Nassarawa 2027: Crisis Rocks APC as Lawyer petitions governor Sule anointed Aspirants over dual membership of SDP/APC.

A legal practitioner in Nasarawa State and member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barr Tari Trochon has submitted a Formal petition to the National Secretariat of the party demanding proper investigation into the alleged dual membership of Senator Aliyu Ahmed Wadada.

Senator Wadada has won elections into the Senate in 2023 on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and has emerged the preferred choice of Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nassarawa State for the APC Governorship primaries scheduled for May 21st 2026.

According to the petition signed by Barr Trochon from Nakere ward of Wamba LGA, “we demand immediate investigation into Wadada membership and compel him to produce verifiable evidence of resignation from the SDP which should be verified from the national leadership of the SDP and not forged documents.

“His disqualification from the participation in the primaries if he fails to establish lawful and exclusive membership of the APC among other legal violations of the Constitutional provisions by Wadada participating in the process while holding dual membership of SDP and APC”

The legal Practitioner warned that allowing Wadada participate in the forth coming gubernatorial primaries would amount to institutional endorsement of illegality that will set the grounds for pre-election legal challenges that might lead to disqualification.

” The enormous credibility issues bothering on how his failure to inform the Senate of his alleged defection, nine months after, provides a fertile ground for litigations that may be costly to the APC in Nasarawa State if he is not stopped.

“We are aware that the SDP is set to take Senator Wadada to court over his defection to APC while still maintaining his membership with SDP simultaneously” he said.

The Petitioner added that in view of time constraint, he will be left with no other option than to proceed to court in order to save the APC in Nasarawa State from imminent problems that may cost us electoral misfortunes.

“There is prima facie infraction of section 222 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), section 77 of the Electoral Act 2026, Conventions of the Senate and clear expressions of lack of credibility and character which must be looked into.

“He shouldn’t go into our Direct Primaries, and we’ll ensure the Courts stop him from further participation” he said.

He maintained that the Petition has since been submitted to the APC national Secretariat, signed received and acknowledged.

NEW LAFIA BYPASS ENDS YEARS OF TRAFFIC NIGHTMARE, TRANSFORMS MOBILITY AND LIVELIHOODS

BY MOHAMMED MUSA

Residents and motorists in Nasarawa State are already feeling the relief that comes with good infrastructure, as the main construction of the Lafia bypass has been completed, slashing travel time through the state capital from 45 minutes to just 15 minutes.

The bypass, a critical section of the Keffi Road Phase II project, was constructed by China Harbour Engineering Company, CHEC, and its completion is quietly transforming local traffic conditions. Although the formal handover is still being prepared, many residents and drivers say the improvement in travel time and road environment is unmistakable.

For years, Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State, has groaned under the weight of heavy transit traffic. As a major gateway linking Abuja to Makurdi and the eastern corridor, all long-haul vehicles had no choice but to crawl through the city centre. The result was predictable: congestion, wasted man-hours, higher fuel consumption, and increased safety risks for both residents and commuters.

However the story has changed.
Abdullahi Mohammed , a small shop owner in Lafia and a regular traveler on the route, captures the mood on the street. “It used to take about 45 minutes to pass through the city, especially when heavy trucks were on the road. Traffic jams and delays were common,” he said. “Now, with the completion of the Lafia bypass, it only takes about 15 minutes to get across. These past few days, the roads feel much smoother, and going out is more reassuring.”

The impact is even more direct for commercial drivers who earn their living on the road. A freight driver who spoke with our correspondent explained that the old route through the city was not just slow but costly. “Previously, vehicles had to pass through the city, which was time-consuming, increased fuel consumption, and posed safety risks,” he noted that, “now with the bypass, we save time and it’s safer. This is very important for those of us in transport because we save on fuel consumption and time spent on the road, which has greatly improved profitability.”

It is worthy of note that, Lafia has long endured heavy transit traffic pressure, with urban roads often congested during peak hours. The city’s status as an administrative and commercial hub means that local traffic already competes for limited road space. The hundreds of trailers and tankers heading to Benue, Cross River, and beyond, through Lafia put a lot of strain on Lafia’s inner roads.
With the completion of the bypass’s main works, transit vehicles will gradually be diverted, easing the burden on city traffic. The benefit goes beyond speed. Improved road conditions will also provide more efficient channels for agricultural product transport and daily goods circulation. Nasarawa is an agrarian state, and farmers along the corridor stand to gain from faster access to markets in Abuja and Makurdi. For residents, it means fresher produce, lower transport costs, and a tangible lift in quality of life.

The bypass is not just another road; it is a strategic intervention that had stalled for years before the current administration revived it. Delivering it required more than engineering skill, it demanded discipline, planning, and resilience.

