Nigeria Times

By Li Rui, People’s Daily

With a few taps on her phone, Ms. Cui, a resident of Shanghai’s Pudong district, ordered fresh deep-sea large yellow croaker. Within 24 hours, a box of the freshly harvested fish — tender and fragrant when cooked — was delivered to her doorstep.

These croakers were raised off the coast of Zhoushan, east China’s Zhejiang province, aboard Guoxin No.1 2-1, the world’s first 150,000-ton smart aquaculture vessel. As an upgrade to the earlier 100,000-ton Guoxin No.1, this vessel began trial operations on April 17 this year. It welcomed more than 1 million juvenile croakers in early May and, by November, had successfully harvested over 46,000 croakers in a single catch.

“Wherever the water is the best, that’s where we go,” said Sun Linlin, production director of the vessel. Equipped with a mobile, ship-based tank system, the vessel follows ideal temperatures, water quality, and ocean currents, much like herders seeking the best pastures, to ensure the fish remain in a stable and natural environment.

Inside the vessel’s aquaculture monitoring room, a large digital screen presents real-time data on current velocity, dissolved oxygen, water temperature, and feed volume. “Each tank is equipped with an advanced environmental control system,” Sun explained. “Although enclosed, the water remains in continuous circulation, supporting natural purification and keeping the fish active and healthy.”

This “ocean ranch” includes 15 standard aquaculture tanks for large-scale commercial farming; four circular raceway pools that serve as both exercise zones and transition areas for mid-sized juveniles; and 22 experimental tanks for feed comparison, drug-sensitivity tests, and other research. The total water volume exceeds 96,000 cubic meters. 

How many people are required to operate such a massive facility? Just 35 staff members, and only 16 are directly involved in fish breeding.

“The entire vessel is supported by an integrated, high-efficiency farming control system,” Sun said. More than 200 cameras and 2,000 sensors make up an intelligent monitoring network that enables remote oversight and targeted management. “Take feeding as an example. Each aquaculture tank requires 1 to 1.5 tons of feed per day. Thanks to automated loading, rail-guided distribution carts, localized storage bins, and scheduled delivery, just two staff members can manage feeding operations for the entire vessel each day.”

From fry stocking and automated feeding to harvesting and processing, nearly all key steps aboard Guoxin No.1 2-1 are mechanized. The vessel’s mechanization rate exceeds 90 percent, automation has increased by 45 percent, and nearly 30 percent of farming decisions are made by intelligent systems, resulting in a 20 percent reduction in labor costs.

“In total, the vessel incorporates more than 160 technological breakthroughs and innovations across functional design, aquaculture systems, new-energy applications, and integrated information platforms,” Sun noted.

This innovation ecosystem is catalyzing broader upgrades across the broader marine fishery sector. On the feed side, specialized formulations and intelligent software enable precision nutrition. In logistics, coordinated ship-to-shore cold-chain systems ensure delivery within six hours for 500 kilometers and within 15 hours for 1,000 kilometers. In processing, stable, high-quality raw materials from the vessel support a range of products from chilled fresh fish to ready-to-cook and premium prepared foods, meeting diverse market demands.

The bumper harvest of yellow croaker from Guoxin No.1 2-1 marks just the beginning. The recent delivery of Guoxin No.1 2-2, designed primarily for high-value cold-water species such as salmon and trout, signals continued expansion. Once all three vessels in the Guoxin No.1 series reach full production, their combined annual output is expected to exceed 10,000 tons.

“With large-scale aquaculture vessels, we’re no longer constrained by weather or geography. We can raise southern species in northern waters and northern species in southern waters, achieving seasonal balance in production. This industrialized approach significantly enhances efficiency and resource utilization, transforming the deep sea into a sustainable ‘blue granary,'” Sun said.

