Rescuers are looking for 18 people still missing after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the islands mountaneous and scenic east coast a day after Taiwan was rocked by its most intense earthquake in 25 years.

Taiwan lashes out at China for thanking nations on its behalf over Taiwan earthquake

Top Sri Lankan Buddhist leader has said that China has been blocking the visit of Tibetan Buddhist Spiritual leader, Dalai Lama to the country. Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa made the comments in an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi. He said, "We respect him and invited to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have freedom to invite."

'China blocking Dalai Lama's Sri Lanka visit', says top Buddhist leader Dr. Waskaduwe

A top Sri Lankan Buddhist leader has said that China has been blocking the visit of Tibetan Buddhist Spiritual leader, Dalai Lama to the country. Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe Mahindawansa made the comments in an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi.

He said, "We respect him and invited him to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have the freedom to invite."

Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe is the head or Mahanayaka Thero of Amarapura Sambuddha Sasanodaya Maha Nikaya. It is a Buddhist monastic order or sect in Sri Lanka. It is one of the major Nikayas (sects) in Theravada Buddhism, which is the dominant form of Buddhism practiced in Sri Lanka and many other parts of South and Southeast Asia. &nbsp;

The prominent Buddhist leader is in India this week to hand over part of Kapilavastu relics of Buddha to His Holiness Dalai Lama. He said, "Dalai Lama is a very important person. Buddhism was born in India, and his doctrine in India, his doctrine went to Sri Lanka via Ashoka's son- Mahinda, and daughter &nbsp;Sanghamitra. So I think, this is the way, one or two, original Buddha relics are presented to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama."

Here are the excerpts of the full conversation:&nbsp;

WION: Can you tell us briefly about the background and significance of the relic that you handed over to His Holiness and what was the intent behind this?

Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa: Dalai Lama is a very famous leader, not only in India but a world-famous leader. So many times I heard his lectures and many friends from other countries asked about him and about his lectures also. I thought I must go and meet him. I have met him 203 times. So, I decided that I must present special things from Sri Lanka, to give to him. The Dalai Lama always preaches about kindness. He is very close to me.

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WION: If you can talk about Kapilavastu relics..

Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: After Buddha's cremation, many countries fought to get his relics. 8 countries/ rajdhanis. One portion was given to Buddha's relatives, Kapilavastu relics were to his village. They made a structure and put the relics. After that, over thousands of years, when India was under British occupation, the English discovered it. One Alexander Cunningham discovered it, and excavated the land. He found a big stone box and found the relics. He was not able to determine what the relics were about. It had some letters of Brahmi words. A Sri Lanka monk, a high priest, knew the relics, and pointed out these are Buddha relics. A portion from the relics were sent to Sri Lanka, to my temple. It was kept in my temple, generation after generation.

WION: And you gave Kapilavastu relics to the Dalai Lama..

Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: The Dalai Lama knows history well. Myself and the relics committee discussed it, we decided that Buddha was born in India, relics in Sri Lanka and I'm the custodian. So one original Buddha relic was brought to India, and presented to his holiness, the Dalai Lama. This is because, Dalai Lama is a very important person. Buddhism was born in India, his doctrine in India, his doctrine went to Sri Lanka via Ashoka's son- Mahinda and Daughter &nbsp;Sanghamitra. So I think, this is the way, one or 2, original Buddha relics are presented to his Holiness, the Dalai Lama.

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WION: How was the reception at Dharamshala? If you can share some experiences or good memories that you can take away from the Dharamshala visit?

Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: It is a very interesting place, I visited it for the first time. It is near the Himalayas. It's a historic event, and a very calm place. Very important place in India, a historical event.

WION: Plans to continue the engagement with the office of Dalai Lama?

Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: I thought yesterday, I must visit this place every year. Many people from across the world visit this place. Very important for India, this place. I must request that Indians, Sri Lanka, must visit respective countries.

WION: We understand that IBC assisted in the process of facilitating the smooth movement of your team from Colombo to Dharamshala and back and IBC was recently involved in the exposition of the relic in Thailand. Your comments please.

Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: International Buddhist Confederation is a very important organisation in the world, IBC, 45-49 countries connected to it, 400 organisations connected to. They are very important to the world, not just India. IBC has done great work, with relics being sent to Thailand.

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WION: You know, China's view on the Dalai Lama, do you think China will be angry with you giving the relics

Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: Last time, from Sri Lanka top Monks invited the Dalai Lama to visit Sri Lanka. But problem from China, why I don't know. We respect the Dalai Lama, as a Buddhist leader, he is not a merchant. We respect him and invited to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have freedom to invite. So in future, if he visits Sri Lanka, we are happy. Sri Lankans also visit Himachal as well. What is the problem, he is the Buddhist leader, he preaches Buddha's doctrine.

WION: How do you see India, Sri Lanka ties?

Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: Our mother land is India, my cultural and religious connection came from India to Sri Lanka. It is a close country for us. Our language also starts from India, Sanskrit, Pali. We must develop our friendship, sometimes, religious, cultural, economic friendship. Our elder brother is India.&nbsp;

A top Sri Lankan Buddhist leader has said that China has been blocking the visit of Tibetan Buddhist Spiritual leader, Dalai Lama to the country. Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe Mahindawansa made the comments in an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi.

