On the OBOR Summit gathering in China. The article features unsurprising, uncritical Pakistani Senate Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman, Mushahid Hussein Saeed's encomiums on the OBOR.

  On the success story of Chinese entrepreneur, Chen Jian, founder of the start-up MoppoMobi in India.

A critique of the Indian democratic system focusing on money power in Indian elections. Full translation underway.

Indian researchers discover new ways of countering bacteria Indian researchers have recently discovered that a previously unknown enzyme can affect the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. With this enzyme in focus, they are expected to develop new antibacterial drugs. Researchers at the Indian Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology published a paper in a new issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They found that a special peptidoglycan hydrolase plays a key role in cell wall synthesis when studying Ecoli. The enzyme "cuts" the original cell wall, providing space for newly created cell wall tissue, thereby expanding the cell wall and allowing the bacteria to grow and reproduce. The researchers say the enzyme is also present in other bacteria. If it can inhibit the function of this enzyme, it is expected to open up a new antibacterial route and develop a new drug that can kill bacteria. (Xinhua News Agency, New Delhi)

A somewhat unusual article, not at all derogatory or sarcastic in tone, as is commonly the case. Full translation follows.

  “1箭104星”让印度兴奋 India excited over launching 104 satellites on a single rocket 本报驻印度、美国、新加坡特派特约记者     邹松   李勇   辛斌 。本报记者   杨檬。魏辉 By Zou Song, Li Yong and Xin Bin, special correspondents of Global Times in India, U.S. and Singapore; and Yang Meng and Wei Hui, staff reporters of Global Times “印度成功创造历史”“印度迎来荣耀时刻”……15日，随着印度航天部门成功利用一枚运载火箭将7个国家的104颗卫星送入太空，一股强烈的自豪感在该国舆论场蔓延。此前的纪录是俄罗斯2014年创造的“一箭37星”，如今印度“开挂”般地一下子将纪录提高了近两倍。印度总统慕克吉表示：“这一天将成为我国航天计划史上的里程碑。”总理莫迪说，这次非凡壮举是国家的又一骄傲时刻。在印度社交媒体上，“世界纪录”成了昨天的流行词。包括中国在内的多个国家早就掌握了“一箭多星”技术，但并未像印度这样在“多”上追求极致。印度这项“突破”含金量究竟多高呢？分析人士注意到，印度之所以能够创造这个纪录，很大程度上是因为这次发射的卫星大部分都很小，104颗加在一起还不到1.4吨，去年中国发射的天宫二号为8.6吨（当然两者轨道高度有所不同）。“印度太空技术绝不是亚洲最强的”，英国《金融时报》引述专家的话称，“人们经常谈论亚洲太空竞赛，但是如果你仔细看，中国的太空项目要强许多”。 “India finally made history”, “India embraces a moment of honor”… On February 15^th, the Indian Space Research Organisation (hereinafter referred to as ISRO) succeeded in carrying 104 satellites with one carrier rocket. A strong sense of national pride soon mounted in the public opinion field of India. Russia had held the record earlier, for the most satellite launches in a single mission and the number was 37, which was broke by India with this achievement. As a matter of fact, apart from outdoing its own previous achievements, has also moved ahead of Russia by a long margin. President of India Pranab Mukherjee said: “The nation is proud of this significant achievement.” And Prime Minister Modi praised that as “a proud moment of the nation”. Soon after, “world record” became a buzz word of the social media in India. As a matter of fact, a number of countries – including China – have already a good command of the technology of sending multiple satellites with one single carrier rocket, and none of them attach too much importance to the number of satellites. What is the significance of India’s “breakthrough” this time? The analysts observed the fact that India managed to set the new record thanks to the fact that the satellites launched by the carrier rocket are relatively smaller in size, as all 104 of them combine a total weight of less than 1.4 tons. By comparison, the Tiangong 2 launched by China last year weighed 8.6 tons, although there are differences with the orbit altitudes of them. “India is not yet the strongest one in Asia with regard to aerospace technology,” the Financial Times (U.K.) thus quotes from a space scientist, “people often speak of the space race in Asia, but it only takes careful observations to discover that China has evidently stronger space program.” 印度的“荣耀时刻” The “Moment of Honor” for India 当地时间15日上午9时28分，印度空间研究组织（ISRO）的一枚极轨卫星运载火箭(PLSV-C37)在位于该国东南部安得拉邦斯里赫里戈达岛的航天中心点火升空。《印度时报》称，火箭搭载104颗卫星，这是PSLV型火箭的第39次飞行。17分钟后，火箭开始将卫星一颗颗送入轨道，释放过程持续大约11分钟。在ISRO负责人宣布所有卫星发射成功后，航天中心发射现场爆发出一阵欢呼声。 India scripted a new chapter in the history of space exploration on Wednesday with the successful launch of a record 104 satellites+ by Isro's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in a single mission. According to the report of The Times of India, PSLV-C37 carrying the 104 satellites lifted off from the first launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 9.28am. According to the report of The Times of India, it was the 39^th flight of PSLV-C37. 17 minutes later, the rocket started to put the satellite into their own orbit in succession, and the entire process of releasing lasted for around 11 minutes. When the success of the project was announced by the director of ISRO, the space center was soon submerged by huge applauses and tides of cheers. “世界纪录的创造者——印度空间研究组织，今天印度为你骄傲。”印度《金融快报》网站第一时间发表评论说，印度打破自己之前的纪录，而且超出俄罗斯一大截，他们的纪录才是“一箭37星”，美国是“一箭29星”。新德里电视台称，印度创造了历史，在这次被称为印度航天计划非凡之举的发射行动中，PSLV-C37火箭是耀眼的明星。火箭把所有卫星带入太空，时速2.7万公里，为普通航班时速的40倍。这是2015年6月ISRO一次发射23颗卫星后的又一次成功。 “World record set with PSLV launch of 104 satellites: ISRO, India is proud of you.” The official website of The Financial Express (India) published an editorial immediately after the successful launching, saying that India, apart from outdoing its own previous achievements, has also moved ahead of Russia by a long margin. Russia had held the record earlier, for the most satellite launches in a single mission and the number was 37. Russia had achieved that feat in 2014. This record is followed by the US space agency NASA, which has launched 29 satellites in a single mission. The report of NDTV says that India finally makes history with this achievement. In this launching project defined as “the extraordinary move of India’s space project” the PSLV-C37 rocket is undoubtedly the bright star among all. The rocket carried all satellites into the space with a speed of 27 thousand kilometers per hour, which is 40 times the speed of regular airplane flight. It is another marvelous achievement following the successful launch of 23 satellites by ISRO in June of 2015. 印度领导人也纷纷表示祝贺。总统慕克吉说：“这一天将成为我国航天计划历史上的里程碑。我国为这一重大成就感到自豪，这再次展现了印度日益提升的航天能力。”总理莫迪更是连发多条推特，盛赞这是“印度的民族骄傲”。他说：“这次非凡壮举是我国航天科学界和国家的又一骄傲时刻。印度向我们的科学家致敬。” The political leaders of India sent their congratulations in succession. President of India Pranab Mukherjee said: “This day shall go down as a landmark in the history of our space programme. The nation is proud of this significant achievement, which has demonstrated, yet again, India's increasing space capabilities.” Prime Minister Modi even tweeted for multiple times, praising ISRO’s feat as “a proud moment of the nation”. He tweeted: “This remarkable feat by ISRO is yet another proud moment for our space scientific community and the nation. India salutes our scientists.” 很快，“世界纪录”成了印度推特上最热的流行词。印度综合门户网站“印度第一站”称，15日是印度创造历史的日子，从总理到平民百姓，都为印度空间研究组织的里程碑事件感到兴奋。沉浸在“印度荣耀时刻”的同时，有网民还不忘借机挖苦老对手巴基斯坦，称印度和巴基斯坦同时独立，但如今一个成功将创纪录的卫星送入太空，“另一个将恐怖主义分子送往全球”。 Soon after, “world record” became a buzz word among the twitter users in India. Oneindia.com, an online portal of India, claims that February 15^th marks “a historic day” for all Indians, as they – from the Prime Minister himself to the ordinary people – are celebrating the monumental achievement of ISRO. Bathed in the “moment of honor” in the history of India, the Indian netizens didn’t forget to ridicule Pakistan, India’s archenemy. They claimed that the two countries gained independence at almost the same time of last century, but one of them has already succeeded in launching a satellite into the space, while the other “only send terrorists across the globe”. 印度发射的这104颗卫星中，包括一颗地球观测卫星Cartosat-2，重700多公斤，这也是其中唯一一颗较大型的卫星。其余的多是很小的“纳米卫星”，总计重664公斤，最小只有1.1公斤。96颗卫星来自美国客户，还有的来自以色列、哈萨克斯坦、荷兰、瑞士和阿联酋。英国广播公司称，Carto⁃sat-2是具备拍摄高清照片功能的观测卫星，将用于监视巴基斯坦和中国。《纽约时报》称，一名右翼活动分子在推特上说：“来看看，中国、巴基斯坦，这就是我们的力量。” The 104 satellites launched into the space by India this time include Cartosat-2, an earth observation satellite weighing over 700 kilograms, which is the only relatively large satellite among all 104 of them. The rest are mostly “Nanometer Satellites” of relatively smaller size, and they altogether weigh 664 kilograms, with the smallest one weighing only 1.1 kilograms. 96 of the satellites are for the clients of U.S., and other clients are from Israel, Kazakhstan, Netherland, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates. According to the report of BBC, Carto⁃sat-2 is an earth observation satellite with the function of taking photos of high definition, which will be used to monitor the situations in Pakistan and China. The report of New York Times quotes the twitter of a right winger in India, who claimed “come and see, China and Pakistan, such is our strength”. 印度《商业标准报》称，ISRO的新纪录使得印度成为全球卫星发射一站式服务商，有望为印度带来全球商机。美国空间产业研究机构SpaceWorks预计，今后5年，大小从一个鞋盒到24英寸电视机、重量在1公斤到50公斤之间的类似卫星，需要发射3000多颗。这些卫星将被用于天气跟踪、海上导航以及为偏远地区提供高速上网服务等。印度《金融快报》称，卫星数量本身也许不能称为伟大的科技进展，但其中的创新肯定是工程奇迹。火箭可以搭载大量卫星，但真正的挑战不是如何将卫星装进去，而是如何将它们依次释放。航天中心主任斯万说，这是他们遇到的最艰难任务，“我们必须确保它们不会相撞”。 The report of Business Standard (India) says that with ISRO’s historic feat of hurling 104 satellites in one go, a record by any space agency, is set to open up a global opportunity and make India a one-stop shop for building and hurling micro satellites. Over the next five years, over 3,000 such satellites with sizes varying from a small shoebox to a 24-inch television set and weighing one kg to 50 kg are expected to be built and launched by various players, according to SpaceWorks Inc, a US space industry researcher. These satellites will also be used for the track of weather condition, navigation on the sea as well as high-speed internet connections in the remote areas, etc. According to the report of The Financial Express (India), space scientists note that the number of satellites launched by a rocket in one mission is not comparable to scoring runs in cricket. But what is required is a lot of engineering innovations for stacking the tiny satellites in the available space and ejecting them sequentially in the desired orbits without colliding with each other, according to K. Sivan, Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). “ISRO的创新纪录：从牛车到火星的飞跃”，《印度斯坦时报》15日称，1981年，印度太空科学家还在想尽办法，为新卫星寻找不采用金属材料的运输平台。最后，他们把亮闪闪的新卫星装在老旧的牛车上推了出来，让世界看呆。30年后，印度科学家成功实现一次发射100多颗卫星的任务。从一定意义上说，这反映出印度持续不断改进和循环利用有限设备、努力降低成本、应对科技局限性的惊人历程。对许多人来说，尽管印度工业落后，制造业表现乏力，但周三的成功发射再次凸显印度太空技术的实力。 “ISRO’s record of innovation: Bullock cart to launching 180 foreign satellites” – such is the title of the report of Hindustan Times on April 15^th. In 1981, when India’s space scientists grappled with the challenge of finding a metal-free transportable platform for its new satellite, they turned to an improbable frugal innovation. As the world watched amazed, Indian scientists wheeled out their gleaming, new satellite on a creaking, old bullock cart. More than three decades on, as Indian scientists successfully launched more than 100 nano satellites on a single rocket, creating what they said was a record, it was still, in part, the same amazing story of endless tweaking and recycling of delicate equipment to keep costs down and tide over technology constraints. To many, Wednesday’s triumph once again underlined the credibility of India’s space technology, despite the country’s antiquated industrial processes and manufacturing record, and the brilliance of its poorly paid scientists whose only reward, perhaps, is the collective national pride their work generates. 意义到底有多大？ What is the significance of India’s recent achievement? 美国早在上世纪60年代就最早掌握了“一箭多星”技术。2015年，中国曾用长征六号火箭一次送20颗卫星上天，创下当时的亚洲航天纪录。现在印度的“一箭104星”意义到底有多大？ US space agency NASA succeeded in launching multiple satellites in a single mission in as early as 1960s. In 2015, China managed to launch a total of 2o satellites into the space with CZ-6 (Long March 6), making the record in the aerospace history among all Asian countries. And now, what is the significance of ISRO’s achievement of sending 104 satellites with one rocket this times? 中国空间技术研究院研究员庞之浩15日接受《环球时报》记者采访时表示，这次发射产生了巨大政治影响。这次成功，为小卫星发射技术起到推动作用，一箭多星预计会越来越普遍。因为发射成本越低，微小卫星的应用成本就越低。这也将给印度带来可观的商业利益。在技术上这次印度也有一定进步，解决了发射大量卫星的一些技术，涉及分配器接口、时序控制等。但这次发射算不上重大航天突破，因为印度火箭的太阳同步轨道运载能力只有1.75吨，而中国的长征-4C达到3吨多。而且，印度这次发射对轨道高度相对要求并不高，这些卫星的轨道高度基本都在距地面500公里左右。 Pang Zhihao, a research fellow of China Academy of Space Technology, said in an interview with the reporter of Global Times that ISRO’s achievement arouses huge political impact at the moment. The success would surely bring a step forward the launching technology of small satellite, and people will see more cases of launching multiple satellites into the space with one rocket in the near future. The lower the costs of launching, the lower the application costs of microsatellites. As a result, India is given substantial commercial benefits. Technologically, India has also achieved evident progress by solving a series of problems of launching multiple satellites, which are related to the distributor interface and sequential control, etc. The successful launch by ISRO is by no means a giant breakthrough in the aerospace sense, as the carrying capacity of the sun-synchronous orbit of the Indian rocket is no more than 1.75 tons, while that of CZ-4C of China exceeds 3 tons. Besides, the required orbital altitude of India’s launch is no so high, as the orbital altitude of these satellites are around 500 kilometers from the ground. 庞之浩说，如果对火箭运载能力和轨道高度要求更高，则需要采取“先进上面级”技术——别称太空摆渡车。就像机场的摆渡车，会把乘客按照目的地送到不同的飞机舱门旁边。这种技术中国已掌握，去年远征一号和二号卫星已经采用。 Pang Zhihao said that if the standards of the carrying capacity and the orbital altitude are raised enormously for the rocket launching, they’ll have to resort to the technology of “advanced upper stage”, a.k.a. the space shuttle. That’s quite like the shuttle buses at the airport, which carry the passengers to the cabin doors of different airplanes in accordance with their respective destinations. At the current stage, China has already a good command of such technology, and has already applied it in Yuanzheng 1 and Yuanzheng 2 last year. 一位参与过中国长征系列火箭设计的航天专家对《环球时报》记者说，这次印度发射“一箭104星”，更多是一种形式上的东西，并不真正反映水平有多高。发射卫星的关键是有没有控制能力、重量是多少。发射小卫星可以做到很简单，几公斤一个，就相当于一个无线电发射机。如果是质量很小且不是多轨道的话，那就像打子弹一样，发出去没太大难度。但若变成不同轨道，多个卫星重量达到两三百公斤，那就厉害了。“中国的运载火箭水平比印度要高很多，从控制能力和可行性方面看，目前中国只落后于美俄。” One top space scientist, who was involved in the design process of Long March rocket family, told the reporter of Global Times that it is merely something “formal” that India succeeded in launching 104 satellites with one rocket at a single time. That is to say, there is no concrete proof that India has achieved much progress technologically. The key factors of launching satellites include the control capacity and the weight, etc. Launching microsatellites is relatively simple, as each of them weigh no more than a few kilograms, and it’s actually no different from a radio transmitter. If the weight of the satellite to be launched is not so enormous, and that there is only one orbit, it is not a difficult task at all. However, if there are more than one orbit, and each of the satellites weigh 200 to 300 kilograms, that task would be something marvelous if it is finally accomplished. “Speaking of carrier rocket, China is far more advanced than India in the technological sense. Judging by the control capacity and the feasibility of the technology, China is now only behind U.S. and Russia.” 无论如何，印度航天技术的进步有目共睹。2014年，印度的“曼加里安”号火星探测器成功进入火星轨道，印度成为第一个将探测器送入火星轨道的亚洲国家。印度政府对于航天技术的重视也是显而易见。去年11月，莫迪政府决定废除最大面值的旧纸币，代之以新的2000卢比钞票，新纸币的正面是印度圣雄甘地，背面便是“曼加里安”号火星探测器。 No matter what, India has achieved tremendous progress with regard to its aerospace technology. In 2014, India successfully put a satellite named “the Mangalyaan robotic probe” into orbit around Mars, becoming the first Asian country to put a robotic probe into the orbit around Mars. The Indian government also lays great emphasis on the progress of aerospace technology, which is easily seen by all. In November of 2016, the Modi government declared a huge portion of the country's currency null and void. Instead, they replaced the old ones with a new banknote of 2000 Indian rupees. On the positive side of the banknote is the image of Mahatma Gandhi, and on the back is the Mangalyaan robotic probe. “太空奥德赛：印度计划进军金星和火星”，《印度时报》13日称，印度计划不久后首次进军金星，并重访红色星球火星。印度政府在电子预算文件中透露了这两个大胆的星际计划。火星任务初步定于2021年至2022年，现有计划很可能是将一个遥控设备发射到火星表面。印度2013年第一颗火星探测器完全自主研发，此次法国希望与印度共同合作研制火星探测器。在2017年的预算中，印度航天部门资金已增加23%。在航天科学部分，预算规定用于“火星轨道探测器二代任务和金星任务”。文章称，新的火星任务可能是做良好的科学研究，因为上一次时带有民族主义倾向——击败中国的火星计划。 “Space odyssey: India plans trips to Venus, Mars.” The report of The Times of India on February 13^th says that India plans to go to Venus for the first time and revisit the red planet, Mars, very soon. A formal acknowledgement by the government of these two bold inter-planetary sojourns is in the electronic budget documents. The mission to Mars is tentatively slated for 2021-22 and as per existing plans it may well involve putting a robot on the Martian surface. While India's first Mars mission in 2013 was purely indigenous, the French space agency wants to collaborate in making the Mars rover. In the 2017 budget, funds for the department of space have been increased by 23%.Under the space sciences section, the budget mentions provisions "for Mars Orbiter Mission II and mission to Venus". The report also adds that this Mars mission is likely to be all about doing good science since the first one had a nationalistic streak in it in trying to beat China to the orbit of Mars, which the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) did magnificently. 外媒炒作“新太空竞赛” The foreign media are eyeing on the “new space race” “中印竞争”正是印度及西方媒体喜欢炒作的一点。CNN15日题为“随着亚洲太空竞赛升温，印度着眼于卫星发射创纪录”的文章称，中印这两个争夺地区霸主地位的“对手”正在大力加速提升各自的太空实力，今后几年双方的竞争将更加激烈。 “China-India rivalry” is a spotlight that the Indian and western media love to hype. The report of CNN on February 15^th, entitled “India in record satellite launch as Asia's space race heats up”, says that India, China and Japan have all outlined bold space exploration plans for 2017 and beyond. The increasing competition for space-related power and prestige in Asia has echoes of the Cold War space race of the mid-20th century. “德国之声”称，在美国和俄罗斯航天计划受到延缓之际，中国和印度两个世界人口最多的亚洲巨人加快了向太空迈进的步伐，并取得长足发展。中国和印度使得顶尖航天俱乐部进一步扩大，在太空探索方面取得巨大进步。澳大利亚航天专家莫里斯·琼斯表示，虽然印度也取得巨大的进步，但还明显落后于中国。虽然在卫星技术上可以和中国比肩，但是在火箭技术以及载人航天方面却进展不大。 According to the report of Deutsche Welle, with U.S. and Russia slowing down their paces in developing their own space programs, China and India – the two most populated countries in the world and Asia’s new giants – are marching towards the space with even faster paces and have already achieved tremendous success. With the rises of China and India, the top tier of the “space club” is expanded, and huge progress is achieved in the endeavor of exploring the space. Morris Jones, an Australian space scientist, believed that India is still far behind China with regard to aerospace technology, although much progress is achieved recently. India is now neck and neck with China in the field of satellite technology, but there is no evident advancement in the fields of rocket technology and manned space flight. 英国《金融时报》15日称，印度对抢先中国将探测器送入火星轨道尤其感到骄傲，但专家认为，印度太空技术绝不是亚洲最强的。印度国防研究与分析所资深研究员艾杰·拉勒说，中国的太空项目要强许多，“更大，更有雄心，中国是和美国在竞争”。该报此前一篇文章详细对比了“亚洲的新太空竞赛”。报道称，中国在载人航天领域占据先机，印度在这方面难同中国竞争，而是采取现实态度致力于高性能卫星和太空探测器技术。今年上半年，中国将发射天舟一号货运飞船，这将成为中国向空间站运送补给的重要一步。此外，中国也有自己的月球和火星探测计划。文章认为，太空项目在提高国家声誉的同时，也促进了中国国内产业的发展，比如中国的北斗导航系统已经为本国317个城市提供服务，基于北斗的相关商业产值到2020年预计可达4000亿元人民币。 The report of Financial Times (U.K.) on February 15^th claims that although the Indian people feel extremely proud of the achievement of putting the robotic probe into the orbit of Mars ahead of China, India is not yet the strongest one in Asia with regard to aerospace technology. According to a senior research fellow of IDSA (Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses) of India, China has far more advanced space programs than India, “larger, and more ambitious”. Actually, China is trying to compete with U.S. According to a prior report of the same newspaper, rather than making an attempt to compete in manned area flight — a discipline during which China has a head begin — it could be extra sensible for India to give attention to higher-performance satellites and probes. In the primary half of this 12 months, China is to launch its Tianzhou-1 cargo spacecraft — a stepping stone to transporting provides to the area station. Besides, the federal government revealed an area growth plan that includes missions to the moon and Mars. According to the article, BeiDou is already offering location info companies in 317 Chinese cities in China, and associated companies are anticipated to be value a complete of Rmb400bn ($58.1bn) by 2020. Plus, providing an alternative choice to the US-led GPS might strengthen China’s worldwide affect. 前述不便透露姓名的航天专家对《环球时报》记者说，中国已是航天大国，并没有把印度当成对手，也不会与印度进行所谓太空竞赛。我们是按照自己的目标，一步步推进。▲ The above-mentioned space scientist, who insisted that his name not be revealed, told the reporter of Global Times that China is already a superpower in the realm of aerospace, and India cannot compete with China at the current stage. Therefore, there is no so-called “space race” between China and India. China is marching forward following her own paces to reach the target already set. ▲  

