Archives: 01/11/2024

On October 21, a special event took place in Shanghai, marking the inaugural launch of “The Three Volumes of the Research Series on Ding Jingtang,” published by Fudan University Press. Mr. Ding Jingtang is celebrated as a multifaceted figure in the realms of literary creation and editorial work, with his lifelong connection to profound patriotic sentiments.

Former Director of the Shanghai Municipal Press and Vice Chairman and Party Secretary of the Shanghai Writers Association, Sun Yong, commented that this series sheds light on the lesser-known chapters of Ding Jingtang’s life. “We are offered a glimpse into Mr. Ding’s youthful poetic talent, his diligent efforts as he entered the literary world focusing on publishing, editing, and scholarly pursuits, and his collaboration with many cultural luminaries, shining a light in dark times and conveying hope and strength,” said Sun.

Born in 1920, Ding Jingtang joined the Communist Party of China in 1938, leading student propaganda and research work within the underground party’s “study committee” system in Shanghai. He graduated from the Chinese Department of Guanghua University and had a notable editorial role with various publications, including “Bee,” “Fiction Monthly,” “Translation Collection,” and “Literary Monthly.” After 1979, he served as the President and Chief Editor of the Shanghai Literature and Art Publishing House and held several key positions in literary and cultural organizations, solidifying his status in the publishing industry.

At the launch event, Ding Yanmou, Mr. Ding’s son, presented a donation of “The Three Volumes of the Research Series on Ding Jingtang” to the Shanghai Library. The series includes “The Collected Poems and Writings of Ding Jingtang,” “Ding Jingtang’s Editorial Works,” and “Literary Biography of Ding Jingtang.” The first two volumes compile Ding’s literary works and articles, particularly filling a gap in research on his early literary contributions. The third volume offers a systematic review of his literary and editorial journey based on the previous compilations.

Chen Jun, Director of the Humanities Editorial Department at Fudan University Press, expressed honor at the release of this remarkable work, which reflects years of meticulous collection and research by Ding Yanmou. Lin Jun, Deputy Director of the Shanghai Library, highlighted the academic value of this series, noting its significance in commemorating Ding Jingtang and its relevance for promoting red culture in contemporary society.

Fudan University Chinese Department Professor Chen Sihe emphasized the significance of Ding Jingtang’s research on figures like Qu Qiubai and Lu Xun, as well as his compilation of a catalog in the 1960s. His meticulous efforts in reprinting journals from the 1930s left a lasting legacy, ensuring that important revolutionary literary materials would not be lost to history.

Interestingly, beyond his roles as an editor and scholar, Ding Jingtang was once a young man with literary dreams. In his youth, he loved literature and engaged actively in creative writing and editing literary journals. However, his dedication to the national salvation movement prevented him from fully realizing his literary aspirations, as much of his poetry and prose from the 1940s went unnoticed.

“Ding Yanmou has uncovered numerous lesser-known early works of his father and compiled them meticulously, conducting critical readings, providing commentary, and assembling a comprehensive collection that does justice to Ding Jingtang’s early career. I’m sure this brings comfort to him in spirit,” said Chen.

Ding Jingtang had deep ties with the Shanghai Taofen Memorial Hall (Chinese Museum of Modern News and Publishing), actively supporting its establishment while donating rare books and historical photographs, including the first large English-Chinese bilingual dictionary compiled by the Chinese, published by Commercial Press in 1902. Yanmou also recently donated a bound edition of “Hai Shang Shu Lin,” a two-volume original version edited by Lu Xun.

“This edition of ‘Hai Shang Shu Lin’ is a family heirloom, imbued with my father’s touch. After dedicating most of his life to publishing and editing, it feels right for this book to find a home at the Museum of Modern China.” Yanmou shared.

He expressed, “This launch event serves as a profound tribute to my father. My hope is to see the publication of ‘The Fourth Volume of the Research Series on Ding Jingtang,’ featuring selections from his writings and letters from 1949 to 1999, bringing this series to a fulfilling conclusion.”