A top Sri Lankan Buddhist leader has said that China has been blocking the visit of Tibetan Buddhist Spiritual leader, Dalai Lama to the country. Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe Mahindawansa made the comments in an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi. He said, "We respect him and invited him to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have the freedom to invite." Most Venerable Dr Waskaduwe is the head or Mahanayaka Thero of Amarapura Sambuddha Sasanodaya Maha Nikaya. It is a Buddhist monastic order or sect in Sri Lanka. It is one of the major Nikayas (sects) in Theravada Buddhism, which is the dominant form of Buddhism practiced in Sri Lanka and many other parts of South and Southeast Asia. The prominent Buddhist leader is in India this week to hand over part of Kapilavastu relics of Buddha to His Holiness Dalai Lama. He said, "Dalai Lama is a very important person. Buddhism was born in India, and his doctrine in India, his doctrine went to Sri Lanka via Ashoka's son- Mahinda, and daughter Sanghamitra. So I think, this is the way, one or two, original Buddha relics are presented to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama." Here are the excerpts of the full conversation: WION: Can you tell us briefly about the background and significance of the relic that you handed over to His Holiness and what was the intent behind this? Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa: Dalai Lama is a very famous leader, not only in India but a world-famous leader. So many times I heard his lectures and many friends from other countries asked about him and about his lectures also. I thought I must go and meet him. I have met him 203 times. So, I decided that I must present special things from Sri Lanka, to give to him. The Dalai Lama always preaches about kindness. He is very close to me. Also Read | Search operation launched after a young man, 'jumped off' cruise ship in front of family WION: If you can talk about Kapilavastu relics.. Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: After Buddha's cremation, many countries fought to get his relics. 8 countries/ rajdhanis. One portion was given to Buddha's relatives, Kapilavastu relics were to his village. They made a structure and put the relics. After that, over thousands of years, when India was under British occupation, the English discovered it. One Alexander Cunningham discovered it, and excavated the land. He found a big stone box and found the relics. He was not able to determine what the relics were about. It had some letters of Brahmi words. A Sri Lanka monk, a high priest, knew the relics, and pointed out these are Buddha relics. A portion from the relics were sent to Sri Lanka, to my temple. It was kept in my temple, generation after generation. WION: And you gave Kapilavastu relics to the Dalai Lama.. Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: The Dalai Lama knows history well. Myself and the relics committee discussed it, we decided that Buddha was born in India, relics in Sri Lanka and I'm the custodian. So one original Buddha relic was brought to India, and presented to his holiness, the Dalai Lama. This is because, Dalai Lama is a very important person. Buddhism was born in India, his doctrine in India, his doctrine went to Sri Lanka via Ashoka's son- Mahinda and Daughter Sanghamitra. So I think, this is the way, one or 2, original Buddha relics are presented to his Holiness, the Dalai Lama. Also Read | French girl left in coma after she was thrashed by three teenagers WION: How was the reception at Dharamshala? If you can share some experiences or good memories that you can take away from the Dharamshala visit? Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: It is a very interesting place, I visited it for the first time. It is near the Himalayas. It's a historic event, and a very calm place. Very important place in India, a historical event. WION: Plans to continue the engagement with the office of Dalai Lama? Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: I thought yesterday, I must visit this place every year. Many people from across the world visit this place. Very important for India, this place. I must request that Indians, Sri Lanka, must visit respective countries. WION: We understand that IBC assisted in the process of facilitating the smooth movement of your team from Colombo to Dharamshala and back and IBC was recently involved in the exposition of the relic in Thailand. Your comments please. Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: International Buddhist Confederation is a very important organisation in the world, IBC, 45-49 countries connected to it, 400 organisations connected to. They are very important to the world, not just India. IBC has done great work, with relics being sent to Thailand. Watch | Disney's streaming service to clamp down on password-sharing from June × WION: You know, China's view on the Dalai Lama, do you think China will be angry with you giving the relics Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: Last time, from Sri Lanka top Monks invited the Dalai Lama to visit Sri Lanka. But problem from China, why I don't know. We respect the Dalai Lama, as a Buddhist leader, he is not a merchant. We respect him and invited to Sri Lanka, but China did not like that. China pressed against our government as well, we don't like that. He is a Buddhist leader, he has the freedom, and we have freedom to invite. So in future, if he visits Sri Lanka, we are happy. Sri Lankans also visit Himachal as well. What is the problem, he is the Buddhist leader, he preaches Buddha's doctrine. WION: How do you see India, Sri Lanka ties? Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe: Our mother land is India, my cultural and religious connection came from India to Sri Lanka. It is a close country for us. Our language also starts from India, Sanskrit, Pali. We must develop our friendship, sometimes, religious, cultural, economic friendship. Our elder brother is India.

China blocking Dalai Lama's Sri Lanka visit, says top Buddhist leader

Typhoon-like winds sucked out three people from their apartments in southeastern China while they were sleeping. At least seven people lost their lives in the violent rain and hailstorms that struck southeastern China.

