The recently opened exhibition titled Stars over the Volga: Works by Academicians of the Russian Academy of Arts is marking the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia at the China Millennium Monument in Beijing.

The exhibition features 100 paintings created by academicians and corresponding members of the Russian Academy of Arts since the 20th century and includes oil paintings, watercolors, and some mixed-media works. 

The pieces, arranged according to the birth dates of the artists and the date the works were created, showcase the internal developmental threads of Russian painting. Most of these works and artists are being exhibited in China for the first time.

Through the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to appreciate the beautiful landscape paintings created by renowned Russian artists, which vividly display the beauty and uniqueness of Russia, noted Natalia Stepkina, counselor of the Russian Embassy in China, during the opening ceremony on Friday.

All of the works on display are provided by the Russian Academy of Arts and encompass landscapes, portraits, still lifes, and thematic creations, showcasing the easel painting art of the academy's members over nearly half a century. The exhibition will run until mid-October.

Autumnal Equinox, the 16th solar term of the lunar 24 solar terms, started on Sunday (September 22) this year and marks the midpoint of autumn, dividing the season into two equal parts. It also marks the harvest season. This year marks the seventh celebration of the Chinese Farmers' Harvest Festival, a time when farmers across the country share in the joy of the harvest. 

After Autumnal Equinox, the location of direct sunlight moves to the south, making days shorter and nights longer in the northern hemisphere. By this time, most regions in China have transitioned into the cooler autumn season. As cold air from the north meets the diminishing warm, humid air, it often results in precipitation.

Ancient Chinese tradition divides the Autumnal Equinox into three pentads: the first observes the softening of thunder, the second sees hibernating insects begin to nest, and in the third pentad, water starts to dry up.

During this season, crabs are considered particularly delicious. Eating crabs is believed to nourish the marrow and help clear internal heat from the body.

In South China, a custom for Autumnal Equinox is known as "having Qiucai (an autumn vegetable), a type of wild amaranth that is popular during this time. Every Autumnal Equinox day, Qiucai, verdant in the field, is collected and made into soup with fish, called "Qiutang" (autumn soup). 

Besides, Autumnal Equinox is the perfect season for kite flying. Children fly various kites, enjoying the pleasant weather. 

In North China, taro becomes a staple in the seasonal diet during this time. Health experts recommend having some more easily digestible foods in autumn. Taro is soft and nutritional. 

In some regions, there remains a folk tradition of extending greetings and well wishes for a successful autumn ploughing. 

Since ancient times, many places have had folk custom of mountaineering and sight-seeing. Due to the effects of air pressure and humidity, autumn often brings clear blue skies, white clouds, and cool breezes, making it perfect for mountaineering. 

During the Autumnal Equinox, the temperature difference between morning and evening becomes more pronounced, so people should adjust their attire to prevent catching colds.

Fitness exercises in this season can do more of cold-resistant exercises and aerobic exercises, such as hiking, walking and cycling. After the Autumnal Equinox, it is recommended not to engage in excessive exercise, as it may deplete yang energy. Instead, people may try some gentle exercises including tai chi, Baduanjin (an ancient Chinese qigong exercise combining movement), and Wuqinxi (the Five-Animal Exercises), so that the whole-body sweats slightly and not too tired. 

After the robust micro-drama industry intrigued young Chinese viewers with romance shows, it is now experiencing a notable surge in popularity among middle-aged and elderly audiences, evolving from a niche medium into a mainstream entertainment phenomenon. These short, melodramatic shows, often featuring middle-aged protagonists in fantastical scenarios, have captured the imagination of an older demographic. However, this burgeoning trend also brings to light significant challenges, particularly concerning content homogenization and the need for stricter regulation.

The appeal of micro-dramas to older demographics is significant. According to the 2024 China Micro-Drama Industry Research Report by iResearch.com, users aged 40-59 constitute 37.3 percent of the micro-drama audience, with those aged 60 and above accounting for 12.1 percent. This shift highlights a broader trend: Digital entertainment is increasingly catering to an aging population. With China's elderly consumption potential projected to soar from 40 trillion ($5.6 trillion ) to 106 trillion yuan by 2050, the market for such content is both expansive and lucrative.

The success of micro-dramas among older viewers is evident from their prominence on various platforms. Data from DataEye and WETRUE reveals that micro-dramas featuring middle-aged protagonists frequently top the charts, reflecting their widespread appeal. Shows like The Flash Marriage at Fifty, which features a wealthy CEO marrying a middle-aged woman, have resonated with viewers seeking both escapism and relatable narratives. The dramatic plots, marked by themes of instant romance and personal transformation, offer a stark contrast to the everyday realities faced by many elderly viewers.