On October 22, a representative from State Grid Xinjiang Electric Power Co., Ltd. shared some exciting news regarding the electricity sales figures for the first three quarters of this year. The total sales volume for Xinjiang’s electric grid reached an impressive 155.36 billion kilowatt-hours, officially surpassing the 150 billion kilowatt-hours milestone. This marks a year-on-year growth of 20.19%, making Xinjiang the top-performing province among 27 regional companies under the State Grid Corporation.

When assessing regional economic development, electricity sales act as a reliable indicator. The substantial increase in Xinjiang’s electricity sales during the first three quarters reflects a robust and sustainable economic growth trend in the region. Specifically, the secondary sector in Xinjiang reported sales of 100.20 billion kilowatt-hours, a year-on-year increase of 18.59 billion kilowatt-hours, which translates to a growth rate of 22.78%. This sector alone accounted for 64.49% of the total electricity sales, highlighting its critical role in the overall growth of the electric grid.

A closer look at the data across various industries reveals that four key sectors—industry, transportation and storage, wholesale and retail, and accommodation and catering—saw remarkable year-on-year growth rates exceeding 20%. Specifically, these sectors experienced increases of 23.48%, 21.53%, 20.99%, and 20.30%, respectively, indicating a consistently positive business trend.

This year, Xinjiang has prioritized the cultivation and expansion of its unique advantage industries as a cornerstone for high-quality development. The region is actively supporting the growth of nine major industry clusters, including oil and gas production, coal and electricity chemical processing, green mining, grain and oil, cotton and textiles, organic fruits and vegetables, quality livestock and poultry products, new energy and materials, and cultural tourism. Cumulatively, users from these nine clusters consumed 37.92 billion kilowatt-hours, marking an increase of 3.87 billion kilowatt-hours, or 11.39%, compared to last year.

The notable surge in electricity sales can be closely linked to the ongoing optimization of the business environment for the electric power sector in Xinjiang. This improved environment has fostered a steady increase in the number of grid users, leading to a rise in electricity demand. According to statistics, the total number of customers served by Xinjiang’s electric grid has surpassed 13 million for the first time, reaching 13.227 million by the end of September, an addition of 430,800 users since the end of 2023. Notably, the growth consists of a significant increase in both residential and commercial users, with 372,000 and 47,900 new connections, respectively.

On October 21, the “Cross-Strait Mountains and Rivers—2024 Strait (Fujian-Taiwan) Art Exchange Exhibition” opened at the Arts and Culture Center of National Formosa University in Taipei. The exhibition features 81 artworks by 47 artists from Fujian and Taiwan, including 20 pieces from 11 artists affiliated with the Fujian Provincial Academy of Painting.

The curator of the exhibition, Cai Jie-teng, the head of the Department of Chinese Painting and Calligraphy at Taiwan University of the Arts, shared during an interview that traditional calligraphy and painting encompass classic elements that manifest differently across regions. He believes that showcasing works from artists on both sides of the Strait facilitates learning and the exchange of skills, ultimately fostering the development of art.

At the exhibition, Professor Wu Gong-rui, also from Taiwan University of the Arts, created an ink painting live on site, while Lin Qin-shang, the chairman of the New Taipei City Xinzhuang Calligraphy Association, wrote calligraphic pieces featuring phrases like “Strive to emulate the virtuous.”

In an interview, Lin emphasized that Chinese calligraphy includes four styles: regular, cursive, clerical, and seal script, all embodying a sense of beauty intrinsic to Chinese culture. He stated that such artistic exchanges significantly contribute to the shared inheritance of the essence of Chinese culture.

The exhibition attracted many students from National Formosa University. Li Mao-qian, a first-year student, admired the calligraphy piece titled “Qingyu Case · Yuanxi,” and even used his phone to look up the original poem by the renowned Southern Song Dynasty poet Xin Qiji.

Li explained that while he was familiar with a line from the poem—”In the crowds, I searched for him tirelessly; when I turned around, there he was, in the fading light”—the experience of viewing the artwork opened his eyes to the need for further learning.

The exhibition is co-hosted by National Formosa University and the Cross-Strait Imaging Art and Cultural Creative Association, with support from organizations like the Fujian Picture Newspaper.

