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On October 7th, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed allegations concerning financial discrepancies within his former faction, the Ishiba Group. In an interview with NHK, Ishiba admitted that there were indeed issues related to political funding, but he described these as administrative oversights. He pledged to implement measures to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.

Just two days after taking office on October 3rd, Ishiba found himself facing accusations linked to his leadership of the Ishiba Group. Reports indicated that from 2019 to 2021, there was unreported income of 800,000 yen from fundraising events, which had not been included in their financial disclosures.

During a press conference at the Prime Minister’s Office, Ishiba commented, “There were indeed instances where several members purchased tickets for these fundraising events, which exceeded the 200,000 yen threshold that required reporting. This was an oversight by our administrative office.”

He further emphasized, “We cannot accept administrative errors, and we are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness. We are currently considering revising the financial reports.”

When pressed about his personal political accountability regarding the situation, Ishiba conveyed his commitment to avoiding such administrative mistakes in the future.

On September 30th, President Biden shared his urgent call for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon during a statement delivered from the White House. This plea comes as the Department of Defense announced plans to deploy “thousands” of additional troops to the Middle East, aimed at enhancing security and providing support to Israel if needed. Reports have indicated that Israeli forces have crossed into Lebanon to conduct limited operations.

With this troop increase, the total number of U.S. forces in the region is expected to reach around 43,000.

During a briefing, Defense Department spokesperson Sabrina Singh informed reporters that the additional deployment will include multiple squadrons of fighter jets and attack aircraft. U.S. officials have also confirmed that this overall deployment will include a small contingent of troops.

The announcement follows a wave of recent attacks in Lebanon, including the assassination of Hezbollah’s top leader, Hassan Nasrallah, which have heightened tensions across the region as the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalates.

The new personnel will consist of squadrons featuring F-15E, F-16, F-22 fighter jets, and A-10 attack aircraft, along with the essential support staff for their operations. Rather than simply replacing the currently deployed squadrons, all existing units will remain in place alongside the new forces, effectively doubling the local air power.

On the same day, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin revealed a temporary extension for the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and its associated Air Wing, with indications that this extension might last about a month. Meanwhile, the USS Harry S. Truman departed from Norfolk, Virginia, on September 23rd, heading toward Europe. It’s anticipated to arrive in the Mediterranean soon, further increasing the naval presence in the region.

In a discussion on October 1st at the White House, President Biden asserted, “I know more than you do” regarding the evolving situation involving Israel and Hezbollah, especially about plans for a limited ground invasion of Lebanon after nearly a year of conflict. He reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire, expressing, “I’m very satisfied that they should stop, and we should have a ceasefire now.”

“Home is the smallest country, and a country is made up of millions of homes.” This insightful quote highlights the philosophy that drives us forward. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, General Secretary Xi Jinping has repeatedly emphasized the importance of the harmonious relationship between national strength, the rejuvenation of our nation, and the happiness of our people. He believes that the prosperity of our nation and the revival of our ethnic identity must ultimately be reflected in the well-being of countless families and the continuous improvement of the lives of billions.

As we embark on this new journey, it is essential that we come together as a united front, relying on the collective strength of our people to build a modern socialist country in every aspect and to achieve the second centenary goal. Our mission is to advance the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through a uniquely Chinese approach to modernization. Let’s come together to learn and grow as one!

On September 15, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum was set ablaze with creativity as renowned Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang staged a spectacular daytime fireworks display, officially kicking off the Art & Science Collide (PST) festival. The event attracted large crowds, particularly from the local Chinese community, all eager to witness this extraordinary spectacle. The colorful explosions transformed the Los Angeles sky into a stunning visual masterpiece, captivating everyone present.

In this performance, Cai showcased his signature artistry by using environmentally friendly paints and dyes, breaking away from traditional fireworks methods. The show, titled “We Are,” was not only a reflection of Cai’s own creative vision but also featured an AI model he developed, known as “cAI™.” This innovative model collaborated with over a thousand drones to create a mesmerizing visual experience. Remarkably, this event marked the first time daytime fireworks were combined with a drone show in U.S. history.

While admission was free, only 5,000 tickets were available and they were quickly snatched up, leaving many fans disappointed. Scalpers took advantage of the demand, selling the free tickets for hundreds of dollars. Attendees shared their excitement; Ms. Chen commented, “I was fortunate to grab a ticket. The live experience was incredibly moving, especially the last couple of deafening blasts that felt like my soul was soaring.” Another attendee, a student named Xiao Cheng, admitted she bought a ticket from a scalper for $100, acknowledging the inflated price but thrilled to experience the wonders of the show.