Typhoon-like winds sucked out three people from their apartments in southeastern China while they were sleeping. At least seven people lost their lives in the violent rain and hailstorms that struck southeastern China. The extreme weather started on March 31 and affected nine cities, including Nanchang and Jiujiang. According to the Jiangxi provincial emergency flood control headquarters, the harsh weather has impacted over 93,000 people in 54 counties. Three people, including an 11-year-old boy, fell from a residential building during the storm and died on Sunday, reports said. The strong winds pulled the door-size windows off frames in two apartments in the building in Nanchang. The winds reportedly swept the residents from their beds through the gaps. The extreme weather, which started Sunday and continued into Tuesday, damaged dozens of homes, reported AP. ALSO READ | BlackRock CEO Laurence Fink's pay slides by 18 per cent in 2023 Authorities are investigating the conditions surrounding the fall of the three victims. A man named Xu, who lives on the 20th floor of the same building, told the South China Morning Post that the wind also pulled his 64-year-old mother and 11-year-old son out of the apartment. The harsh storm blew out all his living room and bedroom windows. Another man, named Wan, lost her 60-year-old wife as the winds ripped out their 11th-floor bedroom window. He said he survived because he slept in a room undamaged by the storm. Later, he discovered that a floor-to-ceiling room window was devastated. A viral video showed his wife's bed next to a glass window. Details about how the wind swept Wan's wife out of the building remain unclear. However, Wan later found her body at the base of the building. "I am totally at a loss," he said. The assessment of the entire damage is still in progress. (With inputs from agencies)

Strong winds sucked out three people from their homes in China while they slept

Is China building a secret military base in the Maldives? China and the Maldives recently signed an MOU allowing a Chinese company to reclaim land in Uthuru Thila Falhu. The island is part of the atoll that is closest to India. Maldives says China will be helping in the construction of an Agricultural Economic Zone on the island. Can this agricultural project just be an eyewash? The Chinese company involved in the project has previously helped the PLA militarise islands in the South China Sea.

Gravitas | A secret Chinese military base in Maldives to counter India?

A Chinese contractor has resumed construction on a major dam site in northwestern Pakistan after being provided with extra security, following a deadly attack on Chinese engineers.

Chinese firm resumes work on Pakistan dam project after deadly attack

For the first time since the pandemic, China is allowing foreign climbers to access Mount Everest via Tibet.

Adrian Ballinger, who has scaled Everest eight times, is one of the guides who have a preference for the Tibet route to climb the world’s tallest mountain, as opposed to the more well-known Nepal route.

This year, Alpenglow Expeditions, Ballinger’s company will lead a group of climbers to the summit.

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All passes to use the Chinese route up the mountain, known in China as Qomolangma, are distributed by the China Tibet Mountaineering Association (CTMA) instead of a tourism official or council in Beijing.

However, there is no official announcement&nbsp;by the Chinese government notifying the public that passes will be given out.

The best way for a non-Chinese climber to know when the Tibet side of&nbsp;Everest&nbsp;will open is when the CTMA sends out a price list for the season. These lists include the costs of yaks, that carry gear up and down the mountain, local guides, translators and transport from Tibet’s capital of Lhasa to Everest Base Camp, said Ballinger.

Foreigners who get tourist visas to China should also get a&nbsp;separate visa for Tibet, which is a semi-autonomous region.&nbsp;

The period to climb Everest is usually between late April and mid-May. Ballinger’s team will arrive in China on April 25 after pre-acclimatising at home to save time.

“Climbing from the Chinese side used to be more admired than climbing from the Nepali side. From about 2000 to 2007, the Chinese side was the more popular side, and it was commonly understood that the reason it was more popular is because it was safer,” explains Ballinger.

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China held the Summer Olympics in Beijing in 2008. The Olympic Flame went to Everest before reaching the capital, even though there were already groups of visitors prepared to ascend the highest mountain in the world.

Ballinger explains, "They closed the mountain for the entire season eight days before we all arrived on the mountain in 2008, and a lot of people lost a lot of money. And as a result of that choice, that year's business moved to the Nepali side."

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time since the pandemic, China is allowing foreign climbers to access Mount Everest via Tibet. Adrian Ballinger, who has scaled Everest eight times, is one of the guides who have a preference for the Tibet route to climb the world’s tallest mountain, as opposed to the more well-known Nepal route.