In a congratulatory letter, the Fujian Picture Newspaper stated that calligraphy and painting are treasures of Chinese culture, embodying millennia of historical depth and human spirit. They highlighted that these art forms serve as an important connection between the people of Fujian and Taiwan, expressing hopes for continued artistic dialogue to build bridges across the Strait.

Maryvale, a Christian organization located at 7600 Graves Avenue, recently submitted a development proposal to the city that has stirred significant community interest. On the evening of October 8th, hundreds of residents gathered at the Rosemead City Hall to voice their opinions on this proposal, which aims to rezone the land for transitional and supportive housing. The plan includes creating spaces for mental health services, administrative support, early education, daycare, religious activities, and recreational use. Primarily, the transitional housing is designed to assist single mothers, female students without housing security, and children in need of early education.

Founded in 1856 at what is now Union Station, Maryvale has a long history in Los Angeles, growing to become the city’s first orphanage after relocating to Boyle Heights in 1891. Since 1953, it has continued to serve the community by assisting at-risk children and adults. During the recent city council meeting, supporters of the proposal voiced their opinions in a previous hearing, while some local residents expressed concerns regarding safety and the potential establishment of a shelter in the neighborhood.

Mike Couchman, CFO of Maryvale, emphasized the proposal’s goal: to provide a safe environment and supportive resources for homeless mothers, enabling them to develop essential skills and achieve self-sufficiency before moving into permanent housing. He assured that the organization does not intend to disrupt the city’s peace and safety. The property spans 13.6 acres and currently features 11 buildings of varying heights. Plans involve renovating the first two floors of Laboure Hall, its existing dormitory, to provide transitional and supportive housing for just over 20 families, countering the online rumors of accommodating 400 residents. The redesign will include a reconfigured kitchen and transform dormitory-style suites with shared bathrooms into independent family suites with private baths, as well as communal areas like an activity center, library, and a learning kitchen.

The proposal also includes Hope Housing, which offers 14 beds for community college female students aged 18 to 28 who are victims of domestic violence or lack housing security. Additionally, Seton House is set to provide temporary accommodation for mothers with two or more children, lasting between six to nine months. Housing specialists will assist residents in finding permanent housing solutions afterward.

An early education center within the facility aims to accommodate up to 120 children, while the community mental health center will offer affordable treatment and services for youth and their families up to age 25. The site will feature 167 parking spaces and a venue for up to 500 people, with 51% of the land dedicated to landscaping, ensuring no further expansion.

Concerns regarding public safety were raised by the city planning commission, prompting Maryvale to implement 24-hour surveillance and nighttime patrols on the campus. The facility will maintain a staff of over 70 personnel and prohibits drug use, with random drug testing in place. A curfew will be enforced from 10 PM to 5:30 AM, Sunday through Thursday. Most mothers at Seton House will have their own transportation, but Maryvale will offer Uber or Lyft services in certain circumstances for those without.

The city planning commission believes the proposal aligns with the city’s vision for its 2030 Plan, which promotes a safe, welcoming, well-connected, and vibrant Rosemead, complete with thriving businesses and well-maintained parks and infrastructure. Safety remains a top priority, with efforts to enhance public safety facilities and expand community safety programs, particularly for the homeless.

The proposal has been postponed until October 22nd, with Couchman affirming that if it is rejected by the city council, he will continue to seek approval.

On October 20, in Los Angeles, North America’s Halloween film season is in full swing, with the latest entries such as “Terrifier 3” and the recently premiered “Smile 2” taking the top spots at the box office.

According to data released by BoxOfficeMojo on October 20, the weekend box office for North America, covering the period from October 18 to 20, reported approximately $67.34 million from 37 films. This marks a 7% decrease from the previous weekend, continuing a downward trend over three reporting periods.

The suspenseful horror film “Smile,” written and directed by Parker Finn, was originally released in 2022 and became one of the biggest box office hits of that year, earning over $217 million worldwide on a budget of around $17 million. Its sequel, “Smile 2,” debuted on October 18 and quickly claimed the single-day box office title in North America. It grossed approximately $23 million during its opening weekend, placing it at the top of the latest North American box office rankings. The film’s opening figures and overall reception have outperformed its predecessor, currently rated 7.3 on IMDb, 66 on Metacritic, and boasts an 83% freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes (from 131 reviews), while receiving a CinemaScore of B.