By Yang Yanfei, People’s Daily

As evening descended and city lights illuminated the streets, an immersive theatrical performance unfolded in Wenchangli, Fuzhou, east China’s Jiangxi province. On stage, a symbolic “dialogue across time and space” between Chinese playwright Tang Xianzu and William Shakespeare marked a highlight of the 7th Tang Xianzu International Theater Exchange Month.

Co-hosted by the Jiangxi provincial government, the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and the China Theater Association, this year’s event brought together playwrights, actors and scholars from 12 countries and regions. With live performances, a youth theater creation camp, themed forums, and relevant activities, the event celebrates theater as a medium of cultural exchanges and global engagement.

In 2015, during his visit to the UK, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that Tang Xianzu, a Chinese playwright, was contemporary of William Shakespeare, as both passed away in 1616. He noted that China and Britain could jointly commemorate the legacy of the two literary masters to promote people-to-people exchanges and deepen mutual understanding. 

Over the past decade, theater has become a bridge for cultural exchanges, transforming commemorative activities into platforms for inter-civilizational dialogue. It has become a powerful medium for fostering global engagement through culture. Exceptional theatrical works transcend time and space, resonating across generations and borders.

“Fuzhou is the birthplace of Tang Xianzu and where he wrote plays,” said Wu Fengchu, director of the Center for International Studies of Tang Xianzu in Fuzhou. Tang’s classic “The Four Dreams of Linchuan” expresses profound human emotions and enduring humanistic values. Today, its emotional resonance continues to reach global audiences.

Along the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon, the UK stands the Peony Pavilion — a traditional Chinese structure gifted by Fuzhou to Shakespeare’s hometown. With its signature upturned eaves and red railings overlooking the water, the pavilion has become a prominent cultural landmark that brings Chinese aesthetics into a Western setting. Similar pavilions have since been built in Perm, Russia, and Lusaka, Zambia, symbolizing a shared cultural vision and offering international audiences a window into Chinese artistic expression.

“In April last year, during the Shakespeare birthday celebrations in Stratford-upon-Avon, I portrayed Du Liniang and performed an English-language excerpt from Tang’s “The Peony Pavilion” with my classmates in the Peony Pavilion,” said Emily C. A. Snyder from the Shakespeare Institute at the University of Birmingham, who brought her team to this year’s exchange month. “I had always dreamed of visiting China. Like Du Liniang, my dream has come true.”

“Hou Xiaoyu’s monologue on wealth in Tang’s “The Legend of the Purple Hairpin” echoes the critique of materialism in Shakespeare’s Timon of Athens. Similarly, the satire on power and fame in Tang’s ‘A Dream Under the Southern Bough’ and ‘Handan Dream’ also resonates themes familiar to Western viewers,” said Huang Bikang, professor at Peking University’s School of Foreign Languages and Chair of the Shakespeare Society of the Institute of Foreign Literature under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

Ten years ago, Fuzhou’s commemorative event extended an invitation to the world. Today, it welcomes theater artists and young enthusiasts from across the globe, transforming into a vibrant hub of international cultural exchanges.

This year, the original production “Dreaming Under the Bough” received enthusiastic acclaim. Inspired by Tang’s “A Dream Under the Southern Bough” and Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” the play was collaboratively created and performed by students from the University of Leeds in the UK, the University of International Business and Economics in China, and other institutions. By merging Eastern and Western literary classics with youthful interpretations, the production has breathed new vitality into traditional imagery.

“We want to show through theater that dreams know no borders,” said a student actor from the UK. Through rehearsals and performances, students forged lasting friendships and deepened mutual understanding. Li Jun, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics and one of the directors of the play, remarked, “This collaboration represents a meaningful dialogue. Students from both institutions are pursuing their dreams together.”

Faculty and students from the University of Birmingham also presented an English poetic adaptation of “The Peony Pavilion,” giving the production its debut performance in China. “The translation employs Shakespeare’s signature iambic pentameter,” said Michael Dobson, director of the Shakespeare Institute, University of Birmingham. 

