Lawyers drum support for INEC chair, dismiss unsubstantiated allegations

Lawyers in Nigeria, Friday, passed a vote of confidence and threw weight behind the Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Mahmood Yakubu on the heels of calls for his sack and resignation.

The lawyers said it is uncalled for some persons to be mischievous to go down so low to put out allegations they cannot substantiate rather they were out to run down the incredibility of INEC and blackmail its chairman.

The lawyers under the auspices of Consortium of Nigerian Lawyers, CNL, in a petition addressed to Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, UK, Rt Hon Rishi Sunak, through Her Majesty’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery CMG, asserted that the malicious claims of bribery and corruption were propagated by faceless individuals.

The petition reads in part: “We, the undersigned Nigerian lawyers, write this petition with great concern and urgency regarding the unsubstantiated and fake allegations made against Mallam Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). We implore you to address this issue and rectify the damage caused to Mallam Yakubu’s reputation and the sanctity of the electoral process in Nigeria.

“The allegations in question, as reported by the conspiracy-driven news outlets and social media, claim that Mallam Yakubu engaged in corrupt practices and has accepted bribes. These malicious claims were propagated by faceless individuals who lack any form of credibility or substantiation for their accusations. It is clear that these allegations are baseless and intended solely to tarnish the reputation of Mallam Yakubu and undermine the integrity of INEC.

“Mallam Mahmood Yakubu has dedicated his career to public service and has consistently demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to upholding democratic principles. His track record as the Chairman of INEC is commendable, with major strides made towards ensuring free and fair elections in Nigeria. We firmly believe that his leadership has significantly contributed to the democratic progress witnessed in recent years.

“It is worth noting that INEC, under the leadership of Mallam Yakubu, successfully conducted the 2019 general elections, which were internationally recognized as a significant improvement in Nigeria’s electoral process. This recognition further solidifies his reputation as a competent and trustworthy election administrator.

“The recent protest organized against Mallam Yakubu by the United Nigeria in Diaspora (UND) a faceless Group without any means of identification or address and the call for Prof. Mahmood’s resignation are deeply concerning. These unsubstantiated allegations and actions serve to erode public confidence in the electoral process and undermine Nigeria’s democracy as a whole. It is crucial that we protect the institutions responsible for conducting free and fair elections and ensure that they are not subjected to baseless attacks.

“We call upon your office, in collaboration with the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, to intervene in this matter and seek clarification on the allegations made against Mallam Yakubu. We urge you to issue a statement denouncing these false accusations and affirming support for the independence and integrity of INEC.”

However, the petitioners urged the British High Commissioner to Nigeria to engage relevant Nigerian authorities to investigate and bring the accusers to book over the spreading false information about the INEC boss.

“Furthermore, we request that the British High Commissioner to Nigeria engages with relevant Nigerian authorities to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for spreading false information about Mallam Yakubu. It is imperative that those who seek to undermine the electoral process through unsubstantiated allegations are identified and brought to justice”, it added.

Meanwhile, the lawyers acknowledged the fact that, “As legal professionals, we believe in the principles of due process, fairness, and justice. It is our duty to advocate for the rights and reputation of individuals when they are subjected to false accusations that have the potential to cause irreparable harm. We trust that you, as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, will prioritize the pursuit of truth and fairness in addressing this matter.

“Lastly, we urge you to stand firmly with the Nigerian government in their endeavors to strengthen democratic institutions and protect the integrity of the electoral process. It is through collaborative efforts and adherence to democratic principles that we can ensure a brighter future for Nigeria and its citizens.”

300 CSOs Fault Attacks On INEC Chair, Pass Vote Of Confidence

The Coalition of about 300 Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria, COCSON, Friday, vehemently condemned calls for the sack of Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Mahmood Yakubu.

The Coalition made the condemnation during a press conference held in Abuja, where they said a particular group, United Nigerians Diaspora, UND, made the allegations with threats to storm streets of Abuja, Lagos and Kano to call the INEC chairman to resign or be forced out of office.

Members of the Coalition present at the press conference include; Change for impact; Hope Builders Restoration; Empowerment Solutions Initiative; Citizen Engagement Network; Education Access Initiative; Tinubu Nationals for Better Government; Poverty Eradication Foundation; Peace and justice Initiative; Transparency and Accountability Network; Advocacy for Media Freedom; Inclusion Now Project; Lets Build Nigeria Initiatives; Rural Development Association; Urban Renewal Association; Sustainable communities; Anti – corruption movement; Children’s Right Advocacy Group; Peace and Rights Advocacy; Justice, peace and Equity Social change; and Urban Development and planning.