Despite a complex security environment, the CHEC construction team advanced steadily by strengthening site management and optimizing construction organization. The company ensured the smooth completion of the section in record time, maintaining standards across earthworks, hydraulic structures, stone base, asphaltic concrete, and drainage.
The result is a road that meets specification and already delivers value before formal commissioning. Preparations for handover are now underway, and the bypass’s traffic relief function will gradually take effect. Industry observers note that CHEC’s ability to deliver under pressure reinforces its reputation for quality and timely delivery on federal road projects across Nigeria.
Engr Shuaibu Abdullahi the Principal Engr Federal Ministry of Works Lafia Field Headquarter, Nasarawa State couldn’t have put it better while commending CHEC and the impact of the bypass: “The Lafia bypass road project stands as a transformative and important road corridor for both the community along the road and commuters. By significantly reducing travel time between Lafia and Makurdi, easing traffic congestion within Lafia metropolis, and lowering vehicle maintenance costs, the project enhances mobility, productivity, and overall quality of life. Equally impactful is the lifesaving construction of drainage systems in Mararaba, a deliberate corporate social responsibility effort by the contractor aimed at mitigating the effects of perennial flooding, safeguarding lives, property, and livelihoods. Together, these interventions not only improve access to markets for farm produce but also reinforce a commitment to sustainable development and community well-being.”

In a similar vein, Abdullahi Shehu Kasimu the Village head of Mararaba Akunza gave commendation to CHEC for its Corporate Social Responsibility works to control flooding on the Mararaba axis of the road corridor: “On behalf of the Mararaba Akuza community, we wish to express our sincere appreciation to Messrs CHEC for coming to our aid through the expansion of drainage facilities in Mararaba Akuza. For many years, the community suffered persistent flooding that damaged homes and property, but this intervention has brought much-needed relief.
Today, residents are already experiencing the positive impact of the upgraded drainage system, which has significantly improved water discharge and offers lasting protection against future flooding.
We also extend our gratitude to His Excellency, Engr. A. A. Suleiman, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, for his prompt response to our concerns and support for this intervention”.

Expectation is high in Lafia. “If it can be fully opened soon, it will be good for all of us,” said Aliyu Subair, echoing a view expressed by several residents. For traders, students, civil servants, and transporters, the bypass represents time recovered and costs saved. For the state government, it frees up inner-city roads for local use and reduces maintenance pressure caused by heavy-duty vehicles.

As follow-up works continue, this vital regional corridor is steadily unlocking its value for people’s livelihoods and national development. The bypass does three things at once: it cuts travel time by 66 percent, improves road safety by separating through-traffic from city traffic, and creates an economic artery for Nasarawa and neighboring states.

The completion of the main works is proof that with political will, proper funding, and competent contractors, Nigeria can turn frustration into free flow. CHEC’s delivery of the Lafia bypass to good standard and in record time sets a benchmark for how critical road interventions should be executed.

For Abdullahi Sabo, the shop owner, the change is simple but profound: “Going out is more reassuring.” For Nigeria’s transport economy, it is another step toward an integrated, efficient road network.

The Lafia bypass may have been built quietly, but as an important local transportation milestone, the project has improved the regional road network, eliminated urban congestion, and enhanced traffic safety. Supported by complementary drainage works, it has addressed flooding issues affecting livelihoods, effectively driving commercial and agricultural upgrades along the route, revitalizing the regional economy, and becoming a benchmark project for high-quality infrastructure cooperation between China and Nigeria

Takaichi’s ritual tribute to Yasukuni Shrine is a brazen profanation of historical justice

By Zhong Sheng, People’s Daily

On April 21, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, in her capacity as prime minister, presented a ritual offering known as a masakaki to the Yasukuni Shrine, a site that enshrines Class-A war criminals from World War II and carries a notorious legacy. 

In this year marking the 80th anniversary of the beginning of the Tokyo trials, such an act, taken in defiance of global opinion, constitutes a deliberate affront to human conscience, a blatant profanation of historical justice, and an arrogant provocation against the outcomes of victory in World War II. 

The forces that stand for justice worldwide should remain highly vigilant against such regressive moves and make clear-eyed judgments about Japan’s strategic trajectory.

The Yasukuni Shrine has never been a purely religious site; it is a symbol of Japan’s militarist past and, in fact, a shrine for war criminals. Among the 14 Class-A war criminals enshrined there are figures such as Hideki Tojo, No.1 war criminal and warmonger; Kenji Doihara, major culprit of aggression against China; Iwane Matsui, top perpetrator of the Nanjing Massacre; Osami Nagano, order-giver of the Pearl Harbor attack; and Kuniaki Koiso, mass murderer on the Korean Peninsula. They are all major war criminals responsible for atrocities against the people in Asia and the rest of the world. 

The Tokyo trials have long passed a just ruling on Japan’s war of aggression and militarist atrocities, branding these war criminals forever infamous in history. No matter how elaborate her excuses are, Takaichi’s reverence for these historical culprits cannot cover up her ulterior motives and harmful implications: denying the validity of the Tokyo trials, whitewashing Japan’s aggressive history, and defending war criminals.

This latest offering once again exposes the deeply flawed and dangerous right-wing historical outlook held by certain Japanese politicians. For years, visits to the Yasukuni Shrine have served as a symbolic act for right-wing forces seeking to revive militarism. As early as 2007, Takaichi visited the shrine as a cabinet member, and since 2014 she has paid homage more than 10 times, revealing the depth of her fixation. 

At its core, such worship amounts to tacit endorsement of the so-called “Yasukuni view of history” promoted by the shrine’s core facility, the Yushukan Museum. This narrative distorts facts to obscure the history of aggression, attributes the outbreak of war to alleged “provocations” or “pressure” from the United States, the United Kingdom, and even China, and portrays Japan’s wars of aggression as efforts to “liberate Asia” and build a “Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere,” glorifying military exploits and the so-called “Bushido spirit.”