安倍为推销当“导游”，莫迪建高铁引竞争 日本大力向印度推销新干线     【环球时报报道 驻印度、日本特派特约记者 苑基荣 孙秀萍】12日，一列从东京开往神户的新干线列车上，日本首相安倍晋三把一杯热气腾腾的咖啡递给到访的总理莫迪，安倍在火车上如此热情地招待客人，很大程度上是为了向印度推销新干线。印度计划建设7条高速铁路，去年日本已拿下大单。虽然此次日印两国没有签署有关高铁的协议，日本仍希望在印度未来的高铁建设中施展拳脚。   (Report by Global Times, by Yuan Jirong and Sun Xiuping, special correspondents of Global Times in India and Japan) On November 12^th, on a Shinkansen train from Tokyo to Kobe, Shinzo Abe, the Prime Minister of Japan, handed a cup of hot coffee to the hand of Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. Prime Minister Abe was treating her Indian guests with such enthusiasm as a gesture to promote Shinkansen to India, to a large extent. India plans to build 7 high-speed train railways, and Japan received several large orders from India in last year. Although there is no agreement reached between India and Japan with regard to the high-speed train project, Japan does hope to play an even greater role in India’s construction of high-speed trains and railways in the foreseeable future.   日印首脑共乘一车 The paramount leaders of India and Japan on the same train   为敦促印度其他几条线路也采用新干线方式，安倍破例修改了接待计划。日本《朝日新闻》12日称，安倍和莫迪原计划分别前往神户的川崎重工，但安倍却强烈希望和莫迪同乘一车，希望双方能够在车内“仔细进行关于新干线的对话”。到了工厂，安倍还当起“导游”，带领莫迪参观了最高时速320公里的东北新干线E5系车辆的制造工厂。   In order to urge India to use Shinkansen technologies in several other railways, Prime Minister Abe made an exception by rescheduling the reception plan. The report of Asahi Shimbun (Japan) on November 12^th says that Abe and Modi were scheduled to head for Kawasaki Heavy Industries in Kobe separately, but Abe strongly suggested that he take the same train with Modi, as both sides would have the chance of “detailed dialogue about the Shinkansen” in the same train. After arriving at the factory, Abe served as a “tourist guide” for Modi, and they visited the manufacturing plant of the E5 series used for the northeast Shinkansen, whose maximum speed may reach 320 kilometers per hour.   据《日本经济新闻》报道，安倍认为莫迪很看好日本的新干线，并介绍说“这就是新干线的故乡”。莫迪也表示对新干线充满期待。   The report of Nikon Keizai Shimbun (Japan) says that Abe is convinced that Modi has very high opinions of Shinkansen, and Abe mentioned in specific that “Japan is the home town of Shinkansen”. On the other hand, Modi says that he is looking forward to Shinkansen.   去年12月，印度与日本签署了价值120亿美元的高铁协议，采用日本新干线技术建设印度首条高铁，连接孟买和艾哈迈达巴德，预计总长505公里，建成后两地旅程时长将从7-8小时缩减至2小时。项目总造价约为9800亿卢比(约合147亿美元)。   In December of 2015, India and Japan signed the agreement of high-speed train and railway that amounts to 12 billion U.S. dollars. The first Indian high-speed railway that uses the Shinkansen technologies links Mumbai and Ahmedabad, running for 505 kilometers. After the completion of the railway, the travel time between the two cities will be shortened from 7 – 8 hours to 2 hours. The comprehensive construction cost of the project amounts to around 980 billion Indian rupees (around 14.7 billion U.S. dollars).   《产经新闻》报道称，日本企业对莫迪此次访日充满期待。不仅是高铁方面，日本企业希望在铁道、电力等以基础环境建设为中心的商贸机会能有所拓宽。因为拥有13亿人口的印度，拥有庞大的市场潜力。印度新德里电视台报道称，没有任何亚洲国家能够提供比印度更好的市场机会了。如果印度采用日本5条新干线高铁，日本就成为大赢家。   The report of Sankei Shimbun (Japan) says that the Japanese enterprises are also looking forward to Modi’s Japanese tour with great enthusiasm. For them, the chances exist not only in high-speed train and railway projects, but also in other infrastructure facilities including railway and electric power, etc. They expect the commercial and trade opportunities to be expanded to the related fields. India boasts a population of 1.3 billion, heralding a huge market of great promise. The report of NDTV (India) says that India can provide for Japan better market opportunities than any other Asian nation. If India decides to use the Shinkansen technologies in 5 of its high-speed railways, Japan will be the biggest winner without doubt.   印度市场规模庞大 The huge market size of India   印度拥有全球最大的铁路网之一，但由于修建年代久远且升级缓慢，效率十分低下。2013年，印度铁道部成立了 “印度高铁有限公司”(HSRC)，负责高铁建设从可行性研究到融资。莫迪所在的人民党提出的“钻石四边形”计划，成为印度高铁的主要方案，预计要修建7条连接该国主要城市的高铁线路，总长度达到4600公里。   India has one the world’s largest railway networks. However, the Indian railway network is frequently criticized of its low operation efficiency due to its age-old history and slow upgrading process. In 2013, the Indian Ministry of Railway founded HSRC (High Speed Rail Corporation of India Limited), which oversees the feasibility research and finance of the high-speed railway projects in India. Bharatiya Janata Party, the ruling party of India led by Prime Minister Modi, proposed the grand project of “Diamond Quadrilateral”, which has been adopted as the chief plan of the high-speed railway construction. According to the plan, 7 high-speed railways will be built in the future, connecting the major cities of India and running for over 4.6 thousand kilometers.   “美国之音”报道称，孟买到艾哈迈达巴德高铁虽然并非 “钻石四边形”的主要线路，但该线路一旦修通，将会成为印度高铁网络的样板线路。   The report of “Voice of America” says that although the high-speed railway between Mumbai and Ahmedabad is not included as a major line in the “Diamond Quadrilateral” plan, it will become an exemplary of India’s high-speed railway network after the construction is completed with success.   中国仍颇具竞争力 China is an equally capable competitor   《印度时报》报道称，印度政府选择新干线旨在促进“印度制造”。不过，日本政府给出的“优惠大放送”是有附加条件的，高铁项目设备的30%都要从日本进口，而这对于莫迪政府来说，无疑是个打击。   The report of The Times of India says that the Indian government intends to promote the notion of “Make in India’ by choosing the Shinkansen technologies in its high-speed railway projects. However, there are subsidiary conditions in the “preferential package” offered by the Japanese government. According to the agreement, 30% of the necessary equipment of the high-speed railway project needs to be imported from the Japanese manufacturers. It is seen as a huge blow for the efforts of Modi government.   而中国中车在印度的首个铁路工厂于今年投产。中国高铁在整体技术上是世界领先的，与国外的高铁相比，中国高铁性价比更高，运行更平稳，建设周期更短，融资投资配套更具优势，未来在印度市场仍颇具竞争力。   On the other hand, the first railway factory of China CNR Corporation in India will be put into production in this year. China boasts world-leading systemic technologies in high-speed railway constructions. Compared with the high-speed railways in other nations, the Chinese version stands out with higher cost performance, smoother operation, shorter period of construction and adequate support of investment and financing. As a result, China is an equally capable competitor on the Indian market in the future.   共同社称，中国正在拼命进入印度高铁事业，已经开始调研德里首都圈和金奈之间建设高铁的可行性。“美国之音”也认为，中国能够给印度提出适合该国国情的方案，中国高铁项目近期相继在许多国家取得进展，为中国高铁技术树立了一定的声誉。▲   The report of Kyodo News Agency (Japan) says that China is sparing no efforts to take part in the high-speed train industry of India. The Chinese enterprises has already started with feasibility research of the high-speed railway connecting the urban circle of Delhi and Chennai. The report of “Voice of America” also believes that China is capable of offering India a comprehensive plan that suits the practical conditions of India. China has achieved notable progress with its high-speed railway constructions in multiple nations, and the technologies of China’s high-speed railway have already won international reputation. ▲    