They said: “It has come to our attention that the ‘United Nigerians Diaspora (UND)’ has organized a protest, making unfounded allegations against Mallam Yakubu and demanding his resignation or disgraceful removal from office. We strongly condemn this attack on the credibility and integrity of an individual who has dedicated his service to ensuring free and fair elections in Nigeria.

“Mallam Mahmood Yakubu has demonstrated exceptional leadership during his tenure at INEC. He has been instrumental in driving significant electoral reforms, improving the electoral process, and strengthening the trust of Nigerians in the democratic system. His commitment to transparency, impartiality, and accountability in conducting elections is commendable and has contributed to the progress of our democratic journey.

“The allegations made against Mallam Yakubu by the UND Group are baseless, false, and defamatory. They not only undermine the efforts of INEC but are also detrimental to the democratic principles we hold dear as a nation. It is our duty as members of the civil society to ensure that such malicious attacks are condemned, and our democracy is protected.

“We call upon the UND Group and other parties involved to halt the spread of false information and engage in constructive dialogue with INEC and relevant stakeholders. It is crucial that concerns regarding the electoral process are addressed through appropriate channels and in a responsible manner.

“Furthermore, we urge the Nigerian public and the media to exercise caution and responsibility when reporting on such sensitive matters. The dissemination of inaccurate or unverified information can have serious consequences for our democracy, and it is our collective duty to ensure the preservation of truth and accuracy in reporting.

“In conclusion, we stand in solidarity with Mallam Mahmood Yakubu and no doubt affirm our confidence in his leadership at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). We commend his unwavering dedication to democratic values and the progress our nation has made under his guidance.”

Traditional rulers pass vote of confidence on INEC chairman, write UK Prime Minister

Traditional rulers under the auspices of Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council, NTRC, Friday, urged the United Kingdom, UK, to discard visa ban calls on the Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Mahmood Yakubu by some person.

This was contained in a letter addressed to the British High Commissioner, and signed by the some traditional ruler, HRH Oba Adekunle Adeyemi (Adara of Adara, Ogun State), HRM King Alfred Prince will (Amanyab of Bassambiri, Bayelsa State), His Eminence Emir Ahmed Yayale (Charanchi, Katsina State ), HRH Alhaji Muhammad Bubu (Lushi Takololo, Bauchi State), HRH Eze Obinna Opoji (Ama of Amajuoyi Kingdom, Imo State) and HRH Alhaji Audu Eleje (Elejuku of Eluku, Kogi State), where the Council pointed out that the calls by the group it described as faceless are being mischievous to blackmail Yakubu with their unfounded facts and malicious attacks on the INEC boss.

According to the traditional rulers the attacks and calls by the group it called United Nigerians in Diaspora, UND, sponsored by disgruntled politicians, who lost elections in 2023, and also with ploy to create disaffection among Nigerians.

The Letter reads in part: “We, the Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council, write His Excellency to address the malicious attack on Mallam Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It has come to our attention that a certain faceless group named United Nigerians in Diaspora Group sponsored by disgruntled politicians, who lost elections in 2023, have leveled serious allegations against the INEC Chairman. We are deeply concerned about these accusations by this faceless group and feel compelled to set the record straight.

“The allegations made by these politicians are baseless and unfounded. We believe that they are attempting to tarnish the reputation of Mallam Mahmood Yakubu and, by extension, the INEC. We vehemently reject these accusations and stand firm in our support for the INEC Chairman.”

Meanwhile, according to the Council, the Yakubu-led INEC has made significant progress in “conducting free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria. The electoral process has been streamlined, and voter confidence has been restored. The INEC has implemented innovative technologies, such as the use of biometric voter registration and electronic transmission of results, to ensure transparency and efficiency.

“Furthermore, the claims made by these disgruntled politicians are clearly politically motivated, aiming to undermine the credibility of the INEC and its Chairman. It is no surprise that these allegations have emerged now, following their loss in the 2023 elections. It is an attempt to shift blame for their defeat onto the INEC and distract from their own shortcomings.”

The traditional rulers also unequivocally expressed their support for the INEC chair, “We, the Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council, stand firmly by Mallam Mahmood Yakubu and express our full confidence in his ability to lead the INEC effectively.

“His tenure has been marked by integrity, professionalism, and commitment to democratic ideals. The INEC, under his stewardship, has become a beacon of hope for the Nigerian electoral system.”

However, the Council called on the alleged group UND to stop their unfounded and spurious allegations forthwith against the INE boss, and also respect INEC as an independent institution.

“We urge all United Nigerians in Diaspora (UND), politicians and their supporters, to exercise restraint and respect the independence of the INEC. It is essential for the peaceful coexistence of our nation that we uphold the democratic process and refrain from unfounded accusations and attacks.