These absurd claims that whitewash militarism stand in stark contradiction to the broad consensus of the international community on historical issues. Recently, an alarming incident occurred in which an active-duty member of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces, influenced by extremist ideology, illegally broke into the Chinese embassy in Japan armed with a knife. This exactly underscored the depth and danger of such distorted thinking.

That a sitting Japanese leader would insist on offering tribute at a site that glorifies militarism reflects a broader strategic attempt by Japan’s right-wing forces to further break through the constraints of the post-war international order and domestic legal frameworks. 

For some time, Japan has taken a series of dangerous provocative moves. Takaichi has openly made erroneous remarks concerning Taiwan, blatantly meddling in China’s internal affairs. Japanese Self-Defense Forces warships have sailed across the Taiwan Strait to flaunt military strength and deliberately stir tensions.

Japan has also deployed long-range missiles allegedly capable of enemy base strikes in Kumamoto and Shizuoka prefectures. Meanwhile, the Japanese government has revised its Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology and relevant implementation guidelines, opening the door to overseas exports of lethal weapons.

All these acts are essentially identical to paying homage at the Yasukuni Shrine. They demonstrate that Japanese right-wing forces are abandoning peaceful development and engaging in reckless resurgence of neo-militarism. Driven by such forces, Japan is abandoning its posture as a peaceful country and posing growing threats to regional peace and stability.

A Japan that fails to fully come to terms with its history of aggression cannot establish itself in the international community, no matter how it attempts to disguise itself. A correct understanding and handling of history is the political foundation for Japan’s relations with its neighbors.

The Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed deep disappointment and regret over Takaichi’s offering to Yasukuni Shrine, urging Japan’s leadership to adopt a responsible attitude, face history squarely, and engage in genuine reflection with humility and concrete actions. 

The chorus of criticism from the international community once again demonstrates that justice, light, and progress will ultimately prevail over evil, darkness, and reactionary forces. Any attempt to deny the history of aggression or challenge international justice will inevitably meet with broad opposition.

Japan’s militarist wars of aggression brought catastrophe to the peoples of Asia and inflicted profound suffering on the Japanese people themselves. Today, if right-wing politicians such as Takaichi persist in clinging to erroneous historical views and continue down a path that departs from peace and justice, they will once again face serious scrutiny from the international community and the judgment of history.

(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People’s Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.)

Global Security Initiative gains increasing relevance in changing world

By He Yin, People’s Daily

On April 21, 2022, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Security Initiative (GSI), with the aim of addressing the root causes of international conflicts, improving global security governance, and encouraging the international community to work together to bring greater stability and certainty to a turbulent world. 

Today, as the international landscape grows more complex and regional conflicts continue to erupt, the practical significance and contemporary relevance of the GSI have become even more evident.

In recent years, structural and deep-seated challenges in the global security domain have continued to accumulate, leading to heightened tensions worldwide. The recent outbreak of conflict in the Middle East is a stark illustration of these severe security dilemmas. 

According to the Report on the Global Security Situation (2025) recently issued by the China Institute of International Studies, the global peace deficit is widening, accompanied by a marked escalation in international conflicts and regional turmoil.

In a world marked by overlapping crises and uncertainties, the GSI provides clear direction and a cooperative framework for addressing security challenges and safeguarding global stability.

The GSI responds to the pressing need of the international community to maintain peace and prevent conflict. It advocates a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, upholds the principle of indivisible security, and promotes the building of a balanced, effective, and sustainable security architecture. Together, these principles offer conceptual guidance for achieving long-term global peace and stability. 

Recently, Xi put forward a four-point proposal on promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, underscoring China’s consistent commitment to promoting peace, stopping conflict, and resolving differences through dialogue. 

In recent years, China has taken the lead in implementing the GSI and has actively facilitated peace efforts worldwide. In the Middle East, China helped facilitate the historic reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, as well as the signing of the Beijing Declaration by Palestinian factions; it has also issued, together with Pakistan, five proposals on restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and Middle East region. 

In response to the Ukraine crisis, China has promoted the establishment of the Group of Friends for Peace to create conditions for a political settlement. China has also worked to support peace efforts between Thailand and Cambodia, and has continued to play a constructive role on issues related to Afghanistan and Myanmar. 

These practical efforts demonstrate that dialogue and negotiation are effective, and indeed the only viable pathways to resolving disputes and maintaining peace.

The GSI aligns with the shared aspiration of countries worldwide to uphold multilateralism and strengthen unity and cooperation. Rooted in true multilateralism, the initiative advocates win-win cooperation in addressing security challenges and provides a clear roadmap for improving global security governance. Its core concepts have been widely recognized by leaders of United Nations agencies and incorporated into documents of relevant multilateral mechanisms. 

From actively participating in UN peacekeeping operations to promoting the establishment of multilateral cooperation frameworks; from advancing synergy between the GSI and cooperation under frameworks such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, to strengthening regional security cooperation with countries along the Mekong, in Central Asia, and in Africa — China has consistently upheld the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, practiced true multilateralism, and helped build broad consensus and strong collective efforts to address the global security deficit.

The GSI also reflects the shared aspiration of people around the world to overcome challenges together and build a better future. It emphasizes the indivisibility of security and development, advocating sustainable development as a pathway to sustainable security. In doing so, it aligns with the prevailing global trend toward peace, development, cooperation, and mutual benefit, while injecting fresh momentum into efforts to improve livelihoods and promote development. 

