Category: NEWS

On October 9th, a promotional event for the 2025 Osaka World Expo was held in Hefei, China, drawing an audience of over 130 participants, including representatives from the Anhui provincial government, business associations, and various enterprises.

Zheng Dongtao, Secretary of the Party Leadership Group and Director of the Anhui Provincial Council for the Promotion of International Trade, kicked off the event with an engaging keynote speech. The Expo, scheduled to take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka, will be themed “Designing a Vibrant Future Society.” The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade will oversee China’s participation, with the Chinese Pavilion emphasizing “Building a Community of Life Between Man and Nature—A Future Society of Green Development.” Spanning approximately 3,500 square meters, this pavilion will stand as one of the largest self-built foreign pavilions at the event.

In his address, Zheng highlighted the Anhui provincial government’s robust commitment to harnessing this crucial global platform. He announced that on June 3, 2025, the province will host a series of events during the Expo aimed at showcasing advancements in technological innovation, green development, and cultural tourism, positioning Anhui as a new focal point for reform and opening up.

The event also featured insights from Hirokazu Matsuda, a representative from the Japan World Expo Association, who discussed venue design, transportation logistics, event preparations, and ticket sales for the Osaka Expo.

The World Expo, which is organized by a single nation and incorporates participation from numerous countries and international organizations, is recognized as the premier global exhibition, serving as a unique platform for showcasing new concepts, ideas, and technologies in human development.

**Interview with Arthur Eriye on Nigeria’s Rising Food Costs and Dietary Challenges**

**Interviewer**: Arthur, recent reports reveal that more and more Nigerians are having difficulty maintaining a balanced diet due to escalating food prices. Can you shed some light on this issue?

**Arthur Eriye**: Certainly. The reality is concerning; by August 2024, the average cost of a healthy meal had climbed to N1,255 per adult. This poses a significant challenge for many, especially considering that Nigeria is grappling with a staggering food inflation rate of 32.15 percent, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

**Interviewer**: That’s quite alarming. It seems that higher food prices are making it increasingly difficult for the average Nigerian to access healthy food options.

**Arthur Eriye**: That’s correct. We’re witnessing some of the highest food inflation levels in Nigeria’s history. However, it’s worth noting a slight decrease of 0.8 percent in healthy meal costs in August compared to July, from N1,265 to N1,255. While this provides a minor reprieve, it doesn’t significantly alleviate the ongoing struggles faced by many families.

**Interviewer**: How does the NBS determine the cost of a healthy diet?

**Arthur Eriye**: The NBS defines this cost as the lowest combination of locally available food items that comply with globally recognized dietary guidelines. Essentially, it serves as a gauge for both physical and economic access to nutritious foods. Importantly, this figure doesn’t include expenses related to transportation and meal preparation.

**Interviewer**: Can you discuss the differences in healthy meal costs across various regions in Nigeria?

**Arthur Eriye**: Absolutely. In August, the South-West region recorded the highest average cost for a healthy meal at N1,554 per adult per day, with the South-South not far behind at N1,381. Conversely, the North-West had the lowest average, at N1,014. Specifically, states like Ogun, Lagos, and Rivers faced the steepest costs, whereas Katsina had the lowest.

**Interviewer**: How have these costs evolved over time?

**Arthur Eriye**: The NBS has documented a consistent increase in the cost of maintaining a healthy diet over the last six months, with prices in August 2024 indicating a 28 percent rise compared to March 2024. This surge has primarily been driven by increased prices for legumes, nuts, seeds, starchy staples, and vegetables. Although we saw a slight monthly dip in August, it hasn’t done much to offset the overall upward trend.

**Interviewer**: In your opinion, which food groups are the most impacted by these price hikes?

**Arthur Eriye**: Interestingly, animal-source foods have become the priciest category, accounting for 37 percent of the total cost of a healthy diet while contributing only 13 percent of the total calories. Fruits and vegetables also significantly impact costs, representing 11 percent and 14 percent of the total cost, respectively, but contributing just seven and five percent to overall calorie intake.

**Interviewer**: How does the cost of a healthy diet measure against general inflation and food inflation rates?

**Arthur Eriye**: The cost of a healthy diet is increasing at a rate that exceeds both general inflation and food inflation. However, it’s essential to recognize that the per adult per day cost of a healthy diet is not directly comparable to the broader food Consumer Price Index, which utilizes a weighted index approach and encompasses a wider variety of items.