Katherine E. Fleming, President and CEO of the Getty Trust and co-organizer of the event, described the display as “an unprecedented performance,” which set the stage for the PST festival.

Cai Guo-Qiang reflected on the rapid advancements in AI technology while preparing for the event. He credited AI as a valuable assistant in crafting his speech, which he delivered fluently, infused with a distinct Minnan accent. Cai expressed his ambition for “We Are” to bring AI to life, fostering interaction with the audience rather than keeping it hidden in the realm of computers. He envisions AI as a key to unlocking the mysteries of the world.

The performance unfolded in five acts, beginning with a kickoff from football player David Lynch. Cai orchestrated the rhythm and sequence of the fireworks, enveloping the stadium in vibrant displays that transformed the sky into a breathtaking canvas, creating a dreamlike visual effect. During two explosive moments, the sky was saturated with color, whisking spectators away to a surreal realm.

The event also drew numerous notable figures, including Wu Jianming, Chairman of China Merchants Bank, producer Wendy Deng, real estate mogul Pan Shiyi, actress Zhang Jingchu, and forensic expert Dr. Henry Lee, all eager to witness this groundbreaking display.

The 2024 Overseas Chinese Youth Development Conference and New Generation Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit kicked off on September 26 in Haikou, drawing nearly 300 participants. The attendees represented overseas Chinese youth communities from over 20 countries, including the United States, Germany, Thailand, and Malaysia, alongside delegates from Hong Kong and Macau.

This conference in Hainan is designed to enhance communication, share experiences, and create collaborative opportunities for overseas Chinese youth. The event features a variety of activities, such as the “Haikou Roundtable for Young Talents,” the “Dialogue on Innovation and Entrepreneurship among Overseas Chinese Youth,” and the “Youth Dialogue on New Consumption.” Participants will also have the opportunity to explore pivotal sectors within Hainan’s free trade port.

In his welcoming address, Gu Gang, Vice Governor of Hainan Province, emphasized the unique role of these young representatives in bridging domestic and international perspectives. He noted their crucial position in connecting China with the global community and encouraged attendees to actively pursue their dreams, assuring them that Hainan is dedicated to providing a warm, high-quality, and convenient service environment.

Hu Sheng, a leader from the National Youth Federation of China, underscored the importance of overseas Chinese and returning students as crucial contributors to advancing China’s modernization. He expressed a desire for a shared vision among young Chinese worldwide to strengthen national development and cultural heritage while fostering civilizational exchanges with other nations.

As Hainan’s free trade port aims to meet global standards, attendees were eager to learn more about its policies and explore business opportunities. He Qihuang, Assistant Secretary-General of the Thailand-Hainan Chamber of Commerce, shared, “Hainan will launch its customs operations by the end of 2025, and I’m here to understand and evaluate the opportunities.” He expressed optimism about Hainan’s potential, mentioning that he registered a company in the region two years ago and is looking forward to more streamlined import and export processes once customs operations are in place.

The swift development of Hainan’s biomedical industry was notably highlighted by Li Jihui, Director of Career Development for the Malaysian Selangor Hainan Association’s youth group. He remarked, “Hainan’s backing of the biomedical sector, along with its free trade port tax incentives, makes it exceptionally competitive.” Li expressed his aim to identify promising projects during his visit to benefit from Hainan’s openness.

Chen Yunhong, Vice President of the Hainan Chamber of Commerce in Germany, pointed out Hainan’s commitment to aligning its trade regulations with high international standards. “I’ve noticed that Hainan has set up international arbitration institutions, which greatly simplifies the process for German companies facing legal disputes locally. This significantly enhances the investment climate for foreign enterprises,” she noted. Chen affirmed her commitment to serving as a bridge to promote the free trade port on an international scale.

To further support overseas Chinese and returning students in their entrepreneurial endeavors, Hainan has rolled out supportive policies and developed platforms such as the Hainan Free Trade Port Overseas Chinese Innovation and Entrepreneurship Park. Song Xin, Executive President of the Hainan Association of Returned Overseas Students, explained that the entrepreneurship park aims to facilitate early-stage growth for overseas Chinese enterprises by keeping them informed about free trade port policies, attracting numerous companies to establish operations.

The conference is being guided by the National Youth Federation of China and organized by the Hainan Provincial Overseas Chinese Affairs Office and the Hainan Provincial Youth Federation, with support from various local organizations.

On September 30, 2024, the Sichuan Langzhong Three Kingdoms Cultural Exchange Forum took center stage in Langzhong City, Sichuan Province. The event brought together representatives from cultural and tourism institutions, as well as experts and scholars from various regions, including Nanchong, Hebei Zhuozhou, Chongqing Yunyang, and Taiwan. Their shared goal? To delve into the rich heritage of Three Kingdoms culture.

