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Associated Press
25-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Global Times: China, Azerbaijan establish comprehensive strategic partnership, as two countries open a new chapter of all-round cooperation
04/25/2025, Beijing, China // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Beijing on Wednesday. The two leaders announced the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev is paying a state visit to China from Tuesday to Thursday at the invitation of Chinese President Xi. During the meeting on Wednesday, Xi said that both sides should continuously enhance political mutual trust, deepen practical cooperation and strengthen international collaboration to open a new chapter of all-round cooperation, according to the Xinhua News Agency. He added that China supports Azerbaijan in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and in continuing to follow a development path that suits its national conditions. China is willing to carry out in-depth law enforcement and security cooperation with Azerbaijan to resolutely combat the 'three evil forces' of terrorism, extremism and separatism, Xi said. He called on both sides to strengthen the alignment of development strategies, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and encourage educational, cultural, tourism, youth and sub-national cooperation. Aliyev said Azerbaijan and China have always respected and trusted each other in the face of changes unseen in a century, with bilateral cooperation continuously deepened, economic and trade relations developing rapidly, and local exchanges becoming closer. Azerbaijan stands ready to work with China to promote the building of a comprehensive strategic partnership, expand cooperation concerning the Belt and Road Initiative, digital economy, green energy and science and technology, deepen exchanges between political parties and people of the two countries, and strengthen cooperation in international and regional affairs, Aliyev said, according to Xinhua. After the talks, the two heads of state signed a joint statement on establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, and witnessed the signing of 20 documents on cooperation in areas such as the Belt and Road Initiative, justice, green development, digital economy, intellectual property rights and aerospace. The establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries is a natural progression, Chinese observers said. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Azerbaijan has supported China on issues concerning its core interests, and the two countries share similar or aligned positions on many international matters. With strong complementarities across various sectors, the foundation for deeper cooperation is solid. This upgrade reflects the joint efforts of the two countries and serves the shared interests of the people, Zhu Yongbiao, executive director of the Research Center for the Belt and Road at Lanzhou University, told the Global Times. China has prioritized development in sectors such as digital technology and green development in recent years, and countries like Azerbaijan also view them as key focuses for development, Zhu said. The two sides are highly complementary in these fields, with China offering advanced technologies, extensive experience and a well-developed industrial chain. China is also willing to share its expertise and solutions with Azerbaijan and other partners to promote joint development and the broader adoption of relevant technologies and products, the expert said. As a key hub along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor, or Middle Corridor, Azerbaijan plays a vital role in linking China and Europe. The newly signed documents include infrastructure cooperation to enhance the efficiency of the China-Europe land-sea route while advancing logistics standardization and improving cross-border customs procedures to facilitate trade, Sun Xiuwen, an associate professor at the Institute for Central Asian Studies at Lanzhou University told the Global Times. Azerbaijan's successful hosting of the COP29 climate conference in November 2024 highlights its growing role in global climate governance. Looking ahead, China-Azerbaijan cooperation is expected to focus on emerging sectors such as low-carbon development, the digital economy and smart infrastructure, with joint efforts in advancing green technologies, Sun said. Prior to the talks, Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, held a welcoming ceremony for Aliyev and his wife, Mehriban Aliyeva, at the square outside the east gate of the Great Hall of the People. Xi and Peng also hosted a welcoming banquet for Aliyev and Aliyeva in the Golden Hall of the Great Hall of the People at noon on Wednesday, Xinhua reported. Also on Wednesday, China and Azerbaijan signed an agreement on mutual visa exemptions for ordinary passport holders in both countries, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The move comes as China has been continuously expanding visa exemptions for a growing number of countries. Oppose trade war President Xi said on Wednesday that tariff and trade wars undermine the legitimate rights and interests of all countries, hurt the multilateral trading system and impact the world economic order, according to Xinhua. When holding talks with Aliyev, Xi said China is willing to work with Azerbaijan to safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, firmly protect respective legitimate rights and interests, and defend international fairness and justice. Previously on April 11 when meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in Beijing, President Xi also said that there is no winner in a