stabbed by an opponent during an election campaign.An egregious case is the death misery of a 15-year-old girl. Protesters insisted police murdered the girl and ignored the parents’ clarification that the girl took her own life and appealed for no more public attention. The protesters words and deeds have drifted from the truth and squarely challenged the stability and order in Hong Kong.When the district council election was about to begin, the hype of the China threat emerged to seize some Western headlines.Australian media and intelligence officials were fascinated with the confession of a self-proclaimed Chinese agent who turned out to be a convicted fraud and entered Australia with fake passports. Simon Cheng, former employee of the British consulate in Hong Kong, claimed he was tortured by mainland police, but tapes released by Shenzhen police showed Cheng was detained on charges of p...

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  Observer: Alarm bells ring for China's showbiz industry

  The sudden death of actor Godfrey Tsao has exposed problems in Chinas showbiz industry. Increasing pressure on ratings is forcing stars and staff to work long hours, while workplace protections lag behind.Its reported that 35-year-old Tsao died of a sudden cardiac arrest while filming the competitive sports reality show "Chase Me" in Ningbo in East Chinas Zhejiang Province on Wednesday.Reports said Tsao collapsed while running and shouting "I couldnt bear it." Hearing the news, web users raised a series of questions concerning the workplace protections of the show on social media.Godfrey Tsao (File photo: VCG)The first question is whether the long hours of filming the TV show exceed the physical limits of people.The celebrities of "Chase Me" are required to start running at around 9 pm with followers chasing them until 5 or 6 am.Screenshot from the TV show "Chase Me" (Photo via weibo)Limited budgets have made many crews choose to tape the show in an intensive way rather than splitting the taping over two days. Working nonstop for over 10 hours a day has turned into the daily norm of Chinas showbiz industry. No wonder stars are getting physically worn out. Such unspoken norms have paved the way for the occurrence of accidents.Moreover, as the program is projected to push participants in the games to extremes, many rounds are designed to be exhausting even for participants in good physical shape. In previous shows, games for the participants include climbing a 70-meter-high building and swinging at a height of 140 meters by hanging on a rope. And those chosen to chase after the participants are not ordinary. They include triathlon athletes and a former SWAT officer.Screenshot from the TV show "Chase Me" (Photo via weibo)Based on the format of American TV show "Million Dollar Mile" and Germanys "Catch", "Catch Me" differs largely in the profes...

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  Observer: Ending violence in Hong Kong remains most pressing task

  The counting of ballots in the Sixth-term District Council Ordinary Election of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) was completed on Monday by noon.The voting occurred amid tough and unstable situations, as the "color revolution" riot continued and radical activities intensified. Yet the count took place in an orderly and peaceful way under the all-out support of the Hong Kong police, even though the process faced some trouble and threats.The most pressing task now is to stop the violence and restore order in Hong Kong. The constant massive violent unrest over the past five months has pushed the financial hub into dangerous circumstances. Brutal behavior such as blocking airports and police stations, obstructing subways, forcibly occupying campuses, stabbing a lawmaker and setting fire to an old man trampled on law and social order, imperilled Hong Kongs prosperity and challenged the "one country, two systems" principle. If the situation is left alone, local residents will see no peace, and suffer from social and economic stagnation.Recently, some leading radicals ostensibly declared a suspension of rioting temporarily, in order to wait for the voting results to ignite the rioting again. Some rioters planned to clamor for saving their arrested peers after the polling. Their hypocritical instincts and hidden intentions of causing violence are clear. Therefore the short peace ahead of voting couldnt change the fact that the rioters violent roots persist, and citizens safety is at risk. Only when the roots are dug out and removed can peace and stability return to Hong Kong.Just as the 70s classic song “Below the Lion Rock” says, "Life is often rough and worries are hard to avoid." The riot initially caused by the extradition bill is a difficult test for Hong Kong. Its common to meet wind and rain, but we must brave the storm. The ardent patriots in Hong Kong should look at the long-run interests of the c...

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  Observer: Glorifying HK rioters reflects ignorance

  Hong Kong separatist Joshua Wong Chi-fung has once again sought attention in a despicable way, by calling for votes in a poll to get Hong Kong protesters as Times Person of the Year.For quite some time, Wong has sought help from the West to intervene in Hong Kong affairs. Meanwhile, he uses the protesters as political ATMs to get money and resources for his own benefit.He keeps on seeking so-called “international attention,” going so far as asking web users to vote for the protesters to be Times Person of the Year.First and foremost, to clarify who really stands for the interests of Hong Kong, we need to know that Hong Kong protesters are only a handful of Hong Kong residents, and by no means can their voices be the voices of Hong Kong. Indeed, there are some protesters who held demonstrations on a legal and peaceful basis, but over the past five months some of them turned into rioters who took to the streets, set barricades, smashed buildings, used petrol bombs, turned universities into strongholds, forced classes to be suspended and even hurt innocent citizens in a violent and illegal way.Wong is a representative of the extremists and radicals who committed serious, violent crimes in the name of so-called "democracy" as he used to be detained along with other suspects for taking part in violent crimes by Hong Kong police. Whether peaceful demonstrators or rioters, they dont represent all Hong Kong people. If all protesters are packaged as heroes, its ignorance of the voices of most Hong Kong people, who want order restored to their beloved home. Such acts confuse right from wrong, further sabotaging the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong and the region.Moreover it should be noted that Hong Kong is Chinas Hong Kong and its affairs are Chinas internal affairs. Past practices of the "one country, two systems" principle have proved that it is the best system to maintain the stabil...

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  Observer: US double standard foreign policy exposes hegemonic mentality

  The US Senate passed the so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019 on Tuesday. This act turns black into white while neglecting truth and represents the typical hallmarks of shameless US double standard thinking.The US has a long history of double standards, as revealed by their Hong Kong interference. They have labeled the rioters as "democratic warriors", while ignoring fundamental human rights, and public opinions centered on ending the violence and restoring order.US leaders eagerly indulge the protesters and issue pro-violence statements, while banning voices that appeal for the truth and defend the rule of law. Such blatant double standards have exposed sinister intentions under the seemingly noble guise of undermining human rights and democracy while suppressing Chinas development.It’s not surprising that many feel the so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act violates basic human rights and democracy and should be the "Support Hong Kong Violence Act".It is widely understood that violence mars the rule of law, and chaos erodes social stability and development. US politicians are aware of such things, and their double standard mentality involves repressing demonstrations on domestic soil while encouraging savage behavior in foreign countries.In August, demonstrations erupted in Portland, Oregon. City law enforcement set up roadblocks, cordoned off streets, and diverted commuter traffic. The protest was squashed after arrests were made.US President Donald Trump said on Twitter the Portland protesters were "terrorists". Meanwhile, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the Hong Kong protests were "a beautiful sight to behold".On the one hand, the US government condemns violence on its soil. On the other hand, it says anti-riot efforts on foreign soil is a form of police brutality. What a blatant double-standard to behold!Behind this US double standard lies a deep-seated hegemonic mentality. To ma...

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  Observer: Interference in China’s internal affairs is pointless

  The US Senate disregarded China’s repeated solemn representations and strong opposition and passed the so-called “Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019” Tuesday, blatantly supporting rioters in Hong Kong. It’s a serious provocation against the entire Chinese population, including Hong Kong people, and interferes in China’s internal affairs by using US domestic law to arbitrarily trample on the basic norms of international law and international relations, which once again exposes its hegemony mentality. China stringently encouraged the US to back off Hong Kong issues because any act that interferes in China’s internal affairs and violates basic norms of international law and international relations isn’t worth the paper it is written on.Radical violent crimes have escalated since Hong Kongs ordinance amendment issue, laws have been broken, morality and humanity disregarded. Rioters have destroyed things, set fires, paralyzed traffic, violently assaulted police, harmed the innocent and so on. Their behavior seriously infringes basic human rights such as personal safety and freedom of speech, seriously harms the rule of law and social order, seriously undermines Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability and seriously challenges the “one country, two systems” bottom line, which puts Hong Kong in an extremely dangerous predicament.However, US lawmakers have ignored the facts, confused right from wrong and excused the crimes committed by the rioters as “human rights and freedom.” The act violently interferes in Hong Kong affairs and China’s internal affairs, maliciously slanders the central government and HKSAR and blatantly supports the rioters’ anti-China activities to disrupt Hong Kong.Sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs are the fundamental principles of international law. Many developing countries, including China, have been deeply victimized by foreign powers in the past and still today, and this kind of gross interference is mostly...

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  Observer: Stand by HK to end chaos, restore order

  In October, Chinas Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government issued the Prohibition on Face Covering Regulation which is powered by the Emergency Regulations Ordinance to stop violent protests and restore social order. The move has received broad support among Hong Kong residents. However, The Court of First Instance of the High Court of the HKSAR ruled on November 18 that some provisions of the anti-mask law were unconstitutional. The ruling has provoked great controversy in Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland.The Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council and the Legislative Affairs Commission of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress quickly responded to the ruling to clear up the confusion.A spokesperson of the Legislative Affairs Commission of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) clearly pointed out, "The Constitution of the Peoples Republic of China and the Basic Law of the HKSAR together constitute the constitutional basis of the HKSAR. It is the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress only who are entitled to define whether the laws of the HKSAR comply with the Basic Law, not any other authorities." The remarks legislatively reaffirm the subject of the unconstitutional review, and the Hong Kong High Court has no power to make this ruling. The Emergency Regulations Ordinance, formed in the 1920s, was confirmed by the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress in February 1997 to comply with the Basic Law and was adopted as the law of the HKSAR. The Hong Kong High Court ruled that the Emergency Regulations Ordinance violated the Basic Law. The ruling is based on nothing, and it also challenges the authority of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress, which would have adverse social and political influences.The Hong Kong High Courts ruling states that the anti-mask law imposed invalid restrictions on funda...