For the first time since the pandemic, China is allowing foreign climbers to access Mount Everest via Tibet. Adrian Ballinger, who has scaled Everest eight times, is one of the guides who have a preference for the Tibet route to climb the world’s tallest mountain, as opposed to the more well-known Nepal route. This year, Alpenglow Expeditions, Ballinger’s company will lead a group of climbers to the summit. Also read: NASA's Perseverance rover spots thousands of 'unusual' white rocks on Mars All passes to use the Chinese route up the mountain, known in China as Qomolangma, are distributed by the China Tibet Mountaineering Association (CTMA) instead of a tourism official or council in Beijing. However, there is no official announcement by the Chinese government notifying the public that passes will be given out. The best way for a non-Chinese climber to know when the Tibet side of Everest will open is when the CTMA sends out a price list for the season. These lists include the costs of yaks, that carry gear up and down the mountain, local guides, translators and transport from Tibet’s capital of Lhasa to Everest Base Camp, said Ballinger. Foreigners who get tourist visas to China should also get a separate visa for Tibet, which is a semi-autonomous region. The period to climb Everest is usually between late April and mid-May. Ballinger’s team will arrive in China on April 25 after pre-acclimatising at home to save time. “Climbing from the Chinese side used to be more admired than climbing from the Nepali side. From about 2000 to 2007, the Chinese side was the more popular side, and it was commonly understood that the reason it was more popular is because it was safer,” explains Ballinger. Also read: From Exxon to Gazprom: 57 corporations drive 80% of global emissions, finds study China held the Summer Olympics in Beijing in 2008. The Olympic Flame went to Everest before reaching the capital, even though there were already groups of visitors prepared to ascend the highest mountain in the world. Ballinger explains, "They closed the mountain for the entire season eight days before we all arrived on the mountain in 2008, and a lot of people lost a lot of money. And as a result of that choice, that year's business moved to the Nepali side." (With inputs from agencies)

China allows foreign mountaineers to ascend Mount Everest after a gap of 4 years

Chinese dam project reopens after deadly Pakistan attack

Pakistan's Prime Minister visited Dasu in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. He was accompanied by the Chinese Envoy to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong. Sharif met with the Chinese Engineers working on the dam project and assured them of foolproof security arrangements. The visit by the Pakistani Prime Minister comes after five Chinese workers were killed in a suicide blast on March 26th while traveling between Islamabad and a hydroelectric Dam construction site in Dasu. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: Resumption of Chinese dam project, Pakistan President says 'committed to defeat terrorism'

China's services sector experienced an uptick in growth in March, with new business expanding at the fastest rate in three months, as indicated by a private-sector survey. <o:p></o:p>

According to a Reuters report, this development is indicative of a potential recovery in sentiment within the world's second-largest economy. <o:p></o:p>

The Caixin/S&amp;P Global services purchasing managers' index (PMI) increased to 52.7 from 52.5 in February, marking the 15th consecutive month above the 50-mark, which denotes expansion.<o:p></o:p>

Improved underlying demand and initiatives to stimulate new orders contributed to the acceleration in the pace of new business expansion, reaching its highest level since December of the previous year. <o:p></o:p>

This surge in new business has also strengthened business confidence, while sub-index of future activity rose for the first time in three months. <o:p></o:p>

There is optimism surrounding the potential impact of new product lines, expansion strategies, and increased client budgets on sales.<o:p></o:p>

Despite the positive indicators in sales and business confidence, the growth in employment levels has experienced a setback. <o:p></o:p>

Employment in the services sector contracted for the second consecutive month in March, although the rate of job shedding eased compared to February. <o:p></o:p>

Respondents said that resignations among staff and redundancies aimed at enhancing productivity as contributing factors to the decline in payroll numbers.<o:p></o:p>

The upbeat performance of the services sector, along with favourable results from the Caixin manufacturing PMI, propelled the composite PMI to 52.7 last month, up from 52.5 in February. <o:p></o:p>

This marks the highest reading since May 2023, suggesting an overall improvement in both manufacturing and services activities. <o:p></o:p>

The growth in supply and demand, along with enhanced exports and sustained market optimism, contributed to this positive trend.<o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Wang Zhe, an economist at Caixin Insight Group, who commented on the survey results. <o:p></o:p>

He noted that growth in both manufacturing and services sectors accelerated slightly. <o:p></o:p>

Additionally, he highlighted improved exports and sustained market optimism as contributing factors. <o:p></o:p>

However, Zhe also pointed out that employment levels continued to contract in both sectors, while input and output prices remained low, indicating persistent sluggish demand.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

China's services sector experienced an uptick in growth in March, with new business expanding at the fastest rate in three months, as indicated by a private-sector survey.

China's services sector experienced an uptick in growth in March, with new business expanding at the fastest rate in three months, as indicated by a private-sector survey. According to a Reuters report, this development is indicative of a potential recovery in sentiment within the world's second-largest economy. The Caixin/S&P Global services purchasing managers' index (PMI) increased to 52.7 from 52.5 in February, marking the 15th consecutive month above the 50-mark, which denotes expansion. Improved underlying demand and initiatives to stimulate new orders contributed to the acceleration in the pace of new business expansion, reaching its highest level since December of the previous year. This surge in new business has also strengthened business confidence, while sub-index of future activity rose for the first time in three months. There is optimism surrounding the potential impact of new product lines, expansion strategies, and increased client budgets on sales. Despite the positive indicators in sales and business confidence, the growth in employment levels has experienced a setback. Employment in the services sector contracted for the second consecutive month in March, although the rate of job shedding eased compared to February. Respondents said that resignations among staff and redundancies aimed at enhancing productivity as contributing factors to the decline in payroll numbers. The upbeat performance of the services sector, along with favourable results from the Caixin manufacturing PMI, propelled the composite PMI to 52.7 last month, up from 52.5 in February. This marks the highest reading since May 2023, suggesting an overall improvement in both manufacturing and services activities. The growth in supply and demand, along with enhanced exports and sustained market optimism, contributed to this positive trend. Reuters cited Wang Zhe, an economist at Caixin Insight Group, who commented on the survey results. He noted that growth in both manufacturing and services sectors accelerated slightly. Additionally, he highlighted improved exports and sustained market optimism as contributing factors. However, Zhe also pointed out that employment levels continued to contract in both sectors, while input and output prices remained low, indicating persistent sluggish demand. (With inputs from Reuters)