在加尔各答追寻特蕾莎足迹     一生致力于消除贫困的特蕾莎修女，于1979年获得诺贝尔和平奖，不久前被罗马教廷封圣。其实，这位出生于奥斯曼帝国科索沃省（现科索沃）的修女早已被印度人“封圣”，在她的第二故乡加尔各答，特蕾莎修女度过她一生的大半岁月，当地人称其“加尔各答的圣女”。   Mother Teresa, the Roman Catholic nun who devoted her entire life to the cause of poverty reduction, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Not long ago, she was canonized (recognized by the church as a saint) by the Roman Catholic Church. As a matter of fact, the legendary nun born in Kosovo Vilayet of Ottoman Empire (now a part of Kosovo) is already worshipped as a saint by the Indian people. She spent most of her life in Calcutta, her second hometown, and the local residents often refer to her as “the saintess of Calcutta”.   特蕾莎故居没人不知道 The former residence of Mother Teresa is known to all   当地人说，加尔各答最有名的人有两位，一个男人、一个女人，男人是泰戈尔，女人就是特蕾莎修女。特蕾莎修女的故居在加尔各答市中心的JCBose路。这是条小巷子并不好找。但你不必担心寻不到，随便问一个当地人或随意拦下一辆出租车，询问“特蕾莎妈妈”的故居，肯定会被准确地指引到这里。《环球时报》记者第一次到访加尔各答时，还为此诧异不已，因为在印度其他地方问路失败的经历实在是太深刻。而当顺着当地人的指点走到特蕾莎修女故居前时，记者居然两次错过小小的弄堂口，直到发现那挂在一人多高的墙上的巴掌大小的白底蓝字小标牌。普通的路牌，普通的建筑，这故居的外貌就如同它的主人特蕾莎修女一样其貌不扬，但这里却是遍布全球的“仁爱传教修女会”的发源地和慈善文化的精神中心。   For the local residents of Calcutta, the place is known by the world thanks to two celebrities: one man and one woman. The man is Rabindranath Tagore, and the woman is Mother Teresa. The former residence of Mother Teresa is located on the JCBose Road in the downtown area of Calcutta. The small alley is not easy to look for, but the travelers don’t have to worry about not finding it. Whoever you ask on the street, or whichever taxi you get on, you will be led to the former residence of Mother Teresa unmistakably so long as you ask where it is. When the reporter of Global Times visited Calcutta for the first time, we felt quite surprised at this. In India, we were haunted by the unhappy memories of failed attempt in asking the way. Before we finally arrived at the former residence of Mother Teresa following the instructions of the local residents, we missed the narrow entrance of the ally for two consecutive times, and were sure that we got there in sight of a small signboard – almost the size of my palm, with white background and blue characters – which was fixed at the wall only as tall as an ordinary people. The signboard demonstrates nothing special, and the architectures there are same as usual. The outlook of the former residence, quite like the character of Mother Teresa, seems so humble and modest to us. However, who knows that it is the cradle of “Missionaries of Charity”, an organization of global impact, and the spiritual center of the philanthropic culture?   地方虽小，参观朝圣者却是络绎不绝。小小的院落也是如料想的那般平凡简朴，进院门右转的墙角有一尊玻璃罩起来的圣母雕像，上面写着“圣母纯净无玷的心灵是我们欢乐的源泉，她在为我们祈祷”。圣母像旁边略低些的地方立着特蕾莎修女的等身铜像，身姿略显佝偻，面态慈祥地伸出右手，仿佛正在轻柔抚摸孩子的头顶。   The place was small indeed, but the pilgrims worshipping Mother Teresa came in endless stream. The tiny courtyard stroke me with its plain and ordinary style, which I already expected before I came in. Turning right after entering the door, you would find a statue of Madonna in the corner under a glass cover, on which was written: “The spotless mind of Madonna is the fountain of our happiness, and she is praying for us all.” Some place a little lower than the statue of Madonna stood the life-sized bronze statue of Mother Teresa. She was a bit stooped, and was as if gently touching the head of a kid by extending her right hand, wearing a kind smile.   这座小院落是特蕾莎修女生活、工作的地方，也是她的墓地之所在。墓地在一楼一座庄严肃穆的大厅，说是大厅其实也就三四十平方米的样子，深色地面中间是一座纯白色大理石砌成的长方形墓。上面一方小小的墓志铭，写着“你们要彼此相爱，正如我爱你们一样”。中间是用金盏花瓣拼成的字体——一切归于耶稣。   The courtyard is where Mother Teresa used to live and work, and her graveyard is here, too. Her tombstone is located in a solemn and awe-inspiring hall on the first floor of her former residence. By “hall” I mean a room around 30 to 40 square kilometers in size. The floor takes on a dark color, and in the center is a rectangular tombstone made of white marble. The epitaph is inscribed in small characters, saying “You shall love each other as I love you all.” In the center are the words put together with golden petals, saying “All belongs to Jesus.”   在墓室的对面，沿着窄窄的楼梯上到二楼，有一间七八平方米的小屋，这里就是特蕾莎修女的工作室兼卧室。屋内一张不足一米宽的小木床、一桌一凳和一个书橱就几乎填满整个空间。谁能想到，这间逼仄陋室的主人，曾经掌管着4亿美元的巨额慈善基金。她的住处只有两样电器——电灯和电话；她的全部财产只有一尊耶稣像、一双凉鞋和3套衣服，这3套衣服是一个样式的，就是特蕾莎标志性的蓝边白色纱丽，每件约值一美元。就是穿着这样的衣服，她在1979年走上诺贝尔和平奖的领奖台；也是穿着这样的衣服，她从1948年开始奔走在加尔各答最贫困肮脏的贫民窟，为“穷人中的穷人”提供她所能给予的一切帮助。   Stepping on the narrow stairs in the opposite direction of the tomb hall, you will reach a small room on the second floor, around 7 to 8 kilometers in size. Here was the studio and the bedroom of Mother Teresa. The narrow space is stuffed with a small wooden bed (less than 1 meter in width, a chair, a table, and a bookcase, no more. Who knows that the master of this cramped, shabby room used to be in charge of one of the world’s largest charity foundation, which amounted to over 400 million U.S. dollars. There are only 2 electrical appliances in this room – a lamp and a telephone. All of Mother Teresa’s possessions include a statues of Jesus, a pair of sandals and 3 pieces of garments. The garments are of the same style – white saris decorated with blue rims, in which Mother Teresa put her unique signature – each of which cost only 1 U.S. dollar. So humbly dressed, she walked straight to the podium of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. So humbly dressed, she frequently visited the most shabby, dirty slums in Calcutta since 1948, and offered whatever she could offer to “the poorest among the poor”.   特蕾莎修女另外三个“家” Other 3 “homes” of Mother Teresa   除了这处故居，特蕾莎修女在加尔各答还有另外三个“家”——由她亲自募集善款并创立的弃婴之家、垂死者之家和麻风病人之家。在特蕾莎伟大精神的感召下，时至今日仍不断有来自世界各地的志愿者来到这里进行无私的奉献。弃婴之家就在离特蕾莎修女故居步行十几分钟的地方，这是一座两层的小楼，一层是从初生到一两岁的弃婴，二楼多是因为身有残疾而被遗弃的儿童。照顾这些孩子们的志愿者有大学生、职员，也有退休的老年人。志愿者来此服务需要通过仁爱传教修女会（又称博济会）的网站进行预约登记，要求志愿者要有爱心、有耐心，而且能用英语进行沟通。   Apart from her own residence, there are other 3 “homes” built by Mother Teresa in Calcutta – namely, the home for the abandoned infants, the home for the dying men and the home for the lepers. Inspired by the great spirit of Mother Teresa, volunteers from all corners of the world come here and provide selfless services to the miserable people even nowadays. The home for the abandoned infants is no more than several minutes’ walk from Mother Teresa’s former residence. It is a two-storey house. Abandoned babies aged 1 to 2 years old are taken care of on the first floor, and on the second are those forsaken by their parents in name of physical disabilities. The volunteers looking after the infants include college students, ordinary employees and retired senior citizens. The volunteers are required to register on the official website of the Missionaries of Charity (a.k.a. the M.C.). The volunteers are demanded of a loving heart and extra patience, and they must be capable of communicating in English.   关于麻风病人之家还有一个广为流传的故事。当年特蕾莎修女赴瑞典领取诺贝尔和平奖时，得知颁奖大会结束后的招待宴席要花费6000美金。在她的恳求下与会嘉宾一致同意宴席取消，随后特蕾莎修女带着宴会节省下的美元以及卖掉诺贝尔奖牌的钱回到加尔各答创立了麻风病人之家。   There is a widespread legend about the birth of the home for the lepers. When Mother Teresa travelled to Sweden to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, he learned that the reception banquet after the awarding ceremony would cost as much as 6 thousand U.S. dollars. Upon her request, the guests attending the ceremony unanimously agreed to cancel the banquet. Thanks to the money saved, which was originally spent on the banquet, and the money she earned by selling her Nobel medal, Mother Teresa managed to build the home for the lepers shortly after she returned to Calcutta.   加尔各答的垂死者之家是特蕾莎修女在1952年创立的，距离特蕾莎修女故居大约有半小时的车程，紧邻当地也是全印度最有名的一座迦利女神庙。这里原本是一座废弃的印度教寺庙，在当地政府的协调下，特蕾莎修女将其改造为对垂死老人进行救治和抚慰的慈善机构。据说此举曾经激怒了附近的印度教僧侣和教徒，他们认为这是对神灵的亵渎。当年，有些人时不常上门捣乱，还抢东西，特蕾莎修女每每坦然面对，慈爱地对“抢劫者”说：拿去吧，上帝爱你们……这些人终于被特蕾莎修女的仁爱所感化，从垂死者之家的反对者变为拥趸。在这里，人们在临终前除了能够得到必要的医疗救助，更重要的是能获得心灵的慰藉：穆斯林可以听到古兰经；印度教徒能够得到恒河圣水洗礼；天主教徒可以临终祈祷……然后，有尊严地死去。   The home for the dying people in Calcutta was established by Mother Teresa in 1952. It takes half an hour by car to reach there, starting from her former residence. The home is neighboring one of the most famous Kali temples in India. The home used to be a diserted Hindu temple, and Mother Teresa decided to build it into a charity institution that treats and comforts the dying old men after necessary renovations, with the joint efforts of the local government. The home, however, is said to irritate the Hindu monks and disciples living nearby, as they thought it was a blasphemy of their gods. In the early years, people often made trouble in the home and even robbed things. Mother Teresa, however, would face them fairly and frankly in whatever situation, and she kindly addressed the robbers: “Take whatever you want. God loves you…” In the end, those wrongdoers were touched by the kindheartedness of Mother Teresa, and turned from the objectors to stanch supporters of the home. Here at home, the dying old men cannot only receive the necessary medical treatments, but also spirit consolations which are also of vital importance. The Muslims can listen to the chanting of the Quran, the Hindus can be baptized with the holy water of the Ganges, and the Catholics are giving the commendation of the soul… In the end, everyone here dies with dignity.   留下600多个慈善机构 A legacy of over 600 charity institutions   特蕾莎修女在加尔各答的贫民窟和肮脏沟渠边伴着印度最穷困的人们度过了半个多世纪的岁月。穷其一生，特蕾莎修女并没有留下什么轰轰烈烈的事迹，只是用自己毕生的时间和精力每天重复着平凡的事情，最终将无数的平凡砌成伟大。正如特蕾莎修女所说：“我们常常无法做伟大的事，但我们可以用伟大的爱去做些小事。”在特蕾莎修女去世后，她为这个世界留下了超过10万以上的义工，还有在127个国家中的600多个慈善机构。△   Mother Teresa was by the side of “the poorest of the poor” in India, either in the slums of Calcutta, or the dirty ditches of the city, and her efforts lasted for over half a century. As a matter of fact, Mother Teresa left no earth-shattering achievements in the long span of her life. All she did was repeating the most ordinary contributions day after day with the time and energy of her entire life, and the seemingly ordinary efforts resulted in greatness. As Mother Teresa used to say: “We are sometimes not capable of doing the great things, but we can do the small things with the greatest love.” After Mother Teresa passed away, her legacy to the mankind include over 100 thousand voluntary workers, and over 600 charity institutions located in 127 nations of the world. △    

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On the countless ancient pagodas in Myanmar, and the tourist attractions of the scenic depictions of sunrise, sunset or other themes in paintings in them.

Photo item on presentation of the traditional hat to Prime Minister Modi in Assam

An inane and totally insubstantive item on the recent Track II Dialogue between India and China led by former State Councillor, Dai Bing Gua and former NSA, Shivshankar Menon. They were both reported to have spoken highly of the state of Sino-Indian relations currently “and made suggestions for further development of the relationship”.   Chinese Ambassador to India, Luo Zhaohui's speech on the occasion was specially mentioned albeit in general terms again: he was reported to have “made introductory remarks on China-India relations and on the direction of their further development, and stressed that China attaches great importance to Sino-Indian relations and was willing to work with India to take the relationship to a higher level”. And, apart from the above, the item only mentions that “the two sides positively evaluated the current development momentum of China-India relations and expressed confidence in their future development. They believed that the dialogue was fruitful and long-term, and agreed to continue it in Sichuan, China next year.”

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Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 29, 2019

Q: China has put technical holds on the issue of Masood's listing in the 1267 Committe of the UN on the grounds that the matter required conclusive evidence and that India and Pakistan should conduct (more) consultations. No matter what the evidence provided by the Indian side, the Pakistani side terms it insufficient. Do you think that Pakistan should also investigate and provide evidence? Should countries supporting Pakistan not consider this factor also? A: The 1267 Committee of the UN Security Council has clear norms and requirements for listing. of individuals The relevant practices of the Chinese side are in line with the provisions of the Security Council resolutions and also in line with the Rules of Procedure of the Sanctions Committee. We will continue to communicate with all parties in a responsible and constructive manner and work together to find a solution to the problem.

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Summary translation underway

India announced Wednesday the successful test of an anti-satellite missile. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a televised address that "our scientists have hit a live satellite 300 kilometers away in low-Earth orbit," and said the country has become the fourth country to acquire such an ability after the US, Russia and China, and "registered its name as a space power." Despite doubts from opposition parties that it's the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's bid for the upcoming election, most Indian media outlets trumpeted the success and said this capability can help counter China's space power and intimidate Pakistan. China carried out an anti-satellite missile test in 2007, which were strongly criticized by the US and other Western countries. India conducted the same test, but instead of condemning the country, the West viewed it from the China-India competition perspective. Only a US official warned nations of space debris caused by the test, without any moral accusations. The Chinese people are getting used to the US and Western countries' obvious double standards on China. China was the world's third largest economy in 2007, which was clearly rising. Today's India is developing rapidly, but its economy is only a fifth of China's. India's development is uneven. Its manufacturing and infrastructure are relatively weak and there's a huge gap between rich and poor. So, Western countries haven't formed an "India threat theory." For them, India is more likely a counterweight to China. China should partly understand India's strong nationalism against China. There is a wide gap between India and the US. India regards China as a standard to motivate itself. At least in the next few decades, India's dream is to catch up with China. India's nationalism should also be warned. Indian people believe China and Pakistan will be afraid as long as India achieves military progress, as if the new deterrent should be immediately used in India's relations with the two countries. Such an opinion is naïve and dangerous. India should understand that it will trail China in military and comprehensive strength for a long time. China is not concerned about India's rising military strength, because it hasn't shown a trend of surpassing China. India understands that if it attacks China, Beijing's retaliation will be unbearable. Chinese believe that India is rational in this regard. Likewise, India's limited strength can't deter China, nor is its deterrent to Pakistan as strong as some Indian people think. We hope Indian society clearly understands this. Western media praise and even coax India, but we notice New Delhi has maintained strategic sobriety and insisted on an independent foreign policy. Nationalism against China is more likely to be an inevitable political friction under the Indian system. China and India changed their fate during the same period of globalization. Their ways of development are different, but their demands on international rules and order are similar. Their interests are interconnected, and they are not in a zero-sum game. The West hopes China and India engage in long-term strategic friction. The essence of the Indo-Pacific strategy is to promote China-India confrontation. India should remain vigilant against the strategy rather than making use of it.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 28, 2019

Q: So the US has circulated a draft resolution to UN Security Council to blacklist Masood Azhar. Given that China has vetoed past actions to add Masood Azhar to the sanctions blacklist, what is China's response to this recent draft resolution? A: I will need to correct you. China has not vetoed anything relating to this matter. We put a hold on the application and voiced a different view in the sanctions committee. It's something completely different from a veto in the Security Council. Follow-up: You are saying that China has never blocked actions to add Azhar to the sanctions blacklist? A: You are referring to the 1267 Committee. That and the Security Council, to which your original question is related, are two different levels. Follow-up: Can you then just comment on this draft resolution to the UN Security Council? A: The request to designate Masood a global terrorist was put forward to the Security Council 1267 Committee not long ago. China has put a technical hold on the application as more time is needed for a comprehensive and thorough assessment. This is in line with the rules of procedure of the 1267 Committee and there are many such precedents. The Masood designation issue involves a series of complicated factors. China has noted that relevant parties have expressed willingness to conduct dialogue and consultation. China has also been promoting proper settlement of the issue through dialogue. Under current circumstances, the Security Council should act prudently and play a constructive role by allowing time and space for dialogue and consultation between parties concerned. The US is bypassing the 1267 Committee by putting forward its draft resolution directly to the Security Council. Such an act will do nothing to facilitate a solution through consultation and will only lead to further complication of the issue. It has undermined the authority of the 1267 Committee as a main counter-terrorism agency at the Security Council and is not conducive to upholding the unity of the Security Council. China urges the US to respect the will and efforts of parties to the issue and observe traditions of the Security Council to safeguard the 1267 Committee's authority and the Security Council's unity. We hope the US will by all means exercise prudence and refrain from forceful actions.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 28, 2019

Q: US Secretary of State Pompeo said that when China uses debt as a trap, engages in spying through its enterprises and poses risks through its technology companies, the US wants to make sure that relevant countries know about the risks and make their own decisions. What is your comment? A: For some time, it seems that some US politicians cannot go anywhere without attacking China, tarnishing China's reputation, and sensationalizing the so-called "China threat". They frame China's development assistance as a "debt trap" and accuse Chinese enterprises of spying with trumped-up charges. These actions are extremely immoral and unfair. China has been carrying out cooperation with developing countries on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit and has been providing assistance to them within its capabilities and with no political strings attached. Such cooperation has helped these countries achieve economic and social development and improved local people's lives and has been welcomed by them. The amount of debts they have incurred from cooperation projects with China only accounts for a very small proportion of their total debts, and no country has fallen into the so-called "debt trap" because of cooperation with China. The US allegations are not supported by facts. Such random smear campaign against China will get nowhere. China has been asking its enterprises to strictly abide by local laws and regulations when running their businesses overseas. Some forces in the US, driven by political motives, have been leaving no stones unturned in attempts to crush Chinese enterprises and peddle the theory that China is spying through its enterprises. They intend to cripple Chinese enterprises to serve their malign ulterior motives. But people see through their game. They are doing all these to defend their dominance in economy, science and technology. Their trick of a thief crying thief is doomed to fail. I want to stress that a lie, even repeated a thousand times, will still be a lie. Certain people in the US should not overestimate the effectiveness of their rumor-mongering or underestimate other people's ability to make informed judgments. We urge these people to correct their attitude, discard the the cold-war and zero-sum mindset, adopt an objective and accurate view towards C

Despite being widely acknowledged as a connectivity and infrastructure development project for the past five years, the Belt and Road Initiative has come in for criticism by some, with a few even calling it a "debt trap" that China is laying by offering huge loans to countries already under a debt burden. Some Western think tanks and media outlets with anti-China bias tend to view the BRI as China's strategy to challenge the existing world order and build a new one led by China. By so doing, they reveal their Cold War mentality. And the zero-sum game they are indulging is aimed at disrupting China's peaceful development. The so-called experts who label the Belt and Road Initiative a debt trap should know that countries involved in the Initiative carefully check the feasibility of a Belt and Road project, and evaluate its costs and profits, and asset-liability ratio before finalizing it. They should also know that China helps countries in need of infrastructure funds which some developed countries and international financial organizations refuse to provide due to the slow return on infrastructure projects. By calling the BRI a "debt trap", these so-called economic critiques have shown they are prejudiced against China. No wonder they portray funds from Western countries as treats and those from China as tricks. That the BRI has not worsened any country's debt problems is a fact known to all countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. For example, Philippine Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez said on March 7 that Manila's debt to Beijing is about 1 percent of its total debt. And "at the end of 2022, the Philippine's debt to China will be 4.5 percent of our total debt. The debt to Japan will be 9.5 percent. Now, I don't know why people are not saying we are going to drown in Japanese debt," Dominguez said. Developing countries have been borrowing funds from Western countries and international financial organizations, and many of them have accumulated huge debts because of the long-term and large loans. Some of these countries have eased their debt problems after cooperating and taking loans from China. As a relative newcomer to the international market, China is not a major creditor in the international community, yet it is being accused, albeit with any basis, of laying a "debt trap" for other developing countries. The Harold newspaper of Zimbabwe dismissed the China "debt-trap diplomacy" theory floated by the West, saying the United States "is in fact the author of the debt traps since the 20th century… World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund were mainly instruments to facilitate the reconstruction of Europe after a ruinous world war." African countries joined the World Bank, the IMF and other international financial institutions in the hope that they will help them improve their economies, but these organizations failed to do any such thing. "Most countries on the continent, Zimbabwe included, have been caught up in a serious debt trap from which they are still trying to escape." China should not take the "debt trap" allegation too seriously, but it should not ignore it either. It should closely scrutinize the funding in BRI countries, enhance communication with those countries, and carefully evaluate their economic capacities before finalizing a project. Also, it should explore the possibility of cooperation with the US and European countries in third-party markets, so as to promote mutual benefit. And it should enhance cooperation with the World Bank, the IMF, Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, as well as take measures to make BRI projects more transparent so that other countries do not misunderstand its intentions. President Xi Jinping said at last year's Boao Forum for Asia that the BRI is a new product, so it is reasonable to have disputes. Hence, China should expand cooperation in BRI projects. And when cooperation expands, the participants will get the true impression about the Belt and Road Initiative.  