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  Observer: US Senate's move further jeopardizes Hong Kong

  On Tuesday evening, the US Senate passed a controversial Hong Kongbill, which is bound to have an adverse impact on the restoration and stability in Hong Kong,as well as on the overall Sino-USrelations.The newly passed so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019 requires the US State Department to conduct an annual review of Hong Kongs autonomystatus, and links the US tariff status granted to the territory to that review.Asimilar bill had already passed the House of Representatives. Next, the two chambers of US Congress need to reconcile the differences between the two versions of the bill and come up with a single version for President Donald Trump to sign.The Chinese government has stressed on many occasions that Hong Kong affairs are Chinas internal affairs and the US Congresss interference in Hong Kong affairs is a blatant violation of international law.Against the backdrop of continuing violence in Hong Kong, the US Congresss insistence on advancing this legislation sends the wrong message to Hong Kong rioters. As analysts have pointed out, it will only hinder the restoring stability in Hong Kong.On Tuesday afternoon, before the Senate passed the bill, several senators spoke about the situation in Hong Kong. It is not hard to see from their statements that they have a complete selective blindness to what is happening in Hong Kong. While throwing groundless accusations at Beijing, these senators completely ignored the riotersin Hong Kong who smashed and burned public property, and openly stood up for the violent forces in the city.Over the past months, some US politicians, such as Florida Senator Marco Rubio, are keen to play up the current mess in Hong Kong. Judging from their public statements, it is not hard to see that what they care more about is not how to restore stability in Hong Kong, but how to make political capital for themselves by playing the China hawk roles. Indeed...

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  Observer: No one can expempt themselves from the rule of law

  With the public unrest in Hong Kong entering into its sixth month, the rioters’ extreme violent offenses have severely undermined the stability and prosperity in Hong Kong and imposed life-threatening danger to Hong Kong police and ordinary Hongkongers. Ironically, some Western media still refer to these rioters as “pro-democracy” protesters and raise questions about the police’s handling of the escalating violent riots.Since last Sunday, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University has seen some of the most intense fighting so far between rioters and the police. The campus has been transformed into a battleground. Rioters threw thousands of firebombs and shot arrows at police in order to flee from the blockade while police officers responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannons.The Hong Kong police said on Twitter that “the Police always hope for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflicts and appeal to the rioters to leave the PolyU in an orderly manner.”Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, also urged the protesters to “stop violence, give up their weapons, come out peacefully and take instructions from the police” during a press conference Tuesday.In fact, the police made their arrests with discretion. Of the approximately 600 protesters that have left the campus so far, 200 are underage. Those who are 18 and above have been detained by the police on charges of illegal assembly.As law enforcement officials, it is the Hong Kong police’s responsibility to maintain social order, and the police have always shown restraint in the face of armed rioters. During the standoff with rioters, a police truck was set on fire and a police officer was shot through the leg by an arrow. The police showed the humanitarian spirit, allowing Red Cross volunteers to enter the campus and treat the injured.But a peaceful resolution won’t pardon the crimes of destroying campus facilities and attacking police with lethal weapons. The rioters are often described by some Western me...

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  Observer: Campuses not safe havens for lawbreakers

  Hong Kong’s higher education system has earned a reputation for breeding innovation and competitiveness for the wealthy city. This is no longer true in recent days, as violence on campuses reached its climax. Radical protesters occupied some universities and turned them into the new frontline of their clashes with police officers.Some western media reports depicted the police as the people’s enemy, accusing them of using excessive force to disperse “peaceful assemblies.” In these one-sided stories, riot police tried to break into the campus of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) earlier last week, and were confronted with fierce resistance from protesters, starting a four-day standoff.Rocky Tuan, CUHK president, made a rare call for peace via an open letter on Friday, reproaching the violence and life-threatening behavior committed during the protesters’ occupation.Tuan also confirmed the deployment of the police was initially a response to reports that rioters seized a bridge with linkage to the CUHK campus and tossed hard objects onto the highway. Police promised to withdraw as long as protesters stopped their violent acts. This decent proposal that could have avoided escalation was rejected by protesters.Fanatics took over another top school, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), over the weekend. They refused to surrender and attacked an armored police vehicle with catapulted petrol bombs. The violence shows no sign of stopping. Students fled the school as the situation was spinning out of control.The chaos unfolding at Hong Kong universities is a miniature of what the entire society has gone through over the past five months. Radical protesters believe their political demands are superior to others’ legitimate rights, and hold Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity as hostage.No political viewpoint gives a license to damage property, employ physical threats, or use violence against individuals. The purpose of universit...

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  Observer: Zero tolerance for challenging ‘one country, two systems’ bottom line

  Over the last five months, protests and violent public events continued to emerge in Hong Kong under the inflammation of the opposition force and intervention of external forces. Those who advocate the "Independence of Hong Kong" and chant slogans of "Liberate Hong Kong, the revolution of our times" in public; insult the national flag, national emblem and regional emblem of Hong Kong; and attack Liaison Office of the Central Peoples Government, Legislative Council of the HKSAR are aiming to bring chaos to Hong Kong while paralyzing the government of HKSAR.Their ultimate goal is to make the "one country, two systems" policy exist in name only after seizing the administrative rights and making Hong Kong an independent political entity. What we are facing today is the confrontation between safeguarding and destroying the "one country, two systems" policy. There is no "neutral space" nor tolerance for any illegal act when it comes to national sovereignty and Hong Kongs future.Chinese President Xi Jinping said the continuous radical violent activities in Hong Kong seriously challenged the "one country, two systems" bottom line. He urged Hong Kong judicial bodies to severely punish the violent criminals that challenge the bottom line in accordance with the law. Xi made those remarks when he was attending the 11th BRICS summit in Brasilia, capital of Brazil.The pioneering of the "one country, two systems" policy is of great importance on Chinas agenda of governing the country and also a pivotal point for Hong Kong. The proven policy offers the best solution to Hong Kongs problems left over by history and also stands the test of time by keeping Hong Kong stable and prosperous. Any fresh systems must endure hardships and get severely tested and improved, so there is no exception for the "one country, two systems" policy. This long-protested movement brings us a sign that some ...

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  Observer: Taking preventive measures against radical actions the rational solution for HK

  Hong Kong has witnessed escalating violence over the past three days. Rioters turned the city into a scorched battleground by trashing an MTR station and setting a train on fire. Some violent protesters threw petrol bombs at school buses loaded with students, and they besieged Tin Shui Wai police station. On Wednesday, radical protesters upgraded the brutality by setting ablaze a 57-year-old man who got into a dispute with rioters over different views.At the Chinese University of Hong Kong, black-clad rioters shot fiery arrows at police officers. They even threatened to burn the campus to the ground.The smoke and fire is jarring to anyone who has Hong Kong’s best interests at heart.Those violent acts are nothing but the vicious attempts to destroy Hong Kong. Protesters claim that they are with the vulnerable group, while they launch indiscriminate attacks against civilians. They said they are peaceful demonstrators, but they attack police and set fire to public and private property. They called themselves defenders of freedom and democracy, yet they use violence to suppress different voices and deprive others of that freedom.They add the elderly, children and pregnant women to the list of victims. Their atrocities have gone far beyond the bottom line of humanity.It is obvious that the violent protests in Hong Kong have deteriorated into an extreme right wing movement which violates both democracy and human rights.It is reported that quite a few mobs are still making incendiary bombs at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. In fact, isn’t the opposition using the mobs as fuel? On November 12, some foreign media said that protesters spread rumors to "demonize" the police and the Hong Kong government.Actually, most falsified pro-violence remarks are produced by the opposition media. Among the opposition are lawyers breaking laws, teachers without morality, and fake journalists covering violence. They confuse people online and offline, and some of them ar...

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  Observer: Violence on campus frighteningly outrages

  Rioters set fire to citizens, besieged the police and even snatched the police’s guns in Hong Kong on Monday as darkness covered the city. Hong Kong police faced serious law enforcement challenges and the citizens’ personal safety were under serious threat. People with a sense of justice from all walks of life have called on the Hong Kong SAR government and the police to strictly enforce the law.However, some radicals and media with malicious intentions smeared the police for “murdering students.” These radicals and media turned a blind eye to violent crimes by avoiding talking about what truly happened. They attempted to use labels including "student" and "children" to evoke peoples sympathy, glamorizing violence, diluting atrocities and misleading the public.Students can be seen participating in the recent escalating violence in Hong Kong, but there is no excuse for violating the law. Rioters are just rioters whether they are students or not. It is heartbreaking to see students take the evil path of crime.Manipulators behind the young people committing crimes are intolerable. Behind the growing violence in campuses, it is an indisputable fact that various extreme thoughts have invaded the campus, exposing the sinister intentions of the opposition to mislead young people.Ignoring the rule of law and justice and driving students to become blind and fanatical, and even irrational and inhuman violent radicals, these backstage manipulators are the main culprit in messing up Hong Kong.Young people in Hong Kong have the desire to participate in politics, express opinions and achieve success, but they are also the most vulnerable to ill-disposed people. There are only a small number of Hong Kong students involved in violent activities, while others do not want to harass Hong Kong and hurt innocent people. Many students do not really understand what kind of future will such a chaotic situation lead Hong Kong to.However, the Hong Kong opposition cam...

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  Observer: Indiscriminate violence leaves no one safe in Hong Kong

  As the unrest in Hong Kong is unfolding into the sixth consecutive month, violent protesters are diverging further from “peaceful assembly” and descending into random attacks on the weak and innocent.The horror of a man who was set alight in broad daylight by protesters is still lingering. More video clips emerging on Tuesday revealed appalling ferocities by rioters that cast fear and terror on common Hongkongers.Hard objects were tossed one after another from an overpass occupied by violent protesters, targeting vehicles on the highway below during morning rush hours. A black-clad man threw a bicycle onto the railway tracks, shattering the nerves of commuters. A set of photos caused even more concern and anxiety. One photo shows flames burning right in front of a school bus. In another photo, a young student lowers her head while flames and debris can be seen outside the bus window. It has been confirmed by Hong Kong police that the photos were taken after a rioter threw a petrol bomb at a school bus.The government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Hong Kong police have shown their maximum extent of restraint to secure the lawful means of expression.However, rioters’ brutality is no different from terrorism, has gone far beyond the scope of “peaceful assembly” and “freedom of speech,” and has descended into the depths of immorality.Violence is violence. It must be stopped, and crime must be punished.Hongkongers are always proud to call Hong Kong a free port, but the port city is now tainted by months of violence in the name of freedom. The horrific scenes mentioned above also serve as a reminder for all Hongkongers that no one is immune from this violence, because rioting is eroding the city’s order and safety. Every citizen faces the risk of becoming the victim of extreme and indiscriminate violence.