Experts suggest that as the internet and mobile media become more prevalent among older adults, these platforms increasingly serve as substitutes for diminished social support. Micro-dramas, particularly those exploring family dynamics and emotional conflicts such as "mother-in-law issues," "divorces," "flash marriages," and "reconciliation," provide emotional compensation and a sense of connection.

However, concerns about content homogenization are growing. Many micro-dramas rely on repetitive and formulaic elements, such as "villainous female characters" and "hasty marriages," which can lead to viewer disengagement. Additionally, the stereotypical portrayal of family conflicts in these dramas may exacerbate negative perceptions of real-life disputes, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and potentially increasing emotional strain for older audiences.

For instance, the emergence of themes like "tyrannical CEOs" and "sweet romances" has become predictable, with many new dramas offering little beyond superficial variations of these tropes. This homogenization risks reducing the genre's appeal as viewers may grow tired of repetitive plots and characters.

Monetization practices within the micro-drama sector further complicate matters. Reports indicate that many platforms employ aggressive and often deceptive tactics to extract money from viewers, including hidden fees, automatic renewals, and misleading pricing structures. These practices place a substantial financial burden on consumers, particularly elderly viewers, who may struggle with the complexities of digital payments and subscription models. Many elderly individuals find themselves facing unexpected charges due to poorly disclosed fees and manipulative marketing strategies, exacerbating their financial strain and sense of exploitation.

As highlighted by recent user experiences, elderly individuals often find themselves unwittingly spending significant amounts of money on micro-dramas due to poorly disclosed fees and manipulative marketing strategies. Such issues are compounded by a lack of adequate support and recourse for resolving disputes, leaving many viewers feeling exploited.

To address these challenges, the National Radio and Television Administration has implemented new regulations that went into effect on June 1. Dramas are managed based on their investment levels: Projects with high amounts of funding are overseen by national and provincial bodies, while lesser funded projects are handled by the online platforms. Furthermore, unapproved and unregistered micro-dramas are prohibited from being disseminated online.

As micro-dramas continue to captivate older audiences, addressing the issues of content quality and regulatory oversight will be crucial in ensuring that this genre remains both engaging and ethically responsible.

The Chinese national soccer team lost 0-7 to Japan on Thursday in the first match of the third round of the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers. 

This defeat reportedly set three unfortunate records for Chinese soccer team: their biggest-ever loss to Japan, the most goals conceded in a single World Cup qualifying match, and their biggest defeat in World Cup qualifying history.

The last time the Chinese team defeated Japan was during the 1998 Dynasty Cup semifinals when they won 2-0. Since then, China has gone 14 matches without a victory against Japan in all competitions, with eight losses and six draws. 

On social media, such a defeat has sparked torrents of criticism and dismay, and even satire from Chinese fans.

Li Boqing, a traditional storyteller, offered a pointed remark: "If we had forfeited the match and lost 0-3 by default, we could have saved travel expenses and invested in youth training instead, while also preserving a better goal difference. In World Cup qualifiers, sometimes a single goal difference can determine whether a team advances."

Sports commentator Zhan Jun also expressed his dismay on social media, calling the second-half collapse and the overall performance unacceptable. He pointed out that the coaching team seemed to lack a detailed study of Japan's attack tactics and did not make effective adjustments.

"It appeared that the players were unprepared, and the coach failed to convey his strategy through substitutions. Hopefully, the coaching team will learn from this, and the Chinese team can return home and rebound with a stronger performance in the second round," he stated.

The UN Security Council (UNSC)should channel more of its energies into pushing the parties toward dialogue and engagement in search of a political solution, while helping Sudan build up its humanitarian response capacity to stop the humanitarian crisis from worsening even further, Dai Bing, China's deputy permanent representative to the UN, said at a UN meeting on Wednesday.

Dai's remarks were part of his explanation of vote on the UNSC draft resolution on sanctions against Sudan.

Over one and a half years of conflicts, with no sign of de-escalation in sight, the worsening humanitarian situation on the ground has put millions of innocent Sudanese civilians in the face of multiple challenges, including war, natural disasters, and diseases, said Dai. 

In this context, the renewal of the sanction measures will go some way toward stemming the steady flow of illicit arms into the battlefield and calming down and de-escalating the situation. 

This is what the international community wants and what the UNSC has duty to do, and that's why China voted in favor of the draft resolution that was put to a vote a moment ago, said Dai.

We renew our call for the parties to the conflict to put their country and people's interests first, respect international humanitarian law to the letter, and provide maximum protection to civilians and civilian facilities without causing further harm or damage, said Dai. 