China regards development as the master key to solving security issues, actively supports the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and promotes universally beneficial, inclusive economic globalization. Through high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, China has empowered global development and helped other developing countries improve people’s well-being. 

At the same time, China coordinates efforts to safeguard both traditional and non-traditional security. It has advanced international cooperation in areas such as climate change, industrial and supply chains, resource and energy security, and food security, while also launching initiatives such as the Global Initiative on Data Security and the Global AI Governance Initiative to jointly address emerging security challenges.

No matter how the world changes, China will always stand firmly committed to building peace. It will continue to work with the international community to fully and effectively implement the GSI, translate the shared vision of common security into concrete actions, and pursue a new path to security that features dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance and win-win over zero-sum. In doing so, China will continue to contribute to peace, stability, and justice in this turbulent world.

China-developed humanoid robot breaks half-marathon record in Beijing

By Wang Haonan, People’s Daily

The 2026 Beijing E-Town half-marathon on April 19 captured widespread attention, as China’s humanoid robots showcased rapid advances in speed, endurance, and autonomy. 

“Lightning,” a humanoid robot developed by the Qitian Dasheng Team, claimed victory with a winning time of 50 minutes and 26 seconds, outpacing the current man’s half marathon world record. Participation surged from 20 teams in 2025 to over 100 this year, reflecting accelerating technological advancement.

Just over 20 teams took part last year, compared with more than 100 this year, reflecting both growing interest and fast-paced technological progress.

“Nearly 40 percent of teams achieved autonomous navigation this year,” said Liang Liang, deputy secretary-general of the Chinese Institute of Electronics. “We’re witnessing breakthroughs across  models, algorithms, design, and hardware integration. The goal is to accelerate both technological and industrial development.”

Performance gains have been striking in just one year. Completion times have dropped from over two hours in 2025 to under one hour this year. Teams attributed the leap forward to major improvements in material durability, system reliability, and joint heat resistance — key factors enabling sustained long-distance operation.

The robot Tiangong Ultra, winner of last year’s inaugural race, ran with steady strides and coordinated arm movement without human guidance. 

“In simulations, tens of thousands of virtual robots logged a combined 27,300 hours of running and went through over 100,000 iterations,” said Xu Zhiyuan, head of motion control at the Beijing Innovation Center of Humanoid Robotics. “At near-professional human speeds, perception and decision-making windows shrink dramatically, requiring major power upgrade, algorithms, and system responsiveness all had to be upgraded.”

For many teams, the race has become a testing ground for innovation.The Taishan Team from east China’s Shandong province experienced this firsthand. At last year’s World Humanoid Robot Games, their robot “Xingzhe Taishan,” standing 1.38 meters tall, drew attention for continuing to run even after losing an arm.

“Since March, we’ve trained our robot at marathon intensity, running a half marathon every day,” said Liu Dayu, head of new technologies at Yobotics, the developer of the robot. To address overheating and mechanical fatigue, we developed a liquid cooling system and reinforced key materials.

Robots competing this year were visibly far more capable than before. Ultra-fast robot battery swapping emerged as a major highlight of the event. Finished in less than 10 seconds, the precise operation was as fast as Formula One pit stops.

“In the past, battery changes took several minutes and requiring a system reboot,” said Xing Boyang, technical director at Humanoid Robot (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. “Now, it takes just seconds, with no interruption.”

Advances in thermal management have also played a crucial role. By combining liquid and air cooling, teams have reduced joint temperatures from 70-80 degrees Celsius to around 60. Meanwhile, upgraded battery technologies have enabled longer continuous operation, significantly improving race performance.

“The competition is driving innovation in batteries and beyond — these are breakthroughs you simply can’t achieve in the lab alone,” Xing noted.

More than a competition, the event serves as an extreme real-world testbed for the humanoid robotics industry. Data collected from the race is expected to accelerate breakthroughs in embodied intelligence, motion control, and related fields.

This year’s competition saw a fivefold increase in the number of participating teams, including five international teams making their debut, adding greater diversity to the field.

Interestingly, many teams used the same robot “base model,” yet their performance varied widely depending on software and system optimization. These “secondary developers” ranged from companies and research institutions to university teams and independent enthusiasts.

“The base model is like a blank shell — we bring it to life through our own ideas,” said Dou Yuhan, a doctoral student from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, whose team developed its own algorithms on the Tiangong 3.0 platform. He believes broader participation is key to advancing humanoid robotics.

Notably, all five international teams chose Chinese-made base models, highlighting a growing trend of “Chinese hardware, global intelligence.”

Only one robot claims the title, but every team that has made it to the starting line is a winner. As the event’s slogan puts it: “Who takes part is a hero; who finishes wins glory.” As sport and technology converge, it is not only the machines that are accelerating, but the pace of innovation itself.

China’s four-point proposal: a constructive contribution to Middle East peace and stability

By He Yin, People’s Daily

During a recent meeting with Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Chinese President Xi Jinping put forward a four-point proposal on promoting peace and stability in the Middle East. 

He called for adherence to the principle of peaceful coexistence, the principle of national sovereignty, the principle of international rule of law and a coordinated approach to development and security.