“A classic work poses enduring questions that each generation seeks to answer in their own way. Shakespeare delved into the complexities of human nature, while Tang Xianzu explored the pursuit of the soul. Both confronted the question: ‘What is the meaning of life?’ This shared inquiry forms the foundation for continued dialogue between Eastern and Western theater,” Dobson explained.

Like a dream, theater continues to resonate in the hearts of audiences. This shared emotional journey reflects the broader vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, fostering cultural exchanges, mutual learning and deeper understanding among civilizations.

By Jiang Xuehong, People’s Daily

Yangxian county in Hanzhong, northwest China’s Shaanxi province, is renowned as the “Home of the Crested Ibis.”

As evening descended, People’s Daily reporters followed staff members from Shaanxi Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve to a natural roosting site to observe the return of the birds. Soon, a flock of crested ibises, distinguished by their long beaks, scarlet faces and white plumage, swept across the lake and settled on a small island, nestled among the lush branches.

The crested ibis, often referred to as a “living fossil” of the avian world, has a history dating back 65 million years. However, in the mid-20th century, habitat degradation led to a dramatic decline in its population. In 1981, researchers discovered only seven surviving wild crested ibises in Yaojiagou, Yangxian county. Over the past four decades, concerted conservation efforts have resulted in a steady recovery of the species.

“The survival and reproduction of the crested ibis rely on healthy wetland and forest ecosystems. Over the years, we have developed a systematic conservation model that prioritizes in-situ protection, complemented by ex-situ conservation, wild reintroduction, technological advancements, and collaboration between government and society. This holistic approach ensures a harmonious coexistence between humans and the ibises,” said Lu Baozhong, former deputy director of Shaanxi Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve Administration. Today, the global population of crested ibis exceeds 11,000.

Local residents in Yangxian have actively supported the protection of the crested ibises by nurturing forests, planting trees and grasses, restocking fish populations, restoring wetlands, and minimizing the use of pesticides and fertilizers. These efforts have created an ideal environment for the species to thrive.

Hua Ying, president of the Yangxian Crested Ibis Bird-Lovers Association and a native of Caoba village, Yangxian county, has a deep emotional connection with the species. Recognizing the importance of public involvement in successful conservation, Hua and fellow bird enthusiasts founded the association in 2006. The group organizes educational campaigns to raise awareness about bird protection.

“In winter, when temperatures drop and food becomes scarce, elderly or weak crested ibises are more vulnerable to illnesses or injury. Whenever local residents encounter an injured bird, they report it immediately,” said Zeng Jianwen, an engineer with the reserve administration. He explained that the timely rescue and rehabilitation of sick or injured crested ibises is a crucial part of conservation efforts. Information from local residents enables rapid intervention, which plays an important role in maintaining the species’ long-term population stability.

Witnessing the steady increase in crested ibis population, Hua said: “Since the 1990s, crested ibises have roosted, foraged and bred in our village. Now, villagers can observe them from their doorsteps.” A persimmon tree in front of his home has become a nesting site where crested ibises return to breed every spring.

The peak tourist season in Yangxian occurs in March and April, when fields of rapeseed stretch beneath the spring sun, thousands of pear trees bloom like drifting snow, and crested ibises soar gracefully across woodlands and wetlands. These picturesque scenes attract many photography enthusiasts, and a local community of “bird guides” has emerged, offering services such as photography route planning and bird identification.

“The surge in birdwatching has brought more visitors, fostering a comprehensive industrial chain, from bird guides to homestays, dining, and educational tours,” Hua explained. A bird guide earns at least 200 yuan ($28.23) per day, and up to 1,200 yuan when accompanying large study tours. Last year, Yangxian received 6.38 million tourists, generating more than 4 billion yuan in tourism revenue.

The commitment to strict ecological protection has also created favorable conditions for the development of organic agriculture. The county boasts 115 certified organic products across 15 categories, making it the largest organic production area in Shaanxi province, with 43 processing enterprises and an organic industry output value exceeding 5.5 billion yuan.