He noted that China hopes all member states will observe the arms embargo provided for in the resolution and together take constructive and tangible actions to help the country cease hostilities and return to lasting peace.

On the other hand, as China has stressed many times, sanctions are a means, not an end. They must not replace diplomacy, much less become a tool of political pressurization in the service of some countries, the Chinese envoy said. 

The UNSC should channel more of its energies into pushing the parties toward dialogue, while helping Sudan build up its humanitarian response capacity, said Dai. 

Dai urged that international community should respect Sudan's sovereignty and territorial integrity and try to secure more support and cooperation from the Sudanese government. The penholder should likewise fully respect the Sudanese government's legitimate concerns and aspirations and effectively forge greater consensus among the parties without slipping in political self-interests.

At 3:26 am on August 28, with the successful energization of the 220 kV No. 1 main transformer for power transmission at 220 kV Kuitun Substation, State Grid Kuitun Power Supply Company successfully completed the task of upgrading and replacing the No. 1 main transformer at 220 kV Kuitun Substation.

This is also the fourth 220 kV main transformer replacement work completed by the company this year.

The 220 kV Kuitun Substation is an important hub station in Kuitun area. Its No. 1 main transformer was put into operation in 2005. Kuitun Substation connects Dushanzi District in the south and Wusu City in the west. It has mutual power supply with the Seventh Division of the Corps. While meeting the power consumption needs of local loads, it undertakes the power supply tasks of Kuitun, Wusu, Dushanzi and other areas.

In recent years, the economy of Kuitun City and surrounding areas has been developing well, putting forward higher requirements for power demand and reliable supply. Preliminary diagnosis found that the No. 1 main transformer had insufficient short-circuit resistance capacity, increasing the risk of power grid operation. It is urgently necessary to replace the main transformer.

For this equipment upgrade and renovation, the 220 kV No. 1 main transformer body, the low-voltage side isolating switch of the main transformer, and the three-side conductors of the main transformer in this substation have been upgraded and renovated. After the upgrade and renovation, the capacity of the No. 1 main transformer has been increased from 150 MW to 180 MW, enhancing the short-circuit resistance capacity, strengthening the power grid structure of Kuitun Power Grid, and ensuring the safe and stable operation of the power grid during the peak summer period.

This renovation started on August 16 and ended on August 28. Multiple processes such as oil drainage of the old main transformer, removal and displacement of the main body, installation of the new main transformer in place, vacuum pumping and oil injection, and handover test were completed item by item. It involves a sixth-level power grid risk. The entire renovation process is a third-level operation risk. Among them, the process of replacing the main transformer is a second-level operation risk.

The 11-year-old giant panda Meng Meng's twin panda cubs have been gaining strength after they were born on August 22 at Zoo Berlin, in Germany, while their mother Meng Meng's health is being monitored 24 hours a day around the clock, according to the information shared by Zoo Berlin with the Global Times.

Meng Meng is being "cared for by keepers who have been familiar with her for many years," as well as by two very experienced colleagues from Chengdu, Southwest China's Sichuan Province, according to an email sent to the Global Times by Zoo Berlin.

According to the latest blog post from the zoo, the panda team has been excited by the healthy weight development of the panda cubs. Their fluffy black ears, characteristic eye patches, and well-filled bellies indicate that they are starting to look like real giant pandas, the zoo wrote. The weight gain of the two cubs is particularly satisfactory. They have more than doubled their birth weight and currently weigh 510 g and 450 g, according to the zoo. 

The zoo said that it can't predict exactly when the cubs will be on display for visitors for the first time, but there is hope that it will be later this year.

There is strong collaboration and ongoing communication between the Zoo Berlin and the giant panda base in Chengdu. On special occasions, such as mating season and births, the giant panda base in Chengdu will dispatch a carefully selected team of experts to Berlin. 

It's not the first time that Meng Meng has given birth to twins. Meng Meng arrived in Germany in 2017 from China. In August 2019, Meng Meng gave birth to the twin panda cubs, Meng Xiang and Meng Yuan, in Germany. In December 2023, the twins were returned to China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent greetings to teachers and other people working in the education sector across the country at a national meeting on education held in Beijing from Monday to Tuesday.

Tuesday marks the 40th Teachers' Day in China.

Otsile Morake, a PhD student at Jiangsu University from Botswana and President of the Botswana Expatriates in China (BECO), is marking his 11th year in China with a sense of awe. Invited by the government of Botswana to attend this year’s Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Morake reflected on the tremendous changes he has witnessed in China over the past decade during an exclusive interview with the Global Times. He expects China's expertise in modernizing agriculture and building infrastructure on his continent, which could greatly facilitate Africa's economic growth. 