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  Observer: Pompeo’s cold war mentality doomed to fail

  During his visit to Germany this week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has repeatedly attacked the Chinese political system and deliberately rendered the so-called “China threat.” He separated the Chinese people and the Communist Party of China in an attempt to provoke dissension between the people and the party, which totally exposed his ideological bias, the Cold War mentality and zero-sum thinking.In fact, it’s under the leadership of the CPC that the Chinese nation has gradually escaped the poverty and weakness from modern times and embarked on the road to great revival.Only people have the final say on whether their country’s development road is appropriate. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Up to now, more than 800 million people have successfully escaped poverty, which has contributed to more than 70 percent of global poverty reduction. Nearly 1.4 billion Chinese people have unprecedented cohesion and patriotism to the country.The CPC has always represented and firmly safeguarded the interest of Chinese people and has always been highly trusted and supported by the people. It is widely acknowledged by any fair-minded person in the world. Pompeo’s attempt to separate the Chinese people and the CPC is a provocation against the entire Chinese people, which is doomed to fail.Part of Pompeo’s agenda in Germany is for the commemorative event remembering the fall of the Berlin Wall. People usually use that occasion to learn a lesson from the past and avoid making the same mistake again, but unfortunately Pompeo’s words lack such a sense of reflection and uphold an incorrect perception of the world’s development after the end of the Cold War.Economic globalization and multilateralism are evolving into a deeper level and the trend of peace, development and win-win cooperation is gaining stronger momentum. It’s sad to see the resurgence of a Cold War mindset which may trigger severe consequences.China-US ties are ...

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  Observer: Brutal attack fails to intimidate constructive forces in Hong Kong

  Hong Kong lawmaker Junius Ho Kwan-yiu was attacked by a man in Tuen Mun District on Wednesday at a district council election campaign sortie. The attacker pretended to be a "fan" of Ho and greeted him with flowers and compliments, but suddenly took a knife out of his bag and stabbed the lawmaker.Ho issued a video statement from the hospital later that day, saying he was stable and out of danger. The attacker was arrested and an investigation is underway.For months, the radicals in Hong Kong have been committing violent crimes. Though the scale of violence has subsided, the cruelty and destructiveness have become more and more incomprehensible.This particular attempt, intolerable in any civilized society, is a serious threat to the personal safety of Hong Kong citizens, a blatant challenge to the rule of law, and a wanton violation of pluralismand inclusiveness.The agenda behind this murder is obvious, that is, a small group of people who intend to create fear and intimidation to "kidnap" the majority of Hong Kong citizens in order to achieve their own political goals.Ho has always been a stanch patriot who actively callsfor the restoration of social orderin Hong Kongand stopping violence according to law.Refusing to yield to intimidation and slander of the rioters, his office had been smashed several times and his parents’ tombs destroyed. The rioters also carried out endless harassment, and even issued death threats against him.Under theinstigationof Hong Kongs oppositionwho beautify and rationalize violence under the guise of "separation of powers", the vicious thugs haveapparentlylost their minds.In recent days, some people illegally intercepted vehicles, broke into houses without permission, and beat up people with different political opinions in the street, causing serious injuries. Some cut the neck of the police with sharp weapons from behind, beat up three mainland...

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  Observer: Punishing violent rioters essential for Hong Kong's prosperity

  Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Chief Executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Carrie Lam in Shanghai on Monday. Xi demanded unswerving efforts to stop and punish violent activities in accordance with the law to safeguard the well-being of the general public in Hong Kong. Ending violence and chaos and restoring order in a timely manner remain the most important tasks not only for Hong Kongs future, but also for the prosperity and stability of the 7 million people who live in the city.The riots in Hong Kong have been going on for five months. Regardless of legality, morality and humanity, unscrupulous radicals have been committing violent crimes, which have badly damaged the rule of law, personal safety, ethics, livelihoods and the international image of Hong Kong. Every citizen who loves Hong Kong is well aware that, for Hong Kong, the most dangerous predicament is the prevailing violence and dysfunctional rule of law; the most popular opinion is to oppose violence, support the rule of law, maintain peace and promote development; and the most important outcome is to curb the violence and restore order.Since the violent protests erupted in June, the HKSAR government led by Lam has been on the frontline of fighting crime and protecting civilians. The government has proven that it has determination and effective lawful measures to deal with the current situation. During the darkest hour, Hong Kong police stand out as a tower of strength in stopping violence and maintaining the "one country, two systems" principle. Patriots who love Hong Kong have voiced their support for the rule of law and the restoration of social order. Defending their homeland bullishly, they refuse to kowtow to intimidation and slander by rioters. They are well-qualified as justice defenders.Meanwhile, Chinas central government has expressed a high degree of trust and support for the HKSAR. The central government will always be a powerful and secure su...

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  Observer: Removing additional tariffs essential for agreement

  After Chinese and US chief trade negotiators held phone talks in the evening of November 1, Sino-US economic and trade consultations made important progress. At 1:05 am the next day, a statement issued by Chinas Ministry of Commerce said that “the two sides had earnest and constructive discussions on properly addressing each others core concerns, and reached a principled consensus.”The process of yearlong China-US trade talks shows that the prerequisite for reaching an agreement is “properly addressing each others core concerns.” Chinas attitude toward the trade war is very clear: "There is no winner in a trade war." Only those who deliberately turn a blind eye to the close economic and trade ties between countries will care about so-called winning or losing.On the US side, it has long been clear that the prominent core concern is the amount of agricultural produce purchased by China. For China, the ultimate elimination of all the additional tariffs is its primary core concern, and this concern should be reflected even in a phased agreement.The levy of additional tariffs is the starting point of the ongoing trade dispute. Deservedly, the essential condition for reaching an agreement is removing all of them.Over the past year, China has repeatedly elaborated on this issue in its official statements at different levels and on different occasions. Any miscalculation on this issue could lead to the negotiations going back and forth.On March 23, 2018, China’s Ministry of Commerce made a very clear statement responding to the US decision on Section 301 investigation. “China does not want to fight a trade war, but it is absolutely not afraid of that. We are confident and capable of meeting any challenge.”What has happened over the past year shows that as long as the US imposes tariffs, China will respond. China will not treat the threat of tariffs as a condition for consultation.If core concerns cannot be resolved, some issues will remain. If ...

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  Observer: Removing additional tariffs essential for agreement

  After Chinese and US chief trade negotiators held phone talks in the evening of November 1, Sino-US economic and trade consultations made important progress. At 1:05 am the next day, a statement issued by Chinas Ministry of Commerce said that “the two sides had earnest and constructive discussions on properly addressing each others core concerns, and reached a principled consensus.”The process of yearlong China-US trade talks shows that the prerequisitefor reaching an agreement is “properly addressing each others core concerns.” Chinas attitude toward the trade war is very clear: "There is no winner in a trade war." Only those who deliberately turn a blind eye to the close economic and trade ties between countries will care about so-called winning or losing.On the US side, it has long been clear that the prominent core concern is theamount of agricultural produce purchased by China. For China, the ultimate elimination of all the additional tariffs is its primary core concern, and this concern should be reflected even in a phased agreement.Thelevy of additional tariffs is the starting point of the ongoing bilateral trade dispute. Deservedly, the essential condition for reaching an agreement is removing all of them.Over the past year, China has repeatedly elaborated on this issue in its official statements at different levels and on different occasions. Any miscalculation on this issue could lead to the negotiations going back and forth.On March 23, 2018, China’s Ministry of Commerce made a very clear statement on US 301 Investigation Decision. “China does not want to fight a trade war, but it is absolutely not afraid of that. We are confident and capable of meeting any challenge.”What has happened over the past year shows that as long as the US imposes tariffs, China will respond. China will not treat the threat of tariffs as a condition for consultation.If core concerns cannot be resolved, some issues will remain. If c...

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  Observer: Intimidation of news agency crosses the bottom line of civilized behavior

  Several Hong Kong rioters ransacked the Asia-Pacific Regional Bureau office building of China’s official Xinhua News Agency on Saturday. The mob spray-painted insulting words on the walls and smashed the front gate and some of its windows. They also threw firebombs and paint bombs into the lobby and committed vandalism in it after trespassing.In Mong Kok, the black-clad rioters besieged and stripped clothes off an onlooker. The victim was beaten unconscious on the street.The rioters savage behaviors are nothing but an insult to notions of human rights and democracy that they had promoted. It makes people wonder if these shameless and violent acts are what Nancy Pelosi, the US House of Representatives Speaker, has described as “a beautiful sight to behold.”From attacking a news reporter at an airport to beating innocent civilians on the street, from cyberbullying to physical assault, radical rioters in Hong Kong are trying to spread horror and suppress different voices. They also told blatant lies without conscience to demean those who are supportive to the local government and police.Every citizen who cares for Hong Kong is desperate for the end of the riots and chaos. The thugs will only be more encouraged if they are tolerated. All journalists should speak out for justice, all citizens should stand out against violence. The thugs violent way of threatening news agencies and beating up citizens who held different political opinions will never distort those patriotic minds; instead, it will only boost the voice calling for justice and order.No country in the world would tolerate the violence against the news agency. The attack on news agency based in Hong Kong was a blatant violation of the laws safeguarding freedom of the press. This severely crossed the bottom line of civilized behavior, public order and moral standard, and maliciously harmed the patriotism of Hong Kong compatriots. Therefore, those thugs must receive severe punishment according to the l...

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  Observer: Supporting the Hong Kong police is safeguarding Hong Kong

  Recently, an audio message that a Hong Kong police officer sent to his co-worker has stung the hearts of many Chinese people. He was attacked at his job by violent protesters with strong acid, suffering from severe skin burns. In a trembling and hoarse voice, the officer said that he was in great pains from burning wound and it almost drove him crazy. Some of his colleagues burst into tears after receiving his message.Since the violent protests started in early June, Hong Kong police have shown outstanding bravery and courage in wake of radical violence. They maintained the social order and uphold the rule of law in Hong Kong.The radicals have made the Hong Kong police their target from the very beginning. Some police officers said that they are not afraid of radical mobs, it is the misunderstanding from Hong Kong civilians that demoralizes the police force.Hong Kongs opposition and some radical forces have been spreading vicious rumors in an effort to shift the blame onto the police and mislead the public.Known as one of the worlds finest forces, the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) has served and protected the city for 175 years. One of HKPFs fundamental duties is to safeguard Hong Kong from violent crimes, and that is why they cannot back down from the fight with radical protesters.Some people criticize the measures the police have taken to subdue the rioters. To be fair, the intensity of police enforcement is determined by the extent of violence by the rioters. In the past 20 days alone, the police have received more than 80 cases of arson and 752 cases of criminal damage. The rioters destroyed businesses, beat the Hong Kong residents, blocked roads, checked cars, threw burning bottles, set up remote-controlled bombs, cut the neck of a police officer…The brutality even shows signs of terrorism. With the whole city shrouded in such a "black horror", it is absurd to accuse the police of excessive law enforcement. Not to mention the Hong Kong ...