This four-point proposal fully reflects China’s consistent position of promoting peace, ending conflict, and resolving differences through dialogue, offering a Chinese approach for the Middle East and the Gulf region to emerge from the shadow of conflict and achieve lasting stability. 

The international community widely believes that the four-point proposal, pragmatic and just, is grounded in the fundamental interests of the people of the region, and will inject positive energy into regional and global peace and stability.

Instability in the Middle East means instability for the world. The region is once again experiencing turbulence, with the spillover effects of conflict becoming increasingly evident. 

Reports from the United Nations and the International Monetary Fund warned that the current conflict could trigger a global economic slowdown, weigh on growth in 2026, result in nearly $200 billion in losses for regional economies, and push more than 32 million people worldwide into poverty. 

Bringing hostilities to an end, consolidating ceasefires, and pursuing political solutions are the most urgent priorities and the shared expectation of the international community.

Adherence to the principle of peaceful coexistence is a fundamental basis for resolving the Middle East security dilemma and achieving long-term stability. 

Countries in the Middle East and the Gulf region are interdependent and inseparable neighbors. The more tense the situation becomes, the more they must cherish peace. 

From facilitating the historic reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, to supporting dialogue among 14 Palestinian factions and the signing of the Beijing Declaration, to jointly issuing a five-point initiative with Pakistan for restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and Middle East, China has consistently played a constructive role in promoting dialogue, bridging differences, and building mutual trust. 

China supports efforts by countries in the region to improve relations and advocates building a common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security architecture for the Middle East and the Gulf region, as these endeavors will lay a solid foundation for peaceful coexistence among regional countries.

Adherence to the principle of national sovereignty is the core prerequisite for maintaining peace and stability and safeguarding the development rights of countries in the region. 

Sovereignty serves as a foundation for all countries, especially developing countries, and must not be violated. The people in the Middle East are the true master of this region, and regional affairs should be determined by regional countries independently. External forces should not overstep or resort to the use of force, interfere in internal affairs, or trample on the sovereignty of others. 

The sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of countries in the Middle East and the Gulf region should be fully respected, and the safety of personnel, facilities and institutions of all countries should be effectively safeguarded. China supports countries in the region in defending their sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, and national dignity, and in safeguarding their legitimate rights and interests.

Adherence to the principle of international rule of law provides a solid guarantee for curbing the spread of conflict in the Middle East and building a durable peace framework for the region. 

The prolonged escalation of conflicts in the Middle East largely stems from certain countries disregarding international norms. They frequently resort to extreme pressure and unilateral sanctions, place their own interests above shared global interests, and undermine multilateralism and the foundation of international rule of law.

The authority of international rule of law should be upheld, rejecting selective application to prevent the world from falling back into the law of the jungle. It is essential to firmly uphold the international system with the UN at its core, the international order based on international law, and the basic norms of international relations underpinned by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

A coordinated approach to development and security is the long-term path toward peace, stability, and prosperity in the Middle East. 

Security makes development possible, and development helps maintain security. From advancing clean energy cooperation to support green transition, to sharing agricultural technologies that help deserts bear fruit, China has actively shared its development experience with countries in the region. 

Since the outbreak of the war in Iran, China has promptly provided emergency humanitarian assistance to Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq, delivering urgently needed supplies to people affected by the war. 

All parties should work together to create a favorable environment for the development of countries in the Middle East and the Gulf region. China is ready to share with these countries the opportunities brought about by Chinese modernization to strengthen the foundation for regional development and security.

The four-point proposal serves as a guiding light for peace in the Middle East. At present, the region stands at a critical juncture between conflict and peace. At such a moment, all parties must demonstrate the greatest sincerity and work toward a political resolution. 

China will continue to stand on the side of peace and dialogue, on the right side of history, and on the side of human progress. Together with like-minded countries, it will make sustained efforts to promote lasting peace and stability in the Middle East, contributing China’s strength and demonstrating the responsibility of a major country.

China International Consumer Products Expo showcases vibrant potential of Chinese market

By Zhou Zhou, Chu Jun, People’s Daily

The sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) was held in Haikou, south China’s Hainan province from April 13 to 18. The exhibition area and number of participating countries and regional delegations have reached record highs, demonstrating the enduring resilience and global appeal of China’s consumer market.

This year’s expo, themed “Opening Up Drives Global Consumption, Innovation Empowers A Better Life,” focused on emerging consumption trends including eco-friendly, health-focused, digital and smart products, while serving as a key platform for global business cooperation.

Across the exhibition halls, cutting-edge innovations offered a glimpse into the future of consumption. A modular flying car developed by Chinese tech company XPeng AEROHT sketched out new possibilities for three-dimensional mobility; AI-powered smart glasses by Hangzhou Lingban Technology Ltd. demonstrated real-time translation in 89 languages; and Unitree’s humanoid robots interacted naturally and smoothly with visitors. 

“China isn’t only the world’s manufacturing hub anymore,” said Fred, a Zambian buyer who has attended the expo for several consecutive years, adding that the country is now globally competitive in smart devices and high-tech innovation.

Over 200 new products made their debut at this year’s expo, twice the figure recorded last year.

“The expo lets us closely track shifting consumer tastes and demands across China,” said Cai Yiping, head of brand management at Singapore-based massage chair brand OSIM, a long-term regular exhibitor at the event. Six years of participation revealed Chinese consumers’ growing demand for scientific, personalized wellness solutions, prompting OSIM to expand its R&D investment and market presence.