Meanwhile, the traditional rulers also appealed to Nigerians to work together to strengthen democracy despite the challenges which other advanced democracies are also experiencing.

“We call upon all Nigerians to respect the rule of law and work together towards a better and stronger democratic Nigeria.

“In conclusion, we wish to inform His Excellency that we reiterate our unwavering support for Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and the INEC. We reject the malicious allegations made by UND and disgruntled politicians and call on all Nigerians to unite behind the INEC in its efforts to strengthen our democratic process. Let us remember that peaceful, free, and fair elections are the bedrock of our nation’s progress and prosperity”, it added.

Criticism Aimed at Akpabio over Ningi’s Suspension Branded as a Challenge to Tinubu’s Administration – CSOs

A coalition of civil society organizations has condemned the backlash faced by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, framing it as an attack on the credibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The coalition asserts that the suspension of Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi was a necessary measure to uphold public order and discipline within the Senate.

Comprising groups such as Rising-Up for a United Nigeria (RUN), Guardians of Democracy and Development (GODD), and Partners for a Legislative Agenda for Nigeria (PLAN), these CSOs emphasize the importance of unity in the Senate and call upon Senators to prioritize national development over regional divides.

This stance follows reports of clandestine movements in Northern interest groups protesting Ningi’s suspension, citing his allegations of budget padding. In a joint press statement, Amb. Solomon Adodo, Mallam Suleiman Musa, and G. C. Oluoha Esq., representing RUN, GODD, and PLAN respectively, caution against factionalism within the Senate, urging for the dissolution of groups that undermine unity.

The coalition dismisses Ningi’s claims of budget padding, highlighting his active participation in budget deliberations. They question Ningi’s decision to raise concerns publicly rather than through appropriate Senate channels, viewing his actions as an attempt to tarnish the Senate President’s reputation and undermine Tinubu’s administration.

Calling on Nigerians to support the current administration’s efforts, the coalition urges unity in restoring Nigeria’s prosperity and economic recovery amidst ongoing challenges.

WHO IS AFRAID OF BICHI?

By Tunde Kayode

SOMETIMES, BEING HATED FOR DOING GOOD IS THE PRICE ONE MUST PAY FOR REFUSING TO COMPROMISE ON INTEGRITY- UNKNOWN

I have watched with keen interest, the relentless attempts by different groups and sponsored individuals to tarnish the reputation of the Director General of the Department of State Services, Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi. Of particular note are the efforts to pin a “corruption label” on him. His appointment by former President Mohammadu Buhari, was a testament to his integrity, principles, steadfastness and commitment to upholding democratic values. Although I am not affiliated with the DSS, it is clear from numerous articles and commendations from respected sources that Mr Bichi has garnered significant praise and recognition for his leadership style and impeccable reputation. It is no longer news that his appointment came on the heels of one of Nigeria’s most harrowing episodes in history. Bichi’s selection as I have come to discover, was based on the need to ensure that someone who regards the rule of law, is committed to transparency and prioritises the protection of democratic institutions took charge.
It was, therefore, not shocking that Mr Bichi discharged his duties with so much intentionality in preserving and maintaining stability of the country. This is in addition to spearheading various transformative initiatives within the DSS, particularly concerning the welfare of both serving and retired staff. His dedication to these objectives was evident when he was reappointed in 2022 to head the agency for another four years, a news which sparked widespread celebrations among the DSS personnel.

Six years on from his initial appointment, the impact of his leadership across the country continues to resonate. In the words of Napoleon Bonaparte, give me just a handful of good men, and I will change the course of history. Indeed, few good men can truly shape the destiny of the nation. An astute, modest, passionate, humble, detribalised and quintessential officer stands out in his visionary and leadership traits. Little wonder successive governments without prejudice found him worthy.

It also came as no surprise that when Bola Ahmed Tinubu became President in 2023, he retained Mr Bichi. Of course, the outstanding accomplishments of the DG spoke for him and as the saying goes; merit knows no colours, creed or political affiliations. Mr Bichi’s continued tenure under President Tinubu’s administration is a testimony to the universal recognition of his competence and devotion to national security.

However, it is to be expected that a man of such uprightness and capability like Mr Yusuf Bichi would attract unwarranted hostility, for throughout history, individuals of exceptional merit often find themselves targeted by envy and resentment. People have sponsored false reports detailing fabricated instances of embezzlement, bribery and misappropriation of funds within the organisation. These allegations are aimed at tarnishing his reputation and eroding public trust in its ability to effectively maintain Nigeria’s stability.