China's services sector shows accelerated growth in March, Caixin PMI reveals

Pakistan's Prime Minister visited Dasu in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. He was accompanied by the Chinese Envoy to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong. Sharif met with the Chinese Engineers working on the dam project and assured them of foolproof security arrangements.

Pakistan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack: Afghan national carries out attack

China is quietly pushing into Russia's far east region of Primorsky Krai even though on the surface, the partnership between the two allies is going strong. Reports say an influx of Chinese farmers is changing the region's economy. What's behind this surge of Chinese farmers? Why has Beijing set its eyes on Primorsky Krai? Is there more to China's silent invasion of Russia?

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Dozens of South Koreans were seen holding umbrellas and wearing raincoats as they braved the rainy weather to bid farewell to Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in the country, as she left for China, on Wednesday (Apr 3).&nbsp;

<h2>Fu Bao's emotional farewell</h2>

The first giant panda was born in 2020 in South Korea’s Everland theme park near the capital city of Seoul. Fu Bao is the daughter of pandas Ai Bao and Le Bao who came from China in 2016 on a 15-year lease programme.

On Wednesday, the truck carrying Fu Bao slowly moved to a plaza which was surrounded by her fans standing in the rain as many shouted their parting messages and took photos and videos on their phone.&nbsp;

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The vehicle was also decorated with a huge picture of the panda whose name means lucky treasure along with the message, “It was a miracle to meet you. Thank you, Fu Bao.”&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in South Korea, has returned to China. Before her departure, thousands of panda lovers braved the rainy weather to attend a farewell event at theme park Everland and say goodbye to the country's top panda celebrity.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/panda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#panda</a> <a href="https://t.co/oBcJrFjhRJ">pic.twitter.com/oBcJrFjhRJ</a>
— Our World (@MeetOurWorld) <a href="https://twitter.com/MeetOurWorld/status/1775491650728739067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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She made her last public appearance a month ago and has been inside the park since. On March 3, the theme park witnessed thousands of fans queuing up in the early morning chill to see their beloved Fu Bao before she left for China.&nbsp;

“You are our baby panda forever even if 10 years pass or 100 years pass,” zookeeper Kang Cheol-won said in a speech during the ceremony, as quoted by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

He added, “Dear all, Fu Bao is now leaving. Please, remember Fu Bao for a long, long time…and please don’t cry much!”&nbsp;

<h2>Fu Bao lands in China</h2>

The cub’s parents, 10-year-old female Ai Bao and Le Bao (11) came to South Korea from China’s Sichuan province, the home of the giant pandas, as part of Beijing’s “panda diplomacy”.&nbsp;

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In July 2023, Ai Bao gave birth in South Korea to giant panda twins, one of whom was Fu Bao.&nbsp;

The beloved panda cub landed in China’s Chengdu, Sichuan Province, on Wednesday (Apr 3) night on a chartered flight, reported the Chinese newspaper People’s Daily.&nbsp;

Fu Bao will be transported to the Shenshuping giant panda base in Wolong National Nature Reserve, located 130 kilometres northwest of Chengdu for quarantine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dozens of South Koreans were seen holding umbrellas and wearing raincoats as they braved the rainy weather to bid farewell to Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in the country, as she left for China, on Wednesday (Apr 3).