The international specialty goods exhibition area brought together premium goods from around the world, including alpaca wool bedding from New Zealand, wine from South Africa, and bird’s nest products from Malaysia. The event attracted more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions, with international exhibitors accounting for 65 percent of the total, up 20 percentage points from the previous expo. 

Honored guest country Canada sent its largest-ever delegation. “Since the inaugural 2021 Expo, Canada has consistently expanded its presence,” stated Behzad Babakhani, Consul General of Canada in Guangzhou. “We’re committed to introducing premium Canadian products to China.”

At Namibia’s national pavilion, marula oil skincare and daily care products exuded a delicate natural fragrance. Ella, a representative from SheaCoco, explained product highlights to visitors in fluent Mandarin. 

She noted that China’s preferential tariff policies and simpler cross-border trade procedures have greatly increased China’s imports of African natural resources. This has broadened export avenues for African produce, driven coordinated growth across planting, harvesting, processing, logistics and trade, and effectively upgraded living standards for local communities.

Through the expo, the world has gained a clearer view of the dynamism of China’s market and the country’s commitment to high-level opening up, strengthening their confidence in cooperating with China.

At a procurement service center, a series of matchmaking events created a lively atmosphere, with deals being signed throughout the day. For the first time, the expo introduced an offline buyer service center, offering full-process support to match suppliers and buyers — a service widely praised by participants.

“This is my first CICPE, and I was surprised by how many business opportunities there are. I’ll definitely return next year,” said Alvin Cheng, founder and CEO of Iconthin Biotech. His company has already reached preliminary cooperation agreements with several partners. 

“The expo is a great platform to promote our products. China’s consumer market holds enormous potential, and we plan to invest more and grow our business here,” Cheng added.

The expo also highlighted the fast-growing appeal of the Hainan Free Trade Port, which started island-wide independent customs operations on Dec. 18 last year. 

“In little over 100 days, three batches of our coffee products qualified for duty-free value-added processing, reducing our costs by about 8 percent,” said Ye Jian, general manager of Charoen Pokphand Group (Hainan) Xinglong Coffee Industry Development Co., Ltd..

“The policies of zero tariffs, low tax rates, and a simplified tax system have delivered tangible benefits and opened up new opportunities for trade and investment,” said Xue Zengyi, vice chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group Agro-Industry & Food Business.

Saravoot Yoovidhya, CEO of Thailand’s TCP Group, said that the synergy between Hainan Free Trade Port policies and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is creating new opportunities for trade facilitation and efficient global resource allocation. It has further strengthened the company’s confidence in expanding operations in Hainan and deepening its business layout in China, he added.

China’s robust Q1 performance lifts global confidence 

By He Yin, People’s Daily

China recently unveiled its economic performance for the first quarter of 2026. Its GDP reached 33.4193 trillion yuan ($4.9 trillion), up 5 percent year on year in real terms, accelerating by 0.5 percentage points from the fourth quarter of last year. 

The figures have drawn close attention from the international community, which generally believes that amid rising global uncertainty, China’s economy has demonstrated resilience and vitality, injecting much-needed stability and positive momentum into the world.

At present, global instability is intensifying. The spillover effects of geopolitical conflicts are expanding, and international organizations such as the UN and the Asian Development Bank have warned of growing downside risks. The global economy is moving forward under pressure. 

In the face of mounting external uncertainties, China’s economy continues to display strong resilience, robust internal momentum, and proactive, effective macroeconomic policies. Phrases such as “better than expected” and “growth against the headwinds” have frequently appeared in international media coverage. 

Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, noted that China’s economy has shown resilience, possesses immense potential, and will have a positive impact on the world.

Driven by innovation, high-quality development surges forward. In the first quarter, China’s equipment manufacturing sector contributed nearly 50 percent to the growth of value added in industrial enterprises above designated size. In the first two months of the year, high-tech manufacturing accounted for more than half of the increase in total industrial profits, underscoring the growing role of new growth drivers. 

China’s industries are advancing rapidly toward high-end, intelligent, green and upgraded development, delivering continuous breakthroughs in fostering new quality productive forces. 

Exports of green products such as electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and wind turbines and their components rose by 77.5 percent, 50.4 percent, and 45.2 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, investment in frontier fields including AI and humanoid robotics increased by 45.5 percent year on year, and the business vitality index of technology-driven enterprises rose by 8.1 percent. 

Global media outlets have observed promising signs: China’s thriving clean energy technologies are creating huge economic value, and robust demand for AI devices is driving steady growth of China’s foreign trade. These positive trends vividly demonstrate China’s progress in developing new quality productive forces.

Domestic demand has also shown overall improvement, creating favorable conditions for sustained economic expansion. 

Promoting a development model driven more by domestic demand, consumption, and endogenous growth reflects China’s strategic response to changes in its development stage and the evolving international environment. 

In the first quarter, retail sales of consumer goods grew by 2.4 percent year on year, while fixed-asset investment returned to positive growth, indicating that the domestic market continues to deepen and expand. 

At the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo held in Hainan province, a wide range of global debuts, Asia-Pacific premieres, and China launches were showcased, further strengthening China’s reputation as a premier global destination for quality consumption. 

The country’s vast market continues to empower economic development. Some U.S. media outlets observed that China is transitioning toward a more diversified growth model, one that benefits not only China itself but also offers valuable lessons for the global economy.