He suffers these stabs on his character by those who are afraid and tremble at the prospects of his morality. His attackers know that as long as he remains true to his convictions and honesty, his seat as DG of the SSS remains firmly secured and will continuously attract the President’s favour. So they continue to mudsling, hoping to cast dirt on his personality. But why the hate for a man of peace and compassion? Who is afraid of Bichi? And for what? Who is afraid of the power of his positive influence? Who, within or outside the corridors of power, feels threatened by Bichi’s unbeatable record ideals of integrity, empathy and justice? What drives them to attack his character and undermine his authority? How can they justify their fear of someone who only seeks to uplift and unite? Why do they tremble at the mere mention of his name? What secrets do they harbour that compel them to fear Bichi’s influence? What actions has Bichi taken that have stirred such fear among certain individuals or groups? How does Bichi’s presence challenge the status quo?

As he continues to face these attacks, it serves as a heart-breaking reminder that the brightest flames often attract the most envy and the harshest winds of adversity. As a law enforcer, investigator, security analyst and protector of national interests, it is inevitable that he will encounter resistance and criticism. Therefore, if he faces hatred, it should come as no surprise. After all, as the saying goes, the path of duty is often a lonely one.

As long as God stands as his ally, all efforts to undermine him will always be futile. For when divine favour shines upon a man, even the strongest storms cannot shake his resolve nor dim his light. Not even the concerted efforts to smear his reputation with baseless accusations of corruption would stick. Those who truly know him would defend him and vehemently refute the fraud claims. Such malicious endeavours, though persistent, would continue to crumble in the face of his unassailable character and obligation to decency and justice. Like arrows aimed at a fortress built on solid rock, these allegations find no purchase against the steadfast resolve and moral fortitude of this exemplary individual. In a world often fraught with cynicism and doubt, the steadfast integrity and resilience of individuals like Mr Bichi serve as beacons of hope and inspiration, reminding us that virtue, in the end, will always prevail.

Tunde Kayode writes from Ibadan, Oyo State

China still considered favorable investment destination by foreign companies

By Wang Junling

In January this year, 4,588 new foreign-invested firms were established in China, up 74.4 percent year on year, said the country’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM).

This surge demonstrates the rising enthusiasm of foreign investors in doing business in China, said the head of the MOFCOM’s Department of Foreign Investment Administration, adding that multinational companies are still optimistic about development opportunities in the Chinese market and doubling down on “investing in China.”

This point is well indicated by the 2023 performance in China recently released by a number of foreign-invested enterprises, as well as a series of investment expansion measures they have announced.

Many foreign companies reported remarkable performance in China last year. L’Oreal and Bosch both saw their sales in China grow by over 5 percent. Apple’s revenue from China accounted for about 1/5 of its total revenue. The sales of Merck & Co. in China surged 32 percent year on year to reach $6.71 billion…

“We remain confident in the resilience of the Chinese economy, and the growth opportunities in the Chinese mainland over the medium to long term,” said HSBC Group chief executive officer Noel Quinn.

Why did they achieved good performance in China?

On one hand, China’s vast market has played an indispensable role. Joe Bao, managing director of KONE Greater China, told People’s Daily that the Chinese market made a significant contribution to the company’s global performance last year.

China was the KONE’s largest single market in the fiscal year of 2023, accounting for about 26 percent of the company’s global sales, Bao added.

“China is the world’s largest new elevator market and the country with the most elevators in operation. Notably, 95 percent of the elevators currently in use in China have been installed for less than 20 years. This means that there is tremendous growth potential in the Chinese market for elevator maintenance and upgrading,” Bao said.

On the other hand, China’s continued opening-up policies have demonstrated their appeal. “In 2023, sales in the Chinese market continued to grow and the market ranked among the top ten globally for Karcher. In particular, sales of Karcher’s steam cleaners and window vacuums continued to rise,” said Rainer Kern, vice general manager and CFO of Karcher China.

In Kern’s view, the favorable investment environment, robust supply chain, rich talent pool, stable social environment, and continuously introduced preferential policies in China have provided strong support for companies’ development in the country.

Many enterprises have benefited from the 24 specific measures to further optimize the foreign investment environment and intensify efforts to attract foreign investment since they were introduced, Kern noted.

Among them, tax incentive policies and visa-free entry for personnel from multiple European countries have directly helped companies reduce operating costs and enhance international technological cooperation, Kern said.

Li Hongtao, associate research fellow with the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the MOFCOM, pointed out that in recent years, China’s economy has been accelerating its upgrading driven by innovation.

The abundant innovation scenarios, platforms, and elements have provided multinational companies with brand-new opportunities for the R&D and sales of new products, enabling them to better seize first-mover advantages in the global market, Li explained.

An increasing number of global enterprises are committing to growth in China. The largest development center of German carmaker Volkswagen Group outside Germany commenced operations in January 2024. Meanwhile, U.S. energy giant ExxonMobil plans to invest 10 billion yuan ($1.4 billion) in a project in south China’s Guangdong province this year.