The item describes the Indian national emblem and its symbolic significance, historical origins and importance in the Indian way of life with reverence. A rarity -- items on any facet of Indian history are not commonly seen in the Chinese media.

A photo item on sale of accounting ledgers in India on the eve of closing of the financial year.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 26, 2019

Q: The US State Department said that China systematically impedes access to Tibet, citing restrictions prohibiting diplomats, journalists and ordinary citizens from visiting. They also said that last year China rejected five out of nine US requests to visit Tibet. What's your comment on this? A: We have taken note of the report by the US State Department. The so-called US "Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act" is a serious violation of the basic norms governing international relations. It grossly interferes in China's internal affairs and sends utterly wrong signals to the separatist forces of "Tibetan Independence", severely undermining China-US exchange and cooperation. China firmly opposes that. The so-called US report based on the above-mentioned act is in total disregard of facts and full of bias. China will by no means accept it. I must emphasize that Tibetan affairs are purely China's internal affairs, where no foreign interference is allowed to meddle. China's Tibet is open to people from around the world. Considering the special geographical and climatic conditions in the region, it is necessary and indisputable that the government takes some lawful measures on the regulation and protection of foreigners regarding their entry into Tibet. We welcome more foreign citizens to visit, travel and do business in Tibet. This policy won't change. However, they must abide by Chinese laws and relevant regulations and follow necessary procedures. We urge the US to fully recognize the high sensitivity of Tibet-related issues, take concrete measures to remove the negative impact produced by the above-mentioned report, and stop using Tibet-related issues as a tool to interfere in China's internal affairs, so as to avoid damaging our bilateral relations, exchange and cooperation.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 26, 2019

Q: The US State Department said that China systematically impedes access to Tibet, citing restrictions prohibiting diplomats, journalists and ordinary citizens from visiting. They also said that last year China rejected five out of nine US requests to visit Tibet. What's your comment on this? A: We have taken note of the report by the US State Department. The so-called US "Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act" is a serious violation of the basic norms governing international relations. It grossly interferes in China's internal affairs and sends utterly wrong signals to the separatist forces of "Tibetan Independence", severely undermining China-US exchange and cooperation. China firmly opposes that. The so-called US report based on the above-mentioned act is in total disregard of facts and full of bias. China will by no means accept it. I must emphasize that Tibetan affairs are purely China's internal affairs, where no foreign interference is allowed to meddle. China's Tibet is open to people from around the world. Considering the special geographical and climatic conditions in the region, it is necessary and indisputable that the government takes some lawful measures on the regulation and protection of foreigners regarding their entry into Tibet. We welcome more foreign citizens to visit, travel and do business in Tibet. This policy won't change. However, they must abide by Chinese laws and relevant regulations and follow necessary procedures. We urge the US to fully recognize the high sensitivity of Tibet-related issues, take concrete measures to remove the negative impact produced by the above-mentioned report, and stop using Tibet-related issues as a tool to interfere in China's internal affairs, so as to avoid damaging our bilateral relations, exchange and cooperation.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 25, 2019 Q: Recently the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said on social media that he received a message of greetings for Pakistan's National Day from his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, and he welcomed that. Do you have any comment on it? A: China has noted relevant reports and welcomes the exchange of goodwill between the two leaders. China supports India and Pakistan in continuing contact and dialogue to restore stability, resolve differences and improve relations. China will continue to play a constructive role to this end. Q: Regarding India and Pakistan, you just mentioned that China is willing to play a constructive role in easing the tensions between the two countries. Earlier, China had also stated that it is willing to mediate between India and Pakistan. Do your remarks today show any evolution in China's position on India and Pakistan? A: China's position is consistent and clear. India and Pakistan are both important countries in South Asia. We hope they will have a friendly and cooperative relationship and properly resolve outstanding issues in bilateral relations through dialogue and consultation. China would like to maintain friendly relations with both countries and stands ready to play a constructive role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation between them.  

  An article by the Deputy Director of the China Studies Center of the National University of Science and Technology of Pakistan, a former Counsellor in the Pakistani Embassy in China,. (Translated by Feng Guochuan) The article elaborates on the benefits to Pakistan from the CPEC, which it terms a "game-changer", in terms of making good Pakistan's deficiencies in railways, power (additional 10,000 MW of capacity), IT (fiber optic cabling to reduce reliance on underwater sea cabling), highways and other transport infra-structure in particular. It notes that half of the 22 projects under the project have been completed, raising Pakistan's growth rate. And that the next phase would be establishment of SEZs and other (domestic) projects in the fields of agriculture and industry of direct benefit to Pakistan of investment inflows of 400-500 million US dollars were under negotiation. It concludes on the following note: "Since the launch of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Pakistan's GDP growth rate has increased from 4.4% to 5.7%, which is a huge leap for Pakistan. In the past 40 years,  a number of complicating factors have restricted Pakistan. Now the Pakistani people are benefiting from the impact of the "China-Pakistan Economic Corridor." We should understand the intention of Western media,; their negative reports are not  based on facts and so we should refuse to accept such motivated propaganda. Geopolitics is changing rapidly, and China-Pakistan friendship is extremely valuable. The two countries are strategic partners and a community of shared destiny. All attempts to create a wedge or misunderstanding between them are doomed to fail."

An unusually long article, featuring pieces by foreigners on the virtues of the OBOR initiative -- beginning with Abid Sadar, CEO of the Askari Bank of Pakistan and including and other similar figures from Belgium, France etc. Gives rise to speculation as to the reason(s) for such projection.

A detailed item on India's defence procurements, on the switch in recent times from Russia as the main supplier to the USA and the attendant problems; not on "Make in India" as such, as suggested by the title. Not at all. Not a sympathetic one, obviously. Full translation underway.

The festival of Holi was celebrated in Amritsar, India, on the 20th, with colored powder and excitement.  Participants greeted each other merrily and welcomed the vernal equinox boisterously.

 

On the first meeting in Beijing of the (joint China-Pakistan) political party mechanism on the CPEC.  The Pakistan Justice Party, the PPP and others participated. Summary translation underway

A photo item. Improvised use of plastic chairs turned upside down as "umbrellas" by fathers and daughters in New Delhi caught the popular photographer's fancy.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 21, 2019

Q: An Indian company is going to spend 3.85 billion dollars on an oil refinery in southern Sri Lanka near to Hambantota, which is a huge investment for Sri Lanka. The Hambantota port is an important cooperation project of the Belt and Road. Does this represent a challenge to Chinese investments in the country by India? Is there a strategic competition between India and China in Sri Lanka at the moment?

A: Thank you for your keen interest in China's foreign affairs. You seem always busy worrying for us.

I am not yet aware of the information you mentioned and will need to check whether it is true. I would like to say though that, China and Sri Lanka have conducted extensive and deep cooperation in various fields under the Belt and Road Initiative with fruitful results. The Hambantota project you mentioned is a good case in point. Through such mutually beneficial cooperation, China has been helping with Sri Lanka's economic and social development. Sri Lanka appreciates and commends what China has done.

At the same time, China adopts an open attitude toward the mutually beneficial cooperation between Sri Lanka and India as well as other parties. China stands ready to work with India and other relevant sides to help boost Sri Lanka's development. In foreign relations, China is more broad-minded than you might have imagined.

 

Editor's Note: President Xi Jinping is paying a visit to Italy, Monaco and France from March 21 to 26. During his visit to Italy, Beijing and Rome are likely to sign a memorandum of cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative despite the efforts of the United States to prevent Italy from joining the BRI. What has prompted Italy to join the initiative? And will other major European countries follow Italy's example to join the initiative? Five experts share their views on the issue with China Daily's Liu Jianna. Excerpts follow: New cooperation model needs to be established

China has been cooperating mainly with developing countries in Asia and Africa under the Belt and Road Initiative framework. But if China and Italy were to sign a memorandum of cooperation, China would also be working with a developed economy in Southern Europe, as well as a G7 member and an important link in the ancient Silk Road, to promote the Belt and Road Initiative. Hit by several crises including the debt and refugee crises, European countries are seeking new growth points. Confronted with development bottlenecks and a rising unemployment rate, Italy hopes to expedite its economic recovery and achieve growth by collaborating with China in the Belt and Road Initiative. Italy's own development needs and national interests have prompted it to edge closer to China despite the US' opposition. But given there is no existing model for cooperation between China and a developed country under the BRI framework, the two sides have to work out a new collaboration model based on their respective national conditions, in order to realize win-win results. For instance, Italy's famous fashion industry could establish a win-win working relationship with China's textile industry. Xi's visit to Italy is expected to help European countries better understand the Belt and Road Initiative and its aim of promoting interconnectivity and economic development across Asia, Europe and Africa. Hopefully, more European countries will follow in the footsteps of Italy to join the Belt and Road Initiative. By joining BRI, Italy will improve bilateral ties

If signed, the memorandum of cooperation between China and Italy would certainly help promote cooperation between the two countries, which have had a comprehensive strategic partnership for 15 years. In the near term, cooperation with China may help boost Italy's economy, improve Italian people's livelihoods, and stabilize the eurozone's financial situation, which will enable Rome to reduce its public debt ratio and staggering financial deficit. In the long run, deepening collaboration under the BRI framework may expand the export of Italy's agricultural and food products, technologies, medicines, tourism, cultural and other products to China and other regions. And improving the infrastructure at Italian ports along the Mediterranean and interconnectivity between land and sea may significantly promote trade between Italy and other European countries. Both sides must adopt pragmatic approach

European countries have been rather ambivalent when dealing with the Belt and Road Initiative. They hope to gain easier market access and acquire more capital by deepening relations with China but are reluctant to deepen cooperation with China because of ideological differences and the US' political influence on them. Under such circumstances, Italy's open support to the BRI is indeed encouraging. In fact, more or less all European countries have benefited by cooperating with China. The conditions for deeper cooperation between China and Europe, especially under the BRI framework, are favorable. First, the two sides have forged strong economic ties, with European enterprises such as Volkswagen, Carrefour and Total opening plants and branches in China and laying a solid foundation for collaboration under the BRI framework. Second, the existing cooperation mechanism and infrastructure connectivity between the two sides, for instance, the China-EU Connectivity Platform and the China-Europe freight train network could further facilitate cooperation under the BRI framework. And third, China and Europe have a history of settling their disputes through consultations and negotiations, as seen in the solar panel trade, which not only protects both parties' core interests and leads to win-win cooperation but also is conducive to collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative framework. Italy's move, hopefully, will prompt other European countries to stop adhering to the US' divisive policies and adopt a more pragmatic approach toward China for the sake of their own economic development and national interests. Advanced nations welcome to raise BRI standards

That Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has vowed to bring the European Union's trade standards to the Belt and Road Initiative should be welcomed, as China, despite proposing the initiative, doesn't set all the standards for cooperation under the BRI framework. Chinese leaders have repeatedly emphasized that the initiative is open and inclusive in nature, and that China welcomes all countries including the US, which strongly opposes the initiative, to participate in it and help raise it to a higher level. The West has been criticizing the initiative's programs saying they follow low trade and environmental standards, and blaming China for all the problems, if there are any. But the fact is, China initiates the Belt and Road programs, but the standards for different programs are set after taking into consideration local laws, rules and conditions. Therefore, higher standards can be set only if all sides, especially the developed countries, participate in it. In the future, small and medium-sized enterprises should be encouraged to play a more active role in Belt and Road projects and private capital introduced to boost the economic development of all the economies involved. Some critics even claim that China is trying to divide Europe by establishing cooperation mechanisms with certain European countries, but such critics don't realize the simple fact that a divided Europe would cause more harm than good to the Chinese economy. As a staunch supporter of multipolarization, China hopes to see a strong, unified Europe which will help build a more balanced world order. Therefore, it has made efforts to help accelerate the integration of Europe, by deepening its economic cooperation with European countries. After all, the integration of Europe cannot be realized unless all countries are economically strong enough. Belt and Road open to all economies

Several factors will push European countries to adopt a more open attitude toward the Belt and Road Initiative. A growing appetite for investment in infrastructure, which the European Commission's Investment Plan for Europe (known also as the "Juncker Plan") could not satisfy, means European countries have to find new sources of investment. And since the BRI is known to bring visible benefits to the countries involved, it is more than likely that more European countries would join it. As a matter of fact, countries along the China-Europe freight train route have largely gained through improved infrastructure interconnectivity. Also, given their opposition to the US' unilateral and trade protectionist policies, European countries could better promote multilateralism and globalization by participating in the BRI. The US has made every effort, though unsuccessfully, to prevent other countries from joining China-proposed initiatives such as the BRI and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. But the US' efforts to prevent Italy from joining the Belt and Road Initiative will not only fail, but also harm its global competitiveness. Let's hope Sino-Italian cooperation under the BRI framework will produce enough tangible results to prompt other European countries to resist the US' pressure and join the initiative.

A detailed article based on an interview given by the Ambassador of India to China, Shri Vikram Misri (Chinese name Tang Yongsheng ) Full translation underway

Photo item on a fancy dress parade by animal lovers  in Bangalore, India on the 19th,,in which they dressed up as giraffes, zebras and tigers, advocating “vegetarianism” for (creating awareness for) saving forests and welcoming the 21st International Forest Day.  

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Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 19, 2019

 

Q: The Dalai Lama said in an interview that it was possible that once he died, his incarnation could be found in India. And he warned that any other successor named by China would not be respected. What's China's comment?

A: I knew you would come up with this question, and let me give you an authoritative reply.

Reincarnation of living Buddhas, as a unique institution of inheritance in Tibetan Buddhism, comes with a set range of rituals and conventions. The Chinese government implements the policy of freedom of religious belief. The reincarnation system is respected and protected by such legal instruments as Regulations on Religious Affairs and Measures on the Management of the Reincarnation of Living Buddhas.

The institution of reincarnation of the Dalai Lama has been in existence for several hundred years. The 14th Dalai Lama himself was found and recognized following religious rituals and historical conventions and his succession was approved by the then central government. Therefore reincarnation of living Buddhas including the Dalai Lama must comply with Chinese laws and regulations and follow religious rituals and historical conventions.

 

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 19, 2019

Q: There is a report that Pakistan is likely to seek a two-billion-dollar loan from China, probably by the next couple of weeks. Can you please respond to that? A: I'm not aware of the specific situation you mentioned. As all-weather strategic cooperative partners, China and Pakistan have maintained normal cooperation in various fields with steady progress, which brings tangible benefits to the two peoples. You may have noted that the Pakistani Foreign Minister is now on a visit in China and will soon hold the first China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, which testifies to the full and close communication and cooperation across the board at various levels.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 18, 2019

Q: On March 14, India and Pakistan held the first meeting on Katarpur Corridor and discussed clauses of an agreement on Indian pilgrims traveling through the corridor to Pakistan. Some commentaries say that this was the first official face-to-face meeting between the two sides for a while and is therefore of symbolic significance for the easing of relations. What's your comment?