Another new addition to the North American weekend box office top ten is “We Live in Time,” starring the well-known actor Andrew Garfield. This romantic drama, which had a limited release on October 11, saw a dramatic increase in box office revenue as the number of theaters showing it grew from single digits to three digits. This weekend, it grossed approximately $4.19 million, an impressive 1,699% increase from the previous weekend, propelling it from 18th to 5th place on the chart, with current ratings of 7.4 on IMDb, 60 on Metacritic, and 80% freshness on Rotten Tomatoes (from 132 reviews).

In addition, the rest of the North American weekend box office rankings remained relatively stable.

The animated sci-fi adventure “The Wild Robot,” produced by DreamWorks, claimed the second spot for a third consecutive weekend, grossing about $10.1 million. The film’s North American box office has now surpassed $100 million, with a global total nearing $200 million.

The horror film “Terrifier 3” saw a significant drop of 50.8% in its second weekend, yielding approximately $9.31 million and sliding from the top spot to third place. Its North American gross currently stands at around $36.22 million, with total earnings of about $41.58 million.

“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” a fantastical horror-comedy, slipped from third to fourth place with a weekend gross of approximately $5 million. The film has surpassed $284 million in North American earnings and over $435 million globally, now ranking fourth among 2024 North American box office titles, beating out the sci-fi action film “Dune: Part Two.”

As showing theaters decrease, the crime musical drama “Joker: Folie à Deux” fell 68.9% in its third weekend, grossing around $2.18 million, dropping from fourth to sixth place. The film’s North American earnings now sit at approximately $56.44 million, but its total worldwide box office has reached around $192 million, thanks to markets outside North America accounting for about 70% of its revenues.

Looking ahead to next week, new releases include the sci-fi thriller “Venom: The Last Dance,” the thriller “Conclave” starring Ralph Fiennes, and the horror-comedy “All You Need Is Blood,” all set to debut on October 25.

A new exhibit at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles titled “Rising Signs: The Medieval Science of Astrology” explores the historical use of astrology in health practices and medical treatments. According to medieval astrologers, October is a time for battles, while November is best for gathering acorns. These insights are part of a fascinating look at how astrology shaped daily life during the Middle Ages.

For centuries, astrology was an integral part of academia in Europe, intersecting with fields like medicine. Kings often consulted court astrologers for guidance on matters of state and warfare. The belief was that the positions of celestial bodies at birth could influence an individual’s health, with different zodiac signs linked to specific diseases. For instance, Geminis were thought to be more prone to respiratory issues, while Sagittarians faced muscle and joint ailments.

The Getty’s exhibit is attracting attention not just from history buffs but also from celebrities, including Andrew Garfield, who described the collection of illuminated manuscripts as “kind of dope.” However, some visitors are taken aback by the idea that their contemporary astrological signs might differ from medieval calculations.

Dr. Larisa Grollemond, the exhibit’s curator and assistant curator of manuscripts at the Getty, is currently penning a book on medieval wellness practices. In a conversation with the Guardian, she discussed how the perception of astrology has evolved, what surprises modern astrology enthusiasts when encountering medieval practices, and why she believes medieval people would have embraced Instagram. Here’s a look at their discussion:

**What are the main differences in how astrology is utilized today compared to medieval Europe?**

Dr. Grollemond: “Today’s astrology leans heavily toward personality traits, often revolving around romantic compatibility and interpersonal relationships. In medieval times, astrology had a more scientific foundation. It was seen as a serious discipline that helped interpret time’s passage and the celestial influence on health and lifestyle choices. It was more closely aligned with daily living: what to eat, how to care for oneself, and which activities were best suited for a specific time of the year.”

**How many people in medieval Europe were aware of their astrological signs?**

Dr. Grollemond: “It’s tough to pinpoint exactly. Astrology was certainly part of the intellectual discussions in universities and medical practices. Most people receiving medical treatment likely encountered some astrological concepts—whether related to bodily humors or the timing of bloodletting. However, it’s unlikely that every peasant knew their specific sign.”

