Latest news with #Confucius
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Confucius Institute Ljubljana celebrates 15th anniversary
LJUBLJANA, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Over 100 distinguished guests from the business, education, and cultural sectors of both China and Slovenia gathered here Tuesday to mark the 15th anniversary of the Confucius Institute Ljubljana. Zhao Binghui, charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Slovenia, spoke highly of the Institute's contributions to deepening multi-level and multi-field exchanges between China and Slovenia by promoting high-quality Chinese language education and organizing diverse cultural activities over the past 15 years. The Institute was jointly established by the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics (SUIBE) and the University of Ljubljana in May 2010. To date, the Institute has established five Confucius Classrooms and 26 teaching centers throughout Slovenia, providing Chinese language education from kindergarten to university level. "Language is a bridge for exchanges and mutual learning of civilizations," he noted. Qi Ming, chairman of SUIBE, also emphasized the Institute's role as a vital bridge between the two universities, helping foster mutual understanding between the Chinese and Slovenian peoples. He noted the partnership has led to diverse collaborations, including faculty and student exchanges, as well as joint research initiatives. Meanwhile, Danijela Voljc, the Slovenian director of the Institute, said that over 600 Slovenians are currently studying Chinese through its programs. Over the past 15 years, the Institute has trained several thousand more students, bringing Chinese and Slovenian cultures closer together, the director added. Since 2012, Chinese has been officially included in Slovenia's national education system.
![[Ana Palacio] Trump's newspeak threatens us all](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwimg.heraldcorp.com%2Fnews%2Fcms%2F2025%2F05%2F27%2Fnews-p.v1.20250527.5ca07461b6aa41a582f9ba537f2005be_T1.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
![[Ana Palacio] Trump's newspeak threatens us all](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fall-logos-bucket.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fkoreaherald.com.png&w=48&q=75){kind=small}
Korea Herald
3 days ago
- Politics
- Korea Herald
[Ana Palacio] Trump's newspeak threatens us all
Some 2,500 years ago, Confucius was reportedly asked what he would do first if granted absolute power. 'I would rectify the names of things,' he replied. Changing the language used, he suggested, would enable him to guide 'affairs' and ensure that 'punishments and rewards' were 'appropriate.' Confucius understood that language is not merely descriptive, but prescriptive: by shaping thought and discourse, it determines actions and outcomes. Now, US President Donald Trump is attempting to leverage language to his own ends. Since his return to the White House, he has issued a wave of executive orders aimed at 'rectifying' the language of governance in America. This includes barring the federal government from using terms like 'diversity,' 'equity,' 'inclusion,' 'climate crisis, 'gender identity' and other terms related to sexual and racial identity, which he argues perpetuate a damaging 'woke' ideology. With these Orwellian orders, Trump is directing outcomes by reshaping narratives, shifting priorities and erasing inconvenient truths. Banning the term 'sustainability' banishes environmental concerns. Prohibiting all mention of 'diversity' obscures systemic inequities. While some of Trump's decrees align with public opinion — for example, a 2023 survey showed that a majority of Americans reject the idea that there are more than two genders — the overall impact is to undermine, politicize and discredit existing concepts and valuable lines of intellectual and scientific inquiry. In other words, Trump is constraining Americans' ability to analyze, learn, improve and engage in the kind of open and informed discourse that a well-functioning democracy requires. Already, Trump's linguistic crackdown has enabled the "Department of Government Efficiency" to terminate 85 government contracts, collectively worth an estimated $1 billion, tied to diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as accessibility, often on the basis of artificial intelligence-conducted word searches. All references to climate change have been purged from government websites. Research grants that mention 'climate' or 'racial disparities' have been frozen. Museums that promote inclusive narratives, such as the Smithsonian, have been threatened with funding cuts. As Confucius predicted, these changes are having ripple effects. Corporations like Walmart, Meta and McDonald's have scaled back DEI programs, fearing retaliation from the Trump administration. Major banks and funds, from Goldman Sachs to JPMorgan, have distanced themselves from sustainability commitments, wary of the political and legal backlash. The impact of these changes is likely to reverberate well beyond the US, affecting institutions, corporations and academic research worldwide. Already, Europe's extreme right — exemplified by Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD), France's National Rally and Spain's Vox — is echoing Trump's rhetoric, disparaging 'woke' concepts like diversity and sustainability. The AfD is known for dismissing sustainability