tariff war, and going against the world will only result in self-isolation, according to Xinhua. The remarks once again made clear China's stance on the tariff war, said Zhu, noting that China has clearly expressed its opposition to the US coercive trade measures, and China's approach aligns with the views of many countries, including Azerbaijan. He noted that the global economy remains fragile and US unilateralism poses widespread risks, not only to major powers but also to developing countries, and threatens global economic growth. Sun said that facing growing geopolitical and economic uncertainties, Azerbaijan is also seeking diversified partnerships to mitigate risks. As a stable global economic power, China offers support in investment, technology and market access. More importantly, amid global supply chain disruption driven by trade tensions and tariffs, deeper cooperation with China could help optimize regional logistics. As members of the Global South, China and Azerbaijan are also deepening bilateral ties while jointly promoting a fairer and more inclusive global governance system through multilateral cooperation, Sun said. Alongside partners in Eurasia, Latin America and Africa, they advocate for UN reform to strengthen the voice of developing countries, particularly within institutions like the Security Council. Mechanisms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS serve as key platforms for advancing practical, results-driven cooperation, contributing to greater stability in regional and global development amid global uncertainties, said the expert. This article first appeared in the Global Times: Company: Global Times Contact Person: Anna Li Email: [email protected] Website: City: Beijing Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
Associated Press
09-04-2025
- Associated Press
Exploring Xizang: a journey of environmental harmony between devt and nature
04/08/2025, Beijing, China // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // In September 2023, I was honored to travel to China's Xizang Autonomous Region, as part of a group of foreign experts from Brazil, Argentina, Canada, Norway and Australia. This trip was a deeply moving and inspirational cultural, ecological and social experience, and I am grateful to share my personal insights from this unforgettable journey. Upon our arrival at Lhasa station, we were greeted by our hosts and a young man who placed a traditional Buddhist white 'hada' scarf over my bowed head - a blessing of purity, kindness and good fortune. The white silk was particularly fitting as I looked out over the Lhasa River valley, 3,650 meters above sea level. Above me, in the impossibly rich blue sky, high-altitude clouds danced like living calligraphy - iridescent hues of pearl, rose, jade and sapphire shifting like silk in the wind. In Tibetan culture, these rare 'rainbow' clouds are brief, beautiful signs of good fortune. I felt blessed to be experiencing this land of magic and wonder. Lhasa greeted me as a thriving city of over 860,000 people, spread across the valley and surrounded by high hills and mountains. As our coach swung around a busy roundabout filled with cars and trucks, I leaned against the window to see before me the monumental Potala Palace with its dozens of brick-red windows and red-and-white plaster walls, looking down the valley just as it has for centuries. At that moment, the juxtaposition of the modern city and the ancient palace struck me - a marvel of a city rich in history and culture, geographically positioned at the top of the world while embracing the 21st century. In the center of Lhasa, Jokhang Temple stands as the most important religious site in Xizang. Approaching the temple, I noticed, through the crowds of pilgrims, the scent of juniper in the air and the sound of murmured prayers all around. While I am a visitor from so far away, I feel a special connection to this place. My wife is from Nepal, China's neighbor, and her heritage is with the Newar people, whose ancestry comes from the Kathmandu Valley. Many Nepalese and Indian artists and craftsmen worked on the original design and construction of the Jokhang Temple centuries ago. The intricate wood carvings framing its entrances were the work of Newar craftsmen, whose skills left a lasting mark. Just as I was filled with the spirit and beauty of Lhasa - the cultural heart of Xizang - I embarked on a kind of time travel. We journeyed to the outskirts of the city, about 30 minutes away, to the foot of the dramatic local mountains. Here, we arrived at the Lhasa high-tech development zone, a sprawling high-tech incubator community. This vast center spans a significant area, housing thousands of students, researchers and workers. It stands as one of China's key sci-tech research hubs, taking full advantage of the region's high altitude and low humidity to support innovative technologies. The center focuses on various advanced fields, including aerospace, artificial intelligence and environmental sciences. The high altitude provides an ideal environment for aerospace research and satellite testing, while the dry climate preserves delicate equipment and supports precision technologies. This modern scientific ecosystem is a stark contrast to the traditional surroundings of Lhasa, but it perfectly demonstrates how China's forward-thinking technological aspirations are flourishing alongside its deep cultural heritage. It serves as a compelling reminder of how innovation and tradition can coexist in the nation's development. The Lhasa wetlands, often referred to as the lungs of the city, offer a serene beauty that feels both refreshing and vitalizing. The wetlands stretch across the landscape, alive with lush greenery, vibrant