A survey by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China showed that most Japanese companies in China were satisfied with the business environment; a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in China revealed that half of the respondents considered China as their first or among the top three global investment destinations; a report released by HSBC in 2023 indicated that 87 percent of the international companies interviewed planned to increase their operations in China….Foreign enterprises’ enthusiasm in doing business in China remains high, primarily because they are optimistic about the future prospects here.

Joan Zheng, vice-president of Tyson China and South Korea, noted that the American multinational corporation has seen double-digit growth in both of its sales in and imports from China in each of the recent years.

“China is not only continuously promoting industrial upgrading, but has also been striving to create a better business environment for foreign investors. This helps us gain more competitive advantages in vying for consumers and enhancing added value,” Zheng said.

From the beginning of this year, Tyson’s revenue in China has significantly exceeded the targets set by the headquarters, Zheng told People’s Daily.

The Chinese market has always been one of the most closely watched and continuously growing overseas markets for Tyson, and the company will continue to expand its investment in China, She said.

Li said that in 2023, final consumption expenditure contributed 82.5 percent to China’s economic growth. The constantly expanding and upgrading consumption demands of a population of over 1.4 billion provide multinational companies with a vast market space. At the same time, with its modernized infrastructure, comprehensive industrial system, strong supporting industrial capabilities, and high-quality talent pool, China can offer foreign-invested enterprises with efficient production and logistics solutions while reducing operating costs.

“It can be said that the consumption and industrial upgrades brought about by China’s high-quality economic development are continuously creating new opportunities for foreign enterprises,” Li noted.

China will remain staunch force for peace, stability, progress of world

By He Yin, People’s Daily

During the annual sessions of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), also known as the “two sessions,” the international community showed great interest in and gave positive evaluations on China’s foreign policy and future international relations.

The world landscape today is undergoing profound transformation, and human society is confronted with multiple challenges. In this changing and turbulent international environment, China will remain a staunch force for peace, stability and progress of the world.

The Chinese foreign service has taken actions to promote international solidarity and cooperation, and offered solutions to various crises and challenges. This showcases China’s enhanced international influence, stronger capacity to steer new endeavors, and greater moral appeal in the new era.

China has always been an important force in safeguarding peace and promoting development. It joins hands with relevant parties to build a community with a shared future for mankind. The Central Asian region and the Indochina Peninsula all embraced the vision, and new progress was made in the joint efforts by China and African, ASEAN, Arab, and Latin American and Caribbean countries to realize the same vision.

The Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilizations Initiative have taken root and borne fruits, injecting important impetus into the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

China facilitated the historic reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, setting a new example of political settlement of hotspot issues. It released China’s Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis, and engaged extensively with relevant parties through the special envoy of the Chinese government, making active efforts for resuming peace talks and restoring peace.

China has actively promoted peace talks on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and increased humanitarian assistance. China has played a constructive role during its presidency of the United Nations Security Council in advancing a political solution to the Palestinian-Israeli issue—the first of its kind since the conflict broke out, and released the Position Paper of the People’s Republic of China on Resolving the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict.

China, as a major country committed to maintaining peace and promoting development, has contributed stability, certainty, and positive energy to the complex world.

China has always been an important force in pursuing solidarity and cooperation. The country is committed to building a new type of international relations and to consolidating and expanding the global network of partnerships.

China actively promotes coordination and cooperation among major countries. The China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era has been moving forward on a high level. At the meeting between the Chinese and U.S. heads of state in San Francisco, the two sides reached common understandings and charted the course for stabilizing the China-U.S. relationship and bringing it back on the track of sound development. China and the EU relaunched exchanges and dialogue across the board at all levels.

Acting on the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness and the policy of forging friendships and partnerships with its neighbors, China strives to enhance its ties with its neighboring countries. Last year, it successfully hosted the China-Central Asia Summit.

Guided by the principles of sincerity, real results, affinity, and good faith and with a commitment to the greater good and shared interests, China endeavors to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with other developing countries. Last year, the BRICS mechanism achieved a historic expansion.

The China-Arab States Cooperation Forum will celebrate its 20th anniversary. The China-CELAC Forum will count 10 years of productive cooperation. Another Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit will take place in China this coming autumn. China looks forward to continuing to promote unity and cooperation among developing countries to augment the strength of the South.

China has always been an important force in promoting openness and inclusiveness. China is committed to building a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, which meets the common needs of all countries, especially the developing countries, and properly addresses the development imbalances between and within countries resulting from the global allocation of resources.

China believes it is important to resolutely oppose the attempt to roll back globalization and abuse the concept of security, oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism, firmly promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, overcome the structural problems hindering the healthy development of the world economy, and make economic globalization more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial to all.