Dozens of South Koreans were seen holding umbrellas and wearing raincoats as they braved the rainy weather to bid farewell to Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in the country, as she left for China, on Wednesday (Apr 3). Fu Bao's emotional farewell The first giant panda was born in 2020 in South Korea’s Everland theme park near the capital city of Seoul. Fu Bao is the daughter of pandas Ai Bao and Le Bao who came from China in 2016 on a 15-year lease programme. On Wednesday, the truck carrying Fu Bao slowly moved to a plaza which was surrounded by her fans standing in the rain as many shouted their parting messages and took photos and videos on their phone. Also Read | Company develops Harry Potter-like invisibility cloak. Watch how it works The vehicle was also decorated with a huge picture of the panda whose name means lucky treasure along with the message, “It was a miracle to meet you. Thank you, Fu Bao.” Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in South Korea, has returned to China. Before her departure, thousands of panda lovers braved the rainy weather to attend a farewell event at theme park Everland and say goodbye to the country's top panda celebrity.#panda pic.twitter.com/oBcJrFjhRJ — Our World (@MeetOurWorld) April 3, 2024 × She made her last public appearance a month ago and has been inside the park since. On March 3, the theme park witnessed thousands of fans queuing up in the early morning chill to see their beloved Fu Bao before she left for China. “You are our baby panda forever even if 10 years pass or 100 years pass,” zookeeper Kang Cheol-won said in a speech during the ceremony, as quoted by the Associated Press. He added, “Dear all, Fu Bao is now leaving. Please, remember Fu Bao for a long, long time…and please don’t cry much!” Fu Bao lands in China The cub’s parents, 10-year-old female Ai Bao and Le Bao (11) came to South Korea from China’s Sichuan province, the home of the giant pandas, as part of Beijing’s “panda diplomacy”. Also Read | Paris bids adieu to Yuan Meng as first France-born panda heads to China In July 2023, Ai Bao gave birth in South Korea to giant panda twins, one of whom was Fu Bao. The beloved panda cub landed in China’s Chengdu, Sichuan Province, on Wednesday (Apr 3) night on a chartered flight, reported the Chinese newspaper People’s Daily. Fu Bao will be transported to the Shenshuping giant panda base in Wolong National Nature Reserve, located 130 kilometres northwest of Chengdu for quarantine. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | South Koreans bid farewell to beloved Fu Bao as first panda born in South Korea heads to China

US President Joe Biden & China President Xi Jinping engaged in a crucial phone call. While, China state-agency described the call as candid and in-depth, there were a lot of things on cards as they discussed bilateral ties and global issues.

Biden & Xi meet: China media calls talk 'candid & deep', military officials to talk soon

Country Garden Holdings Co., one of China's major property developers, continues to struggle with financial challenges as its home sales took a heavy hit last month, according to corporate filings. <o:p></o:p>

A report by Bloomberg News noted that the contracted sales for March plummeted by 83 per cent, amounting to 4.3 billion yuan ($590 million), indicating the continuation of a downward trend from the previous month. <o:p></o:p>

This decline follows an 85 per cent annual slide in February.<o:p></o:p>

The persistent sales downturn has intensified the financial strain on Country Garden, which is currently facing several other challenges.<o:p></o:p>

The company recently shocked investors by announcing that it had failed meet the deadline for releasing annual results due to insufficient information. <o:p></o:p>

Consequently, trading of its stock has been suspended in Hong Kong. <o:p></o:p>

Moreover, earlier this year, the company encountered a creditor's petition seeking to wind it up following its default on dollar debt.<o:p></o:p>

The challenges faced by Country Garden are indicative of broader issues that have been ongoing within China's property sector.<o:p></o:p>

March witnessed a continued steep decline in home sales compared to the previous year, according to private data. <o:p></o:p>

Additionally, property investment fell sharply by 9 per cent in the first two months of the year, exceeding expectations. <o:p></o:p>

Homebuyers are increasingly cautious of investing in projects led by developers facing financial difficulties, including Country Garden<o:p></o:p>

To ease its financial strain, Country Garden has turned to the regulator's latest property funding program. <o:p></o:p>

The company disclosed that 272 residential projects have been enlisted by local authorities for financing support as of March 15. <o:p></o:p>

This move is crucial for Country Garden as it seeks to mitigate the impact of the ongoing sales drought on its operational cash flow.<o:p></o:p>

Apart from Country Garden, China Evergrande Group, the company's closest rival, was instructed to liquidate in January. <o:p></o:p>

Similarly, China Vanke Co., another property giant in the industry, has witnessed a sales slump that continues to worsen as it looks to avoid default. <o:p></o:p>

The prevailing uncertainties in the property sector underscore the need for strategic measures to navigate through the turbulent times.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Bloomberg)<o:p></o:p>

Country Garden Holdings Co., one of China's major property developers, continues to struggle with financial challenges as its home sales took a heavy hit last month, according to corporate filings.

Country Garden Holdings Co., one of China's major property developers, continues to struggle with financial challenges as its home sales took a heavy hit last month, according to corporate filings. A report by Bloomberg News noted that the contracted sales for March plummeted by 83 per cent, amounting to 4.3 billion yuan ($590 million), indicating the continuation of a downward trend from the previous month. This decline follows an 85 per cent annual slide in February. The persistent sales downturn has intensified the financial strain on Country Garden, which is currently facing several other challenges. The company recently shocked investors by announcing that it had failed meet the deadline for releasing annual results due to insufficient information. Consequently, trading of its stock has been suspended in Hong Kong. Moreover, earlier this year, the company encountered a creditor's petition seeking to wind it up following its default on dollar debt. The challenges faced by Country Garden are indicative of broader issues that have been ongoing within China's property sector. March witnessed a continued steep decline in home sales compared to the previous year, according to private data. Additionally, property investment fell sharply by 9 per cent in the first two months of the year, exceeding expectations. Homebuyers are increasingly cautious of investing in projects led by developers facing financial difficulties, including Country Garden To ease its financial strain, Country Garden has turned to the regulator's latest property funding program. The company disclosed that 272 residential projects have been enlisted by local authorities for financing support as of March 15. This move is crucial for Country Garden as it seeks to mitigate the impact of the ongoing sales drought on its operational cash flow. Apart from Country Garden, China Evergrande Group, the company's closest rival, was instructed to liquidate in January. Similarly, China Vanke Co., another property giant in the industry, has witnessed a sales slump that continues to worsen as it looks to avoid default. The prevailing uncertainties in the property sector underscore the need for strategic measures to navigate through the turbulent times. (With inputs from Bloomberg)