A: We welcome this latest interaction between India and Pakistan and hope it will help further ease bilateral relations and contribute to improving the regional situation. India and Pakistan are neighbors that cannot be moved away. Good neighborly relations serve the fundamental interests of both countries and are the common aspiration of the international community. We hope they will continue to show goodwill, meet each other half way, properly handle differences through dialogue, work for improvement of relations and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability.

Q: Further to what you said about Pakistani foreign minister's visit, the Chinese Ambassador to New Delhi yesterday expressed positive impression about the issue of the listing of the particular militant leader for the Jaish-e-Mohammed, saying that this matter will be resolved. So is that going to be figured in the talks between the two foreign ministers tomorrow? A: I'm not getting ahead of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue regarding the specific agenda. But like I just said, the dialogue will surely involve China-Pakistan relations and international and regional issues of mutual interest. The India-Pakistan relations and the recent tensions in this region will surely be among the topics in the dialogue. As for the listing issue you mentioned, I believe you know China's position very well and I'm not going to repeat it. I would like to stress that China will continue to handle this issue in a constructive and responsible manner, and will stay in close communication with relevant parties including India and Pakistan. Q: The Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou has earlier visited Pakistan. Is there any proposal of his visit or any other senior Chinese official's visit to India? A: China and India have maintained close diplomatic communication. If there is such a visit, we will usually release the information in a timely manner.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 18, 2019

  As agreed by China and Pakistan, the first China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue will be held in Beijing on March 19. State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will co-chair the dialogue. Q: You just mentioned that Pakistan's foreign minister has arrived for a dialogue with State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in China. I presume that India-Pakistan tensions following the terror attacks in the India-controlled Kashmir will be part of the discussions with the Chinese interlocutors. Since China has already declared that it wants to play a role of facilitation between India and Pakistan, what do you think can be the follow-up steps to this visit? A: Like I just said, on March 19, that is tomorrow, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will co-chair the first China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue in Beijing. The two sides will exchange views on China-Pakistan relations and international and regional issues of mutual interest. As you said, tensions have arisen in this region recently and the two sides will surely talk about this in the dialogue. I would like to say that as a friendly neighbour of India and Pakistan, China has actively promoted peace talks and played a constructive role in easing the recent tensions. China will continue to encourage India and Pakistan to meet each other halfway, resolve differences through dialogue and jointly uphold regional peace and stability. Q: You mentioned the dialogue with Pakistan. We know that China has invested a big sum of money through its Belt and Road Initiative and other programs in predominantly Muslim countries around the world. And yet compared to the West, we often hear less criticism if not any criticism at all from predominantly Muslim countries over China's treatment of Muslims in Xinjiang. Is China using these investments to buy the silence of Muslim countries? A: The mutually-beneficial cooperation between China and relevant countries, especially that under the Belt and Road Initiative, follows the principle of consultation and cooperation for shared benefits and all participants have taken part in it on voluntary basis and benefit from that. This has nothing to do with the attitude of these countries regarding the Xinjiang-related issues. As for China's position on Xinjiang-related issues, we have made it clear on many occasions. The measures the Chinese side has taken in the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region are for preventive counter-terrorism and de-radicalization purposes, on which the international community has fair judgment. The resolutions adopted by the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation not long ago have demonstrated that fairly.

Full translation underway

 

  Indian hopes of having Masood (Azhar), the leader of the Jaish-e-Muhammad in Pakistan, included in the blacklist of the United Nations 1267 Committee, have again been dashed. (Resulting in) a new anti-China wave in Indian public opinion. In fact, technically speaking, China only shelved this motion and did not veto it. However, Indian public opinion fanned by intense nationalism does not understand the Rules of Procedure of the United Nations. Obviously, it does not understand what the listing of terrorists by the 1267 Committee was all about. Those who scream wantonly believe that because India is very important, other big powers should be responsive to New Delhi, else it would constitute an offensive action. According to the Global Times, India has as yet not provided any strong new evidence for listing of Masood.  Chinese scholars who are cognizant of the South Asian scene believe that New Delhi just did not expect the proposal to be passed at this point of time. In doing so, the Indian government wanted to get China to technically shelve the proposal, with a view to instigating domestic public opinion, deflecting the pressures facing New Delhi and gaining more support for the Bhartiya Janta Party in the upcoming general election. The task of the UN 1267 Committee is to sanction the Taliban, al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Other organizations and individuals must be certified to be associated with these organizations if they are to be included in the Committee's blacklist. If India wants Masood to be included in the Committee’s list of threats, it must follow the procedure and provide solid evidence, instead of going by impressions and (Indian) public indignation as a pressure point for forcing the United Nations to abandon its methods. Many organizations in the world have been listed on the 1267 Committee's list of terrorists, but their leaders/main members have not been included because of insufficient evidence of their having close ties with the Taliban, al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. China too wishes to see a number of individuals listed but that might not be possible in case of all of them. China maintains very good relations with Pakistan, and India is also its friend. China hopes that India and Pakistan will ease their tensions and does not want to (be faced with a) choice between the two countries. India and Pakistan are antagonistic to each other on the issue of Masood. If India wants China to support its proposal, it should provide a comprehensive and unassailable evidence in accordance with United Nations procedures. It can't get China to open and shut its eyes (put on blinkers) to facilitate its deception/fraud. India's nationalists put the matter on the block, reflecting their shallowness. China is India's friend, but we can't be hijacked by Indian nationalism. Indian extremists' advocacy of boycott of Chinese goods, even everything Chinese, sounds a trifle ridiculous to the Chinese. China's total economic output is five times that of India, and China's exports to India account for only about 2% of China's total exports. The gap between (the scale of) India's economy and that of China is much larger than that between those of China and the United States. The Chinese are embarrassed to advocate "sanction the United States" casually. The arrogant Indian nationalists should be careful not to wag their tongues loosely. China's attitude towards supporting the fight against terrorism is clear, because China is itself a victim of terrorism. According to the Global Times, Pakistan is a front-line country in the fight against terrorism, suffering from terrorism itself and so has good reasons to dislike terrorism. Now India not only maintains that Pakistan supports terrorism but some people (in India) also think that China abets terrorism. We feel that they need to develop the ability to reflect on their mistakes. India is democratic and everything about it is correct, it is surrounded by bad countries -- Indians must not indulge in this kind of thinking. In particular, they must not think that their country has enough advantages and strength to (get away with) acting in such a capricious manner. Chinese people are paying more and more attention to and according due respect to India. We watch Indian movies and express our respect for India by lauding those movies. As long as Indian nationalism does not go too far against China, we will normally grant them a lead of a few points. But China also has reason to expect respect from India, including the freedom to conduct its diplomacy in accordance with the norms of international relations. It is hoped that more Indians will understand China's national rights and be open to their being differences between India and China.      

  Full translation underway

An item on the restrictions recently announced by the Election Commission of India on use of animals for electioneering.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 14, 2019

Q: Yesterday China put on a technical hold in the 1267 Committee of the UN Security Council on the listing of Masood. Can you give us a reason why China for the fourth time has resorted to such a move? A: The 1267 Committee of the UN Security Council has clear criteria for the procedures to list terrorist organizations or individuals. China is conducting a comprehensive and in-depth review on the listing request put forth by the relevant countries. We still need more time and that is why we decided to put a technical hold on it. It complies with the rules of procedure of the 1267 Committee. We hope that relevant actions taken by the 1267 Committee will help countries concerned to settle their issues through dialogue and consultation and avoid adding more complex factors to regional peace and stability. China will continue its communication and coordination with all relevant parties in a constructive and responsible way to properly settle this issue. Follow-up: Considering the earlier three times, this time it is different because it happened after the Wuhan Summit between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the Wuhan Summit, there were great expectations for friendly relations between the two countries. How could this be seen by India because there is a great deal of concern about China repeatedly blocking this? A: Since last year, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi have held four meetings. After the Wuhan Summit, China-India relations did register notable improvement and development. Upholding such sincerity and based on the important consensus reached by the two leaders, China would like to work with India to advance and deepen China-India relations. It serves the common interests of the two sides. By putting a technical hold on the listing of Masood at the 1267 Committee, China aims to get more time for the Committee to review this issue and for all parties to engage in consultations and create a favorable atmosphere. In the long run, it will help ease tension and maintain stability in the region. If this issue is to be resolved fundamentally and in a sustainable way, we need a solution agreed by all. China will continue to step up communication and coordination with all relevant parties including India to properly settle this issue. Q: The youngster who carried out the Pulwama attack was born and raised in Kashmir and he was subject to torture while detained by Indian troops. Kashmir is a disputed territory under UN resolution and the people of Kashmir have been granted their right to self-determination and they are fighting for that. Moreover, according to media reports, the Indian opposition leaders have accused Indian ruling party to play up this Pulwama issue and escalate tension with Pakistan just to take a political mileage in the forthcoming general election. What is your comment? A: China's position on Kashmir is consistent. It is a issue left over from the past between Pakistan and India. China hopes the two sides can properly settle this issue and relevant issues through friendly consultation.

 

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 13, 2019

Q: Has China decided what it is going to do about the listing of Masood at the UN Security Council? A: I would like to reiterate that the Chinese government will continue to participate in the review work of the Security Council 1267 Committee in a responsible manner. Q: Further to what you said on the 1267 Committee. Last time you said about the reports on March 13 to be the deadline for a decision on this by the UNSC members. Is it still the case? Of course at the UN it's still the night of March 12, so it will probably come out next morning. Is China in talks with all the parties concerned regarding this particular issue? A: First I need to make clear that as I recall, in previous press conferences, I have not stated the deadline for the UN Security Council or its subsidiary bodies to discuss this issue. China will continue to uphold a responsible attitude and deal with this issue with relevant parties via thorough consultation. Discussions on this issue must be conducted following the rules and procedures of the UN Security Council and its subsidiary bodies. China believes that only a plan acceptable to all can offer a long-term solution.

An article on Chinese foreign policy and diplomacy on the occasion of the annual session of the NPC and CPPCC. Touches upon India-Pakistan relations and China's role in facilitating reduction in tensions. Also on the situation in Afghanistan. Summary translation underway.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 11, 2019

Q: The issues regarding terrorist Masood Azhar's case is coming up in UN Security Council's 1267 Committee again on March 13, according to reports. There was an appeal by India on Saturday that all the permanent members of the UNSC should declare him a terrorist this time in light of the recent tensions between India and Pakistan. Can a decision of China be expected this time? Can you again give us some insight into it? A: The UN Security Council and its subsidiary bodies are run on strict rules. You just quoted what the reports said about how the relevant discussions went inside the UN subsidiary body, which is quite dubious. I'm afraid no judgment should be based on the information gathered through an inappropriate channel. We already stressed China's position on the listing of terrorist organizations and individuals in the UN Security Council 1267 Committee on many occasions. China has all along participated in relevant discussions in a responsible manner and in strict accordance with the rules of procedure and provisions of the 1267 Committee. China will continue to communicate and work with relevant parties in a responsible manner so as to properly resolve this matter. Only by making a decision through responsible and serious discussions can we find a lasting solution. Follow-up: China is also holding talks with both countries during this current round of tensions between India and Pakistan. Is the issue of counter-terrorism being discussed? A: A series of incidents have transpired between Indian and Pakistan recently, which as we see is not conducive to the peace and stability in South Asia. Like I said before, China has been mediating between the two sides, engaged in dialogues and working very hard to promote talks, ease tensions and improve their relations. In our exchanges of views on regional situation, the security issue features in our discussion with Indian and Pakistan. We have had extensive and in-depth talks with both sides.    

An article on the Chinese legislature (National People's Congress and CPPCC) by an Indian scholar, Prof. Swaran Singh of JNU. Obviously not unwelcome to officialdom in China.   Summary translation underway.

A laudatory report on China's assistance to Pakistan for developing  its agriculture, hybrid rice varieties in particular. The experience with Paksitan is utilised to argue for greater openness and sharing. of China's successes with other countries.   Summary translation underway.

   

 

A brief item on the fun sporting events at St. Xavier School, Kolkata.

Photo item on a Bhopal barber's making of a beard on a customer identical to that sported by Wing Commander Abhinandan .  

Silk saris made in China being advertised on China Daily for Rs. 999/- each ! (https://fabkite.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=57_70&utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=referral)

 

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 7, 2019

Q: Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou had important meetings with Pakistani leaders during his visit to Pakistan. Do you have more information to share with us? A: Maybe you have seen reports on Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou's visit to Pakistan. Vice Foreign Minister Kong paid the visit at the invitation of the Pakistani government and had in-depth communication and exchange of views with Pakistan on the current Pakistan-India situation. During the visit, Vice Foreign Minister Kong met with Prime Minister Imran Khan, Chief of the Army General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshiand and held deep talks with Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua. During the talks, Vice Foreign Minister Kong emphasized that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic partners. China appreciates that Pakistan has exercised restraint, remained calm and insisted on bringing down tensions through dialogue with India. He explicitly reiterated that China believes the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected and that we would not like to see any action that violates the basic norms of international law. China repeats its call on India and Pakistan to refrain from actions that might aggravate the current situation, demonstrate goodwill and flexibility, and start dialogue at an early date for the sake of regional peace and stability. China will continue to play a constructive role toward this end. Pakistan expressed appreciation to China for its objective and impartial stand on the Pakistan-India situation and thanked China for its efforts to facilitate the easing of tensions. The Pakistani side reiterated clearly that it does not want to see an escalation and stands ready to resolve differences and disputes with India peacefully through dialogue. Pakistan welcomes the international community including China to play constructive roles to this end.   Q: I was just wondering whether the Chinese Vice Foreign Minister, during his visit to Pakistan, had raised the question of terrorism originating from Pakistani soil and the need to eradicate the breeding ground of terrorism? A: As I said earlier, during his visit to Pakistan, Vice Foreign Minister Kong had deep exchange of views on the current India-Pakistan situation with leaders of the Pakistani government and military. A major concern shared by the relevant parties is regional security situation. Indeed, a lot have happened in that region and many issues are involved. China has explicitly expressed its principled position that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected and upheld. China is against any behavior that violates the basic norms of international law. We hope Pakistan and India will take positive measures to enhance mutual trust, accumulate consensus and meet each other half way so as to ease tensions and keep the region peaceful and stable. Vice Foreign Minister Kong has had broad and deep discussions on the relevant issues with leaders of Pakistan's government and military.

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 6, 2019

Q: Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou is said to be visiting Pakistan now. Can you confirm and give us more details? A: At the invitation of the Pakistani side, Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou is now on a visit in Pakistan, exchanging views with the Pakistani side on the situation between India and Pakistan. Q: The United Nations Security Council will discuss next week a proposal from France and Britain to blacklist the head of the Pakistani extremist group that is blamed for the attack in Kashmir. Will China support this proposal or will it abstain? A: We have stated our position on this issue many times. It is a serious matter for the Security Council and its subsidiary body to take any action regarding the listing of terrorist organizations and individuals. China will take part in relevant deliberations in the Security Council and its subsidiary body in a responsible and conscientious way. Q: Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement on March 5 that Pakistan's High Commissioner to India will be returning to New Delhi soon. A Pakistani delegation will visit New Delhi on March 14, followed by the return visit of an Indian delegation to Islamabad on March 28, to discuss the Kartarpur Corridor along the Pakistan-India border. The statement also said that Pakistan will continue  its contact with India at Military Operations Directorate level. What is your comment? A: We have noted relevant reports. China welcomes the above-mentioned progress as stated by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry which will help ease and improve the regional situation. We have said many times that Pakistan and India are permanent neighbors. Their harmonious co-existence serves the fundamental interests of the two sides and regional peace and stability. We hope that the two sides will continue to demonstrate goodwill, meet each other halfway, properly settle differences through dialogues, and improve bilateral relations. China will continue to play a constructive role in this regard. Q: You just announced that Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou is in Islamabad at present and holding talks with the Pakistani government. Can you please provide us a little insight into what the thrust of the talks are going to be? Secondly, will China be advising Pakistan to crack down on the terrorist groups further? Thirdly, recently in the China-Russia-India Foreign Ministers' meeting there was a resolution that the three countries will be working to eliminate the breeding ground of terrorism and extremism in the neighborhood, so will that particular message be carried out to Pakistan by the minister? A: First, Just now I announced that Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou is in Pakistan at the invitation of the Pakistani government. His mission is very clear, to communicate with the Pakistani side on the recent tensions between India and Pakistan. The latest developments in India-Pakistan relations are not what we would like to see. China is committed to safeguarding regional peace and stability and hopes to see its two good friends India and Pakistan on good neighborly terms. Second, I am sure you have noted the important statements Pakistan recently made on counter-terrorism, which, in fact, are in line with its long-term efforts to fight terrorism and contribute to the international counter-terrorism cause. The international community should accord Pakistan objective assessment and recognition. It is our hope that all sides could strive to build a favorable and enabling environment so that an international synergy will be formed in fighting terrorism. Third, as to your question concerning the "breeding ground of terrorism", a topic at the China-Russia-India foreign ministers' meeting, it has been an important and consistent view and belief of China that there are complicated factors underlying the birth of terrorism. And we believe that to eradicate terrorism, we need to treat both symptoms and root causes. Follow-up: Will he be visiting India too? A: As we have said, China is in close contact with both India and Pakistan on the current situation to facilitate reconciliation and dialogue. Q: About the UN 1267 Committee, the listing issue has come before this particular committee for several times. What China's role is going to be? Because the rest of the P5 countries except China have said that they would like to back what France, the UK and the US had moved. So all eyes are on China now. Considering that Mr. Masood's terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed has admitted in open about the particular act of terrorism in Kashmir, and that China is playing a big role in trying to bring down the tensions, can we expect a more positive action from China this time at the 1267 committee? A: I will add on my response to an earlier question raised by the Reuters that, the Security Council and its subsidiary bodies have explicit standards and rules on working procedures. China is participating in consultations in strict compliance with these standards and rules. You are surely aware that multilateral discussions of these issues call for a serious and responsible attitude. China's attitude shows its strong sense of responsibility and is conducive to the real and lasting resolution of relevant issues.  