During the forum, discussions ranged widely, with attendees diving into the historical and cultural significance of the Three Kingdoms, touching on tales of the legendary Zhang Fei, and exploring Langzhong’s cultural history. Wei Jinping, a member of the Cultural, Broadcasting, and Tourism Bureau in Zhuozhou, Hebei, highlighted Zhang Fei’s prominent place in Chinese traditional culture, noting his bravery and strong moral compass, which resonate deeply with the public. He pointed out that the legendary camaraderie shared by Liu, Guan, and Zhang, forged through their oath in the Peach Garden, remains a cherished spiritual legacy for the Chinese nation, inspiring countless works in literature, opera, and film.

Wang Xinhang, the marketing director of Yunyang Xiangqing Tourism Development Co., Ltd., shared his views, emphasizing that Zhang Fei’s seven-year residence in Langzhong qualifies it as his second hometown. He expressed that forums like this one play a vital role in promoting the richness of Chinese traditional culture while also enhancing the quality of Langzhong’s cultural tourism industry.

Participants also offered grassroots suggestions aimed at revitalizing China’s cultural heritage and fostering innovative development. Zhang Zhiping, president of the Langzhong Historical and Cultural City Research Association, proposed establishing a Three Kingdoms Culture Research Institute in Langzhong and hosting an annual themed event. Meanwhile, He Zhihong, deputy general manager of Sichuan Jialing River Cultural Tourism Investment Group, recommended strengthening the promotion of Three Kingdoms culture to create a high-impact cultural brand. Additionally, He Faliu, general manager of Gansu Lantian International Travel Agency, advocated for developing cultural tourism products that bring the narrative of the Three Kingdoms to life.

Langzhong holds a special connection to Zhang Fei, who, during his time in the region, was known for his dedication to the community, restoring order, and spearheading irrigation and sericulture projects. His reputation earned him the titles “Tiger Minister, Good Shepherd,” and he is fondly referred to as “Zhang San Ye” by locals. This enduring admiration is evident in the two star-rated hotels named in his honor, the Zhang Fei Avenue that winds through the old town, and the famed Zhang Fei beef legacy, among many other stories and landmarks tied to him.

In recent years, Langzhong has sought to transform its rich Three Kingdoms cultural heritage into development opportunities. The rollout of a “Cultural Tourism Strong City” strategy is designed to fast-track the establishment of a “World Ancient City Tourism Destination.” A representative from Langzhong Cultural Tourism Industry Investment Co., Ltd. articulated that the purpose of hosting the Three Kingdoms Cultural Exchange Forum is to deepen the recognition and appreciation of Chinese culture while collaboratively advancing the research, preservation, promotion, and development of Three Kingdoms culture, ensuring this invaluable traditional legacy is preserved and revitalized.

The forum, guided by the Sichuan Provincial Association for Cross-Strait Exchange Promotion and organized by Langzhong Cultural Tourism Industry Investment Co., Ltd., wrapped up on September 30. During the event, participants visited several notable Three Kingdoms cultural tourism sites, including the Zhang Fei Temple, the Imperial Examination Hall, the North Sichuan Governor’s Office, and the Confucius Temple. The event also featured a cultural exchange exhibition at Zhang Fei Square, showcasing programs organized by young people from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

The Hongshan culture, named after the archaeological site discovered in Chifeng, Inner Mongolia, boasts a rich history that spans 70 years. Recently, intriguing new archaeological discoveries related to this ancient culture have come to light. On September 22, experts announced the latest findings from the stone tombs of the Hongshan culture located at Yuanbaoshan in AoHan Qi, Chifeng. Among the remarkable artifacts uncovered is a stunning jade dragon measuring 15.8 centimeters in length, 9.5 centimeters in width, and 3 centimeters in thickness—marking it as the largest jade dragon identified in a century of Hongshan archaeological research.

This dragon holds profound significance in Chinese culture, representing a crucial aspect of identity for the Chinese people and serving as a central symbol of the Hongshan culture. In 1971, archaeologists unearthed what is now regarded as the “first dragon of China,” a Hongshan jade dragon from the same cultural site, which has led to Chifeng being celebrated as the “Home of the Jade Dragon in China.” A visit to this “home of the jade dragon” offers a unique opportunity to delve into the ancient origins of Chinese civilization.

Interviewer: Let’s begin by discussing the recent China-Africa Cooperation Forum that took place in Beijing. What insights can you provide about its significance?