Through the sustainable management of its natural resources, Yangxian has turned ecological advantages into development opportunities. By fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and crested ibises, the “Home of the Crested Ibis” has paved the way for a prosperous and sustainable future, improving the lives of its residents.

By He Yin, People’s Daily

At the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) held in Belem, Brazil, saw intensive discussions and negotiations on critical climate issues as nations collectively worked toward identifying shared solutions to the ongoing climate crisis. 

As a proactive contributor and a responsible participant in global climate action, China has been participating in major agenda items and working with all stakeholders to ensure COP30 deliver positive and balanced outcomes. These efforts demonstrate China’s leading role in global climate governance and its image as a responsible major country, contributing greater stability and certainty to the global climate process.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, a critical juncture for global climate governance. The latest Emissions Gap Report 2025 released by the UN Environment Programme shows that the world is facing significant challenges in achieving the Paris Agreement’s key climate goals. A particularly concerning issue is the widening gap between climate-finance commitments and actual financial needs. Meanwhile, some countries remain reluctant to advance energy transitions, leaving the world grappling with a “double deficit” in both momentum and trust. 

At this moment, it is crucial for nations to uphold true multilateralism, strengthen solidarity and cooperation, adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and translate commitments into concrete action to ensure steady and sustained progress in global climate governance.

During COP30, China has played a positive and constructive role, working with all parties to support the Brazilian presidency in ensuring the conference’s success. China remains committed to helping chart the course and create conditions for global climate governance in the next decade, on the basis of upholding multilateralism and focusing on implementation. 

China hosted a series of side events at the China Pavilion, focusing on key themes such as China’s roadmap for carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, its energy transition, and new-energy development, sharing its experience and insights for global climate governance. As President of COP30 Andre Correa do Lago noted, China is developing solutions that benefit everyone.

Harmony between humanity and nature is a defining hallmark of Chinese modernization. China has made carbon peaking and carbon neutrality a national strategy, established the most systematic and comprehensive carbon reduction policy framework in the world, and built the largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system, the largest and most complete new energy industrial chain, and achieved the world’s largest and fastest promotion and adoption of new energy vehicles. As the world’s largest developing country, China will achieve the highest reduction in carbon emission intensity and complete the transition from peak carbon to carbon neutrality quicker than any other country. Its pursuit of green development continues to inject new momentum into global sustainable development. 

In tackling climate change, China remains a steadfast advocate of multilateralism, a strong proponent of international cooperation, a major contributor to low-carbon technologies, and an important leader in the global green transition. 

China has fully and proactively implemented the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, making significant strides toward its 2030 nationally determined contributions (NDCs). Notably, China has already achieved key targets ahead of schedule, such as the total installed capacity of wind and solar power and increases in forest stock volume. 

By the end of October 2025, China had signed 55 memoranda of understanding on South-South cooperation to address climate change with 43 developing countries. Additionally, China has also submitted its 2035 NDC to the UNFCCC Secretariat, which for the first time cover all economic sectors and all greenhouse gases. 

China’s growing influence in the global energy transition has been widely acknowledged by the international community. It has made significant contributions to global climate response, particularly in supporting developing countries, and has inspired other nations to jointly pursue a more sustainable future. As a responsible major country, China has become a pivotal leader in global climate governance through its substantive actions and commitments.

Climate change presents a global challenge demanding collective action from all sides. China will continue accelerating its comprehensive transition toward green and low-carbon development to strengthen its contribution to addressing climate change. Developed countries, for their part, must uphold their historical responsibilities, lead efforts in reducing emissions, and provide developing countries with sufficient financial, technological, and capacity-building support. 

It is hoped that all parties can build on the outcomes of COP30, advance climate multilateralism, accelerate the global transition toward green and low-carbon development, and work together toward a clean, more sustainable world that benefits all humanity.