**Interviewer**: There are distressing estimates from the UN’s FAO regarding food insecurity in Nigeria. What’s your take on that?

**Arthur Eriye**: Yes, the FAO has recently stated that approximately 26.5 million Nigerians, especially in areas like Borno, Sokoto, Zamfara, and the Federal Capital Territory, are likely to face a food crisis between June and August. This, combined with insights from the International Monetary Fund—which emphasizes the adverse effects of insufficient reforms, security issues, sluggish growth, and high inflation—paints a bleak picture of the ongoing food insecurity crisis in Nigeria.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, is facing corruption charges following an early morning search of his official residence by federal agents on September 26. Newsweek reports that this development raises significant questions about the future leadership of New York City. Despite calls from several influential political figures in the city for him to resign, Adams maintains that he has no intention of stepping down, leaving his future uncertain.

If convicted, could he remain in office?

As noted by Newsweek, if Adams is arrested, he would become the first sitting mayor in New York City’s history to face criminal charges—an unprecedented situation with no established process for what would happen next. Under current law, a mayor who is arrested or convicted is not legally prevented from staying in office; however, political pressure could compel Adams to resign. Should he choose to step down, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would temporarily take over as mayor and would have to announce a timeline for a special election to appoint a new mayor within three days, with the election occurring within 80 days.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has the authority to suspend or remove Adams from office, but she has expressed that individuals should be presumed innocent until proven guilty. Additionally, Adams could voluntarily designate himself as unable to carry out his duties, which would allow an acting mayor to assume his responsibilities.

While Adams has stated he will not resign, it is expected that the political pressure will intensify. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a fellow Democrat, has publicly urged him to resign for the sake of New York City. In contrast, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, both from New York, have opted to respect the judicial process without taking a definitive position.

It’s worth mentioning that no sitting New York City mayor has ever been arrested or charged with a crime. Former Mayor Bill de Blasio dealt with a corruption investigation related to alleged favoritism towards donors during the 2013 election, but he was not charged. Similarly, former Mayor Mike Bloomberg was investigated in 2010 for significant donations to the Independence Party that benefited Republican candidates but faced no charges as well.

Who are the potential candidates for the upcoming mayoral election?

The next mayoral election is set for 2025, and several contenders are already eyeing the race. Notable Democrats include City Comptroller Brad Lander and State Senator Jessica Ramos. On the Republican side, candidates like Curtis Sliwa, who ran for mayor in 2022, and City Councilman Joe Borelli are being considered.

Adams has been serving as mayor since January 1, 2022, and his term is scheduled to end on December 31, 2025. He had previously announced plans to seek re-nomination from the Democratic Party next year, but the recent corruption allegations have complicated those intentions significantly.

In a recent interview, Canadian musician Dan Snaith, who performs under the name Caribou, shared insights into the reactions surrounding his latest album, *Honey*, against the backdrop of music’s evolution in the digital age. This album has sparked a range of opinions, especially concerning Snaith’s incorporation of artificial intelligence to modify his voice, prompting discussions about creativity and authenticity in modern music.

Historically, musicians have been wary of technological changes. For instance, in 1959, the Musicians’ Union famously protested against the use of drum machines in live performances, deeming them “stilted and unimaginative.” Fast forward to today, technology, from drum machines to AI, has woven itself into the fabric of genres like rap and techno, often enhancing them rather than diminishing traditional roles.

Snaith’s *Honey* showcases AI-altered versions of his own voice, allowing him to venture into different vocal styles. He claims that AI adeptly captures the nuances of his singing, such as phrasing and imperfections. However, while some listeners may see this as an innovative tool—similar to advanced Auto-Tune—others might find it unappealing, particularly when he adopts multiple personas, including youthful female characters in tracks like “Broke My Heart.”

Snaith’s AI experimentation has not been without controversy, particularly during his attempt at rapping on “Campfire.” Critics have voiced concerns about cultural appropriation, suggesting that his portrayal could feel cringe-worthy or even offensive to some. In contrast, his more authentic vocal quality shines in “Over Now,” where his natural hesitations convey a greater emotional depth than his AI-generated performances.