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  Observer: Roadmap drawn for HK’s future with development promises

  Chinas Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Carrie Lam delivered her third annual policy address on Wednesday. The address covered topics like restoring social order and reaching a peaceful solution amid unprecedented chaos that has entered its fourth month. The annual event provided hope for residents eager to live in peace once again while embarking on a new beginning.The annual address is mandated under Article 64 of the Basic Law that requires the government to make announcements, explain legal concepts and policies. It is a constitutional responsibility of the HKSAR chief executive.The significance of this role does not only involve providing clarification on policy stipulations, but also requires determination from lawmakers when implementing ideas and removing social misunderstandings. The process provides guidance for the city while helping people remain focused and aware of the laws.Lams report bears great importance at a time when Hong Kong suffers from violent protests. She responded to community concerns with plans aimed at improving livelihoods, drafting a security blueprint to ensure prosperity and stability, and charting a course the public deserves.Lam covered over 220 new initiatives during the address. High-priority was given to housing, property, improving livelihoods, and economic development. Through benevolent and community focused characteristics, the new initiatives set forth a broad policy that will yield substantial benefits to the people of Hong Kong.The address laid out a roadmap for Hong Kongs future with solid promises for development.Since June when the protest started, Hong Kong has been appalled with the black-clad demonstrators and their violent actions. The city remains thwarted with a crippled social order and a weak legal system. Lam’s policy address was an effort to subdue the chaos. It was also a response to the collective aspirations of the general public and revealed a clear understanding...

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  Observer: US Congress grossly interferes in China's internal affairs

  On Tuesday afternoon, the US House of Representatives passed bills, including the so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, to increase its intervention in Hong Kong affairs. Far from benefiting Hong Kong, this act confuses black and white in disregard of facts, blatantly backs the Hong Kong violent radicals up and grossly interferes in Chinas internal affairs.The biggest danger of such a move is that it sends the wrong message to Hong Kong rioters. Over the past months, it has become clear that the violent protesters in Hong Kong have been emboldened by the fact that various foreign forces are willing to act as their spokesmen and protectors.Ever since the protests started in Hong Kong, representatives of the US government, especially members of Congress, have been presenting misinformation regarding Hong Kong to the American public. Such lawbreaking violence would never be allowed in the US, but politicians in Congress have called it a “peaceful campaign for human rights.”Hong Kong police maintain the basic social order by normal law enforcement actions, but it is called “violence and repression.” Those inflammatory remarks show that American politicians who actively intervene in Hong Kong are not concerned about Hong Kong’s future as they claim.It is widely acknowledged that Hong Kong’s rule of law and freedom are well ahead of the US. The current interpretation of the situation in Hong Kong by many American politicians is distorted and does not grasp the complexity of the situation. Their glorification of violence as a struggle for human rights and freedom reflects nothing but an ignorance of Hong Kongs history and reality, as well as a defiance of mainstream Hong Kong public opinion that the city should stop violence and restore order.It needs to be pointed out that the US Congress will also harm US interests if it continues to add fuel to Hong Kong’s disorder. Over the past decade, the US has accumulated a trade surplus of $297 billion from...

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  Observer: US bill on Hong Kong good to none

  The US House of Representativesis to vote on the so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019on Tuesday. The bill has entered the “fast track” and is likely to be passed in the voting procedure. What the US is doing is to grossly interfere in China’s internal affairs,which will prove to be futile and eventually harm itself.It’s clear that what happens in Hong Kong is not “peaceful demonstrations” at all if one hasanobjective and fair position. The problems Hong Kong is facing today are not the so-called human rights and democracy issues, but whether the society could maintain the most basic order and whether Hong Kong citizens could have the most basic security.Just in these two days,a rioter useda sharp-edged object to slash the neck of a Hong Kong police, intending to kill him. Some rioters also placed a homemade bomb on the street, controlled remotely from a mobile phone. Even ordinary citizens were badly beaten by rioters with iron bars and umbrellas.According to incomplete statistics, there have been 587 arson cases in Hong Kong related to demonstrations in the past four months. Such violence and chaos are shocking and unbearable if theyhappened in any other country. In the past two days, US Senators Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley visited Hong Kong, ignoring the bloody factsand claiming that they did not see any violence in Hong Kong. If what is happening in Hong Kong occured in the US, will they be “selectively blind” to ignore the obvious fact? Will they talk about human rights and democracy in full disregard of people’s lives?If the bill is passed, it will not protect Hong Kong citizens at all, but only the rioters.For the US, to pass the bill is to hurt itself. Some US politicians have proposed to revoke some tradetreatment for Hong Kong,which would actually hurt their own interests. Hong Kong is the single economy with which the United States enjoys the highest trade surp...

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  Observer: Is Apple helping HK rioters engage in more violence?

  Apple recently allowed a map app to be available on its App Store. This mobile app claims to provide transportation information for the convenience of the public, but is actually used to identify the whereabouts of the police, allowing the rioters in Hong Kong to go on violent acts.The developers of the map app had ill intentions by providing a “navigation service” for the rioters. Apple’s approval for the app obviously helps rioters. What was its true intention?Hong Kong is experiencing severe times and its people are tired of the unrest. In the past few days, the rioters have become more audacious and have conducted violent acts more frequently. Apple chose to approve the app in the App Store in Hong Kong at this point. Does this mean Apple intended to be an accomplice to the rioters?The map app is just the tip of the iceberg. In the Apple Music Store in Hong Kong, there was also a song advocating “Hong Kong independence.” Such a song was once removed from the music store and has resurrected.As a company with international influence, Apple has always enjoyed a high reputation. A company has its own standards of conduct, but should also have its social responsibilities. If Apple abandons its responsibilities and let violent acts get worse, it puts more users at risk.Business is business, and politics is politics. Nobody wants to drag Apple into the lingering unrest in Hong Kong. But people have reason to assume that Apple is mixing business with politics, and even illegal acts. Apple has to think about the consequences of its unwise and reckless decision.Foreign companies probably don’t understand the sentiments and way of thinking of Chinese people. Our ancestors had been bullied. But today we are united more than ever. On issues involving principles, we have zero tolerance for wrongdoings. Providing a gateway for “toxic apps” is hurting the feelings of the Chinese people, twisting the facts of Hong Kong affairs, and against the views and principles of...

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  Observer: The judiciary system must stand with justice to safeguard HK

  It is difficult to fathom how the more extreme protestors rampage through the streets while the innocent suffer. A city known for its freedom has been flooded with crime and violence. Hong Kong, a city and home we were once familiar with and always cherished, is no longer safe.The reason why the protestors are behaving with vicious unrestraint and have continued on the wrong path is a result of how others have indulged them for quite some time.Within a few months, the protestors have gone from throwing bricks to attacking police officers, and from damaging property to vandalizing and destroying bank buildings. They have engaged in "flash mob" activities while abusing and beating residents. This uptick in violence among the demonstrators is the product of boots-on-the-ground experience and outsiders who indulge their violent behavior while remaining blind to the errors of their ways.And its also a consequence of the judiciary system failing to enforce the rule of law when handling the protesters.Without enhancing the rule of law, curbing the ongoing violence would be impossible.Since June, the protests have yielded nearly 2,000 arrests. However, most of those who were arrested are free on bail. Many have argued that if they had been brought to justice, there would be fewer students joining the protests. Others have wondered when Hong Kongs embattled judiciary system will work with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government to address public expectations and save the city from destruction."When the nest is overturned, no eggs can stay unbroken." Hong Kong is our home. And 7.5 million Hong Kongers share one future. Rioters have repeatedly challenged the boundaries and poked their black hands into every aspect of society. Some lawyers representing the opposition camp alleged publicly that laws dont necessarily represent justice and no one should have any delusion about laws. Early on, they even organized ralli...

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  Observer: Ban masks, support legislation

  The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government on Friday announced an anti-mask law, banning people from wearing masks at protests or public gatherings, in an effort to end the incessant violence and vandalism that has gripped the city for over three months. The adoption of the law fully demonstrates the HKSAR governments firm determination to curb violence in accordance with laws and the common aspirations of Hong Kong residents call for peace. The central government firmly supports the HKSAR government in taking all necessary measures to stop the violence and control the chaos.Violence in Hong Kong has been escalating for more than three months. There is no doubt that the turmoil triggered by the proposal of the fugitive bill has completely turned sour. Some protests are evolving into premeditated, planned and organized violent crimes that leave a serious threat to public safety. It should be noted that the rioters hide their identity as masked persons, disorderly challenge the law, willfully use violence and undermine social peace.It can be said that being masked and violence go together. Under such circumstances, the adoption of the anti-mask law is reasonable and extremely necessary to break down the "psychological umbrella" of the thugs and provide a strong grasp to stop the violence and restore social order in Hong Kong.Many countries and regions in the world have enacted laws against wearing masks. More than ten states in the United States have adopted anti-mask law, over ten countries in Europe have passed anti-mask laws, and Canada has a penalty of up to 10 years in prison for wearing a mask during a social disturbance. The reason is simple: legitimate demonstrations and normal appeal expressions do not require you to cover up, and only those who run away from the law need to cover their faces.The HKSAR government has enacted the anti-mask law in response to the fact that a minority of radicals violently disturb th...

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  Observer: Twitter takes wrong side by backing Hong Kong rioters

  After shutting down thousands of accounts originating from the Chinese mainland last month, Twitter recently permanently suspended as many as 4,301 Chinese accounts, stating that these accounts were "state-backed" and had violated the "values" and the "policies on platform manipulation."In an announcement, Twitters safety team alleged the Chinese accounts shut down this August were "state-backed" and "deliberately and specifically attempting to sow political discord in Hong Kong."The reasons given by Twitter are ironically the most unreasonable allegations which have reversed right and wrong.The radical and violent activities of the Hong Kong opposition are illegal and criminal, and have been increasingly proven to be a color revolution aimed at seizing control of Hong Kong.While shutting down the accounts that revealed the true colors of the rioters in Hong Kong, Twitter turned a blind eye to accounts that slander.Is it in the values of Twitter to glorify violent acts while ignoring the villainies of the rioters who have turned Hong Kong into chaos and repeatedly encouraging them in their acts of violence?The "transparency and openness" boasted by Twitter is in fact selectively turning blind, and the values Twitter believes in are ignoring facts and saying one thing but doing another, completely disregarding objectivity.As a global social media platform, Twitter should have stuck to the norms of justice and fairness, or at least taken a fair stand. However, its recent moves have only shown its arrogance and prejudice and the lack of sincerity and rationality. Is Twitter planning to serve as the vanguard of the forces that attempt to topple the HKSAR government?It was no accident that Twitter chose to back Hong Kong rioters, since the recent jaw-dropping acts of some US lawmakers have already said a lot about the US inclination towards these rioters.US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senator Ma...