wildflowers and the gentle sounds of birdsong. It is an oasis in the heart of Lhasa, offering a peaceful contrast to the urban sprawl. The air here feels crisper, with the wetlands playing a crucial role in filtering and renewing the city's atmosphere as well as standing as a symbol of Lhasa's commitment to sustainable development and environmental harmony. As I sat in the highest-altitude brewery in China at 3,650 meters, I reflected on the entrepreneurial spirit of the local people and all that I had seen. As a beer-loving Australian, I could not help but imagine the possibilities. Australia is known for producing some of the finest hops in the world, and I shared the idea of collaborating with my new brewery friends to supply premium hops from Australia. Together, we could create a unique Tibetan-Australian craft beer and bring it from the Roof of the World to global markets. The thought of this collaboration, fusing two cultures in the spirit of craft beer, was an exciting prospect. As my plane flew over the foothills of Xizang, I looked out the window and saw plateaus and hills twice the height of Australia's tallest mountain. Below, the vast landscape of Xizang unfolded before me, reminding me just how unique this place is - not only for China but for the world. Xizang exists both in the mind as a place of legend and as a dynamic region embracing the modern world. Commerce, trade and tourism are its future, but its deep cultural roots will remain unshaken. Just as every home needs a roof, the earth too has its sheltering plateau - a special place. Xizang is a treasure that holds immense value. Looking ahead, Xizang has the potential to build a diverse, sustainable economy centered around its high-altitude organic produce. By supporting industries that respect the region's environment - such as eco-friendly agriculture, clean technologies and sustainable trade - Xizang can thrive while preserving its natural heritage. Equally important is the region's ability to embrace modern education and technology, exemplified by Lhasa's science and hi-tech incubator hubs, while keeping its cultural traditions intact. This balance will ensure that Xizang's way of life can continue in an evolving world. Xizang's abundant water resources place it at the heart of China's hydroelectric development. While this is necessary to meet the country's energy needs, it is vital that these projects are balanced with environmental care. China is in a unique position to manage this, using its world-leading expertise in infrastructure and environmental management. By doing so, Xizang can combine its ancient wisdom with modern progress. Xizang's deep spiritual traditions and untouched landscapes offer lessons for the world. They demonstrate the connection between humanity and nature. Its glaciers and mountains are not only natural wonders but lifelines for millions in the region. To ensure a bright future, it is important to balance development with environmental protection. Xizang is more than just a place of beauty and cultural richness. It is a place for reflection. The vast mountains and clear skies gave me a sense of peace and awe. My visit was deeply meaningful. Xizang's spiritual depth reminds us that progress is not just about material growth but about building a deeper connection with nature and each other. The author is an Australian sinologist and vice president of the publishing company Weldon's. [email protected] Company: Global Times This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
Associated Press
28-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Digital Public Infrastructure: A unified global 'stack'?
03/28/2025, New York City, New York // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Over the past couple of years, there has been much international attention about Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and the 'India Stack.' And some appreciation/ concern that India is 'offering' India Stack to the world. We have also seen recent calls for setting up an Africa Stack and a Euro Stack. Let me begin by explaining what the India Stack is - and what it is not. For this, we'll take a step back before India began building out DPI. The Internet was the first DPI, developed mainly by US universities with some important contributions from Europe. It connected devices and made it possible for them to interact with each other. Similarly, the US government funded the Global Positioning System (GPS), which was built originally for military purposes. The US Government opened it up for public use in 2000 and has since continued to fund this important global DPI. GPS answers the fundamental question – where are you? With these two layers of DPI, the innovation landscape began to take off, especially in the US but also globally. In the early 2000s, we began seeing exponential growth and adoption of several products and services offered by the 'internet' companies. But the thinking in India at the time was contextual to the country's needs -- how could India leverage the power of digital technology to bring about exponential change not just to improve government services and reduce leakages but also create new capabilities that might lower the barriers for private sector innovation? India's digital ID, Aadhaar, which began in 2009, has enabled hundreds of millions of people to open bank accounts for the first time. It was a major validation of the exponential power of digital technology to drive societal scale impact. This set in motion a series of efforts to build additional digital capabilities as public infrastructure. This resulted in innovations like eSign (for digital document signing), DigiLocker (a secure digital wallet for verified credentials), Unified Payments Interface (UPI) (which revolutionized digital payments), and the Account Aggregator framework (which enables secure digital consent management). The chronology is well laid out at India was building a set of capabilities – a presence-less layer, a paperless layer, a cashless layer, and a digital consent layer. 