policies as symptoms of a 'hysteria' that is burdening German industry. Trump's linguistic campaign may also influence European companies and research as a result of direct pressure. US embassies across Europe sent letters to firms and other entities that do business with the US government, demanding that they certify that they are not running DEI programs. The English language is a shared tool, but it bends to America's political will, which means that Trump's linguistic warfare threatens the entire international community, which must preserve the integrity of essential concepts. The key is not to find new ways to discuss them, but rather to reclaim their names and position them as universal ideas whose meanings transcend partisan political agendas. The European Union — which loves nothing if not naming things —is the obvious candidate to take the lead. But the European Commission has remained silent so far. Not a single high-ranking EU official has issued a strong response to Trump's attacks on language. This is a major missed opportunity for Europe to show principled global leadership at a time when it is seeking to bolster its 'strategic autonomy,' and to ensure that the concepts it is defending are not empty. As its seemingly endless proclamations on 'green transitions' and 'inclusive growth' attest, the EU talks often and effusively about sustainability and inclusion. But it often lacks the resolve needed to turn talk into action. To reclaim the words that Trump is trying to erase requires substantive policies, such as a binding EU sustainability framework that enforces corporate ESG compliance. Just as Trump's lack of commitment to NATO has prompted a long-overdue political awakening in Europe, his attacks on the language of sustainability and inclusion should catalyze Europe's efforts in both areas — and its assertion of global leadership more broadly. The alternative — allowing Europe's future to be shaped by internal populist forces and external manipulation — is a formula for deepening vulnerability and greater fragmentation. After all, when words lose their meaning, they lose their power to inspire and unite. Ana Palacio, a former foreign minister of Spain and former senior vice president and general counsel of the World Bank Group, is a visiting lecturer at Georgetown University. The views expressed here are the writer's own. — Ed.
Los Angeles Times
4 days ago
- Los Angeles Times
The Top 12 Best Asian Destinations – Your Must-Visit Spots for 2025
Looking for the best destinations in Asia for your summer and fall 2025 travels? This guide lists the top 12 hotspots you should see on your first trip. Each destination offers something unique: Whether it's a bustling city, a historical site or a natural wonder. Discover why these places should be on your travel list. Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is a mesmerizing blend of traditional richness and modern energy. In its bustling streets and ancient temples stand juxtaposed with towering skyscrapers. The Grand Palace, built in 1782, is a ceremonial residence for Thai royalty featuring stunning architecture and includes the picturesque Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Bangkok's vibrancy shines through its food scene and night markets, offering delicious pad thai and exotic fruits. The city's contrasts make it a captivating destination, blending ancient and modern experiences for every traveler. Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, offers a tranquil escape with its serene culture, natural beauty and Buddhist temples. Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is an ancient site known for its serene atmosphere and intricate architectural details. Wat Phra Singh, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful garden, is another notable temple. Surrounded by lush mountains, Chiang Mai is ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures. Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak, offers scenic trails and waterfalls. The city offers cooking classes where tourists can learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes with locally grown ingredients. Chiang Mai's tranquility and natural sites make it a top destination in Southeast Asia for 2025. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is steeped in ancient history and cultural heritage. The Old Quarter, also known as '36 Streets,' has been a trading hub for centuries, where street names reflect the specific crafts that were historically sold. This vibrant city is home to over 6,000 historical relics, showcasing its rich legacy and giving an overview of Vietnamese culture during a first-time visit. Explore the Temple of Literature, founded in 1070, Vietnam's first university dedicated to Confucius. Voi Phuc Temple, honoring Prince Hoang Chan, features intricate carvings and annual festivals. Hanoi's rich history and cultural sites make it a must for 2025, as many travelers have visited the city. Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a vibrant city recognized for its diverse cultures, languages, and religions, showcasing a blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian heritages. The Petronas Twin Towers, currently the tallest twin towers in the world, are a must-see landmark, offering breathtaking views of its surroundings. The Central Market offers a glimpse into local culture with its crafts, textiles, mouthwatering treats and bustling market stalls. Kuala Lumpur's mix of vibrant cultures and modern attractions makes it captivating destination in 2025. Kyoto, Japan's historic capital, is a city rich in cultural heritage and ancient temples. Home to numerous UNESCO sites, Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan from 794 to 1868. The city hosts the famous Gion Matsuri festival, one of Japan's most celebrated traditional festivals. Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, is renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of vermilion torii gates, creates picturesque walking paths. Kyoto's cherry blossom season, peaking in early April, is a must – there's no reason to not start your planning now for 2026! Hong Kong is a vibrant city where Eastern and Western cultures blend seamlessly. With over 300 skyscrapers, Hong Kong boasts one of the highest densities of tall buildings worldwide. The best views of Hong Kong's towering skyscrapers are from The Peak. Temple Street Night Market is known for its lively atmosphere and unique souvenirs. The Symphony of Lights laser show illuminates the city's skyline at night, offering a spectacular experience. Hong Kong's cultural blend and modern attractions make it an ideal starting point to visit in Asia in 2025. Jaipur, known as the Pink City of India, is a royal city established in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The city earned its nickname when most buildings were painted pink for Queen Victoria's visit in 1876. Jaipur boasts architectural marvels like Hawa Mahal, built in 1799, with 953 intricately designed jharokhas. Amer Fort, near Jaipur, showcases Hindu and Muslim architectural styles and was built in 1592. Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes the largest sundial in the world. Jaipur's historical and architectural significance makes it a must-visit for 2025. Osaka, known as 'Japan's Kitchen,' is renowned for its rich culinary scene. Dotonbori is famous for its foodie culture, with numerous dining stalls and vendors. Takoyaki and okonomiyaki are must-try dishes that exemplify Osaka's culinary offerings. Kuromon Ichiba fish market offers some of the finest sashimi in Japan. Osaka's culinary landscape and historical significance as a major trading hub during the Edo period make it a top destination in Asia for food lovers in 2025. For nature lovers, Palawan Island in the Philippines is a dream come true. Known for its diverse ecosystems, Palawan boasts lush rainforests and vibrant coral reefs that are home to incredible wildlife, including the endangered Philippine crocodile. This beach destination offers pristine beaches and stunning landscapes that make it one of the most popular destinations in Asia. Kayaking through El Nido's lagoons and limestone cliffs is a favorite activity. Coron, famous for its shipwreck diving sites, attracts divers from around the world. The Puerto Princesa Underground River is a natural wonder that should not be missed. Palawan offers a myriad of activities for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, from snorkeling to climbing. The island's natural beauty and wildlife make it great for a 2025 visit. Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where history meets modernity. Gyeongbokgung Palace, with its historical significance, features a ceremonial guard-changing event that transports visitors back in time. N Seoul Tower, located near Namsan Park, offers stunning 360-degree views and is popular for couples to hang padlocks on the fence, known as 'love locks.' Myeongdong Shopping Street is famous for its array of beauty products, making it a must-visit. Seoul's modern attractions make it a captivating destination, blending the old and new. Siem Reap, in Cambodia, is best known as the gateway to Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Its proximity to Angkor Wat makes it a primary destination for tourists exploring ancient Khmer architecture. If you plan to visit, walking through the ancient ruins and learning about the rich history and culture of the Khmer Empire is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The Angkor complex also includes significant historic sites like Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm, offering unique insights into Cambodia's history. Siem Reap, with its historical significance, is a must-see for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Tokyo, Japan's capital, is a vibrant city blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology, perfect for a first trip to Asia. Stroll through Shibuya's bustling streets, where skyscrapers and lively shops highlight the city's dynamic culture. The city's culinary landscape is diverse, from street food like sushi to high-end dining experiences on your first trip. See Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. This beautiful Buddhist temple showcases intricate architecture and vibrant market areas, giving visitors a glimpse into Tokyo's rich history. teamLab Planets TOKYO provides modern art experiences, immersing visitors in large-scale artworks. Enjoy panoramic views from the Tokyo Skytree, symbolizing the city's contemporary landscape and highlighting some of the best places to visit. Beyond landmarks, Tokyo is a melting pot of vibrant cultures. Akihabara, with its unique electronics shops and anime culture, showcases Tokyo's blend of old and new. Exploring historical sites like Meiji Jingu Shrine or enjoying modern attractions, Tokyo offers a unique travel experience.