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  Observer: US bill on HK grossly interferes in China's internal affairs

  The foreign affairs committees of the House and Senate of the US Congress voted to approve the "Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act 2019" on Wednesday. In a quick reaction to this latest move, Geng Shuang, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said the US bill grossly interferes in Chinas internal affairs and stressed that any move by the US that undermines Chinas interests will be strongly countered.In June, US Senator Marco Rubio, Republican from Florida, and Chris Smith, a Republican representative of New Jersey, introduced the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act 2019 in both chambers of the Congress. The bill requires the US State Department to submit an annual assessment of Hong Kongs autonomy condition and requires the US government to link the tariff status granted to Hong Kong to this annual assessment.Over the past weeks, passage of this bill has been the focus of further intervention in Hong Kong affairs by some US politicians. However, from the perspective of international law, the US Congresss attempt to embolden the violent activists in Hong Kong through legislative action is a gross interference in Chinas internal affairs. The Chinese government has repeatedly stressed that this move will change nothing but exposes the sinister intentions of some US politicians to destabilize Hong Kong and use it as a tool to contain Chinas further development.It is widely reported that Hong Kongs activists have continued to cause violence in the past months. The facts and evidence of their violent and illegal acts are clear-- what they have done goes far beyond the scope of free expression of opinions and poses a serious threat to public safety and seriously affects the rule of law, social order, economic livelihood and international image of Hong Kong.Taking this into account, the US Congresss support for Hong Kongs activists is absolutely unacceptable. Their handling of the Hong Kong affairs r...

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  Observer: Neither a slogan nor a fantasy, HK's democracy should serve fundamental interests of HK

  It is impossible to make abstract judgment about a political system with no regard to its specific social and political conditions. The pros and cons of democracy is largely decided by people who live with it. Is this not a revelation for todays Hong Kong?Since the protest against the fugitive law amendments began, rioters and some activists have proposed five appeals. Their ultimate aim is to implement “dual universal suffrage”. The democracy they want is not the local administrative rights under central sovereignty, but an independent political entity from the reach of central government. The democracy they want is not for Hong Kongs prosperity but their own self-interest.For example, the universal suffrage they want is to select a chief executive that has no responsibility to the central government regardless of the Basic Law and decisions of the National Peoples Congress Standing Committee, so as to seize the executive power of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) from the central government. Its not only incompatible with the true meaning of democracy, but it’s also an impermissible attempt to endanger Chinas sovereignty and security, challenge the authority of the central government and the sanctity of the Basic Law of the HKSAR, and use Hong Kong as a channel for infiltration and sabotage against the mainland.Just as radical protesters cry out for the democracy on the streets of Hong Kong, in the meantime, they are making up stories to mislead the Hong Kong public over the citys democratic process. The fact is that Hong Kong was never granted with any democracy under colonization of the British. In those days, Hong Kong’s governor, who also served president of the Legislative Council, was appointed by the British queen. Therefore, the boundary between legislative and administration was very vague.Hong Kongs democratic system was truly established and developed after Hong Kongs return to the motherland. ...

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  Observer: Rational dialogue crucial to Hong Kong’s future

  The HKSAR government will start its first session of the dialogue platform with the community next Thursday. Through more than three months of violence, Hongkongers finally get a chance to sit down for suggestions and solutions to end the chaos and fix the rift.Dialogue is always better than confrontation. Violence and riots have made Hong Kongs economic development and peoples livelihood slide on a downward trajectory, and left big questions on the future of Hong Kong. It is a necessary step and an effective way to resolve public grievances and build consensus through frank and sincere dialogue and seek breakthroughs and get out of the predicament through sincere consultations.Making this move, the SAR government has shown its sincerity and all walks of life have expressed their understanding. This opportunity is rare and should not be disappointed.For the SAR government, daring to take responsibility and listening carefully to the public shows its sincerity and determination to respect public opinion and care for the well-being of the people. Chief Executive Carrie Lam proposed that the dialogue session with the community be carried out broadly, transparently and openly with three forms, including regional dialogue, free dialogue and deep dialogue, which are enough to absorb the voices of all parties.For citizens who are ready for the dialogue, they should have a rational, peaceful attitude and action, with no temptation and malice. The words and deeds that reject and defame the dialogue before it starts are just proof that extremists and separatists are reluctant to return society to prosperity and stability. People should stand up and sit down to help Hong Kong weather through the violence with rationality, if they do not want their homes to be harassed and inflicted by violence.Rational dialogue doesn’t mean compromises in enforcing the law. Violence and rioting are challenging Hong Kong’s core values. Hence, any leniency for unlawful acts will harm t...

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  Observer: Claim that Sino-British Joint Declaration sets out the implementation of 'dual universal suffrage' is nonsense

  In response to claims on a social media platform that "the fact that dual universal suffrage has yet to be implemented in Hong Kong is a serious violation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration," the government of Chinas Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) clarified on Thursday that the Sino-British Joint Declaration does not have any paragraph which sets out the implementation of "dual universal suffrage."Photo: VCGParagraph 3(4) of the Sino-British Joint Declaration stipulates that "the chief executive (of the HKSAR) will be appointed by the Central Peoples Government on the basis of the results of elections or consultations to be held locally." Annex I of the joint declaration stipulates that "the legislature of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region shall be constituted by elections."The attempt of the opposition to urge “dual universal suffrage” by invoking the Sino-British Joint Declaration not only fabricates evidence but also makes stupid mistakes and cognitive errors.First of all, with the return of Hong Kong to China and the end of the transitional period, the rights and obligations stipulated by the Joint Declaration in relation to the UK have all been fulfilled. The basic principles and policies of the Chinese government towards Hong Kong as set out in Paragraph 3 of the Joint Declaration, and related statements in the Annex have been fully incorporated into the Basic Law and have been put into practice. The Constitution of the Peoples Republic of China and the Hong Kong Basic Law serve as the legal basis of the Chinese governments governance in Hong Kong. To be brief, the UK has no sovereignty, jurisdiction or right of "supervision" over Hong Kong affairs.Moreover, seeking so-called “democracy” from external forces by citing the Joint Declaration goes in the opposite direction and talks to the wrong person. Before Hong Kong’s return to China, the governors of Hong Kong...

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  Observer: Rejection of bid by London Stock Exchange serves a revelation for HK

  Shares in the London Stock Exchange Group PLC (LSEG) went up 6 percent on Wednesday after Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) made a proposal to LSEG to combine the two companies. On Friday, LSEG rejected the takeover bid, noting that the company sees "no merit in further engagement.”According to the LSEG, commercial considerations were the main reasons for its rejection of the proposal. LSEG said it is making progress in its proposed acquisition of data and analytics group Refinitiv, but the merger approach by HKEX at this time interrupts that process. Secondly, LSEG has concerns about the deliverability of the transaction because of the shareholder structure of HKEX; and what’s more is that LSEG is not satisfied with the price HKEX offered.The takeover bid was one of the largest proposed business mergers in the last decade and required good timing and a good price for a deal to be reached.However, the wording of the rejection by LSEG has attracted the attention of many as it reads: "We recognize the scale of the opportunity in China and value greatly our relationships there. However, we do not believe HKEX provides us with the best long-term positioning in Asia or the best listing/trading platform for China. We value our mutually beneficial partnership with the Shanghai Stock Exchange, which is our preferred and direct channel to access the many opportunities in China."LSEG’s statement does not make a final determination about the status of Hong Kong as a financial hub. But its opinion is enough to stir reflection within Hong Kong’s financial sector. It not only shows the external views of the prospects of the two cities, but also shows the underlying logic of how they view Chinese opportunities.Neither Hong Kong nor Shanghai is able to maintain their development potential without being a part of China. The prosperity of any Chinese city is based on its consistency with the national interests. From a business perspective, LSEG has no con...

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  Observer: Hong Kong economy cannot stand any more pain

  Luk Yu Tea House (Photo: VCG)Luk Yu Tea House, a long-established tea house with old-fashioned decor in Hong Kong, recently announced that it will put two paintings from its collection up for auction at Sotheby’s Fine Chinese Paintings autumn sale. The two paintings are masterpieces by prodigious Chinese artist Zhang Daqian.Analysts say that Luk Yu Tea House is selling the paintings because of economic pressure from the downturn in Hong Kong’s tourism industry.It is indisputable that with the continuous street violence, Hong Kong’s tourism industry is suffering from a pot of "bitter tea." Luk Yu’s Tea House explained that the paintings will be auctioned because of damage from their placement over time and they expect experts will be able to restore them.However, the tea house admitted that the number of its customers has dropped by about 20 percent recently. Even what has been a valuable "gold brand" cannot be spared from the constant street riots. It reflects what impact the violent chaos is having on Hong Kong’s economy.As Hong Kong heads into a third month of demonstrations, the citys tourism industry is in pandemonium. Many tourists have canceled their trips to Hong Kong because of the violent protests, which has led to many local restaurants and hotels losing business. Tourist attractions like Ocean Park and Disneyland are also feeling the pinch.Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said that Hong Kong visitor arrivals plunged nearly 40 percent in August from a year ago and it has caused the direct economic loss of 12 billion yuan.On September 8, some radical protesters set fire to the entrance of the MTR Central Station in Hong Kong, which is just blocks away from Luk Yu Tea House.Video shot during the vandalism at Central Station shows some closed international luxury stores in the background. It is also an indication that if protests are not stopped, business in Hong Kong will not benefit from the Chinese National Day holiday, also kno...