As Snaith’s artistry develops, it’s becoming evident that his compositional strengths may be on a decline. Some tracks from *Honey* echo more prominent styles without offering fresh takes; for example, “Broke My Heart” resembles UK garage yet lacks the cleverness of its inspirations. Other tracks struggle to forge memorable melodies.

Additionally, the rhythms throughout the album often seem derivative, as exemplified by “Volume,” which heavily samples Marrs’ “Pump Up the Volume” but fails to capture its original vibrancy. The unique charm evident in Snaith’s earlier works, particularly the acclaimed 2010 album *Swim*, feels diminished in this new release, which seems to favor a tried-and-true formula over adventurous experimentation.

Ultimately, while AI presents exciting possibilities for creative enhancement, Snaith’s reliance on this technology in *Honey* raises pertinent concerns about the depth of his artistry and the value of collaboration. Many are left to ponder whether it would have been more impactful for him to work with human artists to enrich his sound. As the music landscape continues to evolve, the conversation around technology and creativity remains critically relevant.

On October 9, the General Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the General Office of the State Council officially released a document titled “Opinions on Accelerating the Development and Utilization of Public Data Resources.” This marks a significant milestone as it’s the first central-level design document aimed at regulating and guiding the development and use of public data. We reached out to experts for their perspectives immediately after the announcement.

The document outlines two primary objectives:

By 2025, it seeks to establish a preliminary framework for the rules governing public data resources, significantly enhancing both the scale and quality of resource supply. Additionally, it aims to continuously enrich data products and services, leading to noticeable improvements in the development and utilization of public data across key industries and regions.

By 2030, the rules framework is expected to mature, resulting in a comprehensive system for resource development and utilization.

Meng Qingguo, the Executive Director of the Social Computing and National Governance Laboratory at Tsinghua University, shared his thoughts on the newly released opinions. He noted that the focus is on breaking down systemic obstacles and institutional bottlenecks that hinder the flow and usage of public data. The approach aims to strike a balance between development and security by encouraging supply incentives and energizing market demand, thus offering a roadmap for the compliant and effective circulation and use of public data. He highlighted that these objectives align with the goals outlined in the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee, which seeks to refine the market system and establish regulations for production factors while promoting a unified national data market. Specifically, he pointed out that clearly regulating the authorization of public data operations is essential for engaging various stakeholders in harnessing data value and promoting high-quality economic and social development.

(Reported by Liu Ying and Liu Baixuan from CGTN) 【Edited by Wang Chao】

As the stock market opened on October 8, a remarkable influx of investors poured in, and within just 20 minutes, the trading volumes on the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges exceeded 1 trillion yuan (approximately 142.4 billion USD), marking a historic high. This unprecedented activity featured a diverse array of participants, from new investors—some as young as those born in the 2000s, who entered the market using their New Year’s money—to seasoned traders with over 20 years of experience finally reaping the rewards of profitability.

“In the long holiday, even though major brokerages were technically closed, our offices were bustling,” noted a staff member from the Guosen Securities office in Hangzhou. “We’ve been witnessing an ongoing influx of investors keen on opening accounts. It’s incredible to see so many young individuals from the post-2000 and post-1995 generations; it’s really hard to keep track of everyone!”

On the morning of the market opening, local resident Ms. Liu was seen eagerly seeking stock recommendations from more experienced investors. In a bold move, fellow retail investor Ms. Chen decided to bet all her chips at the daily limit threshold, swiftly securing a 20% profit.

Mr. Fang, another retail trader, treated himself to a Dream Dragon ice cream as a reward for his successful trading day. His personal rule was simple: earn a specific amount, and he could indulge. After two years without a sweet treat, Fang hit the jackpot on October 8 when one of his gaming stocks reached its upper limit, transforming a prior 25% loss on his initial 500,000 yuan investment into a 7% gain.

Mr. Guo, a manager at a startup in Xiaoshan, took a step back from the market after experiencing losses during the stock crash of 2015. Now, after nine years away, he is revisiting forgotten account details, ready to invest over 200,000 yuan.

Recent reports have spotlighted a wave of young traders entering the market, including a surprising number born in 2000 and even 2005. Eighteen-year-old Wang, a finance newbie who keeps close tabs on financial news, entered the market with 5,000 yuan earned from summer jobs. “If I can double this 5,000 yuan, I’ll be satisfied,” he stated, mentally preparing for the ups and downs ahead.