Reuters quoting Pakistan's Interior Minister, reported that the Pakistani government had arrested two close relatives of the leader of the terrorist organization "Jaish-E-Muhammad", Masood Azhar on the 5th. The "Jaish-E-Muhammad" has claimed responsibility for the attack in India-controlled Kashmir. A Release from the Pakistani Ministry of the Interior said that  Pakistan had decided to take action against the "Jaish-E-Muhammad".  Members of 44 armed groups, including two close relatives of Masood Azhar, Abdullah Rafah and Hamad Azhar, have been arrested.  India’s New Delhi TV said that the dosier shared by India with Pakistan last week mentioned the names of these two men.  Abdullah Rafah is the brother of Masood Azhar. According to a report in Pakistan’s "Dawn" of the 5th, the Pakistani Navy issued a statement on the same day saying that the Pakistani navy had successfully blocked an Indian submarine attempting to break into the waters of Pakistan. The Pakistani Navy also released a video of anti-submarine helicopters taken from the air. The report said that this is the second time since 2016 that the Pakistani navy had discovered Indian submarines trying to enter Pakistani waters. A Pakistani Navy spokesman said that the Pakistani side did not attack the Indian submarine because "Pakistan pursues a peace policy and the Indian submarine is not our target." Indian defense officials told "India Today" TV said on the 5th that they were verifying the authenticity of the video.  

SUMMARY: The report mentions that India is seeking to lease a second 'Akula' class nuclear submarine from Russia. at a cost of USD 3 billion.  It is expected to be delivered in 2025 and will be leased for 10 years. The term of the existing Akula class submarine leased in 2012 is to be extended till 2027, to cover the period of trials and tests etc of the newly leased second submarine. The item notes that this is the largest Indian order for military cooperation with Russia after the signing of a $5.5 billion S-400 air defense missile system contract last year. And that this would be the third submarine leased by India from Russia, the first being a Charlie class one in 1988.

An Indian army man is seen standing guard during a shut down in Srinagar, March 5, 2019. [Photo/IC] SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir -- Troops of India and Pakistan Tuesday exchanged heavy fire and targeted each other's positions on Line of Control (LoC) dividing the disputed Kashmir region, Indian officials said. The two sides exchanged fire in Poonch sector, about 180 km southwest of Srinagar, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir. According to Indian officials, no loss of life was reported in the skirmishes on the Indian nor Pakistani side. Earlier in the day a similar exchange was reported in Nowshera sector of adjacent Rajouri district. For the past week there has been a flare-up along the LoC, with both sides suffering casualties during the skirmishes. The firings have forced population on both sides to migrate to safer locations. The latest tension between New Delhi and Islamabad grew after India carried out an air strike inside Pakistan, triggering a retaliation. The situation has de-escalated to some extent following calls of restraint from the international community.

Kashmiri villagers gather near the wreckage of an Indian aircraft after it crashed in Budgam area, outskirts of Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, Feb 27, 2019. [Photo/IC] ON FEB 14, 44 paramilitary officers were killed in a suicide attack in Pulwama in India-administered Kashmir. As it has after previous attacks, India accused Pakistan of having a "direct hand" behind the scenes and it launched airstrikes targeting what it said was a large training camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammad group, which claimed responsibility for the attack. Xiakedao, a WeChat account of People's Daily, comments: Fortunately, the military tensions have subsided as Pakistan released the Indian pilot it was holding after his plane was shot down and said the two nuclear-armed powers should not go to war, and in response, the Indian foreign minister said that India does not want to see an escalation of the conflict. Like his predecessors, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken measures to improve ties with Pakistan since taking office in May 2014. However, the latest suicide attack, following the frequent terrorist attacks targeting India in recent years, which it believes are related to Pakistan, prompted the Modi government to launch a "surgical strike" to punish Pakistan and prove its ability to retaliate, and to show a strong image ahead of the coming elections. However, to cross the "line of control" in disputed Kashmir and directly strike the terrorist training camp in Pakistan is a violation of Pakistan's territorial sovereignty. Actually, the root cause of the frequent acts of violence in India-controlled Kashmir are not "pure" terrorist activities. On the one hand, India and Pakistan have disputes over Kashmir's sovereignty. In order to compete for the Kashmir region, since the founding of the two countries, there have been many conflicts and large-scale military confrontations, let alone hundreds of thousands of small fights every year. On the other hand, India's poor governance in the India-controlled Kashmir region has also led to local grievances creating active separatist forces. But India does not want to make such a fact public and so, every time when such kind of violence occurs, New Delhi immediately accuses Islamabad of behind-the-scenes involvement in an attempt to shift the blame for the internal unrest to Pakistan. Either for their domestic needs or out of the consideration of other powers, the possibility for India and Pakistan to have a large-scale military conflict is slim. Having experienced frequent military conflicts, the two countries understand that to exercise maximum restraint and engage in dialogue are in their best interests.

 

 

 

 

Farmers attend strawberry plants at a greenhouse in Huailai county, North China's Hebei province, Jan 4, 2019. [Photo/Xinhua] With the impoverished population in rural areas reducing by 13.86 million in 2018, China now has less than 17 million rural people living in poverty, according to the country's absolute poverty standard. Which means China has to reduce the impoverished population by about 10 million a year to meet the target of eliminating absolute poverty by 2020. Since China launched its targeted poverty alleviation program in 2013, especially after the country stepped into the critical stage of poverty alleviation in 2015, it has lifted more than 10 million people out of poverty every year. And despite the poverty alleviation work becoming more difficult now that the rest of the impoverished population lives in abject poverty, the authorities are confident of achieving the goal of eliminating absolute poverty by 2020. This year, the No. 1 central document on agricultural development has accorded top priority to poverty alleviation, and the country launched more elaborate and practical measures to eliminate abject poverty, focusing especially on lifting farmers in impoverished areas out of abject poverty. The year 2019 is crucial for China's poverty alleviation work, as China has targeted the most poverty-stricken areas and special impoverished groups in its poverty alleviation work. Moreover, China will provide necessary aid to people that fall back into poverty and newly impoverished people, and help them to cultivate skills and knowledge to improve their livelihoods. In the new era, China's poverty alleviation work includes finding ways to foster sustainable development conditions in impoverished areas. Through targeted poverty alleviation work, China is determined to ensure impoverished farmers not only emerge out of poverty, but also learn skills to make a decent living. This year, China will also strengthen poverty relief work by implementing plans which include infrastructure construction and industrial development. Infrastructure construction will play a key role in providing financial support for impoverished people, so as to effectively improve farm productivity and farmers' living conditions. Industrial development is aimed at helping impoverished areas develop high quality agriculture. If, for example, the impoverished areas' infrastructure is improved, they will attract more social forces, which in turn will encourage farmers to launch startups and take part in innovation programs. And when the impoverished areas develop industries, they will create more job opportunities and thus help lift more farmers out of poverty. In the next stage, industrial development should enable impoverished farmers to increase their incomes. Many regions have been exploring new poverty alleviation models, including those that encourage consumers to buy impoverished farmers' products and services, which will not only increase those farmers' incomes, but also promote industrial development in the poverty-stricken areas. China has also explored ways of alleviating poverty through education, which will not only facilitate the effective implementation of compulsory education, but also prevent intergenerational poverty. The key to win the poverty alleviation battle is to explore effective channels and methods to help the impoverished farmers emerge out of poverty. That is not to say the government should reduce the assistance provided for the impoverished farmers. But instead of giving the impoverished farmers money and materials directly, the authorities should study the impoverished groups of people and determine their actual situations and needs, in order to find out the most effective poverty alleviation method. Of course, the authorities should help the impoverished farmers to learn new skills and acquire professional knowledge which will enable them to overcome poverty. In the new era, the authorities should advocate the participation of all social forces in the poverty alleviation work. And the developed eastern regions should cooperate with the less-developed central and western regions to make the poverty relief work more effective, and all the Party and government organizations should participate in the targeted poverty alleviation work, so as to ensure the country meets its poverty alleviation target for 2019.  

A personalised account of his experiences in Afghanistan by a young Chinese archeologist inspired by the Chinese monk traveller, Xuan Zang, that stands for the freshness of its tenor, besides of course contents. The latter providing interesting vignettes of the Chinese historical take on Afghanistan as a country at the crossroads of East and West. About the archeological excavations in Begran, near Kabul, in particular. Full translation underway.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on March 1, 2019

Q: After yesterday's summit, the DPRK gets to keep all its nuclear assets including the two reprocessing plants that Trump referred to in his news conference, and there's no date of a new meeting although Trump insisted that everybody left on good terms. This means that the DPRK continues to produce material for nuclear weapons and hasn't given anything up. Does China accept that the DPRK is a nuclear state? A: For what you said at the very beginning, could you tell me whose remarks they are? Follow-up: I'm not saying anybody made these remarks. I'm saying that's a presumption that they keep two reprocessing plants. That's the fact. Does China accept the DPRK as a nuclear power similar to India and Pakistan? The second question is, will Kim Jong Un come to Beijing on his way home from Hanoi? A: Regarding your first question, I would like to say that China has never recognized India and Pakistan as nuclear-weapon states. China's position on the Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) remains firm and unchanged. As to your second question, like I said in these two days, Chairman Kim Jong Un is now on a friendly visit in Vietnam. It is not in China's position to release any information on behalf of the government of another country.    

Security officials stand guard at Jinnah International Airport after Pakistan resumed the flight operations and partially opened its airspace on Friday. Photo: IC Pakistan returned a downed Indian pilot to Indian authorities on Friday as a peace gesture in the hope of de-escalating recent tensions between the neighboring countries. "As a gesture of peace and to de-escalate matters, the Indian pilot who is under arrest with us will be released today in the afternoon at the Wagah border," Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told the parliament, Reuters reported. Pakistani Ambassador to China Masood Khalid, told the Global Times on Friday that "We hope India will reciprocate, tone down the rhetoric of war and engage in a dialogue with Pakistan on all outstanding issues including the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir." "We have no intention of escalation, but are fully prepared to defend ourselves," he stressed. Tensions between the two nations escalated after a suicide car bombing killed at least 40 Indian police in the Indian-administered Kashmir on February 14. The Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) group, which was banned in Pakistan in 2002, had claimed responsibility for the deadly attack. On Tuesday, India said it had launched an air strike inside Pakistan. On Wednesday, both governments claimed they downed enemy jets and the Indian pilot, Abhinandan Varthaman was captured. International communities including China and the US called for restraint from both sides and pushed for a peaceful way to address the conflicts. "War is never a solution to any problem between countries … We are a staunch supporter of resolving disputes through peaceful dialogue," Khalid said in an exclusive interview with the Global Times. He also noted that Pakistan believes in international cooperation to combat terrorism. "We have cooperated with the international community in addressing this menace and have proposed cooperative approaches to eliminate terrorism from our region," he said. As tensions show signs of de-escalating, Pakistan's civil aviation authorities said four Pakistani airports resumed partial flight operations on Friday and commercial flights will fully resume on Monday.

China could offer lessons in information security: analysts Indian citizens register for Aadhaar cards in Amritsar, India in July 2018. Photo: VCG India seems to have a big struggle in its accelerating digital transformation process: data security - an area where China's experience in managing a vast amount of data could offer a valuable lesson, analysts said. Last week, another security lapse in Aadhaar, India's vast biometric-based identity project, exposed as many as 6.7 million customers, according to tech news website TechCrunch. Citing French security researcher Baptiste Robert, TechCrunch reported that the number included 5.8 million users of Indian gas company Indane. Having enrolled over 1.22 billion Indians till November last year, Aadhaar, the government project has seen several breaches and multiple accounts of data leaks being reported in the past year, intensifying fears about its security, according to a report by Quartz India last December. Via the project, Indian citizens provide their detailed personal information ranging from addresses and mobile phone numbers to iris scans for the Indian government. In turn, they can get a 12-number Aadhaar card for their unique identification. In January 2018, Indian newspaper The Tribune said that access to any Aadhaar-holder's demographic details could be purchased for just Rs500 ($7), although the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the government body that administers Aadhaar, disputed the report. "[Data leakage] may happen… but from my side I'm not concerned. After Aadhaar came into being, it has actually become easy for all citizens to access many government services online by using their Aadhaar number or fingerprint," Abdul Haleem, a doctor in India, told the Global Times on Wednesday. "The starting point for the Aadhaar system is to enhance India's economic and social development. However, the process should be premised on strengthened protection of personal data, otherwise the project will be a failure or even turn into a monster," said Li Aijun, a professor at the Beijing-based China University of Political Science and Law. "The government needs to fend off both technology and management risks," Li told the Global Times on Wednesday. Long Xingchun, a visiting senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, said it's quite likely that Indian civil servants would take advantage of their posts and sell citizens' information for profit. "Compared with India, the Chinese government has been very discreet about the data issue, especially when it comes to the opening-up and sharing of data," said Li. Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou Province, also the first pilot city nationwide to adopt big data into internet security, has led in data protection by making its own regulations, she added.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on February 28, 2019

Q: Yesterday, one pilot of the Indian Air Force was captured in the Pakistani territory, and the Indian government has requested that he should be treated, according to the Geneva Convention, as prisoners of war, and should be returned to India. So how does China comment on this? A: Since yesterday, the Indian and Pakistani media and netizens have voiced some different views on this issue. As for what really happened, we shall not indulge ourselves in making more comments. But I would like to reiterate that India and Pakistan are all important countries in South Asia. It is very important for the two countries to keep a harmonious relationship and jointly uphold regional peace and stability. The escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent events is not what we wish to see and is a cause of great concern to us. We hope that India and Pakistan will honor their pledge of preventing the situation from further deterioration or escalation and come back to the negotiating table at an early date so that the situation will be effectively brought under control and regional peace and stability will be restored. This serves the interests of all countries. Follow-up: Do you think that all countries should adopt and practice the Geneva Convention in times of military conflict? A: Not just the Geneva Convention. Like I just said, China believes that in international relations, all countries need to respect all the international law and the basic norms guiding international relations, including the UN Charter.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on February 28, 2019

Q: Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said during a televised broadcast to the nation on February 27 that his country does not want to see further deterioration of the situation and is ready to cooperate with India on the investigation of the attack in India-controlled Kashmir region. He said that war does no good to the two sides and invited India to come to the negotiating table to resolve the issue. Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj also said that her country does not want to see an escalation of the situation and would act with responsibility and restraint. What is your comment? What can China do to alleviate tension between India and Pakistan? A: China always believes that all countries' sovereignty and territorial integrity shall be respected, and we do not wish to see any violation against the UN Charter and the norms of international law. The Chinese side is concerned about the escalating tension between India and Pakistan. You may notice that State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed China's worries and concerns when talking with the Indian Foreign Minister and holding a phone call with the Pakistani Foreign Minister. We urge India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint and come back to the negotiating table at an early date so that the situation will be effectively brought under control and regional peace and stability will be jointly upheld. China has been in close communication with both India and Pakistan on the current situation and making efforts to promote peace. Like what you mentioned, we noted that neither Pakistan nor India want to see a deterioration or escalation of the situation. We encourage the two sides to meet each other halfway and resolve the issue through dialogue. China stands ready to continue with its constructive role in this regard.

Q:Another question about Pakistan and India. The Foreign Ministry has released a statement about a phone call that Wang Yi held with the Pakistani foreign minister last night. I was wondering if you could offer more details about the phone call? The statement said that the Pakistani foreign minister shared the news and developments of the situation. Can you elaborate on what those might be?

A: China released information on this phone call very timely last night, or more accurately, early this morning.