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  Observer: HK youth shall not be the scapegoat of Lai's ambition

  Founder of Hong Kong-based newspaper Apple Daily, Jimmy Lai has been a firm supporter of the violent protests in Hong Kong. The media tycoon has participated in interviews with CNN, The New York Times, and Bloomberg. In one interview, Lai urged the US to intervene in Hong Kong affairs.Chief Executive of China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Carrie Lam announced last week the government would withdraw the extradition bill. Lam also called for dialogue to find a way out of the current impasse.Meanwhile, Lai held a meeting with opposition leaders and wrote in his newspaper that young protesters should be prepared to die for democracy.Lai has been trying to sell himself to outside forces by any means. As he holds media resources in his hands, he uses these tools to disseminate malicious sentiment.Violent protesters threw petrol bombs at the Central Government Complex in illegal assembly in Hong Kong on August 31. (Photo: CGTN)Lai claimed to pity the young demonstrators while openly sending them to their death. He has spread malicious gossip that has slandered police officers and embellished the violent action and rampage exhibited by the violent protesters."Hong Kong youth to turn into crusaders and fight against the evil,” Lai said one point. Such statements are akin to calling a stag a horse and confusing right with wrong. The nature of what he has done is closer to "evil" than it is to "bringing chaos" to Hong Kong.In the recent piece, Lai showered the protesters with undeserved praise and said they were creating epoch-making changes. Obviously, Lai was seducing Hong Kong’s younger generations in with empty dreams, while inciting them to carry out more violent protests and serve as stepping stones for his political success.However, Lais remarks triggered rage among Hong Kong residents. Some even marched to his home, calling him the lackey of the US and urged young people not to be tempted by ...

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  Observer: What's wrong with Fitch's Hong Kong downgrade

  The Hong Kong government hit back at a downgrade by Fitch Ratings of its sovereign rating, stressing the "one country, two systems" principle is the foundation of the city’s sustained prosperity.Fitch on Friday cut Hong Kongs sovereign rating one level from AA+ to AA and the city’s outlook from stable to ‘negative,’ the first downgrade by one of the world’s biggest rating agencies since 1995. In a statement explaining key drivers behind the drop, the US rating agency claimed with “one country, two systems” intact, the city’s continued integration into Chinas governance system will present “greater institutional and regulatory challenges” over time.It is undeniable that the practice of "one country, two systems" has been a success in Hong Kong, and it should not be downplayed.International capital won’t flee Hong Kong because of stability and prosperity brought about by "one country, two systems.” Investors however are very likely to lose confidence in Hong Kong due to an erosion of confidence over violence and a dented law and order situation.After its return to China in 1997, Hong Kongs international ranking on the rule of law rose from below 60th in 1996 to 11th in 2015, leaving behind the US. For many years, Hong Kongs ranking has risen steadily to the top in the World Competitiveness Yearbook compiled by the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland.New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman offered an insight two decades ago into international ratings agencies, by saying they go too far: "In fact, you could almost say that we again live in a two-superpower world. There is the US and there is Moodys. The US can destroy a country by leveling it with bombs; Moodys can destroy a country by downgrading its bonds.”Financial institutions should not ignore the trends of the past few years. In spite of their many credit downgrades and negative forecast...

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  Observer: Radical protesters gamble with HK’s future

  Protesters rallied at the Hong Kong International Airport Sunday afternoon, disrupting air traffic operations. Clad in black clothing, some radical protesters damaged firefighting equipment inside the Tung Chung railway station. This latest wave of destruction has seriously threatened public safety.In an area adjacent to Tung Chung, rioters brought traffic to a standstill using barricades and burned a Chinese flag.There were several times when the situation was obvious: what the radical protesters blocking are not the airport or subway, they’re blocking Hong Kong’s future. The rioters’ goals are to create chaos throughout society, overthrow the HKSAR government, and challenge the central government’s authority over the city.Stern action is needed to regain control of the situation. The crisis has become a battle between civilization and barbarism, justice and evil.The airport and MTR have secured a temporary court order injunction banning protests in public places. Therefore, the Sunday demonstrations are illegal, and those involved are in contempt of the court.Furthermore, burning the Chinese flag has challenged the "one country, two systems" principle. Such behavior is a violation of both the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the National Flag Law of the Peoples Republic of China.Those who are responsible for violating the laws must be held accountable, and their despicable acts must bear criminal liability.This behavior has worsened while also becoming stronger. It is a shame for Hong Kong, and its entire society will pay for it.On Weibo, one girl wrote about the sad experience of going to the airport on Sunday and said, “The metro arrived at Tung Chung station, but the station is closed. So, I had to carry my luggage and climb up the stairs; after I got out of the station, there were people everywhere wearing black; the road was blocked so there were no cars either. I dragged my luggage for four kilometers and it...

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  Observer: US politicians doomed to fail with ‘Hong Kong card’

  Some politicians from the United States have repeatedly made wanton remarks on Hong Kong affairs recently, grossly interfering in China’s internal affairs. They even blatantly link Hong Kong affairs to China-US economic and trade negotiations, saying that a trade deal would be “very hard if they do violence.”Linking China’s internal affairs with bilateral economic and trade negotiations not only shows that some US politicians have lost their sense of reason on China-US economic and trade issues, but also exposes their ill intentions to mess up Hong Kong and contain China.However, these US politicians have miscalculated the situation. China will never allow principle issues to be traded away and will never allow any foreign force to have a hand in Hong Kong affairs. US politicians are doomed to fail with the “Hong Kong card.”The US has repeatedly encountered opposition from within its country and the world when escalating China-US economic and trade frictions. Now, some US politicians want to create new trouble by meddling in Hong Kong affairs.As the New York Times pointed out, the US showed greater support for radical demonstrators in Hong Kong “after coming to view the issue as a point of leverage in trade negotiations with China.”However, these politicians seem to have forgotten that it is an insurmountable bottom line for Chinese diplomacy that the sovereignty issue is non-negotiable. It looks like fool’s talk to expect the world’s second largest economy to trade away its sovereignty.Since Hong Kongs return to the motherland, Hong Kong’s position as an international finance, shipping and trade center has been consolidated with support from the Chinese central government. Hong Kong has been rated as one of the worlds freest economies and the most competitive regions by many international organizations.For Hong Kong, the "one country, two systems" principle is the biggest advantage. Hong Kong integrating into the overall development of the count...

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  Observer: US interference in HK affairs intolerable

  Since June, several demonstrations and gatherings have taken place in Hong Kong. Some of them have deviated from the peaceful track, turning violent and destructive.Some violent radicals besieged and attacked the Liaison Office of the Central Peoples Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). They wantonly defaced the national flag, national emblem and HKSAR regional emblem, vandalized public facilities, beat journalists and tourists, and attacked police officers.Meanwhile, behind these acts, some politicians from the United States have interfered in Hong Kong affairs, which is China’s internal affairs.These US politicians frequently make irresponsible remarks about Hong Kong affairs. They make Hong Kong-related accusations that are wanton, distortion of facts and inflammatory. They even ignore international rules and human conscience, glamorizing violent crimes as “struggles for human rights and freedom” and “a beautiful sight to behold.”According to reports, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senator Mitch McConnell, Senator Marco Rubio and Congressman Ted Yoho on August 12 tweeted that Hong Kong police repressed demonstrators with violence and that the Chinese central government eroded democracy and freedom in Hong Kong.US politicians also frequently meet and engage with anti-China rabble-rousers in Hong Kong, criticize the Chinese central government and HKSAR government unreasonably, incite violent confrontation and prop up illegal rioters.According to Ta Kung Pao, a major newspaper in Hong Kong, a female official from the US met several radical opposition figures, including "Hong Kong independence" activist Joshua Wong on August 6. Later, the secret woman was identified as Julie Eadeh, political unit chief of the US Consulate General in Hong Kong.These acts of arbitrarily intervening in Hong Kong affairs by the US are a gross interference in Chinas internal affairs, blatant violation of the norms of international law and ...

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  Observer: Decoupling the US from China not an option

  US retail giant Costco on Tuesday opened its maiden store in Shanghai in defiance of US officials’ call for companies to leave China. The move in the opposite direction revealed the simple reality Washington fails to understand that decoupling the US from the Chinese market is not an option.US officials’ call for decoupling from China has already raised questions and opposition from stakeholders, including US businesses."Trump may be frustrated with China, but the answer isnt for US companies to ignore a market with 1.4 billion consumers," Myron Brilliant, executive vice president of the US Chamber of Commerce, said in a statement last Friday.As each others major trading partners, American business is deeply intertwined with China. Trade with China helps each US family save 850 dollars per year, according to Chinas Ministry of Commerce.China has considerable advantages worldwide in terms of the scale of the supply chain, the number of skilled workers, the infrastructure to move things around quickly, or the relatively cheap labor pool.The New York Times reported in January this year that when Apple began making its Mac Pro computers in Texas, it struggled to find enough screws. After months of delay, Apple ended up ordering the screws from China.Deliberately "decoupling" the two is bound to threaten the global supply chain, which eventually means more costs on American businesses and consumers.In addition, the huge potential in the Chinese market and its rising middle class with considerable spending power is just too big to ignore. Costco is not the only US business to see that and will certainly not be the last.According to consultancy Rhodium Group, investments by US companies in China have grown this year despite the ongoing trade tensions.American investors pumped $6.8 billion in China in the first half of 2019, up 1.5 percent from the average of the same period in the past two years.Most of the investment went int...

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  Observer: Why have radicals returned to violence in HK at a time for dialogue?

  Hong Kong saw an escalation of tensions this past weekend. Radical protesters returned to the use of violence and police responded.During a time when the HKSAR government called for dialogue, such violence pushes Hong Kong to the verge of a very dangerous situation. The unspeakable political purposes of these rioters and the “black hands” behind them are blatant.In Kwai Chung and Tsuen Wan on Sunday, a group of violent protesters deviated from their original routes, obstructed roads, vandalized shops and tunnel facilities, and hurled petrol bombs, bricks and miscellaneous objects at police officers, who responded with tear gas, water cannons and a warning shot for fear of lives.The pattern now seems familiar. Protesters used violence as a tactic to entice police to respond with force in order to put out a false narrative of what looks like suppression against them.Without a doubt, some Western media continued to assist such accusations by labeling these rioters as “pro-democracy” while exaggerating the police’s use of what they saw as “live-round gunfire.”The timing of such appalling violent acts is also suspicious. Just as Chief Executive Carrie Lam called for dialogue to solve problems, radical protesters continued to carry out violence in the streets, regardless of the wishes of the majority of people in Hong Kong for peace and order.For anyone who looks at the whole picture, the role of foreign interference is evident.An investigation by Ta Kung Pao, a major Hong-Kong based Chinese newspaper, reveals that Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor, one major organizers of the anti-extradition bill protests, has received significant funding from the US National Endowment for Democracy (NED) since 1995, amounting to over $1.9 million.According to Wen Wei Po, another Hong Kong-based Chinese newspaper, through its subsidiaries, NED has provided $3.95 million to opposition organizations in Hong Kong from 1995 to the beginning of 2015.Data rele...