Amid profound adjustments in the global economic landscape, China remains committed to high-level opening up, creating broad opportunities for the world through its own development. 

A series of opening-up measures have been rolled out, including the launch of island-wide independent customs operations at the Hainan Free Trade Port, revisions to the Foreign Trade Law to better align with international rules, and an expanded version of the Catalogue of Encouraged Industries for Foreign Investment. These steps are improving both the quality and scale of trade cooperation. 

In the first quarter, China’s total goods trade exceeded 11 trillion yuan for the first time in the same period, maintaining double-digit growth and reaching the highest quarterly growth rate in five years. 

Its trade with Belt and Road partner countries accounted for 51.2 percent of the total, while trade with Africa grew by 23.7 percent. Trade with ASEAN, Latin America, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and other APEC economies also recorded double-digit growth. China’s role as a “world market” continues to generate positive spillover effects globally. A more open China will remain a steady anchor for the world economy as it navigates challenges.

The year 2026 marks the opening of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030). Stable economic growth provides a solid foundation for a strong start to this new phase, while also serving as a stabilizer for the global economy amid turbulent conditions. China will continue to inject sustained confidence and strong momentum into global development.

World’s largest pure electric intelligent container vessel completes maiden voyage

By Dou Hanyang, Han Xin, People’s Daily

The world’s largest pure electric intelligent container vessel, the Ning Yuan Dian Kun, developed by China, embarked on its maiden voyage on April 15, marking a new step in the country’s push toward greener and more intelligent coastal shipping.

At 4 p.m., the ship departed from Ningbo-Zhoushan Port in east China’s Zhejiang province, heading for Zhapu Port in Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, a journey of about 70 nautical miles.

With its bright green hull cutting across the deep blue sea, the vessel stood out at first glance. Along its side, the words “Battery Power Zero Emission” highlighted its defining feature — fully electric propulsion with zero emissions during operation.

Developed by Ningbo Ocean Shipping Co., Ltd., the Ning Yuan Dian Kun is recognized as the world’s largest vessel of its kind and China’s first 10,000-ton-class pure electric intelligent container ship. Its launch into commercial service signaled a new phase for China’s coastal container transport, combining clean energy with intelligent navigation.

What sets this vessel apart?

Onboard, an integrated smart navigation platform displays real-time data across multiple digital screens. Positioned at the stern, ten standardized container-sized lithium iron phosphate battery units — the ship’s primary power source — are neatly arranged, . With a total storage capacity of around 20,000 kWh, the system is equivalent to the combined battery capacity of about 300 electric cars.

The environmental benefits are substantial. Once fully operational, the vessel is expected to save around 580 tons of fuel annually and cut carbon dioxide emissions by more than 1,400 tons, roughly equal to the yearly carbon absorption of 40,000 mature trees, achieving truly zero-emission, zero-pollution voyages, said Wang Ting, captain of the vessel.

“The most noticeable difference compared with conventional fuel-powered ships is the profound quietness,” Wang said. “The engine room was once dominated by the roar of the main engine, but now we sail almost silently, which significantly improves crew focus.” 

He added that electric propulsion also delivers smoother and more responsive acceleration and deceleration, with minimal delay. However, he emphasized, “This requires careful energy management — operators must monitor battery consumption closely and adjust speed planning accordingly.”

Compared with vessels powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), pure electric ships rely more heavily on charging infrastructure, especially for longer routes. The steady expansion of shore power facilities has already made electric vessels more common along inland waterways like the Yangtze River.

But is an all-electric vessel capable of handling sea routes?

“The vessel’s range fully meets the requirements of this specific route, incorporating a built-in safety margin,” said Chen Xiaofeng, chairman of Ningbo Ocean Shipping Co., Ltd. Behind this capability lies a comprehensive system integrating battery capacity, energy management, and charging solutions.

From a design perspective, the biggest challenge was not a single technical hurdle, but integrating an entire electric propulsion system into a 10,000-ton-class seagoing vessel. 

“Stable power supply under complex maritime conditions places high demands on energy management and system safety,” Chen explained. To address this, the company worked with partners including the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute and China Classification Society to overcome key technical challenges, optimizing battery layout and improving energy efficiency.

Equally important is the charging system. The vessel adopts a dual approach combining shore-based charging and battery swapping. In current operations, shore power charging has proven sufficient, while the battery-swapping model is being further developed as a reserve solution.

To support the vessel’s battery-powered and autonomous navigation systems, maritime authorities in Ningbo introduced dedicated service and safety protocols, completing real-world tests for functions such as intelligent route tracking and dynamic collision avoidance in advance. The ship’s smooth operation and rapid decision-making response have demonstrated the reliability and stability of its smart navigation system in real-world conditions.

The maiden voyage of the Ning Yuan Dian Kun also underscored the broader potential of green shipping.

While all-electric vessels require higher upfront investment, they offer significantly lower energy and maintenance costs over time, particularly on short, high-frequency routes where their economic advantages are more pronounced.

“Green shipping brings both immediate and long-term benefits,” Chen said. “In the short term, it reduces fuel consumption and emissions. In the long run, it enhances market competitiveness.” 

As global clients place increasing emphasis on supply chain carbon footprints, low-emission shipping capacity is becoming not just a competitive edge, but a shared direction for the industry’s future.