**Did astrology play a role in medical treatments? Were patients ever asked about their signs?**

Dr. Grollemond: “Variety in medical practices existed. A barber-surgeon might perform bloodletting based on a detailed astrological analysis, while a folk practitioner might simply adhere to seasonal guidelines. Astrological concepts influenced both the timing and methods used in treatments, rooted in the belief that different signs governed various parts of the body.”

**The exhibit suggests that one’s astrological sign could differ from today’s interpretations. Why is that?**

Dr. Grollemond: “The medieval system connected each month with a specific zodiac sign in a simpler way. Our current astrological framework has evolved with precise astronomical observations, leading to more specificity in zodiac dates. This realization shakes some people’s identities; many see their sign as integral to who they are, while shifting to a historical perspective can be challenging.”

**Was there as much skepticism about astrology in the medieval period as exists today?**

Dr. Grollemond: “Astrology was widely practiced within royal courts and was respected for its influence on significant decisions. However, skepticism emerged regarding its usage for prophecy or divination, as such practices were sometimes viewed as overstepping divine boundaries. Medieval views on astrology were more nuanced than the outright dismissal seen today.”

**How did astrology coexist with Christianity in the Middle Ages?**

Dr. Grollemond: “Astrology often featured alongside religious texts. The interpretation of celestial movements aligned with a Christian worldview, suggesting that God’s design extended to the heavens and that understanding these placements was part of fulfilling His plans.”

**You recently engaged in a discussion with online astrologers. What are your thoughts on the generational shifts in astrology?**

Dr. Grollemond: “Recent events, like the pandemic, have prompted many to seek meaning in daily life, leading to a resurgence of interest in astrology, particularly among younger generations. It’s fascinating to consider how 600 years from now, people might perceive 2024 as a notable astrological moment.”

**What parallels do you see between historical and contemporary astrology?**

Dr. Grollemond: “The print revolution in the late 15th century made astrological texts more accessible, similar to today’s social media and apps that spread astrology. Both periods saw a rise in public interest fueled by wider access to astrological information.”

**Do you believe medieval individuals would relate to modern online astrology content?**

Dr. Grollemond: “I think the average medieval person would thrive on Instagram. They would recognize many modern astrological symbols and concepts. However, they might struggle with contemporary interpretations of personality traits linked to zodiac signs.”

**What advice can medieval astrology offer for us this October and November?**

Dr. Grollemond: “In October, it’s a prime time for taking decisive actions—very much in line with Scorpio energy. Meanwhile, November, under Sagittarius, is excellent for activities like gathering acorns, harvesting, marriage, reconciliation, and even bloodletting—which people seem particularly interested in discussing these days.”