Dismissing Western narratives that hyped China is engaging in “neo-colonialism” in Africa, Morake said, “What I’m seeing with my own eyes is that Africa can benefit a lot from China,” he said, calling for deepened people-to-people and technological exchanges between the two sides.

Morake first came to East China’s Jiangsu Province on October 29, 2013, to pursue his bachelor’s degree. Now he is a PhD student majoring in management science and engineering in Jiangsu University. He started a student union for Botswana nationals studying in China in 2015. The number has been growing rapidly.

When asked about the changes that impressed him the most during the 11 years, Morake said the first thing that came to mind is how rapidly technology has advanced – the development of WeChat, Alipay, self-driven cars, electric vehicles, among other innovations. 

He also took note of the infrastructure development and agricultural technology advancement, for example, the fertilizer drones and smart monitoring systems implemented in greenhouses.

Looking ahead to the outcomes of the FOCAC, Morake emphasized that the most urgent area for China-Africa cooperation is technology, “We are talking about the internet service, because once you have access to the internet, you can have access to a lot of information and other things,” he noted. Agricultural technology cooperation is also a key for the continent’s poverty alleviation efforts, where China can assist in modernizing Africa’s agricultural equipment. 

He added that the exchange should not be limited to engineers and equipment being deployed to Africa and then leave, but rather let the engineers stay there, set up the missions with technology specialists operating the machines so that there will be a flow of technology and a whole industry set up in the continent.

“Another aspect I want to say is I love how Chinese people have kept their own culture and history intact for 5,000 years. I have visited over 30 cities in China, and I have seen how China integrate its history into economy, education system and technology,” the Botswana delegate said. “Protecting history shows respect to the people there. So, I think China can also help Africa to protect our culture, and our history.” 

Addressing Western media’s claims about China exerting negative influence on the continent, Morake refuted the accusations, stating, "It’s not about what Western people are saying, but what I am seeing. With my 11 years of experience in China, I can confidently say that Africa stands to benefit greatly from China. How China achieved rapid economic growth is something we can learn a lot from," Morake told the Global Times.

“There are so many stories. But when you go to Africa and China, you see a completely different thing,” Morake called on people from around the world, especially those who still hold prejudice, to come and see the whole picture with their own eyes instead of hearing it from others. 

Discussing his vision for the future, Morake said he plans to return to Botswana to share the knowledge he has gained in China, but at the same time, “be the gateway of communication between the two sides.” 

In recent years, cooperation between East China's Zhejiang Province and African nations has steadily deepened, spanning various fields such as trade, culture, and healthcare. This reflects the high-quality advancement of the China-Africa community with a shared future.

Zhejiang has built robust people-to-people exchanges and established 31 sister-city relations with African counterparts, covering the provincial, municipal, and district levels, the Global Times learned at a press conference in Jinhua, Zhejiang, during the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

Educational and cultural ties have strengthened, with over 20 universities in Zhejiang collaborating with African institutions, and eight Confucius Institutes have been established in countries like Cameroon, Mozambique, and Tanzania.

Zhejiang's efforts in vocational training have benefited more than 2,800 individuals from 160 African companies.

Cultural initiatives have also flourished, with the co-production of the film Kung Fu Dream and Zhejiang's Jinhua Wu Opera Troupe frequently performing in Africa.

Medical cooperation remains a vital aspect of the partnership. For 55 consecutive years, Zhejiang has dispatched medical teams to African countries like Mali and Namibia. In 2022-23 alone, 110 medical professionals provided healthcare services to 183,800 local people, offering free clinics in remote areas and promoting traditional Chinese medicine through workshops and training sessions.

After the press conference, South African journalist Ayanda Ntuthuko Zithulele Mdluli commended the province's multifaceted contributions, saying, "The province of Zhejiang can ensure a relationship that results in economic growth, stability, and skills transfer. It is a significant development that should be applauded."

Liu Qinghai, a professor at the Zhejiang Normal University's Institute of African Studies, highlighted Zhejiang's pivotal role, noting that "Zhejiang is a highland of China-Africa cooperation, and Jinhua is the heart of collaboration. The province has worked tirelessly to deepen people-to-people ties and ensure the sustainability of China-Africa cooperation."

Zhejiang's focus on cultural understanding and strategic alignment with African nations is seen as critical to fostering long-term collaboration, driving mutual prosperity, and strengthening the China-Africa partnership in the Belt and Road Initiative, Liu told the Global Times during the press conference.