Observer
4 days ago
- Politics
- Observer
President Trump's newspeak threatens us all
Some 2,500 years ago, Confucius was reportedly asked what he would do first if granted absolute power. 'I would rectify the names of things,' he replied. Changing the language used, he suggested, would enable him to guide 'affairs' and ensure that 'punishments and rewards' were 'appropriate.' Confucius understood that language is not merely descriptive, but prescriptive: by shaping thought and discourse, it determines actions and outcomes. Now, US President Donald Trump is attempting to leverage language to his own ends. Since his return to the White House, he has issued a wave of executive orders aimed at 'rectifying' the language of governance in America. This includes barring the federal government from using terms like 'diversity,' 'equity,' 'inclusion,' 'climate crisis, 'gender identity,' and other terms related to gender and racial identity, which he argues perpetuate a damaging 'woke' ideology. With these Orwellian orders, Trump is directing outcomes by reshaping narratives, shifting priorities, erasing inconvenient truths. Banning the term 'sustainability' banishes environmental concerns. Prohibiting all mention of 'diversity' obscures systemic inequities. While some of Trump's decrees align with public opinion – for example, a 2023 survey showed that a majority of Americans reject the idea that there are more than two genders – the overall impact is to undermine, politicise, and discredit existing concepts and valuable lines of intellectual and scientific inquiry. In other words, Trump is constraining Americans' ability to analyse, learn, improve and engage in the kind of open and informed discourse that a well-functioning democracy requires. Already, Trump's linguistic crackdown has enabled the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, to terminate 85 government contracts, collectively worth an estimated $1 billion, tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as accessibility, often on the basis of AI-conducted word searches. All references to climate change have been purged from government websites. Research grants that mention 'climate' or 'racial disparities' have been frozen. Museums that promote inclusive narratives, such as the Smithsonian, have been threatened with funding cuts. As Confucius predicted, these changes have ripple effects. Corporations like Walmart, Meta, and McDonald's have scaled back DEI programmes, fearing retaliation from the Trump administration. BlackRock CEO Larry Fink used to be a vocal advocate for incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into investments. In his 2020 letter to CEOs, he stated that 'climate risk is investment risk,' noting that 'sustainability- and climate-integrated portfolios can provide better risk-adjusted returns to investors.' In 2021, he mentioned ESG four times, highlighting the 'sustainability premium' enjoyed by companies with 'better ESG profiles.' But Fink's recently published letter to investors included nothing about ESG or sustainability, focusing instead on 'energy pragmatism.' This mirrors a broader trend: major banks and funds, from Goldman Sachs to JP Morgan, have distanced themselves from sustainability commitments, wary of the political and legal backlash. The Dow Jones Sustainability Index – which long set a global standard for corporate environmental and social responsibility – has been rebranded by its owner, S&P Global, as the 'Best-in-Class Index.' These changes are not merely cosmetic; they signal to investors that sustainability is no longer a priority. And their impact is likely to reverberate well beyond the US, affecting institutions, corporations, and academic research worldwide. After all, America's economic dominance grants it outsize power to influence linguistic norms in English, the lingua franca of global discourse. Already, Europe's extreme right – exemplified by Germany's Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), France's National Rally, and Spain's Vox – is echoing Trump's rhetoric, disparaging 'woke' concepts like diversity and sustainability. The AfD is known for dismissing sustainability policies as symptoms of a 'hysteria' that is burdening German industry – a sentiment that resonates with its growing base. Trump's linguistic campaign may also influence European companies and research as a result of direct pressure. US embassies across Europe sent letters to firms and other entities that do business with the US government, demanding that they certify that they are not running DEI programmes. The English language is a shared tool, but it bends to America's political will, which means that Trump's linguistic warfare threatens the entire international community, which must preserve the integrity of essential concepts. The