Through this urgent phone call, Pakistani Foreign Minister briefed State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the current situation and the Pakistani government's assessment and considerations. He also expressed Pakistan's hope that China will continue to play an active role in easing tensions. State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated China's view on the current situation. We are truly concerned about the current tensions in India-Pakistan relations. State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated China's hope that India and Pakistan could exercise restraint and earnestly fulfill their commitment to preventing escalation. He stressed explicitly that sovereignty and territorial integrity should be respected.

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi also talked about China's recent efforts in facilitating reconciliation and dialogue. You may read our press release for more information.

  A report on unsurprising lines. Extracts: ............Wang Yi said that the contemporary world is a big change over the one of the last 100 years. As large and influential countries and  major emerging economies, China, Russia and India should strengthen coordination, build consensus, enhance cooperation and jointly promote world peace and stability.............

Full translation : Indian fighter planes flew across the India-Pakistan LOC in Kashmir early in the morning on 26th. They attacked a terrorist organization camp inside Pakistan identified by the Indian side, thereby escalating the conflict between the two sides. Pakistani and Indian warplanes crossed the LOC on the 27th. Pakistan announced that it had shot down two Indian fighters and publicly broadcast a video of a captured Indian pilot. India also claimed to have shot down a Pakistani fighter plane, but no video was released as of 27th (late) night. This is the biggest strike by India, farthest across the LOC in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, since the third India-Pakistan war in 1971. It is also the first time in 20 years that the two sides have dispatched fighter bombers across the LOC and shot down the other's warplanes. The fuse of escalation in the conflict between India and Pakistan has (thus) been stoked. However, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan’s speech on the 27th called upon India to sit down and talk with Pakistan. He said that India and Pakistan are nuclear countries and cannot afford a miscalculation. Escalation of the conflict will lead him and Modi to lose control of the situation. The Indian side has also said that it is not carrying out military operations against Pakistan as such, but only to "combat terrorism". After the Indian Air Force first crossed the LOC on the 26th, Indian public opinion was jubilant. On the 27th, Pakistan shot down Indian military aircraft and broadcast a video, which is rather embarrassing for the Indian side. Whether the Indian side will take further military action to cater to domestic morale will be critical for the direction the situation will take On the whole, however, neither India and Pakistan is prepared for a large-scale conflict. This round of clashes was triggered by 44 deaths of paramilitary forces in the Indian-controlled Kashmir region caused by suicide bombings on February 14.  Indian society is indignant and, with Parliamentary elections approaching in May, the Modi government has acted to assuage public opinion and gain more support.  While the shooting down of an Indian warplane will make difficult for Indian voters to vent their anger, the risks of operations continuing have also increased. The Kashmir region has enough dry wood and gunpowder for it to be ignited into a raging fire.  That is surely not what India and Pakistan want. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been in power for just a little over half a year. Modi is going to fight for re-election. Although the media has encouraged a tough posture, a war is clearly not the gift that the citizenry wants from its leaders. The power differential between India and Pakistan has been widening in recent years, but since they are both nuclear countries, this gap has not translated into decisive Indian deterrence of Pakistan. Indian nationalism is more potent, and politicians have to walk the tightrope between driving it and being driven by it. Pakistan does not enjoy strategic leeway /depth vis-a-vis India. It is clear that it will suffer from adopting a tough approach towards India, but it too has compulsions of domestic nationalist pressures and they cannot be overlooked. As the Kashmir territorial dispute is outstanding, and without prospects of being resolved in the short term, it has become an active volcano that has repeatedly shaken India-Pakistan relations. It is impossible for the two nuclear powers, India and Pakistan, to completely liquidate the other. Their impulse for escalation lies in answerability to domestic public opinion.  It is totally unrealistic to expect (either) to be able to completely overwhelm the other. The reality is that military conflict between the two countries will only consume them both. Therefore, the rational choice would be to cut losses while there is still time, howsoever faint the hope that alternative might offer. At this juncture, no matter how far the India-Pakistan conflict progresses, both sides must stop at some point. Stopping later is worse than an early stoppage; the sooner both sides stop, the more manouverability (freedom to be active, or  (उन्मुक्त in the sense of being liberated or unshackled) there will be. The problems between India and Pakistan are far more complicated than a tabular interpretation of public opinion can capture. The two governments must guide public opinion; they cannot be led by public opinion. In general, there is no problem between the two countries. Moreover, extremist forces have the capacity to create troubles and carry out deadly attacks. The extent to which the situation (conflict) will expand (deteriorate) will depend on the ability of the governments of India and Pakistan to control the complex situation. If India and Pakistan give in to each other's hostility and react, it will be a bottomless pit. India has been repeatedly attacked by extremist forces and is deserving of sympathy. Developing relations with Pakistan and leveraging India-Pakistan friendship to counter extremism and terrorism may be better in the long run than the impact  of India (attempting to) “do it itself” is likely to have.  Peace and stability in South Asia is the common treasure of India and Pakistan.  New Delhi and Islamabad should cooperate to control and check extremist forces, and cool nationalist tempers in the region, to enable rational approaches to grow.    

  Summary translation underway  

  Summary translation underway

 

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) meets with Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in Wuzhen, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 27, 2019. Swaraj is in Wuzhen to attend a meeting of the foreign ministers of China, Russia and India. (Xinhua/Weng Xinyang) Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday met with Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in Wuzhen of east China's Zhejiang Province. Swaraj is in Wuzhen to attend a meeting of the foreign ministers of China, Russia and India. The leaders of China and India held a successful informal meeting last year in the city of Wuhan, leading bilateral relations into a new stage of mature and stable development, Wang said. In the new year, China and India should implement the important consensus reached by their leaders, plan for the celebration activities marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties and promote stable and further development of bilateral relations, he said. Wang said China is concerned about the current tension in South Asia. As a friend of both India and Pakistan, China urges restraint from the two sides to avoid escalation of the situation. China expects the two countries to find out the truth of the relevant incident through dialogue and jointly safeguard regional peace, he said. Swaraj said India and China should work together to safeguard peace and tranquility of their border regions and push forward the stable development of bilateral relations. India maintains that the international community should work in solidarity and coordination to combat terrorism, Swaraj added, noting that India will deal with relevant issues in a responsible and restrained manner.

On completion of its voyage by the 10th Marine Geology vessel of the Guangzhou Marine Geology Buraeu. The journey, a joint exercise between Pakistani and Chinese scientists, was undertaken in the Indian Ocean are and described as cooperation in "deep sea marine geology".

On February 27, 2019, State Councilor and Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, met Indian Foreign Minister, Swaraj, who was in Wuzhen, Zhejiang to attend a meeting with the Chinese and Russian Foreign Ministers. Wang Yi said that China has always placed China-India relations at an important position in neighborhood diplomacy. Last year, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi successfully held an informal meeting in Wuhan, leading to the new stage of mature and stable development of China-India relations. The cooperation between the two countries in various fields has been carried out smoothly, and the expectations of all sections of society and the international community on Sino-Indian relations have been raised. In the new year, the two sides should implement the important consensus of the leaders, prepare for high-level exchanges between the two countries, plan commemorative activities for the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, deepen the potential for pragmatic cooperation, create cultural exchange highlight points  and properly manage differences to promote Sino-Indian relations in a stable and far-reaching manner. Wang Yi pointed out that China opposes all forms of terrorism. We are concerned about the current tension in South Asia. As a common friend of India and Pakistan, China hopes that both sides will exercise restraint and avoid escalation.  It is expected that the two sides will ascertain the truth of the incident through dialogue and jointly safeguard regional peace. Swaraj said that Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping held an informal meeting in Wuhan last year to promote accelerated development of bilateral relations. The two sides should work together to implement the important consensus of the leaders of the two countries, strengthen strategic communication, deepen pragmatic cooperation, strengthen humanitarian exchanges, plan for commemoration of the 70th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries next year, jointly safeguard peace and tranquility in the border areas and promote the stable development and forward movement of India-China relations.  The Indian side seeks solidarity and cooperation from the international community to jointly fight terrorism and will deal with relevant issues with a responsible and restrained attitude. (Last sentence in the English version: The Indian side advocates that the international community should unite and coordinate with each other to jointly fight against terrorism, and the Indian side will deal with relevant issues in a responsible and restraint attitude. )    

On February 27, 2019, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke to reporters about the situation in India and Pakistan during the China-Russia-India Foreign Ministers meeting in Wuzhen, Zhejiang. He said that China is concerned at the current tensions between India and Pakistan. We hope both sides will exercise restraint and avoid further escalation of the situation. As a common friend of India and Pakistan, we hope that the two sides can ascertain the facts/truth (about the incident) through dialogue, control the situation, solve problems, and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. China is willing to play a constructive role in this regard.

A report on unsurprising lines. Extracts: ............Wang Yi said that the contemporary world is a big change over the one of the last 100 years.  The international community is faced with a major choice whether to be open or closed, to cooperate or to confront, to (proffer)win-win (approaches) or to (seek to) monopolize. At this important moment, as large and influential countries and  major emerging economies, China, Russia and India  conform to the aspirations of the majority of countries, shoulder their due responsibilities, strengthen coordination, build consensus, enhance cooperation, jointly promote world peace and stability, inject positive energy into human development and (economic) development, and open up new prospects...........

Joint Communique of the 16th Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the People's Republic of China, the Russian Federation and the Republic of India (Chinese version mentions the three countries in the following order -- China, Russia and India)

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on February 27, 2019

Q: In wake of intrusion into its airspace and violations of its territorial sovereignty by Indian air force yesterday, Pakistan has called upon the international community to condemn Indian aggression which has violated the UN Charter, support de-escalation, urge India to end its suppression in Indian-occupied Kashmir, and promote peace and stability in the region through engaging in dialogue. It also said that onus of escalation is with India. What is China's comment?

A: Actually I answered a relevant question yesterday and made clear the Chinese side's principled position.

We have noted recent developments as well as the positions made clear by India and Pakistan. As I said yesterday, India and Pakistan are both important countries in South Asia. We hope the two sides will bear in mind the peace and stability in the region, exercise restraint, step up dialogue and properly resolve relevant issue, so as to safeguard the fundamental interests of their countries, maintain peace and stability in the region and refrain from actions that might lead to further escalation of tensions.

Q: Just have a follow-up question on Pakistan and India. Pakistan just said that it has shot down two Indian military planes today in Kashmir. As a neighboring country, is China concerned about this move by Pakistan?

A: Like I said when taking the previous question raised by APP, regarding the recent developments which have drawn the attention of the international community, China's position is clear-cut. Our concern is that India and Pakistan, two important countries in South Asia, will maintain good neighborliness and that South Asia will maintain peace and stability. So we hope both sides could exercise restraint, take measures conducive to promoting dialogue and work actively to contribute to the lasting peace and stability in South Asia.

Q: According to reports, the Indian air force today carried out some air strikes against terrorist forces inside Pakistan across the Line of Control. What is China's reaction to that? India is saying that this is a non-military attack because it was carried out not against the military but against the terrorist forces who had attacked India and killed Indian soldiers. What's your comment? A: India and Pakistan are both important countries in South Asia. A harmonious relationship between the two are crucial to regional peace, stability and development and serves the interests of India and Pakistan fundamentally. We hope the two sides will exercise restraint and take actions that will help stabilize situation in the region and improve bilateral relations instead of doing the opposite. You mentioned that India said their operation was against terrorist forces. I would like to point out that terrorism is a global challenge that calls for cooperation between countries so as to create enabling conditions and a favorable atmosphere for necessary international cooperation. Q: Yesterday the Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi made a telephone call to the Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and briefed him about the latest situation in the region in wake of the attack in Indian-held Kashmir. Do you have more information to share with us? A: As you said, yesterday State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi at request. You may have noticed that State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi listened carefully to Foreign Minister Qureshi's briefing on the relevant situation and the propositions of the Pakistani side. He also reiterated that China supports the Pakistani and Indian sides in properly resolving the issue through dialogue as soon as possible to avoid the escalation of tensions. We also hope that Pakistan and India can jointly advance counter-terrorism cooperation and safeguard peace, tranquility and stability in South Asia.

Full translation underway

An interesting Pakistani take on China. Full translation underway.

About the attempted hijacking in Bangladesh

  Brief news about the Taliban attacks in Afghanistan and IS fighters arrested in Syria being received in Iraq.

An item on Chinese aid to Sri Lanka for construction and upgradation of hospitals and other medical assistance, presenting it all as " fruits of the One Belt, One Road" project.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Yan Shuang announced:
The 16th meeting of the Chinese, Russian and Indian foreign ministers will be held in Wuzhen, Zhejiang on February 27. State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi will preside over the meeting. Russian Foreign Minister, Lavrov, and Indian Foreign Minister, Swaraj, will attend.

 

  Full translation underway

On the construction of a bridge on the Padma river in Bangladesh.

  This piece by the Director of the China Research Center of the National University of Science and Technology of Pakistan, sub-titled "China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is Pakistan’s 'gold mine', opening up new growth points for wealth creation in Pakistan",  is a translation of the Pakistani original. The CPEC is presented as the "engine" of Pakistan's development, and its manifold benefits for Pakistan lauded unabashedly. Amongst them is a (guarded) assertion that only a small number of senior positions have been taken by Chinese ; all the rest are Pakistanis.  A total of 60,000 Pakistanis are said to have gained employment in CPEC related projects. Extracts: ."...........Some people with ulterior motives accuse the (CPEC) corridor construction of increasing Pakistan’s debt burden, claiming that Pakistan is in a “debt trap”. But what is the truth? According to foreign debt structure data released by the Pakistani government, the proportion of the debt attributable to the CPEC is very low, and not the cause of Pakistan's debt problem. The Pakistani economy has begun to witness the dividends brought forth by construction of the corridor. As Pakistani people receive tangible benefits from the results (completion) of construction of the corridor, and note the positive impact on their lives, misunderstandings will slowly disappear and rumors will not sustain. The construction of “One Belt, One Road” is continually enhancing the level of interconnectivity and communication among countries along the route, pushing common prosperity of all countries and bringing historic development opportunities to the world in a win-win cooperation. When meeting Prime Minister Imran Khan, President Xi Jinping said that it is necessary to carry out closer and pragmatic cooperation, promote economic and trade exchanges and investment, consolidate the early harvest projects of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and promote the expansion of corridor construction to industrial parks, social and people's livelihood. The construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a (matter of) general consensus in Pakistani society. The Pakistani people know that realisation of economic take-off is inseparable from the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. We look forward to welcoming more Chinese companies with capital and technology to invest in Pakistan to help foster industrialization in Pakistan."

Extracts from Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on February 21, 2019

Q: Nine countries in the United Nations Security Council have called for a meeting on Myanmar to address the Rohingya refugee crisis. But diplomats say they expect to see opposition from China on this move. What's China's position on this matter? A: I am not aware of the latest developments you talked about at the UN Security Council. Did you just say that some countries expect China to raise opposition? (The journalist nodded) What I can tell you now is that, regarding the Rakhine situation, it is imperative at present for all parties to help Myanmar and Bangladesh with the early repatriation of the first batch of displaced persons, which I believe will help the two sides establish mutual trust and build a sound momentum for the settlement of the relevant issue. The international community needs to play a constructive role in this regard. This has been our position all along.

Features the range of public opinion in India, exercised over the JeM attack on the CRPF convoy in Phuwana without hype. The Saudi prince's current visit to Pakistan (and India and China) is alluded to but mention of his curtailing the period of stay in Pakistan. Full translation underway

On public demonstrations in India protesting against acquisition of the Indian e-tailer, Flipkart by the US chain,Walmart

India hosted the first "Pole Yoga" World Championship last weekend, with participation of yoga enthusiasts from Vietnam, the Czech Republic and other countries. Yoga on the pole is a traditional Indian sport that dates back to 1135 AD.

 

A long item featuring laudatory comments on the BRI by individuals from Central Europe and other countries, including also Pakistan from South Asia. Entirely unsurprising in content and tone.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson's remarks at regular press conference of February 15th, 2019   Q: The terrorist attacks in Kashmir yesterday killed 45 Indian security personnel, one of the worst terrorist attacks in the history of the region. Pakistan’s “Jaish-e-Muhammad” claimed responsibility for the attack. India calls on all other countries to include the organization and its leaders in the UN Security Council's list of counter-terrorism sanctions. Now, there is a view in India that the Chinese side has not done enough on the issue of Masood’s listing. If India submits its application for listing again this year, will China reconsider? A: China has noticed relevant reports and was deeply shocked by the attack. It expressed deep sympathy and condolences to the families and injured of the victims. China resolutely opposes and strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms. It hopes that the countries concerned will cooperate to deal with the threat of terrorism and jointly safeguard regional peace and security. As for the issue of organizations and individuals in the UN Security Council 1267 Committee that you have raised, the 1267 Committee of the Security Council has clear rules on the listing and procedures of terrorist organizations or individuals. The "Jaish-e-Muhammad" who claimed responsibility for the attack has been included in the Security Council's list of counter-terrorism sanctions. China will continue to handle the issue of listing in a constructive and responsible manner. Q: Since the meeting between the heads of state of China and India in Wuhan, Sino-Indian relations have improved. Considering the positive progress of China-India relations after the Wuhan meeting, will China's proposal to adopt a different position from the past this year? Can India expect different results? A: I have already said about your question. China has always dealt with the issue of listing in a constructive and responsible manner. As a terrorist organization, the "Jaish-e-Muhammad" has been included in the UN Security Council's list of counter-terrorism sanctions. As for the issue of the listing of individuals, China has always participated in relevant deliberations in an objective, impartial and professional manner, in accordance with the requirements of relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the rules of procedure of the 1267 Committee. China will continue to do so and will continue to communicate with the parties including India on this issue. Q: Regarding the issue of listing, does China intend to continue to block the Indian side from listing the head of the "Jaish-e-Muhammad" by virtue of its seat in the UN Security Council? A: I have already answered this question. The UN Security Council 1267 Committee has clear rules on the listing and procedures of terrorist organizations or individuals. China will continue to handle the issue of listing in a constructive and responsible manner, and is willing to maintain close communication with relevant parties on this issue. Q: It is understood that the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan is authorized to monitor violations of parties on both sides of the Line of Actual Control line between India and Pakistan in Kashmir. However, the Indian side has not allowed the observation team to operate in India-controlled Kashmir. What is the comment from the Chinese side? A: China has said many times that Pakistan and India are important countries in South Asia. It is hoped that Pakistan and India will properly resolve related issues through dialogue and consultation. They also hope that relevant countries in the region will cooperate to cope with terrorism and jointly safeguard regional peace and security.