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  Observer: Playing politics hampers trade talks

  On Monday, US Vice President Mike Pence spoke at the Detroit Economic Club where he warned that a trade deal with China will be harder to achieve if Hong Kong’s rights are violated. By taking a hard line in his speech, Pence revealed the Washington’s motive to politicize the trade talks.Standing before the audience, Pence criticized China for not following the Sino-British Joint Declaration in the recent Hong Kong protests. However, if Pence actually took the time to read the declaration word for word, he would realize how ignorant he is of Hong Kong’s history.The declaration, signed by China and the UK in 1984, was designed to transition Hong Kong’s handover from the UK to China under the “one country, two systems” and the Basic Law pillars. Since Hong Kong returned to the motherland 22 years ago, the declaration, as a historical document, no longer has any practical significance nor any binding force on the central governments administration of Hong Kong SAR.The matter of Hong Kong can only be addressed by China itself. There’s no international law giving the US the right to interfere in the internal affairs of China. Yet, seeing its limitations in influencing China’s handling of the Hong Kong matter, the US government has been busy inciting radical protesters in Hong Kong.Pence’s problematic speech is not the only ploy of the US’s meddling in China’s internal affairs. Most recently, the Trump administration announced it would move forward with the sale of 66 F-16 V fighter jets worth $8 billion to Taiwan, adding tensions between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan.Besides that, Twitter is now deleting content that supports Hong Kong police – an attempt seeking to project a negative image of Hong Kong’s law enforcement officials in the name of “protecting healthy discourse and open conversation” on the Hong Kong protests.Over the past year, China’s economy has proven to be growing steadily despite the high tariffs imposed by the US government. Looking at the othe...

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  Observer: Hong Kong’s judicial system should not provide amnesty for lawbreakers

  The flag incident in which several black-clad protesters removed the national flag from a flagpole in the citys popular tourist spot Tsim Sha Tsui and threw it into the sea earlier this month has angered people both in and out of Hong Kong.However, the punishment for the suspects was too lenient to cool off the public anger. Of the five suspects arrested, one was granted an unconditional release while the rest were granted bail last week, raising concerns of the fairness of Hong Kongs judicial system.In the past few months, the Basic Law and the Constitution have been seriously violated and challenged in Hong Kong, and the city and its residents have paid a heavy price for the chaos. Front-line officers have put great effort and borne huge pressure in maintaining law and order. Yet these lawbreakers are not getting the punishment they deserve.This inconsistency creates a bizarre phenomenon in Hong Kong that the police are trying to hold lawbreakers to account while the courts let them go unpunished.Based on the principle of judicial independence and impartiality, judges in Hong Kong, Chinese and foreign alike, are required to rule in accordance with law and should avoid commenting on political or other controversial issues.Unfortunately, the reality is, over the years, judges in Hong Kong have often expressed their views on political or legal issues, not only through the media, but through the court rulings they deliver.In early August, a 23-year-old man was arrested for possessing a large amount of extremely powerful explosives from a home-made lab in Tsuen Wan, which was billed as the largest-ever bomb plot in Hong Kong. Rioting and possession of explosive substances are both extremely serious crimes with a sentence of up to 14 years. But the man involved in the case was released on bail.Late last month, 44 protesters formally charged with rioting in Hong Kong were released on bail or given a midnight curfew.Such inconsistency not only hurts the reputati...

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  Observer: Restoring order is common aspiration of Hongkongers

  "Hong Kong had enough!" This is the headline of a joint statement issued by a group of Hong Kong residents and published on the front pages of local newspapers on Wednesday.The statement voices strong support for the government and the police, and appeals to all Hong Kong residents to show solidarity and restore social order.Carrying weapons, smashing facilities, assaulting police, disrupting public transportation, throwing petrol bombs into a police station — this series of violent activities in the city has revealed the true face of the "peaceful protests".As increasing numbers of people both in and outside of Hong Kong have broken their silence by standing against violence and voicing their support for the rule of law, some politicians and media outlets choose to turn a blind eye to the blatant brutality of lawbreakers.In the US, members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee issued a joint statement lauding "the brave efforts of Hong Kong people" in their demonstrations. However, the restrained, lawful enforcement of the Hong Kong police was often defamed as “forceful suppression” in the Western media.When riots broke out on Britains streets back in 2011, the then Prime Minister David Cameron told Parliament that the whole country has been shocked by appalling scenes of people looting, vandalizing and stealing. "It is criminality pure and simple. And there is absolutely no excuse for it." Those were his words then.Britains hypocrisy and double standards on similar events in Hong Kong today are obvious.Some politicians in Hong Kong are frequently abusing freedom of speech and the press, inciting the young and the innocent to get involved in political disputes and inflaming social conflicts with the help of the so-called "free press". The illegal confinement and brutal beating of a journalist at the Hong Kong airport Tuesday night is an insult to the global ...

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  Observer: Americans now understand trade war was a bad move

  In recent days, US media organizations have in successive articles questioned the Trump administration’s trade policy. Gradually, more and more Americans are realizing that the trade war was a bad move and will only bring lasting affliction.In the New York Times’ editorial on Tuesday, “President Trump’s Fruitless Trade War”, the United States was described as “mired instead in an escalating trade conflict with no clear strategy, no discernible goals and no end in sight”. The editorial noticed that "tariffs are a tax ultimately paid by American businesses and consumers", and “many farmers are unhappy about the standoff”.The Washington Post warned in an editorial on the same day that “this situation threatens economic growth both in the United States and the world, because of the direct impact of higher prices on US consumer spending, and the indirect impact of the uncertainty that the US-China conflict is sowing among investors".The US economic outlook is simply not as rosy and bright as President Trump described in his tweets. Because of concerns over a recession sparked by his trade war, investors are seeking safe havens by buying up government bonds and investing in gold, according to CNN.Data showed that US growth in the second quarter slowed to 2.1 percent with gross private domestic investment plunging by an alarming 5.5 percent. US manufacturing as measured by the Federal Reserve has also declined for two straight quarters, the technical definition of recession. US analysts believe this is in large part due to higher input costs based on Trump administration’s tariffs and uncertainty among businesses about what tariffs might come next.The US Treasury Department this Monday labeled China a so-called "currency manipulator,” though it failed to meet the quantitative criteria set by itself. Lawrence Summers, a former US treasury secretary, said in an opinion piece in the Washington Post that the move damaged US credibility, adding, "...

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  Observer: South China Sea COC consultations pass milestone

  Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced Wednesday that China and ASEAN have finished the first reading of South China Sea Code of Conduct (COC) draft text.The first reading was completed early due to the joint efforts of all parties, marking major progress and a milestone toward concluding the consultations within three years.Since late 2016, consultations between China and ASEAN member states on the COC have gained new momentum. In 2017, the framework of the COC was approved and a single draft negotiating text was reached in August 2018.The point of finishing the first reading is that "the text is streamlined so that the framework and essential elements of the text become clearer and the structure more reasonable," said Wang.The South China Sea is one of the biggest waterways in the world. One third of global shipping, or a total of $3.37 trillion in international trade, passes through the South China Sea each year.A Chinese H-6K bomber patrolling islands and reefs, including Huangyan Dao, in the South China Sea. (File photo: Xinhua)However, regional disputes due to overlapping territorial and maritime claims among different parties and foreign interference pose severe challenges to peace and stability on a global scale.Hence back in 2002, ASEAN and China reached a Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) amid heightened tensions in the area, to outline key principles of dispute resolution in the South China Sea.Then consultations for the COC were launched by the two sides in 2013. Generally speaking, the COC is more forceful and credible than the DOC. In the future, the COC is expected to build a detailed mechanism of dispute settlement, safety cooperation and rules outlining the norms and responsibilities of different parties while giving a response to a series of changes in the situation of the South China Sea over the past decade.Therefore the COC is an upgraded and more robust version of the ...

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  Observer: Sincere actions the key to resolving trade dispute

  Some Chinese firms have recently inquired with US exporters about prices for agricultural products and applied for the removal of tariffs on the products.It followed an earlier announcement to exempt 110 items of Chinese industrial imports from additional tariffs by the US side, which expressed its willingness to encourage US businesses to keep supplying Chinese firms. The US government also said it will issue licenses to companies seeking to sell goods to Huawei where there is no threat to national security.China and the US are implementing the consensus reached by the two heads of state during the G20 Osaka summit, the moves prove. China hopes that the US will meet it halfway and earnestly implement its commitments. As both sides carefully show sincerity and goodwill, China and the US are getting closer to reboot their stalled trade talks.The US side seems to be softening its tone, as it is recognizing the resilience of China’s economy and gaining a sober assessment of the whole situation. China’s economy has remained steady while showing high quality development, official data revealed. In the first half of 2019, China reported a GDP growth of 6.3 percent, keeping its composure amid trade tensions and shoring up the global economy.Facing growing domestic pressure, the US side needs to realize that confrontation can only hurt. The rational and constructive voices of 100 US scholars and politicians in an open letter published in the Washington Post on July 3 warned the government to drop policies which consider China an enemy because that approach will be counterproductive to US interests and the global economy.US President Donald Trump may also need to consider how to handle farmers’ complaints, who are a critical part of his electoral base, as the 2020 election approaches. An article from the Council on Foreign Relations on May 31 pointed out that the US Department of Agriculture has unveiled a new $16 billion bailout for farmers affected by the trade conflicts, ...

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  Observer: John Bolton wrong to view world politics as clash of civilizations

  At the National Conservatism conference on Tuesday, US National Security Adviser John Bolton argued that the US-China conflict “has elements of Samuel Huntington’s clash of civilizations.”It’s not the first time an official from the Trump administration viewed world politics through the civilizational lens by suggesting that China poses a threat to the US as it differs from Western countries, and its people are not white.In May, Kiron Skinner, director of policy planning at the State Department, portrayed the competition with China as “a fight with a really different civilization, and a different ideology.” “I think it’s also striking that it’s the first time that we will have a great power competitor that is not Caucasian,” she added.US National Security Advisor John Bolton. (File photo: VCG)Bolton has been a fixture in US foreign policy over the past four decades, and has spent most of the time arguing for the most hawkish positions on any issue put in front of him. He has vowed a tough approach to China, saying China’s “behavior needs to be adjusted in the trade area, in the international, military and political areas.”It’s very dangerous to view China-US relations through the lens of Huntington’s “clash of civilizations,” reflecting the notion of white supremacy, which hampers bilateral ties between the two major powers, and poses a threat to the peace and security of the globalized world.In March 2018, Trump decided to hire Bolton, which sparked anxiety and worries around the world. Even Trump once reportedly joked with former National Security Advisor HR McMaster that Bolton was “going to get us into a war.”Netizens on Twitter also voiced their opinions. Some say, “Bolton’s talk of a ‘clash of civilizations’ is just the paradigm through which he experiences everything.” He considers the two countries two different civilizations, framing bilateral ties between the two powers in terms of skin color, which is a racist point of view.It’s wrong to...