key is not to find new ways to discuss them, but rather to reclaim their names and position them as universal ideas whose meanings transcend partisan political agendas. The European Union – which loves nothing if not naming things – is the obvious candidate to take the lead. But the European Commission has remained silent so far. Not a single high-ranking EU official has issued a strong response to Trump's attacks on language. This is a major missed opportunity for Europe to show principled global leadership at a time when it is seeking to bolster its 'strategic autonomy,' and to ensure that the concepts it is defending are not empty. As its seemingly endless proclamations on 'green transitions' and 'inclusive growth' attest, the EU talks often and effusively about sustainability and inclusion. But it often lacks the resolve needed to turn talk into action. To reclaim the words that Trump is trying to erase requires substantive policies, such as a binding EU sustainability framework that enforces corporate ESG compliance. Just as Trump's lack of commitment to Nato has prompted a long-overdue political awakening in Europe, his attacks on the language of sustainability and inclusion should catalyze Europe's efforts in both areas – and its assertion of global leadership more broadly. The alternative – allowing Europe's future to be shaped by internal populist forces and external manipulation – is a formula for deepening vulnerability and greater fragmentation. After all, when words lose their meaning, they lose their power to inspire and unite. @Project Syndicate, 2025 Ana Palacio The writer is a former minister of foreign affairs of Spain and former senior vice-president and general counsel of the World Bank Group, is a visiting lecturer at Georgetown University
Time of India
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Happy Labour Day 2025: 10+ images, photos, wishes, funny posters, memes & WhatsApp status images
Happy Labour Day 2025: Labour Day 2025 is celebrated on Thursday, 1st May. It honours the hard work, sacrifices, and achievements of workers around the world. This day is also called International Workers' Day or May Day. It began in the late 19th century. The 1886 fight for an eight-hour workday in the U.S. was a key moment. Labour Day reminds us of the need for workers' rights and fair practices. It also highlights the importance of safe workplaces. In India and many other countries, Labour Day is a public holiday. Schools, banks, and markets remain closed. Download free Happy Labour Day 2025 images Happy Labour Day 2025 gifs to share online Funny Labour Day 2025 images to share with friends & colleagues Top 10 Labour Day quotes in English "All labour that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance." – Martin Luther King Jr #LabourDayQuotes #HardWork "Choose a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life." – Confucius #LabourDay2025 #InspirationalQuotes "Without labour, nothing prospers." – Sophocles #LabourDayQuotes #WorkersDay "Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen." – Conan O'Brien #LabourDayMessages #MotivationalQuotes "The world runs on your contributions. Happy Labour Day!" #LabourDayWishes #ThankYouWorkers "Labour is the heartbeat of every nation." #LabourDay2025 #WorkersQuotes "Your effort is the gift the world runs on. Thank you." #LabourDayThankYou #WorkersDayQuotes "Great things are achieved through hard work and perseverance." #LabourDayQuotes2025 #HardWorkQuotes "Every honest day's work adds light to the world." #LabourDayInspirations #WorkersDay2025 "The dignity of labour depends not on what you do, but how you do it." – Edwin Osgood Grover #LabourDayQuotes #WorkEthic Funny Labour Day 2025 posters and memes Free Happy Labour Day 2025 images for WhatsApp Top Labour Day 2025 WhatsApp status images Happy Labour Day 2025 quotes in Hindi "मेहनत एक मात्र प्रार्थना है, जिसका फल एक ना एक दिन प्रकृति जरूर देती है।" "हाथों में लाठी है, मजबूत उसकी काठी है, विकास की वो नींव है, उसका जीवन सीख है।" "मैं मजदूर हूं मजबूर नहीं, यह कहने में मुझे शर्म नहीं, अपने पसीने की खाता हूं, मैं मिट्टी को सोना बनाता हूं।" "उनकी गैर-मौजूदगी में मंजिल हमेशा दूर है, जो आपके ख्वाबों को पूरा करता है वो मजदूर है।" "कोई खेत में है, कोई दफ्तर में, कोई नौकर है, कोई अफसर है, मजदूर हैं सब मजदूर यहां।" "मजदूर की हथेली में वो ताक़त है, जो मिट्टी को महल बना देती है।" "श्रम सिर्फ जीवन का सहारा नहीं, समाज की असली शान है।" "जो दिन-रात काम करता है, वही देश को जगाता है।" "मेहनत करने वाला हाथ कभी बोझ नहीं होता, वह हमेशा सहारा बनता है।" "श्रम ही जीवन की असली पूँजी है।" "जो पसीना बहाता है, वही भविष्य को आकार देता है।" "मजदूर अपना कर्म करता जरूर है, इसलिए देश को उस पर गुरूर है।" "अगर इस जहां में मजदूर का न नामों-निशां होता, फिर न होता हवा महल और न ही ताज महल होता!" For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