Solomon Tesfaye Tirla: The conclusion of the forum on September 6 marks a significant step forward in cooperation among Global South countries. Nations in this group are collaborating closely on their paths to modernization, with China taking a leading role in this journey. The forum underscores China’s dedication to supporting Africa’s development.

Interviewer: How do you view China’s modernization efforts as contributing to Africa’s progress?

Solomon Tesfaye Tirla: Modernization is a common objective for countries worldwide, and I believe China’s strategy has bolstered confidence among nations pursuing their own development goals. China engages actively in Africa’s modernization through investments, trade, and initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative. The distinctive features of China’s modernization resonate well with Africa’s requirements, presenting an encouraging model for progress.

Ye Hailin: Furthermore, China’s experiences in areas such as the green economy, clean energy, and rural revitalization provide valuable lessons for African nations. For example, in the past decade, China has set up 24 agricultural technology demonstration centers across Africa, positively impacting over a million smallholder farmers.

Interviewer: Can you elaborate on the role of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum in setting a benchmark for other Global South countries?

Solomon Tesfaye Tirla: Over its 24-year history, the forum has been instrumental in advancing Africa’s development and enhancing the living conditions of its people. With nearly 100,000 kilometers of new and upgraded roads, over 10,000 kilometers of railroads, and numerous ports and bridges built, the impact is substantial. I believe the forum is one of the most effective platforms fostering cooperation among Global South nations.

Ye Hailin: I completely concur. The strategic importance of China-Africa cooperation is immense. It not only benefits the involved nations but also plays a crucial role in reshaping global dynamics, ultimately contributing to the formation of a more equitable international political and economic order.

Interviewer: During the recent summit, President Xi Jinping announced the “Ten Major Partnership Actions.” What are your thoughts on this initiative?

Solomon Tesfaye Tirla: I found it highly impressive. The ten actions prioritize the well-being of our people and emphasize the value of mutual learning across various sectors, including cultural development and governance. This initiative indeed paves the way for a promising future in China-Africa relations.

Ye Hailin: From my perspective, these actions are incredibly tangible and address genuine needs. They encompass all facets of modernization and take into account the shared requirements of both sides. Strategically, their significance extends beyond China and Africa, influencing the wider global landscape.

Interviewer: Finally, how would you encapsulate the essence of the friendship between China and Africa?

Solomon Tesfaye Tirla: President Xi’s reference to the African proverb “True friends travel together” resonates profoundly. It underscores the enduring bond between our nations and the collaborative spirit that drives our shared journey toward modernization. We view China as a true friend, walking alongside Africa as we tackle challenges together.

Ye Hailin: Additionally, the spirit of inclusiveness and sharing is deeply embedded in both of our cultures. The commitment to leaving no one behind in the fight against poverty illustrates a strong humanitarian ethos that further strengthens our partnership.

Dr. Fan Shuguo and Professor Xu Ying, the visionary founders of Guoyi Tang, a premium Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic nestled in Flushing, New York, are making waves in the community with their combined expertise. Dr. Fan has earned recognition from the U.S. government for his exceptional contributions to acupuncture, while Professor Xu serves as a senior representative of the Chinese Ministry of Health and is a highly regarded expert in the field. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience as respected physicians and educators in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

In discussing the mission of Guoyi Tang, Professor Fan expressed, “Since our inception, our specialty in ‘Longevity and Health Preservation’ has aimed to help individuals reach what is considered a natural lifespan of 120 to 150 years. This initiative has sparked significant interest and support within the community. Over the past two years, we’ve seen remarkable clinical successes and have received enthusiastic feedback from various sectors of society.”

The concept of lifespan, referred to in ancient China as “Tian Nian,” has long been associated with longevity. Historical records from over two millennia ago suggest that the maximum natural lifespan for humans is believed to fall between 120 and 150 years. This notion has fostered philosophies centered on nurturing longevity and fully enjoying life, as highlighted in classic texts like the “Su Wen: On the Origins of Humanity,” which states, “One lives out their years, departing only after reaching a hundred.” Others assert that “120 years is considered longevity,” bridging ancient beliefs with contemporary discussions on lifespan.

Recent scientific research reveals an intriguing insight: humans are unique among species in not reaching their potential maximum lifespan. So, how do we arrive at the idea that humans can live beyond 120? Modern science provides three compelling arguments for this perspective:

1. **Sexual Maturity as a Benchmark**: In the animal kingdom, the lifespan of mammals that can reproduce typically spans 8 to 10 times their age at sexual maturity. Given that humans reach sexual maturity around age 15, this standard suggests a lifespan of 120 to 150 years.