China is increasing its investment in global development cooperation to help other developing countries enhance their capacity for independent development. It is ushering in a second golden decade of Belt and Road cooperation with relevant parties, hoping that high-quality Belt and Road cooperation will serve as an engine for the common development of all countries and an accelerator for the modernization of the whole world.

China has always been an important force in upholding justice. China, as a responsible major country, has always upheld justice and stood up for fairness. It practices true multilateralism and advances democracy in international relations. All countries, regardless of their size, should be treated as equals. Each and every country should have its place in the global multipolar system and can play its due role.

China advocates for an equal and orderly multipolar world. An equal multipolar world means equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal rules for every nation. An orderly multipolar world means all should observe the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, and uphold the universally recognized basic norms governing international relations.

China has resolutely opposed hegemonism and power politics, resolutely pushed back against a handful of countries’ attempt to dominate international affairs, demanded increased representation and say of developing countries in the global governance system, firmly upheld the common and legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and made the international order more just and equitable.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and the 70th anniversary of the initiation of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. Acting with vision and greater enterprise, China will work together with all countries to shoulder the responsibilities of the times, jointly rise to the challenges, and usher in an even better and brighter future for our world.

China’s Chongqing continues to build barrier-free environment

By Shen Jingran, People’s Daily

Southwest China’s Chongqing municipality is a city built on mountains. The unique landform is an integral feature of this “mountain city” that delights both locals and tourists. However, it also means inconvenience for the 892,400 people with disabilities in the city.

In recent years, Chongqing has been continuously promoting the construction of a barrier-free environment to make life more convenient for people with disabilities or the elderly.

This includes the construction of ramps for wheelchair passage, the installation of connecting corridors and elevators, and the renovation of old residential areas for better meeting individualized needs.

“In the past, it was a challenge for me to go downstairs, but now it is convenient to go anywhere,” said Peng Haiting, 64, who has been spending over 10 years in a wheelchair.

Suffering from polio since childhood, Peng relied on crutches to move at first. He could slowly walk on level ground, but had to rely on others to carry him when faced with stairs.

Peng lives in the Zhiyin’ge residential complex in Nan’an district. In 2000, he opened a shop about 1 kilometer from home. But he had to take a detour of 3 kilometers to reach it.

“I could have taken a shortcut, but there were many slopes that I couldn’t climb on my own. If I didn’t want to trouble others, I had to take a longer route,” Peng recalled.

Over 10 years ago, due to the worsening condition, Peng started using an electric wheelchair with the assistance of the disabled persons’ federation of Nan’an district.

Today, Peng’s life has changed. In just a short 1-kilometer stretch from the complex to the street nearby, both the sidewalks and the road are connected by curb ramps, making it easy for Peng to move on the sidewalk. The sidewalks also have sufficient space reserved for wheelchair passage.

“Don’t underestimate these curb ramps. They require careful planning,” said Wang Shihong, an official with the housing and urban-rural development commission of Nan’an district.

According to Wang, the renovation of a barrier-free environment has strict norms and standards. There are 49 curb ramps in this renovated block, all of which have a slope of less than 12 degrees, and the height difference between the bottom of the slope and the road is no more than 10 millimeters.

Manhole covers are all paved with blind tiles, which reduces unnecessary detours, and the overall roadway slope has been made more gentle, Wang explained.

“Compared to cities in plain areas, the ‘mountain city’ faces greater challenges in constructing a barrier-free environment. Making it possible for people with disabilities to go wherever they want is not an easy task, but it has to be done,” said Gong Yi, an official with the housing and urban-rural development commission of Chongqing.

In 2020, a renovation project for an old residential complex was launched in the Nanping neighborhood. Barrier-free facilities were not considered when these old buildings were built in the 1980s. As a large number of seniors and residents with disabilities live in the area, they hoped the project could make changes to accessibility.

According to Wang, all urban public buildings and residential complexes newly built in recent years in Nan’an district have taken barrier-free facilities into consideration, and the accessibility renovation in old residential buildings also remains a key focus.

“Before the renovation, we conducted household surveys in collaboration with community commissions to assess the living conditions of disabled residents in the areas. This ensured that while adhering to accessibility standards for public spaces, we could also accommodate personalized needs as much as possible,” Wang told People’s Daily.

Mu Qiang, a resident living in Xinxinglu community of Tiansheng neighborhood, Beibei district has also benefited greatly from the barrier-free renovation. Xinxinglu community, built in the 1980s, stretches along a small hill with significant elevation changes, and over half of its 1,300 residents are elderly.