By Zhang Danhua, Shi Fang, Li Kaixuan, People’s Daily

In recent years, China has significantly enhanced its efforts to protect giant pandas, implementing a comprehensive approach that spans breeding, rewilding, and international cooperation, achieving remarkable results that have captured global attention.

One of the most notable examples of China’s conservation success is Qizai, the only captive brown giant panda in the world. This 16-year-old panda resides at the Qinling Four Rare Animals Science Park in northwest China’s Shaanxi province, where it has become a major attraction.

Qizai’s unique brown fur, which is the result of a genetic mutation, was first discovered when villagers in Foping county found the weak panda cub in November 2009. Since then, it has been part of extensive research, and while it has produced several offspring, none have inherited the brown coat. Qizai now weighs around 120 kilograms and continues to be a symbol of the successful conservation work being carried out at the Research Center for Qinling Giant Panda.

The Qinling Four Rare Animals Science Park not only houses Qizai but also serves as a public-facing facility that showcases the region’s conservation achievements. Zhang Danhui, deputy head of the panda management department of the Research Center for Qinling Giant Panda, noted, “In recent years, we have made breakthroughs in reproductive hormone monitoring and artificial insemination, which have helped increase the breeding success rate from 20 percent to 67 percent, ensuring a self-sustaining captive population.”

In addition to breeding efforts, the park has implemented a rigorous health management system, with staff assigned to oversee the pandas’ well-being. Disease prevention protocols are strictly followed, and regular health checks are conducted every three to six months to ensure the pandas’ health and safety.

In Beijing, the Beijing Zoo, which has been home to giant pandas since 1955, continues to attract millions of visitors each year. The zoo has achieved several milestones in panda breeding, including the first successful natural breeding of giant pandas under captive conditions. “The giant panda hall is always very popular. Last year, we received approximately 4.8 million visitors,” said a member of the zoo’s inspection team. Currently, the zoo houses ten giant pandas.

Through close coordination among the zoo’s panda keepers, feeding team, and veterinary hospital, each giant panda receives meticulous care. “Their diet is highly varied. We provide each panda with 50 to 70 kilograms of fresh bamboo every day, along with bamboo shoots, steamed buns, carrots, and apples,” said Ding Nan, head of the panda keeper team.

Cao Yani from the zoo’s animal care support team explained that the staff have designed a series of enrichment activities based on extensive research into panda behavior. These initiatives are aimed at optimizing the pandas’ environment and interactions, simulating natural behaviors and addressing both their physical and psychological needs to ensure their overall well-being.

At the Shenshuping base of China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in Wolong National Nature Reserve, southwest China’s Sichuan province, panda keeper Xu Xiang greets giant panda Fubao every day as part of his routine. Born in 2020, Fubao made history as the first Chinese giant panda born in South Korea. After returning to China in April 2024, Fubao made its official public debut in June. 

To facilitate Fubao’s transition to its new environment, the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda implemented a gradual acclimation approach, beginning with a one-month quarantine. 

“We monitored its weight, coat condition, and other health indicators every day, and offered bamboo shoots, apples, and other foods to determine its preferences,” Xu explained. Following the quarantine, Fubao was moved to the breeding area for scent and sound acclimation, gradually adjusting to life among other pandas.

With the recent completion of the new Mianyang base, the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda now operates five major bases in Sichuan province. Each base has its specific focus but works collaboratively to provide comprehensive protection for giant pandas, including efforts in breeding, rewilding, and international cooperation.

The Sichuan section of the Giant Panda National Park, which is home to 1,227 wild pandas, accounting for 91.6 percent of the park’s total panda population, has made significant strides in habitat restoration. In recent years, over 331,400 mu ($22,093 hectares) of habitat have been restored, and work continues on seven key ecological corridors. Monitoring data indicate that in 2024, the number of wild panda sightings in this section has increased to 185, demonstrating a stable recovery of the panda population.