2. **Growth Cycle as a Benchmark**: Studies indicate that the lifespan of mammals generally correlates to 5 to 7 times their growth period. Since humans typically reach full maturity around age 25, this indicates a potential lifespan extending to 125 to 175 years.

3. **Cell Lifespan as a Benchmark**: Grounded in the theory of cell division (specifically the telomere shortening hypothesis), research suggests that an average human cell divides approximately 50 times over a lifetime, with each division occurring roughly every 2.4 years. This framework projects a lifespan of at least 120 years.

These insights reveal a fascinating convergence between ancient Chinese medical wisdom and modern scientific reasoning, both supporting a natural lifespan of about 120 to 175 years. This synthesis of millennia of medical tradition and contemporary science underscores the profound insights offered by Traditional Chinese Medicine.

The esteemed physicist Qian Xuesen, often referred to as the father of life sciences in China, once remarked, “Traditional Chinese Medicine is a supermodern science of healing.”

Guoyi Tang, situated at 39-07 Prince Street, Suite 4E, Flushing, NY, invites community members for consultations and treatments. For further details, they can be reached at 929-607-3738 or by visiting their website at www.guo-yi-tang.com.

Daniel Guerra, an aspiring sailor from Brazil, recently shared the unexpected journey that took a dramatic turn in his life. He encountered a job advertisement from a British yacht owner looking for two deckhands to help sail his yacht across the Atlantic from Brazil—a golden opportunity for any sailor. Although the position didn’t come with a salary, all expenses were covered, and it offered Guerra the chance he needed to gain experience and eventually qualify as a sea captain.

“I was thrilled,” Guerra, 43, recalled. “My dream was to become a captain and work in Europe. It was the start of my journey toward making that dream a reality.”

The excitement grew when Guerra and his fellow recruit, Rodrigo Dantas, met their new employer, George Saul, affectionately known as “Fox.” Initially, the two feared he might be another arrogant yacht owner, but they were pleasantly surprised. “He was very cool and friendly,” Dantas said, reflecting on past experiences dealing with demanding yacht owners.

Fox quickly won over Dantas’ parents, who were apprehensive about their son undertaking such a long journey with a stranger. After meeting Fox, they felt reassured. They later discovered that Fox had brought his yacht Rich Harvest to Brazil for renovations and was looking for skilled crew members to sail it back to Europe.

As they prepared to embark, they encountered a routine police check that extended for six hours, complete with drug-sniffing dogs. “When you travel by plane, your bags are checked; I figured it was just standard procedure,” Dantas explained. They reassured themselves, knowing they had nothing to hide.

On August 4, 2017, the crew finally set sail from Brazil under clear skies, accompanied by a newly appointed French captain, while Fox returned to Europe. Guerra took to Facebook to express his gratitude to Fox for the opportunity, marking the start of what they believed would be a thrilling maritime adventure.

However, two weeks into the journey, the yacht experienced engine troubles, necessitating a stop in Cape Verde for repairs. The sailors found a silver lining in the pause, enjoying the island’s beauty while waiting for the yacht to be fixed.

Tragically, the mood darkened when Cape Verdean police conducted a thorough search of the boat and uncovered nearly 1.2 tonnes of cocaine hidden onboard. “I couldn’t believe it; it felt like my freedom was slipping away,” Guerra shared, reflecting on the shock of being implicated in a drug smuggling operation they knew nothing about.

Facing trial in March 2018, Guerra and Dantas insisted on their innocence, claiming they had no prior knowledge of the drugs. Despite this, both were sentenced to ten years in prison, a significant bust for Cape Verdean authorities. Meanwhile, the alleged mastermind behind it all, Fox, managed to evade capture, with Brazilian police suspecting he orchestrated the smuggling operation.

In August 2018, Fox was arrested in Italy, but due to procedural delays from Brazilian authorities, he was released before extradition. Inspector Andre Gonçalves expressed frustration over the setback, noting Fox’s ability to escape justice despite their extensive efforts.

As Guerra and Dantas maintained their innocence, their families campaigned fervently on their behalf. In 2019, their convictions were overturned, allowing them to return to Brazil, but the shadows of their ordeal still lingered.

Today, Guerra and Dantas find it challenging to secure jobs in the sailing industry, with some employers making unfounded assumptions about their past. Guerra shared that his dreams of sailing around the world now feel distant. “Trusting people again has become hard for me,” he admitted. “I want to see justice served, but if I were to meet Fox, it wouldn’t be the same Daniel. All those negative feelings would come flooding back.”

Now, Guerra reflects on the events that transpired and questions the identity of the man he once called a friend. As he and Dantas work to rebuild their lives, they remain haunted by the very dreams that initially inspired them to embark on that fateful journey.