 

On US Acting Secretary of Defense, Shanahan's maiden visit to Afghanistan. 

The item dwells upon the regulatory checks introduced, or being contemplated, by the Government of India to counter well recognised negative trends in the social media with injured innocence, implying (but stopping short of explicitly saying) discriminatory action against Chinese firms. Summary translation underway.

On the criticism in the Indian social media of a video post by Railway Minster, Shri Piyush Goyal, including that of the Congress party , in a rare case of reporting of partisan Indian politics. Summary translation underway

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  A Chinese take on the state of play between India and the USA under the Trump Administration's  "America First" approach. Full translation underway

  An item on the multi-national maritime exercise "Peace-19" organised in Karachi by Pakistan.   The Pakistani Naval Chief, Abbas, is quoted as  averring that the " Indian Ocean is vital to the global economy, and the Chinese Navy provides a great guarantee for safe shipping in the region. "I hope that our relationship can be closer, and the bond of friendship can be further strengthened in the future".

Our correspondent, Guo Yuandan A report published in the Pakistani daily, “The Nation”, of the 10th stated that China will sell its first and only aircraft carrier to Pakistan. The news is rumored to have originated in the Chinese and Russian media, but, according to "Global Times", is sheer fabrication. According to this report in The Nation, based on reports from the Chinese and Russian media of the 9th, the aircraft carrier Liaoning, was to be sold to Pakistan at an unknown price and was expected to make Pakistan more competitive (in strength) vis-a-vis India. The Global Times reporter found that this headline bluffing report actually has many falsehoods. For example, the report claims that the Chinese Navy plans to build six nuclear-powered aircraft carriers in replacement of the Liaoning. But, in fact, China has never announced any such plan. As of now, only the first domestic aircraft carrier is under construction in the Dalian Shipyard, as per the construction plan released in the public domain in China. The Chinese media alluded to in the above report is the South China Morning Post, but the Global Times reporter could not retrieve any despatch on the website of the newspaper pertinent to the report. Another source of information used by " The Nation" is the Russian media -- "Russia Today". The "Global Times" reporter found that the "Russian Today" report in question quoted a report published  by the well known US defense website "Naval Focus" on the 6th. That report claimed that the Chinese media " separately disclosed " that China would upgrade the Liaoning for sale to Pakistan. However, the report of "Naval Focus" is not only baseless but also contradictory. For, according to the report, the “Liaoning" was commissioned in September 2012 and is to serve the Chinese Navy for about 18 years”, which seems to imply that China would sell the Liaoning in 2030. But the report goes on to categorically assert that "Liaoning will be sold to Pakistan by 2020." Liaoning’s progenitor was the Soviet Navy's Varyag, an aircraft carrier of Marshal Kuznetsov class. Construction of the Varyag was interrupted in the late 1980s.  Subsequently, China purchased the Varyag and continued to build it.  On September 25, 2012, the Liaoning joined the Chinese Navy. Up to now, the Liaoning ship is the only aircraft carrier in China, and its main purpose is scientific research and training. In an interview with the "Global Times" on the 10th, Chinese military expert, Song Zhongping, said that the news of China's selling the Liaoning ship is a complete rumor and a lie. In the first place, he said, China selling Liaoning class ships to any country would not be realistic. As China's first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning is both a training ship and a combat ship. It is the "apple of the eye" of the Chinese navy and just cannot be sold. Second, it is not as if there are more aircraft carriers in China that can be sold to Pakistan. Song Zhongping added that the news is not credible from the Pakistani perspective either. According to him, Pakistan pursues a near shore defense strategy and therefore does not need an aircraft carrier. In addition, Pakistan cannot afford to buy and service the aircraft carrier out of its military budget. Song Zhongping also told the Global Times that Pakistan's main thrust is to maintain its strategic nuclear triad, rather than promotion or enhancement of conventional capabilities, especially naval capability, as that would not meet Pakistan's real needs.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on Indian Prime Minister Modi's visit to the East Section of the China-India Boundary

 

The Ambassador to India, Luo Zhaohui and his wife, Dr. Jiang Yili, led a "Happy Spring Festival" literary group to visit Bhutan from January 29 to 31, 2019, . During the period, he met the fifth king of Bhutan, Jigme Kaiser Namyel Wangchuck, the fourth king of Jigme Singh Wangchuck, the Prime Minister, Lotta Zelin, the Foreign Minister. Dandy Dorjei, Foreign Secretary, Sonam Chong and others. Ambassador Luo conveyed cordial New Year greetings of the Chinese leaders to the leaders of Bhutan. He thanked the Royal family of Bhutan for its contribution to promoting friendly cooperation between the two countries over the years and felicitated them on assumption of office of the new Government of Bhutan and the smooth transition of political power. Ambassador Luo said that China attaches great importance to China-Bhutan relations and is willing to maintain contact with the new Government, and work together with it to deepen practical cooperation, expand humanitarian exchanges, promote border negotiations, strengthen coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs and work for new developments in bilateral relations in the New Year. Ambassador Luo noted that the Chinese New Year of the Pig falls on the same day as the Lunar New Year of the Bhutanese. This is a vivid manifestation of the exchange of knowledge between China and Bhutan. Let us celebrate the New Year for a blessed future. The King of Bhutan and Government leaders requested Ambassador Luo to convey their sincere greetings and New Year good wishes to Chinese leaders, and thanked the Chinese "Happy Spring Festival" literary and art group for visiting Bhutan in the New Year. It indicates that although Bhutan has not yet established diplomatic relations with China, it regards China as an important direction in its foreign exchanges.  All work was progressing smoothly after the establishment of the new Government in Bhutan. Bhutan is willing to continue to adhere to the one-China policy, strengthen practical cooperation with China in various fields, resolve border issues through friendly consultations, and let the cooperation between the two sides benefit more people. During the visit, Ambassador Luo accompanied Royal family members, religious elders, the Speaker, the Foreign Minister and several Bhutanese Cabinet Ministers to watch a performance of the "Happy Spring Festival" by the Inner Mongolian Culture and Art Troupe. Ambassador Luo also met the World Bank’s Representative in Bhutan, Ishihara Ibaro, and the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Bhutan, Chowdhury, to exchange views on issues of common concern.  

A baby elephant participated in the rehearsal of the Independence Day military parade in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, on February 2nd. On February 4th, Sri Lanka will celebrate the 71st anniversary of independence. 

 

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on December 3, 2018

Q: The informal BRICS meeting and Russia-India-China (RIC) meeting were held on the sidelines of the G20 summit. Could you offer more information on these meetings? How do you comment on them?

A: The informal BRICS meeting and Russia-India-China (RIC) meeting were held on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina. President Xi Jinping attended these meetings and relevant press readouts have already been released. Here I would like to give you a recap.

During the informal BRICS meeting, the five BRICS leaders reaffirmed their commitments to implementing the outcomes of previous BRICS summits, enhancing solidarity and cooperation, further deepening and substantiating BRICS cooperation in various fields, and striving to play a bigger role in safeguarding international peace and security, promoting global growth, and improving global governance.

The BRICS countries also expressed their unanimous support for the WTO-centered and rules-based multilateral trading system and called on all WTO members to stand against unilateralist and protectionist measures which run counter to WTO rules. The BRICS countries are in favor of reforming the WTO, upholding the core values and basic principles of the WTO, and making sure that the WTO reflects the interests of all members, especially developing members.

During the RIC meeting, the three leaders agreed that Russia, China and India are all major countries of significant influence and each other's important strategic partners for cooperation. Our three countries share a wide range of common interests and similar development goals and shoulder important responsibilities for the future of the region and the world. The three leaders agreed to enhance coordination, build consensus, and strengthen cooperation trilaterally to jointly contribute to world peace, stability and development.

Against the backdrop of a complicated and fluid international landscape and world politics, economy, trade and environment facing severe challenges from unilateralism and protectionism, these meetings gave out a strong message for supporting multilateralism, stepping up international cooperation and promoting mutual benefit and win-win results. They showcased the wish shared by emerging markets and developing countries to enhance solidarity and cooperation and safeguard common interests as well as the constructive and responsible role played by emerging markets in international affairs. They contributed more factors of stability and certainty to the international situation.

Q: Just now you gave elaborate details about the BRICS leaders' meeting as well as the RIC leaders' meeting in Buenos Aires. The leaders from Japan, the US and India also held their first meeting there. How does China view this?

A: China always remains open to the normal exchanges and cooperation between relevant countries. Meanwhile, we also hope that such exchanges and cooperation can promote the mutual trust and cooperation between regional countries and play a constructive role in maintaining peace, stability, development and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on December 3, 2018Q

: Last week, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the construction of Kartarpur corridor along the Pakistani-Indian border. The Indian side has also approved the corridor project. This corridor will provide a visa free access to Sikh pilgrims from India wishing to visit the holy shrine in Pakistan. What is China's comment?

A: We have noted relevant reports and are pleased with this positive interaction between Pakistan and India.

These two countries are important nations in South Asia, and a steady relationship between them is significant to peace and development of this region and the world beyond. We sincerely wish that they could strengthen communication and dialogue, properly handle differences, improve bilateral ties, and jointly maintain regional peace and stability.

A detailed article.  Summary translation underay

The item dwells on China;'s dominant role in Nepal's aviation industry. No apparent connection with the BRI -- the term used in the article is not 'Belt and Road Initiative' but 'Belt and Road between China and Nepal', with an ambiguous allusion in the title.  

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on January 31, 2019

  Q: The conference of the five nuclear-weapon states in Beijing has caught much attention. Could you provide some information? Is China satisfied with the outcome of the conference? A: The conference of the five nuclear-weapon states was concluded successfully in Beijing. China has issued a press release on it. Here I would like to highlight the three important consensus reached at the meeting. First, the five states pledged their shared responsibility to world peace and security. Recognizing the severe challenges to the current international security environment and the vital role of maintaining sound major country relations in resolving strategic global issues, the five countries agreed to objectively view each other's strategic intentions, enhance exchanges in nuclear policies and strategies, strengthen strategic mutual trust and safeguard common security. Second, the five states pledged to jointly uphold the NPT mechanism. They emphasized that the NPT is the cornerstone of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and an important component of the international security architecture. They committed themselves to fully implementing the NPT in its entirety, progressively achieving the goal of a nuclear-weapon free world, doing their utmost to resolve the nuclear non-proliferation issue through political and diplomatic means, and promoting international cooperation in peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Third, the five states pledged to continue to make full use of their cooperation platform to maintain dialogue and coordination. They agreed to maintain strategic dialogue and strengthen coordination in the NPT review process for a successful 2020 review conference. The five countries will also actively promote open and constructive dialogues within the international community, such as the dialogue session held this morning in Beijing with international academic institutions, media and embassy officials from some non-nuclear states. Against the background of rising instability and uncertainty in the international security landscape, major country relations and responsibilities of major countries are receiving more and more attention. The five states, in sitting down for face-to-face exchanges and in-depth discussions of urgent issues related to strategic security and reaching the above-mentioned consensus, demonstrated a positive attitude in dealing with international security challenges through coordination and cooperation. It will help enhance the international community's confidence in the international security environment. The positive outcomes were acclaimed by all parties to the meeting. As the rotating coordinator for the cooperation mechanism of the five nuclear-weapon states, China will continue its efforts to help build consensus and manage differences among the five countries and replace major power competition with coordination and zero-sum game with win-win cooperation, to contribute to world peace and stability.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Regular Press Conference on January 30, 2019

Q: The Beijing P5 Conference lifted its curtain this morning. Can you give us some information on that?  A: The Beijing P5 Conference commenced this morning in Beijing. China, France, Russia, the UK and the US, as the five nuclear-weapon states, all affirmed their important and special responsibilities to uphold international peace, security and stability. Recognizing the severe challenges to international security, the five countries expressed readiness to enhance coordination, manage differences and jointly deal with threats to international security. In light of the current situation, the fact that the five nuclear-weapon states are sitting down for face-to-face and in-depth discussions on urgent strategic security issues in itself sends an important and positive signal to the world. During the meeting, the five nuclear-weapon states will have an in-depth exchange of views on issues related to nuclear policies and strategies, nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation. As the host, China will release more information on this conference at a proper time. Q: I have a question regarding the Beijing P5 Conference. The NPT has three goals. The first, which is non-proliferation, tends to be emphasized at the expense of the other two goals of the treaty, which are nuclear disarmament and peaceful uses of nuclear powers. Could you just please say a bit about China's commitments to the other two goals of the NPT? A: I can see that you know the treaty very well. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is the cornerstone of the international nuclear non-proliferation and nuclear disarmament regime, and an essential part of the post-war international security system. Since coming into effect, it has played an important role in preventing nuclear proliferation, advancing nuclear disarmament, and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy. As a firm supporter of multilateralism, China is committed to upholding the purposes and goals of the NPT. In light of the current situation, the international community should stick to multilateralism, advance nuclear non-proliferation, nuclear disarmament and peaceful use of nuclear energy - the three goals of the NPT - in a comprehensive and balanced manner, and seek practical measures through extensive consultations. We firmly oppose approaching the efficacy of the NPT with double standards, and believe that countries should consistently uphold and strengthen the authority, universality and effectiveness of the NPT and move forward the NPT review process for practical outcomes so as to better cope with new issues in the fields of arms control and non-proliferation. Q: Yesterday, at a hearing organized by the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Director of the US National Intelligence said that he has some concerns about the expanding cooperation between Russia and China. He said that Moscow and Beijing are eroding well-established norms and trying to rebuild the international system. He also said the two countries are increasing the risk of regional conflicts, particularly in the Middle East and East Asia. Do you have any comments? A: China and Russia, two major powers with global influence and permanent members of the UN Security Council, both maintain that efforts should be made to uphold the international order with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter at the center, promote multipolarity in the world, and make the international relations more democratic. China-Russia relations are at their best in history, thanks to the facts that the two countries have left behind the outdated zero-sum game mindset which presupposes that two major powers must be either allies or rivals, regarded each other as development opportunities, and established the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Coordination. China and Russia have forged a new type of state-to-state relations featuring non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third country, setting an exemplary precedence for the international community and major-country relations. Coordination between China and Russia in international affairs has effectively promoted regional and global peace, security and stability, acting as an anchor of stability in the turbulent and fluid international situation, and showcased the sense of responsibility of the two major powers for world peace and development. Follow-up: He also said that China poses the biggest threat to the US. Do you have any comments? A: If I recall correctly, I replied to a similar question last January or February. At that time, the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence also held a hearing where a certain US official said that threats to the US came from hither and thither and particularly singled out China and Russia. I am going to repeat my answer then because I believe it is still applicable today. "We have seen relevant reports. The US is the world's number one superpower with unrivaled military strength. If even the US perceives threats from far and near, what about others? They must feel that danger is crouching right at their doorsteps, wouldn't they? How could they possibly carry on with their lives with such a mentality? It baffles me as to where the US gets its strong sense of insecurity. I want to stress that it is impossible to find absolute security in the world. Nor is it possible for any country to achieve its security at the expense of others' insecurity. The Chinese side always advocates a new security concept featuring common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security. We hope that the US will discard the zero-sum game mindset, stop viewing major-country relations from a confrontational perspective, and, heeding the call of the times for peace and development, make concerted efforts with China, Russia and the rest of the international community to uphold world peace and security. This is what I said last year and what I want to say today. If next year,  the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence is to hold another such hearing and release similar remarks, I will still respond in this way.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on the 40th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations Between China and the United States

The item is a report on the proceedings of the 'China-India digital cooperation opportunity platform' organised in Shanghai by Indian and Chinese IT industry representatives, so the 'second home' of Indian entrepreneurs referred to is China !

  People visiting the Yunnan Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition and the Happy Spring Festival Photo Exhibition in Yangon, Myanmar on January 29th. (Xinhua News Agency)