“In the past, we had to climb 70-step stairs to go home from the street. Given my wife’s knee problems, even with my assistance, she was not able to climb so many stairs, so she could only nestle at home all year round,” Mu recalled.

During the renovation of Xinxinglu community, the installation of accessible ramps was a shared aspiration of residents.

“The design team initially proposed two relatively low-cost solutions, but one had too steep an incline, while the other had a ramp too narrow for wheelchairs to pass through,” said Jia Shaobo, an official with the housing and urban-rural development commission of Beibei district.

The commission came up with a new solution – building connecting corridors and installing elevators along the streets. Although this option increased the cost by over 2 million yuan ($278,048) compared to the previous two plans, it was definitely worth it, Jia said.

“When it comes to renovating barrier-free facilities, we must make changes that satisfy the people,” he added.

In recent years, Chongqing has been leveraging the renovation of old residential complexes as to promote the construction of a barrier-free environment. Over 370 service facilities for the elderly and childcare have been simultaneously renovated, along with more than 3,000 barrier-free facilities and over 4,700 elevators installed. In terms of the construction of barrier-free systems on municipal roads, the pedestrian crossing facilities have been continuously improved in the downtown area, and curb ramps have been built in more intersections, entrances, and pedestrian crossings.

China’s cruise economy embraces rapid development

By Zhu Jinyi

On the early morning of March 5, cruise ship Adora Magic City carrying over 4,200 passengers and the MS Westerdam carrying over 2,000 passengers arrived at the Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, joining their peers Piano Land and Blue Dream Star.

On the first day of 2024, the Adora Magic City, China’s first domestically-built large cruise ship, set sail from Wusongkou, marking its commercial maiden voyage. Departing from Shanghai, the ship took passengers on a seven-day adventure through Jeju Island in South Korea, as well as Nagasaki and Fukuoka in Japan.

As the Chinese tourism market fully recovers, cruise vacations have gradually become popular among tourists.

The Adora Magic City can accommodate up to 5,246 passengers. It has 16 floors and over 40,000 square meters of public living and recreation space. Offering a wide range of entertainment facilities such as theaters, swimming pools, gyms, restaurants, and galleries, the ship is exactly a “floating city” on the sea.

Unlike regular passenger ships, large cruise ships are built with hotels and entertainment facilities, offering passengers diverse choices and a pleasant experience. The charm of trips on cruises, compared to other modes of transportation, lies not only in the destinations but also in the journey en route. While sailing on the sea, travelers can enjoy the comfortable environment inside the cruise ships, feel the sea breeze, and admire the sunrise and sunset at sea.

Helen Huang, president of MSC Cruises China, revealed that all cabin spaces of the company’s global cruises reserved for the Chinese market this year had been sold out, as more and more outbound travelers started considering cruise trips.

An insider said that a significant advantage of cruise trips is that they take passengers to multiple destinations in one go. From onboard activities to shore excursions, cruise trips offer tourists a richer and more diverse experience.

According to a report released by the Cruise Lines International Association, approximately 31.5 million passengers worldwide traveled by cruise in 2023, which is 106 percent of the 2019 figure.

It is believed that when the per capita GDP of a country or region reaches $6,000 to $8,000, the cruise economy will develop rapidly. Since 2012, China’s per capita GDP has entered this range.

Facts are also indicating this point. As early as 2006, the Italian cruise ship MS Costa Allegra became the first one to enter the Chinese market and received 18,000 Chinese tourists in over six months.

Statistics show that by the end of 2019, China had become the world’s second-largest cruise market after the United States. It is estimated that by 2035, China will become one of the most dynamic cruise markets globally, with an annual cruise passenger traffic reaching 14 million.

With the deliveries and operation of domestically produced large cruise ships, the supply of cruise tourism capacity has become more abundant. As more and more tourists choose to travel by cruise ship, new demands are constantly emerging.

From onboard activities to shore excursions, tourists expect more ample time for visiting and a deeper experience of local cultures at destinations, Huang said. In addition, the proportion of young tourists is increasing, and they have higher requirements for accommodation, dining, and entertainment facilities.

Cruise tourism has also attracted many inbound tourists. Recently, the MS Europa cruise ship arrived in Tianjin, bringing over 300 German tourists to visit attractions such as the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and Yonghe Lama Temple in Beijing and Tianjin. Some of them also visited the Huangyaguan section of the Great Wall and lived in local B&B hotels.

It is reported that this was the first inbound international cruise ship carrying overseas tourists to Tianjin since the city resumed cruise tourism in 2023.

This year, Tianjin International Cruise Home Port plans to berth 60 cruise ships and serve approximately 180,000 passenger trips. In order to enhance the customs clearance experience for cruise tourists, Tianjin Customs and other departments have launched a smart travel inspection system, which combines the baggage barcode with the ticket code and border inspection code into a single code, providing more convenience for travelers.