Nineteen-year-old Ma, a finance student, expressed regret for not investing more on September 30. As the market opened, he jumped in enthusiastically, despite facing some dips. Optimistic about his investments, Ma has placed 30,000 yuan into the market, part of which was funded by his parents. “They’re not fully on board with my trading, but they’re willing to give me a little to help me learn. I could end up losing it all, but I can’t borrow money for trading.”

In Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, a noticeable trend has emerged as many citizens flock to securities firms to open stock trading accounts and learn the intricacies of the market with assistance from brokerage staff.

On October 7, at 6:30 AM, Hamas initiated a series of rocket attacks aimed at the Israeli border, targeting gatherings commemorating the anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war. This assault coincided with the anniversary of last year’s cross-border raid by Hamas. Israeli news outlet Yedioth Ahronoth reported that Hamas specifically focused on events taking place at the Rafah crossing, Kerem Shalom crossing, and kibbutz Holit, labeling these as “enemy gatherings.”

The Guardian also highlighted a statement from Hamas’s military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, confirming their rocket barrage aimed at these commemorative gatherings.

According to the Israeli Defense Forces, they successfully prevented a more extensive rocket launch by Hamas. Ultimately, four rockets were fired towards the Sufa area; three were intercepted, while the fourth fell in an open space.

In stark contrast, thousands of Israelis gathered that same day at the site of last year’s Nova Music Festival, which had been targeted by Hamas, resulting in 364 deaths and 44 kidnappings.

The Guardian reported that as the anniversary of the war drew near, Israelis from across the nation planned to attend memorial ceremonies, visit cemeteries, and gather at remembrance sites to pay tribute to the hundreds of victims, the numerous individuals still held captive, and the soldiers who were injured or lost their lives in the rescue efforts.

At the recent Climate Tech Roundtable hosted by Good Morning Silicon Valley, a panel of experts convened to delve into innovative climate technologies and discuss green initiatives, with a spotlight on the contributions of emerging startups. The event featured insights from three distinguished leaders in the field.

Trevor Keenan, Chief Scientist at the Earthshot Lab and a tenured professor of Environmental Science at UC Berkeley, shared his expertise on global warming trends. He discussed the intricacies of ecosystem carbon sequestration and showcased a video illustrating the cycle of carbon emissions and their impact on the environment.

Grey Nearing, a Senior Research Scientist at Google Research, introduced the audience to cutting-edge flood forecasting systems. He recommended a mobile app designed for flood alerts and highlighted Google’s partnerships with governments to improve the effectiveness of their flood warning systems. Nearing emphasized that this technology can predict flood risks on a near-global scale, aiming to enhance alert accuracy and minimize potential damages.

Dr. Huiling Chang, the Strategic Marketing Director at Bizlink Group, offered valuable insights into corporate sustainability initiatives and the RE100 program in the Americas. With her extensive background in market intelligence and sustainability execution, her contributions greatly enriched the discussion.

The event also featured Amai’s innovative edible cups, which symbolize significant strides in reducing global waste. Unlike similar offerings in Europe, Amai’s cups are designed to hold hot liquids without losing their integrity for up to 24 hours when in contact with water.

Participants praised the event not only for its cutting-edge knowledge but also for the unique opportunity to engage with the experts during the Q&A session—a rare and enriching experience.

To wrap up the meeting, attendees were treated to meals provided by the hosts, which were accompanied by Amai’s edible cups, a fitting conclusion to a day focused on sustainability and innovation.

In a recent interview, bestselling American author Jodi Picoult shared insights into her latest work, *By Any Other Name*. This novel intertwines two narratives that delve into the historical neglect of women’s creativity, portraying both a modern playwright and a character from the Tudor era. Picoult, who has long addressed significant social issues in her books, first expressed concerns about sexism in literature back in 2010. Despite her extensive body of work—30 novels tackling topics like gun control and LGBTQ+ rights—she has often felt her writing has been dismissed as mere “beach reads,” a perception she argues would not exist if her books had been authored by men like Jonathan Franzen or Jeffrey Eugenides.