In recent years, China has seen rapid growth in new-energy and clean-energy vessels. From inland waterways to ocean routes, the share of green ships continues to rise steadily.

Statistics show that by the end of 2025, China had over 1,600 clean-energy vessels operating on coastal and inland waterways, including battery-powered, LNG, methanol and hydrogen fuel cell ships. China boasts one of the world’s largest clean shipping fleets and takes a global lead in the application of electric watercraft.

Four key insights into China’s first-quarter economic performance

By Qiu Chaoyi, People’s Daily

China’s economy got off to a solid start in the first quarter of the year, with GDP expanding 5.0 percent year on year. Across the board, key indicators showed encouraging performance. Four keywords shed light on the quality and underlying strength of the country’s first-quarter economic performance.

Steady Improvement

Preliminary data show that China’s GDP reached nearly 33.42 trillion yuan ($4.9 trillion) in the first quarter, growing 5 percent year on year in real terms, an increase of 0.5 percentage points from the fourth quarter of last year.

Breaking down the data, agricultural production remained stable, while industry and services both posted steady growth. The value added of the primary industry reached 1.19 trillion yuan, up 3.8 percent; the secondary industry grew 4.9 percent to 11.61 trillion yuan; and the tertiary industry rose 5.2 percent to 20.61 trillion yuan.

Price levels remained generally stable, with core CPI (Consumer Price Index) which excludes food and energy prices, up 1.2 percent year on year. Investment also rebounded, with fixed-asset investment (excluding rural households) reaching 10.27 trillion yuan, up 1.7 percent and returning to positive growth. 

Consumption showed steady improvement, as retail sales of consumer goods rose 2.4 percent year on year to nearly 12.77 trillion yuan, accelerating by 0.7 percentage points from the previous quarter. Employment remained stable, with the surveyed urban unemployment rate averaging 5.3 percent, unchanged from a year earlier.

“Overall, major macroeconomic indicators picked up in the first quarter, new growth drivers expanded rapidly, and the economy achieved a good start,” said Mao Shengyong, deputy head of the National Bureau of Statistics.

Strong Resilience

Against a high comparison base from last year’s first quarter and a far more complex, challenging global outlook, China’s economy delivered a robust opening performance, fully demonstrating its remarkable resilience.

Take foreign trade, for example. In the first quarter, China’s total imports and exports of goods reached nearly 11.84 trillion yuan, up 15 percent year on year, the fastest quarterly growth in the past five years. Mao noted that the strong competitiveness of Chinese enterprises, the high cost-effectiveness of their products, and supportive policy measures have helped offset external uncertainties and expand new space for trade.

Energy security also reflects this resilience. “Amid rising global energy prices driven by geopolitical tensions, China has maintained stable and orderly energy supply, with timely price adjustments ensuring sufficient energy for both households and businesses,” Mao said. 

This stability stems from years of forward-looking efforts to develop new energy industries and build a diversified energy supply system, significantly enhancing the economy’s autonomy and stability, he added.

Supported by China’s vast domestic market, complete industrial system, and strong supporting capabilities, industrial and supply chains have remained secure and stable, effectively cushioning external shocks. This demonstrates the strong resilience and anti-risk capability of the Chinese industry and provides solid support for overall economic stability.

Innovation-Driven, High-Quality Development

In the first quarter, China’s new quality productive forces continued to grow steadily, characterized by high-end, intelligent, green, and upgraded development.

High-end manufacturing and modern services expanded rapidly. The value added of high-tech manufacturing enterprises above designated size rose 12.5 percent year on year, raising its share in total output of industrial enterprises above designated size to 16.9 percent and contributing 2 percentage points to overall growth of industrial enterprises above designated size.

Intelligent development gained further momentum. Output in sectors directly related to artificial intelligence (AI), including electronic materials and integrated circuits, grew by 32.5 percent and 49.4 percent, respectively, highlighting AI’s growing role as a driver of economic activity.

Green transformation is also creating new growth engines. In the first quarter, production of lithium-ion batteries and wind turbines rose by 40.8 percent and 30.1 percent, respectively. Exports of the “new trio” — electric vehicles, lithium batteries, and solar products — continued to grow rapidly, with electric vehicle exports surging 77.5 percent, contributing to the global transition toward green and low-carbon development.

Meanwhile, traditional industries are being revitalized through steady upgrading, with faster progress in equipment renewal and technological transformation.

Confidence in the Outlook

Looking ahead, China has every reason to remain confident about its economic prospects.

“We have strong institutional strengths, as well as accumulated advantages in industry, market size, and talent. We are fully capable of maintaining stable economic performance and achieving high-quality development throughout the year,” Mao said.

With first-quarter GDP growth of 5.0 percent, China continues to rank among the fastest-growing major economies globally. Growth is increasingly driven by innovation, the cultivation of new quality productive forces, and the rapid expansion of new growth drivers.

At the same time, improving demand is creating favorable conditions. Domestic demand contributed 84.7 percent to economic growth in the first quarter, up nearly 30 percentage points year on year. Imports of consumer goods rose 5.4 percent, indicating a gradual recovery in domestic demand, particularly the continued release of potential in service consumption.

“Despite a complex external environment, we have the strength and resolve to meet any risks and challenges,” Mao said. “That assurance is built on our past achievements, and we remain confident about the future.”