With the introduction of a series of favorable policies for inbound tourism, Viking Cruises, one of the world’s leading cruise operators, recently announced the launch of four coastal routes in China, expecting to lead international tourists on an in-depth exploration of the beautiful landscapes of China this autumn.

These routes vary in duration from 10 to 20 days and mainly cover regions such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Through cultural lectures, culinary experiences, and attraction tours, international travelers will have an immersive experience of Chinese culture.

Thriving logistics reflect China’s economic vitality

By Li Hongxing, People’s Daily

If there were no fast logistics or delivery couriers, consumption in mountainous areas would be quite different.

Li Xingying’s home is located deep in the Gaoligong Mountains in southwest China’s Yunnan province.

Many years ago, she went to high school in another place in Nujiang Lisu autonomous prefecture. When her parents wanted to send her some local specialties from home, they had to ride a motorcycle for 20 kilometers on a mountain road to the post office, which took at least an hour. It would take at least two days, even if they were in the same prefecture, before Li could receive the specialties.

Now, every village in Yunnan has access to postal services, and villagers can enjoy courier services at their doorsteps. Recently, Li bought New Year’s goods for her family, and it took less than four days for these packages to reach her hometown after traveling over 2,000 kilometers from east China’s Zhejiang province.

“It’s so convenient now. We can just order whatever we want on our phones and pick up the items with just a few steps outside,” said Li’s mother.

According to data released by the State Post Bureau, express courier firms nationwide handled 132.07 billion parcels in 2023, up 19.4 percent compared to the previous year. This figure has ranked first in the world for 10 consecutive years.

These parcels, connecting thousands of households and various industries, vividly depicted the vibrancy of China.

Smooth Logistics is driving development and improving living standards while meeting the needs of the people for a better life. Today, it takes as short as 48 hours for imported Boston lobsters to be put on the Chinese table from the moment when they are caught, and “Next-day” delivery is so quick that customers don’t even have time to change their delivery address.

With the introduction of cold-chain logistics, various fruits, vegetables, and seafood can be kept fresh throughout the entire transportation process.

The logistics industry, connecting production and consumption, vitalizes the commodity market and fosters innovation. Embracing the dual opportunities of consumption and industrial upgrades, a secure and efficient logistics network that connects domestic and international markets is rapidly taking shape.

Efficiency in circulation and production are equally crucial for improving the overall operational efficiency of the national economy.

Over a decade ago, “logistics overload” was a buzzword on the internet, as cross-border parcels were difficult to deliver on time. Slow speed and high costs became bottlenecks for the development of the industry.

Problems give rise to changes. The introduction of electronic waybills initiated automated sorting, thus establishing intelligent logistics systems. The continuous improvement of urban and rural transportation infrastructure, with roads reaching every village, has made logistics smoother.  China’s internet penetration continues to increase, leading to a more complete and diverse logistics ecosystem.

Thanks to economic development and social progress, the logistics industry has benefited from the dividends of informatization and digitization. It has made a qualitative leap in terms of hardware facilities, software technology, and operational methods, demonstrating remarkable “Chinese speed” and impressive “Chinese efficiency.”

The modern circulation system is a strong support for building a new development pattern. Every change in transportation tools and increase in business volume in the logistics industry, from manual handling to intelligent sorting, and from bulk freight to the opening of dedicated lines and air transportation, has greatly promoted the reshaping of the economic landscape.

Today, China’s logistics industry has achieved a remarkable leap from handling 10 billion parcels each year to 10 billion parcels each month. The super-large market of China provides vast space and opportunities for the development of the logistics industry. The thriving and active logistics industry also plays a crucial role in enhancing the reliability of domestic circulation, while elevating the quality and level of international circulation.

More accesses result in greater space for development, and a higher level of openness yields stronger power for development. Thanks to the thriving international business of Chinese express courier firms, a Spanish consumer received a car diagnostic tool from China in just less than five days, and marveled at the speed of China’s cross-border parcels.

According to customs statistics, the total imports and exports of China’s cross-border e-commerce reached 2.38 trillion yuan (about $331 billion) in 2023, up 15.6 percent year-on-year.

As China’s logistics industry accelerates its international expansion, the efficiency of global cargo transportation is steadily improving. With smooth logistics and global services, China’s economy, with strong resilience and wide space, continues to bring new development opportunities to the world.

Logistics aggregates commercial flows, while commercial flows drive logistics. As cargo planes take off and land, cargo ships arrive at ports for loading and unloading, packages are sorted and transported, and delivery vehicles depart and return, a more complete and smooth modern distribution system is contributing to a more dynamic and resilient Chinese economy.12816421