In *By Any Other Name*, readers are introduced to Emilia Bassano, a character first proposed by historian A.L. Rowse as the mysterious Dark Lady of Shakespeare’s sonnets. Picoult reimagines Bassano not just as a figure in Shakespeare’s narrative, but as the true author behind his acclaimed works. The novel draws connections between Shakespeare’s seemingly privileged education and Emilia’s aristocratic upbringing, shedding light on how her life experiences likely influenced the Bard’s legendary writings. In contemporary Manhattan, Melina, a young playwright, struggles with her self-confidence after receiving harsh feedback for her debut work. As a descendant of Bassano, Melina is convinced of Emilia’s role as the true author of Shakespeare’s plays.

Through her narrative, Picoult raises thought-provoking questions, particularly regarding how a “glover’s son” from Stratford could possess knowledge of royal court manners or the intricate details found in *Hamlet* and *Othello*. Melina argues, “Every gap in Shakespeare’s life or knowledge that has to be explained away by scholars, she somehow fills.”

While some critics might contest the idea that Shakespeare lacked the standing to be a literary genius, Picoult challenges this stereotype. Her depiction of Shakespeare in *By Any Other Name* emphasizes the complex interplay between Emilia’s intellect and Shakespeare’s subsequent fame. The story reveals Emilia’s struggles as she becomes a concubine to the Lord Chamberlain, which allows her unique talents to thrive despite the overshadowing male authorship.

However, Picoult’s modern characterization of Emilia has faced criticism, with some reviewers noting that she resembles a contemporary feminist more than a figure from Tudor England. The modern descriptions, at times, fall short of the depth and sophistication evident in the works of authors like Maggie O’Farrell in *Hamnet* or Tom Stoppard in *Shakespeare in Love*.

Although Picoult’s ambitious narrative spans over 500 pages, some critiques suggest that the contemporary storyline often feels more like a platform for polemic rather than a seamless continuation of Emilia’s historical arc. While the challenges faced by Melina reflect current issues in the arts, some argue that the modern narrative detracts from the captivating historical drama set in Tudor England, where Emilia’s life was filled with intrigue, romance, and tragic loss.

Picoult also acknowledges the theory put forth by academic Elizabeth Winkler in 2019, suggesting that Shakespeare might have been a woman, highlighting the ongoing discussions about gender and recognition in literature. While her vivid writing and exploration of social justice have garnered her millions of readers, the debate lingers over whether her style matches the literary depth found in the works of some male authors.

In conclusion, *By Any Other Name* reflects on history, inviting readers to reconsider the prevailing narratives about Shakespeare while celebrating the remarkable contributions of women. Picoult’s novel serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for recognition in a field that has historically overlooked female voices.

The “Great Elephant Migration” stands out as one of the largest outdoor art installations ever seen in New York City. Recently, 100 life-sized elephant sculptures have made their debut on the bustling streets of Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. This remarkable exhibition aims not only to raise funds for animal conservation but also to raise awareness about the challenges faced by elephants.

Ruth Ganesh, co-founder of the Coexistence Collective, shared her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “All my dreams have come true. The response from New Yorkers has been heartwarming.”

The elephants are strategically placed throughout the Meatpacking District, predominantly along Ninth Avenue. Each sculpture boasts uniquely shaped ears, allowing visitors to easily identify their differences. These one-of-a-kind replicas draw inspiration from real elephants that roam freely in Southern India.

Ganesh observed that visitors often can tell which elephants appear adventurous and which ones exhibit shyer behaviors, conveying a deeper message about character and coexistence. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the international organization Elephant Family USA and the Coexistence Collective, with the sculptures crafted over several years by a team of 200 artisans in India. The project promotes the ideal that humans and animals can live together in harmony.

Ganesh’s partner, Tarsh Thekaekara, conveyed a poignant thought: “These elephants seem to carry a message: if the world’s largest land mammals can share space with humans, then surely other animals can thrive alongside us too.”

Intriguingly, the elephants are made from “lantana,” an invasive weed that has overwhelmed forests and displaced wildlife. Ganesh highlighted the irony that a material often linked to pushing elephants away is being transformed into a project aimed at their preservation.

The journey of these elephants commenced in Newport, Rhode Island, and they will be gracing New York City streets until October 20. However, their travels don’t stop there. Ganesh envisions selling 1,000 elephants before they arrive in Los Angeles, with planned stops at the Basel Art Fair in Miami Beach and Browning, Montana. The total sales target is an ambitious $10 million.

Prices for these unique sculptures range from $8,000 to $22,000, with all proceeds directed toward organizations dedicated to enhancing “nature’s benefits to humanity.”