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  Observer: Equality, mutual respect still vital as China, US return to negotiation table

  Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump agreed to restart trade talks in Japan where nearly half a century ago an encounter between ping-pong players staged a historic breakthrough for bilateral ties.It's a recalibration moment. A consensus reached at the G20 Osaka summit pulled the two countries from the brink of confrontation, injecting much-needed confidence into the global

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  Observer: China-US ties to improve through engagement, not confrontation

  If history is any guide, a trade war does not serve the interests of either side since it won't produce a winner.Some disdain this claim, and among them is the boisterous figure, Steve Bannon, an ultra right-wing opinion leader who served briefly as the former White House chief strategist. The Washington Post recently published a piece from Bannon where he

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  Observer: Technology should serve mankind's well-being, not serve as a tool for hegemony

  Recently, some US politicians have spared no efforts to demonize Chinese technology. The ban on Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei from doing business with US companies last week further shows its paranoid hostility and its entrenched Cold War hegemonic mentality, which has dangerously spread into the field of science and technology.This demonization of other countries' technological products by US political power

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  Observer: There is no actual winner in a trade war

  US President Donald Trump has been accusing China of “ripping off” the United States in trade and started a trade war by levying tariffs on Chinese imports.It’s true that China sustains a surplus worth hundreds of billion dollars with the US, but the number is too simple to explain the whole picture of bilateral trade and economic activities.Sino-US trade is

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  Observer: Lack of sincerity impedes further China-US negotiations

  US Secretary of Treasury Steven Mnuchin said Wednesday he would visit Beijing “at some point in the near future” to continue trade talks with his Chinese counterparts.Mnuchin did not elaborate on the exact timeframe but told US lawmakers the latest trade discussions were “constructive,” and talks are continuing. Several hours later, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said, " China is

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  Observer: Civilizations should coexist, not clash

  When the US State Department’s director of policy planning Kiron Skinner recently described China as “a great power competitor that is not Caucasian,” she was creating new trouble for China-US relations. Those remarks were hegemonic and practicing power politics in the name of “civilization,” while also exposing the ignorance of some Americans about their own history.Thus it's no surprise this

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  Observer: Cooperation is the only way forward for China and US

  China expressed "deep regret" when the additional US tariffs targeting $200 billion worth of Chinese goods took effect Friday, and announced that necessary countermeasures will be in place to safeguard its legitimate rights.The additional tariffs came amid the ongoing 11th round of trade talks between the two countries in Washington. The tariffs are the last scenario that the international community

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  Observer: Resilience key to China's growing economy

  Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will visit the US from May 9 to 10 for the 11th round of the bilateral consultation on trade issues.Amid the raising of tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese products from 10 percent to 25 percent from May 10, Liu’s visit signals China’s calmness in trade challenges and confidence in its resilient economy.The ten rounds

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  Observer: 'The younger the better' may not apply in modeling industry

  Recently a video in which a mother of a child model beat her 3-year-old daughter named Niuniu sparked public outrage and sympathy for the children in China’s highly competitive child modeling industry. After the mother published an apology letter on China’s Twitter-like social media Weibo, another video showed the mother once forced the girl into a corner and beat her

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  Observer: Animal release can be cruel if not properly handled

  During the Qingming Festival, news that snakes were released on a bank of Lancang River in Jinghong, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Southwest China’s Yunnan Province, has thrown fangsheng, or animal release, into the spotlight.The news has/caused panic to the/local residents. The/Aninvestigation launched by the local authorities showed that a man surnamed Yue bought 40 kilos of snakes online on April

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  Observer: Trade talks signal cooperation is the best option

  A new round of economic and trade talks between China and the US ended in Beijing on Friday. Chinese President Xi Jinping met US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, marking the first time President Xi has met the US team since the trade frictions escalated. This signals that the trade negotiations have made progress in the

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  Observer: Palace Museum uses new technology, youthful attitudes to pass on vital culture

  China’s Palace Museum recently released a comic series targeting at the country’s young generation. It introduces a story of a group of people who trek thousands of miles carrying 13,491 boxes of valuable relics from the Palace Museum to avoid warfare. These people leave China, but they are waiting for a time in the future when they can make a

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  Observer: Knowledge economy is booming in China

  It’s that time again, people are ushering in the freezing winter days with participation in various year-end get-togethers or annual parties if you like. I’m not an exception. My Saturday morning was committed to a management- themed conference. After months of observation, I am convinced that Chinese are forging the concept of lifelong learning. Photos: VCGMy assumption was no one

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  Observer: tax cut might be more targeted in 2019

  A draft of temporary measures for special additional deductions from taxable personal incomes was released by the Chinese government, aiming to push forward the evolvement in the individual income tax law and ultimately support the real economy.Illustrations: VCGConsisting of six main parts, the new deductible items include children's education, continuing education, treatment for serious diseases, caring for the elderly, as

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  Observer: Let the world share China's opportunity

  Chinese President Xi Jinping announced Monday the opening of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, the world's first import-themed national-level expo.More than 3,600 companies from 172 countries, regions and international organizations will showcase their products and international image at the expo, bringing more than 5,000 new products to China.President Xi called the expo a "trail-blazing" move in the

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  Observer: China to unleash vitality in private economy

  China will unswervingly encourage, support and guide the development of the non-public sector and inject impetus to the private economy, the government will carry out policies and measures in six aspects to fine-tune the business environment for the sound development of the non-public sector, according to the symposium held on private enterprises Thursday.At the meeting, China’s leadership team has reiterated

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  Observer: China, engine of global development, not 'economic aggressor'

  Editor’s note: On October 4, US Vice President Mike Pence said in his speech that China’s success “was driven by American investment in China” and “we rebuilt China over the last 25 years.” These remarks are hilarious. What has China's development brought to the world? This question is not difficult to answer.China’s development is an important boost to the world

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  Observer: 'Blood cell finance': A new development model for China-Africa cooperation

  As China and Africa work together to bring their time-honored friendship to the next level, there are some disturbing voices in the international community warning that the continent faces the risk of a “debt trap” after receiving financial support from China.Cheng Cheng, a researcher at the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University of China, coined the concept of

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  Observer: China-Africa cooperation far from a ‘losing business’

  With the opening of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Africa is once again under the spotlight. As many people hold a prejudiced view toward cooperation and investment between China and Africa, saying it’s a ‘losing business’ for the Chinese. It’s time to clarify the misunderstandings about Africa and justify the status quo of China-Africa cooperation.Africa doesn’t

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  Observer: Further opening-up helps China participate in global trade

  The world is in the middle of continuous adjustment in the global and economic trading system. At each key node of adjustment, international competition is likely to intensify. China needs to keep this in mind when facing US government trade bullying. After all, China has gained the advantage by participating in the global and economic trading game.China has built a

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  Observer: China to ensure smooth, orderly deleveraging

  China will gradually implement structural deleveraging, and simultaneously adopt a macroeconomic policy and targeted measures to ensure smooth and orderly long-term deleveraging.In the first half of the year, the growth of China’s macroeconomic leverage ratio fell further. Statistics indicated that the first quarter leverage ratio growth dropped 1.1% year-on-year. And the leverage structure has been optimized as well. Besides, the

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  Observer: Be wary of the trade war 'domino effect'

  The European Commission took retaliatory measures last week, including a 25 percent tariff on 23 steel products, calling it a Tariff Rate Quota.The countermeasures will be enforced for at most 200 days. The quota will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis.Since the Trump administration imposed import tariffs on several countries, they have not only taken countermeasures but

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  Observer: US can’t launch trade war without backfiring

  US President Donald Trump justified the tariffs on $34 billion in Chinese goods in the name of protecting US workers, and proposed $200 billion more to come. But these measures are a wrong approach against a wrong target to its own problem.A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday that China will definitely take countermeasures to defend its legitimate rights,

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  Observer: What does not kill you makes you stronger

  The Trump administration kicked off a trade war by imposing additional 25 percent tariffs on $34 billion worth of Chinese products on July 6, forcing China to take retaliatory measures.Chinese Premier Li Keqiang commented on July 8 that there won’t be winners in a trade war, which will not only harm enterprises and consumers from both sides but also impede

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  Observer: Trump’s order comes too little, too late for US immigration problems

  File photo taken on June 14, 2018 shows that protestors chant outside the Metropolitan Detention Center where the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainees are held, during a 'Families Belong Together March' against the separation of children of immigrants from their parents, in Los Angeles, California, the United States. (File photo: AFP)Under mounting pressure from public outcry and reportedly his

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  Observer: Why Indo-Pacific region should eye a cooperative, inclusive initiative

  India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivers the keynote address at the IISS Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore June 1, 2018.（Photo：VCG）Senior officials from the US, Japan, Australia and India met in Singapore on June 7 to consolidate their views on the Indo-Pacific region after their first consultation in Manila, Philippines last November.The brief official news release, only four paragraphs long, resonated with

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  Observer: SCO summit marks a milestone for both China and world

  The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Qingdao Summit which concluded Sunday marks an important milestone for China and the world, in terms of both international development and diplomacy. The organization emphasizes mutual trust, reciprocal benefit, equality, consultation, and respect for diversity. This “Shanghai spirit” has stimulated the member states to cooperate and ensured the development of the SCO.From the functions of

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  Observer: Hollywood needs to improve following "Roseanne" debacle

  When “Roseanne” premiered in 1988, it was praised for its honest look at the American middle class since it dealt with topics such as unemployment, homosexuality, gender roles, and infidelity. However, the show’s revival was quickly canceled after its star, Roseanne Barr, made a decidedly unprogressive and racist statement when she likened former Obama administration official Valerie Jarrett to an

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  Observer: It takes more than one day to define positive use of AI

  We live in an era in which the industrial revolution and the information technology revolution are both taking place. Artificial intelligence is the intersection of the duo.“Artificial intelligence, or AI, is taking center stage with a lot of impact on people’s lives. AI’s potential power is being exploited and developed at an unprecedented speed. AI brings us many opportunities and

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  Observer: Car hailing platforms need to put customers first

  China's ride-hailing giant Didi Chuxing is back in spotlight once again, but not due to good news. A ''hitch'' service driver is suspected of killing a female passenger, creating an online public uproar.If we merely focus on this tragic incident, we might conclude that the platform has not done enough housekeeping to screen its drivers. However, if we take a