China’s Country Garden faces sales slump as financial turmoil continues

US & China Presidents hold phone call: Biden urges Xi to maintain 'peace & stability' in Taiwan

US & China Presidents hold phone call: Joe Biden, Xi Jinping discuss US-China ties & conflict

Joe Biden & Xi Jinping discuss US-China ties and conflict

Biden, Xi Jinping discuss US-China ties & conflict

Thirty Chinese military aircraft were detected around Taiwan within 24 hours, the island nation reported on Wednesday (April 3).

This was one of the highest daily counts of the aircraft this year, according to a report by AFP. 
China considers Taiwan its own territory and has never ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-earthquake-live-updates-multiple-buildings-collapse-in-taiwan-japan-issues-tsunami-warning-707044">Taiwan earthquake LIVE: 7 dead, over 700 injured in strongest quake in decades</a>

Twenty of the detected aircraft crossed into the island's Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), according to Taiwan's defence ministry. It further added, “Taiwan's armed forces kept an eye on the situation and employed (patrol) aircraft, navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities.”

 
Notably, last month, Taiwan detected 36 Chinese warplanes around the island over a 24-hour period, the highest daily count this year.

These actions have escalated since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, who considers Taiwan already independent– a stance that crosses a red line for Beijing.

China deploys warplanes and naval vessels around Taiwan on a near-daily basis, and balloon flights over the island have also increased.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-elections-2024-lai-ching-te-to-be-next-president-who-is-he-679675" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-elections-2024-lai-ching-te-to-be-next-president-who-is-he-679675&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJr9KCzKWFAxXdha8BHcvpBGE4ChAWegQIBxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3tXUlgnhR4kvnQ7-ZyrMgu&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-elections-2024-lai-ching-te-to-be-next-president-who-is-he-679675" target="_blank">Taiwan&nbsp;elections 2024: Lai Ching-te to be next president. Who is he?</a>

Taiwan's current Vice President, Lai Ching-te – who is disliked by Beijing – won the January 13 presidential election. Lai and Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will take office on May 20.

Tensions between Taiwan and China continue to raise concerns in the region, as Beijing maintains its stance on reclaiming the self-governing island.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thirty Chinese military aircraft were detected around Taiwan within 24 hours, the island nation reported on Wednesday (April 3). This was one of the highest daily counts of the aircraft this year, according to a report by AFP.

Thirty Chinese military aircraft were detected around Taiwan within 24 hours, the island nation reported on Wednesday (April 3). This was one of the highest daily counts of the aircraft this year, according to a report by AFP. China considers Taiwan its own territory and has never ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. Also read: Taiwan earthquake LIVE: 7 dead, over 700 injured in strongest quake in decades Twenty of the detected aircraft crossed into the island's Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), according to Taiwan's defence ministry. It further added, “Taiwan's armed forces kept an eye on the situation and employed (patrol) aircraft, navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities.” Notably, last month, Taiwan detected 36 Chinese warplanes around the island over a 24-hour period, the highest daily count this year. These actions have escalated since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, who considers Taiwan already independent– a stance that crosses a red line for Beijing. China deploys warplanes and naval vessels around Taiwan on a near-daily basis, and balloon flights over the island have also increased. Also read: Taiwan elections 2024: Lai Ching-te to be next president. Who is he? Taiwan's current Vice President, Lai Ching-te – who is disliked by Beijing – won the January 13 presidential election. Lai and Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will take office on May 20. Tensions between Taiwan and China continue to raise concerns in the region, as Beijing maintains its stance on reclaiming the self-governing island. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan tracks 30 Chinese warplanes within 24 hours, prompting regional concerns

Biden-Xi meet: Taiwan question first Red Line in China-US ties, says Xi Jinping

China's housing market slump shows no signs of abating. New home sales by the nation's 100 biggest developers plunged 46% in march compared to last year. This ongoing drought is squeezing major builders like country garden, which missed a deadline for reporting annual results, and china Vanke, whose net income tumbled 46% last year. Watch in for more details!

