20th anniversary of devastating Indian Ocean tsunami commemorated
Dec 26, 2024
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Sun Ye, an expert on China's space program, discusses the impressive achievements and ambitious plans for the future of China's space exploration. Among the highlights are insights into China's lunar ambitions and the success of the 2024 space program. The conversation also touches on recent legislative amendments aimed at enhancing public accountability and environmental safety, as well as the cultural exchanges between China and Japan, reflecting a spirit of cooperation in the region.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has implemented three new laws aimed at enhancing taxation, supervision, and the promotion of science and technology.
Indonesia commemorated the 20th anniversary of the Indian Ocean tsunami, reflecting on the profound loss and the advancements in disaster preparedness since then.
Recent discussions between China and Japan underline a commitment to strengthening cultural exchanges and cooperation in various sectors, enhancing bilateral relations.
Deep dives
New Legislative Developments in China
Chinese President Xi Jinping has enacted three new laws targeting value-added tax (VAT), supervision, and the popularization of science and technology following a recent legislative session. The VAT law, to take effect on January 1, 2026, marks a significant move towards law-based taxation, formalizing 14 out of 18 tax categories and enhancing revenue transparency. This law also allows for tax exemptions and deductions to promote the growth of specific sectors, ultimately aiming for high-quality development in the economy. Additionally, amendments to the supervision law enhance anti-corruption efforts and improve international cooperation, while the revised science and technology law focuses on societal responsibilities in scientific outreach and innovation.
Strengthening China-Japan Relations
Recent agreements between China and Japan aim to boost cultural exchanges and cooperation in various fields, including education, sports, and tourism. The initiative arises from the second meeting of a high-level consultation system, which encourages collaboration between youth and sister cities, thereby strengthening ties between the two nations. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of these cultural exchanges in fostering mutual understanding and peaceful development, especially in a historical context marking the 80th anniversary of significant wartime events. As both sides commit to enhancing these interactions, the potential impact on bilateral relations looks promising.
Achievements in China's Space Endeavors
China's space program has experienced exceptional milestones in 2024, including the successful completion of its first lunar sample retrieval mission from the moon's far side. This mission, which resulted in the return of 1,935 grams of lunar samples, has provided vital insights to scientists. Moreover, China's commercial spaceport began operations, and significant advancements are seen from the nation’s ongoing manned space missions, including the first female space flight engineer to work on the Chinese space station. Looking ahead, plans for a manned lunar mission by 2030 are underway, highlighting China's aspirations for deeper exploration in space.
Mourning and Investigations Following Aviation Tragedy in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is in mourning following a tragic plane crash in Kazakhstan that claimed the lives of 38 individuals from a total of 67 onboard. The crash occurred while the Azerbaijan Airlines jet was en route from Baku to Grozny, and the country's President expressed condolences to the victims' families. An investigation into the cause of the crash, which reportedly involved a loss of communication after the plane encountered a bird strike, is underway. Authorities have begun providing aid to survivors while forensic experts are involved in the investigation, reflecting the heavy impact the incident has had on the nation and its people.
Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the 2004 Tsunami
Indonesia has marked the 20th anniversary of the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami with somber ceremonies, particularly in Acha province, where many gathered to remember the victims. A mass grave containing over 14,000 unidentified victims serves as a poignant reminder of the tragedy, which claimed approximately 230,000 lives across multiple countries. Despite the ongoing grief, improvements in infrastructure and early warning systems have significantly enhanced resilience against potential future tsunamis. The commemorative events underscore the enduring sorrow of loss, while also acknowledging the progress made in disaster preparedness and community recovery since the catastrophic event.
The Chinese president has signed orders to enact three laws concerning value-added tax, supervision, and the popularization of science and technology(01:02). People in Indonesia’s Aceh province have commemorated the 20th anniversary of a devastating tsunami(20:51). Results of China’s fifth national economic census show that the country’s economy has achieved progress while maintaining stability over the past five years(31:00).
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