Unicorn theatre, LondonA pet marooned with his owner in a ‘place between worlds’ whispers to the audience through headphones in this skilful play for over-nines
Chris WiegandThu 17 Oct 2024 05.00 BSTLast modified on Thu 17 Oct 2024 13.03 BSTShare‘We’re not in Kansas any more,” Dorothy tells Toto when they arrive in Oz. But what if you find yourself in neither a Technicolor fantasy nor sepia-tinted homely surroundings? This limbo state is where young Effy and her own trusty Toto land after a stormy night in writer-director Tim Crouch’s carefully constructed play for over-nines. On a great white rug evoking both shaggy fur and fluffy clouds, Effy considers how she got here – wherever “here” may be.
Crouch’s story comes in jigsaw pieces to assemble: a fire, a rainy road at night, a separation, a new start. Her mum is unwell so Effy must stay temporarily with her aunt and uncle, but four-legged friends are banned at their block of flats. Toto, her beloved rescue, is quietly sneaked into her bedroom in a box – but we know from the start that he can only play dead and go undetected for so long. Wearing headphones throughout, the audience navigate the voices of Effy’s relatives in between scenes performed by Peyvand Sadeghian as Effy and Felipe Pacheco as Toto, who also whispers in our ears.
Remember Six-Thirty, the dog who co-narrated Bonnie Garmus’s Lessons in Chemistry? Crouch gives his pooch even freer rein as Toto intermittently talks to us in detail about the vibrations that help him understand his embattled owner’s emotional states – and even how those vibrations might sound under water, for example. This audacious device, aided by Helen Skiera’s sound design, is used to both playful and profound effect.
View image in fullscreenStop, look and listen … Toto Kerblammo! Photograph: Hugo GlendinningLily Arnold’s set, with the rug on a raised stage surrounded by Will Monks’ flickering blue lighting, powerfully conveys a liminal period of adolescence as well as the “place between worlds” where Effy and Toto find themselves. Sadeghian and Pacheco’s physicality (movement directed by Ingrid Mackinnon) captures the particular intimacy shared between pet and owner: the mischief and comfort, the intuitive understanding of each other’s rhythms.
Dressed in casual adult clothes (no furry onesie outfit or waggy tail attached here), Pacheco gives Toto puppy eyes, trembles at fireworks and perfects a sensuousness that conveys the luxury of receiving love. As he sprawls languorously at Effy’s side, the picture of fidelity, her poignant sense of not deserving affection herself is a stark contrast.
I, Cinna (the Poet) review – Tim Crouch and Jude Owusu are dream teachersRead moreIt does not flinch from considering death and loss but this 70-minute show also has a perky sense of fun: witness Toto leaping out of his box and rampaging to a rock soundtrack. But the play is a study in humans caring for each other, too, and Pacheco has an additional role as an inquisitive young boy desperate to befriend his new neighbour. “Stop, look and listen,” is the safety rule given to Effy by her mum early on in the play. Crouch asks us to do the same and you leave the theatre with sharpened senses.
At the Unicorn theatre, London, until 3 November

Several lawmakers are urging the Biden administration to investigate McKinsey & Company’s ties to China, claiming that the consulting giant has failed to disclose its business relationships with the Chinese government, potentially violating U.S. federal laws.

In a letter addressed to Attorney General Merrick Garland and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Republican senators Marco Rubio and Joni Ernst, along with John Moolenaar, the chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, raised concerns about whether McKinsey’s operations in China pose a threat to U.S. national security. They argue that there are potential conflicts of interest between McKinsey’s China-based dealings and the Pentagon, which they believe may contravene federal regulations.

According to a Reuters report, the trio of lawmakers questioned McKinsey’s process in securing a $480 million consulting contract with the Department of Defense, alleging that the firm concealed its close ties to the Chinese government and state-owned enterprises, thus jeopardizing U.S. national security.

The lawmakers stated, “Our review of existing documents from the Department of Defense indicates that McKinsey has repeatedly failed to disclose its collaborations with the Chinese government when obtaining contracts.” They added, “McKinsey’s activities pose serious risks to U.S. national security and may not comply with the obligations required under federal law.” They specifically pointed to McKinsey’s close relationships with Chinese government entities, noting that its business operations benefit the Chinese military and economy.

As of now, McKinsey has not responded to these allegations. During a congressional hearing, a representative from the firm claimed that their operations in China do not involve state-owned enterprises or government at any level, but rather focus on multinational companies and private firms, adhering to the strictest industry regulations.

Additionally, a report by The Wall Street Journal on the 16th highlighted that McKinsey is in the process of restructuring its operations in China. The firm has already reduced its government-related clientele and cut approximately 500 jobs—about one-third of its staff in China.

Insiders have disclosed that McKinsey has been working to separate its Chinese operations from its global business to mitigate potential risks associated with its presence in the country. Over the past two years, the firm has laid off hundreds of employees in the Greater China region, including those in Hong Kong and Taiwan. As of June 2023, McKinsey’s website indicated that it employed nearly 1,500 people in the Greater China area.

Ankara—On October 23, a terrorist attack on the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) facility resulted in the tragic deaths of five individuals and left 22 others injured, as reported by the Türkiye Today website, quoting Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.

Yerlikaya confirmed that two attackers, a man and a woman, have been neutralized, and efforts are currently underway to identify them.

The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into the attack, according to Anadolu Agency on October 24. The Türkiye Today website has reported that the victims have been identified as a quality control officer, a mechanical engineer, a staff member, a security guard, and a taxi driver. Meanwhile, the 22 injured individuals are receiving medical treatment.