China property crisis: Sales drough increases cash crunch for country garden

Biden and Xi Jinping hold phone call: Bilateral issues & mutual concerns discussed

The head of the US Senate Banking Committee, Sherrod Brown, has called upon the Biden administration to investigate the supposed ties between Nippon Steel and the Chinese steel industry. <o:p></o:p>

Brown's concerns stem from bipartisan opposition within Congress regarding Nippon Steel's proposed $14.9 billion acquisition of US Steel Corp, saying that there were potential threats to national security. <o:p></o:p>

The call for scrutiny comes after an April report by consultancy Horizon Advisory, which highlighted alleged connections between Nippon Steel and Chinese state-backed steel companies. <o:p></o:p>

"As you examine this deal, I urge you to thoroughly investigate the allegations raised in this report and examine Nippon's ties to the Chinese government and the danger this merger poses to American national and economic security," Reuters quoted Brown as saying. <o:p></o:p>

He also noted concerns regarding Nippon Steel's historical support for China's steel industry and its current operational presence in the country. <o:p></o:p>

Brown, a Democrat from Ohio, is seeking re-election in the upcoming election on 5th November.<o:p></o:p>

Nippon Steel, however, has vehemently refuted the allegations presented in Horizon Advisory's report. <o:p></o:p>

The company said that the report was "rife with inaccuracies and misrepresentations" and pressed that its operations in China accounted for 5 per cent of their global production capacity, thus being extremely limited. <o:p></o:p>

Additionally, Nippon Steel said that its investments in China do not grant Chinese partners control over its operations outside of China, including research and development activities.<o:p></o:p>

According to Horizon's report, Nippon Steel has a historical involvement in supporting the development of China's steel industry and maintains operational ties with several Chinese state-backed steel enterprises. <o:p></o:p>

Brown said that Nippon Steel's connections to China's military-civil fusion strategy and its pursuit of global economic influence was a matter of concern. <o:p></o:p>

President Joe Biden previously said that US Steel should remain domestically owned, while his opponent in the upcoming presidential election, former President Donald Trump, promised to block the proposed Nippon Steel acquisition if elected.<o:p></o:p>

Presently, the White House has yet to issue a response to Brown's call for scrutiny, and Horizon Advisory has not provided any comments following requests for clarification.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

The head of the US Senate Banking Committee, Sherrod Brown, has called upon the Biden administration to investigate the supposed ties between Nippon Steel and the Chinese steel industry.

The head of the US Senate Banking Committee, Sherrod Brown, has called upon the Biden administration to investigate the supposed ties between Nippon Steel and the Chinese steel industry. Brown's concerns stem from bipartisan opposition within Congress regarding Nippon Steel's proposed $14.9 billion acquisition of US Steel Corp, saying that there were potential threats to national security. The call for scrutiny comes after an April report by consultancy Horizon Advisory, which highlighted alleged connections between Nippon Steel and Chinese state-backed steel companies. "As you examine this deal, I urge you to thoroughly investigate the allegations raised in this report and examine Nippon's ties to the Chinese government and the danger this merger poses to American national and economic security," Reuters quoted Brown as saying. He also noted concerns regarding Nippon Steel's historical support for China's steel industry and its current operational presence in the country. Brown, a Democrat from Ohio, is seeking re-election in the upcoming election on 5th November. Nippon Steel, however, has vehemently refuted the allegations presented in Horizon Advisory's report. The company said that the report was "rife with inaccuracies and misrepresentations" and pressed that its operations in China accounted for 5 per cent of their global production capacity, thus being extremely limited. Additionally, Nippon Steel said that its investments in China do not grant Chinese partners control over its operations outside of China, including research and development activities. According to Horizon's report, Nippon Steel has a historical involvement in supporting the development of China's steel industry and maintains operational ties with several Chinese state-backed steel enterprises. Brown said that Nippon Steel's connections to China's military-civil fusion strategy and its pursuit of global economic influence was a matter of concern. President Joe Biden previously said that US Steel should remain domestically owned, while his opponent in the upcoming presidential election, former President Donald Trump, promised to block the proposed Nippon Steel acquisition if elected. Presently, the White House has yet to issue a response to Brown's call for scrutiny, and Horizon Advisory has not provided any comments following requests for clarification. (With inputs from Reuters)

US senator urges Biden administration to review suspected Nippon Steel ties to China

Are you eating poisonous Chinese garlic? India is on alert after authorities have found shipments of banned Chinese garlic on land ports. What is it that makes garlic from China so dangerous?

Gravitas | Is China smuggling poisonous garlic into India?

China's independently built civil manned airship AS700 successfully completed its first ferry flight in central China's Hubei Province on Saturday, according to its creator, the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the country's largest aircraft manufacturer.

China's AS700 civil manned airship completes maiden trial flight

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said his government would ensure foolproof security measures for the Chinese nationals working across the country, days after five Chinese workers were killed in a suicide attack in the country's restive northwest.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif assures foolproof security for Chinese nationals

Indonesia's president-elect Prabowo Subianto met Chinese president Xi Jinping in Beijing and this is Subianto first foreign trips since elections. Watch in for more details!

China seeks long-term partnership with Indonesia: Xi Jinping

India has rejected an outright attempt by China to rename around 30 locations in its Northeastern State of Arunachal Pradesh. Over the years China has made several claims on Arunachal Pradesh calling it Zangnan and a part of South Tibet. India has always dismissed these claims by China.

India-China naming row | India's FM: Assigning invented names will not alter reality

Chinese President Xi Jinping has held talks with Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto in Beijing. The leaders agreed to strengthen the alignment of their development strategies and further enhance ties. Watch in for more details!

Xi Jinping meets with Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto in Beijing

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