In a statement on October 23, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan condemned the attack as a “despicable act of terrorism.” He emphasized that the targeting of Turkey’s defense sector is a cowardly assault, asserting that the country will continue to combat terrorism and its supporters with “determined resolve and in a multifaceted manner.” He expressed condolences to the victims’ families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

Following the attack, key international figures—including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken—have also condemned the act of terrorism, as reported by Anadolu Agency.

According to NTV, the targeted facility is located in the Kahrmannkar district of the Turkish capital, Ankara. Eyewitnesses reported that several armed individuals arrived at the factory via taxi, engaging in a shootout with security personnel before some of them entered the premises carrying explosives and detonating themselves. The attack is believed to have occurred during a shift change at the facility.

In an interview on October 21, 2023, Wang Xiongchang, the Mayor of Qinzhou, highlighted the significant transformations that have occurred in the city over the past 30 years since its establishment as a municipality. “The transition from a port-less coastal area to a thriving urban center is extraordinary,” he noted during a press conference in Nanning. The city’s GDP skyrocketed from 7.012 billion RMB in 1994 to an impressive 196.129 billion RMB by 2023, marking a staggering 28-fold increase and an average annual growth rate of 9.9%.

Mayor Wang reminisced about the pivotal moment in 1994 when Qinzhou finally saw the completion of its two ten-thousand-ton berths, effectively ending the era of “having the sea without a port.” He described how, over the last three decades, Qinzhou Port has evolved into a large facility capable of accommodating 300,000-ton oil tankers and 200,000-ton container ships. Currently, 70 container shipping routes connect Qinzhou to 518 ports across 124 countries and regions. The port’s cargo throughput soared from 122,000 tons in 1994 to over 100 million tons in 2018, with expectations to exceed 200 million tons this year.

The growth of high-capacity shipping infrastructure has catalyzed rapid industrial development in the area. Major global and domestic corporations have established a presence in Qinzhou, which has fostered a cluster-based growth model for key industries. The green chemical sector has created an unprecedented “oil, coal, gas, and salt” integrated petrochemical industry, making Qinzhou’s petrochemical park the first in Southwest China to achieve a value of over 100 billion RMB. “The synergy between our large ports and industrial facilities is driving the growth of a robust maritime economy,” emphasized Wang.

Currently, the output value of Qinzhou’s port-based industries reaches 150 billion RMB, with ten major industrial projects under construction, totaling an investment of over 280 billion RMB. “We’ve successfully transformed from a traditional agricultural city to a dynamic industrial hub,” Wang asserted.

Qinzhou also plays a vital role as a crucial node in the new western land-sea corridor. Products like rice from Cambodia, mangosteen from Thailand, and durian from Malaysia are now entering the Chinese market through the port’s sea-rail intermodal services. Conversely, China’s new energy vehicles, advanced materials, and electromechanical products are being exported to international markets.

The city is continuously expanding its sea-rail intermodal network, which connects 73 cities and 156 stations across 18 provinces in Southwest, Central, and Northern China. Wang pointed out that Qinzhou is strengthening its internal and external trade container shipping routes to achieve complete global port connectivity.

In terms of foreign trade cooperation, Qinzhou is leveraging national-level development platforms such as the China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park and the Guangxi Pilot Free Trade Zone to build cross-border supply chains for ASEAN specialty products, including bird’s nest, durian, palm oil, and recycled aluminum. The port’s capabilities are being enhanced to accommodate a wholesale trading platform for bulk commodities in the Beibu Gulf region, along with the establishment of the China-ASEAN (Qinzhou) fruit trading center and the first silicon manganese alloy delivery warehouse in Southern China.

Official statistics reveal that Qinzhou’s foreign trade exports soared from just $3.2 million in 1994 to an impressive $10.81 billion in 2023, representing a staggering 337.8-fold increase.

“The construction of the Panlu Canal, China’s first century project connecting rivers to the sea, is currently in full swing,” Wang added. “Qinzhou is dedicated to supporting and ensuring the timely completion of the canal, allowing 5,000-ton river-sea direct vessels to travel directly from the Xijiang River ports to coastal ports in China and key ports in Southeast Asia, further enhancing our connectivity with both domestic and international markets.”