'India Stack' is an idea that sums up these capabilities. India happens to be the preeminent example of where these capabilities have scaled massively. The Indian example has inspired many countries that are keen to build similar capabilities. India Stack that is not being 'offered' to other countries. The only exception has been the National Payments Corporation of India, which has begun offering the Unified Payments Interface to other countries over the past few years. Therefore, contrary to what seems to be a widely held belief, all the capabilities of the India Stack are proprietary technology built by India for India's needs. With this perspective on India Stack, it would be useful to turn our attention to the current global context. If there was ever a time when the phrase, 'may you live in interesting times' seemed resonant, it is now. Among the many shifts that we are beginning to witness, two ideas that directly impact the work many of us are collectively working towards are: (a) government efficiency as an idea will likely become an important theme in many parts of the world, and (b) the cushion of foreign aid will likely become less dependable for many developing countries. In light of these (and related developments), all of us who are working on supporting governments on their digitization efforts would do well to work towards ensuring that governments can indeed get more value for their expenditures. This is a time to build on each other's capabilities and strengths rather than to pursue exceptionalism. This is a time to coordinate efforts across the world and set in motion a series of steps that build 'public' infrastructure that is inclusive, respects sovereignty and ensures privacy protections, harnesses private sector capabilities, and enables a new genre of entrepreneurs to drive the next wave of innovation that increases public value.
Associated Press
27-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
TropicResidential.com Acquires NorthwestEnergyStar.com - Energy Star Homes With NEEA & NEEM Energy Efficiency Standards
03/27/2025, Kissimmee, FL // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // When acquired it was similar to a builder upgrading a home's insulation to meet modern energy standards. This strategic move highlights the increasing importance of energy-efficient homes that align with NEEA and NEEM criteria. By pushing for sustainable construction practices, TropicResidential is paving the way for eco-friendly living. However, how will this influence the market for energy-efficient homes and the information to help consumers make informed decisions like if financial incentives are available to homeowners? Understanding Energy Efficiency in Manufactured Homes While many people may overlook manufactured homes when considering energy efficiency, these dwellings can offer surprising benefits, especially those that are NEEM-certified manufactured homes. Energy-efficient manufactured homes, especially those neem-certified, stand out by adhering to stringent energy efficiency specifications. The NEEM program, supported by the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, plays a crucial role in this development. By implementing the manufactured housing program's guidelines, home builders ensure reduced energy use and significant energy savings. These homes are designed to cut down on heating and cooling needs, which ultimately lowers utility bills. As a result, Tropic Residential specializes in energy-efficient manufactured homes that meet the criteria of the manufactured housing program. It provides an attractive option for those seeking cost-effective, environmentally friendly housing solutions that earn the Energy Star certification. With the continued efforts of the NEEM program, the future of manufactured homes in energy efficiency looks promising. Exploring the NEEM Program's Energy Specifications Under the manufactured housing program, TropicResidential is leading the way in energy-efficient construction practices that include the Energy Star® standards. NEEM program's guidelines, manufactured homes meet specific energy specifications that set them apart in the housing market. NEEM homes achieve high performance through rigorous Their designs adhere to energy efficiency standards set by the EPA and the Northwest Program., distinguishing them as certified homes. These homes often receive Energy Star certification, a testament to their energy-saving capabilities. In particular, Northwest Energy Star homes are recognized for exceeding regional energy benchmarks. During the construction process of a new manufactured home, builders incorporate advanced materials and techniques to ensure energy-efficient manufactured housing. The program's specifications focus on reducing energy consumption, which translates to lower utility bills for homeowners. Certified homes that meet NEEM standards not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also offer a comfortable and cost-effective living solution. Energy-Efficient Features in New TropicResidential Acquisitions TropicResidential's recent acquisition of NorthwestEnergyStar marks a pivotal step in their commitment to energy efficiency. By integrating the Northwest Energy Star Homes program, they're enhancing new homes with advanced energy-efficient features. These Energy Star certified homes are designed to align with the state energy code, ensuring optimal performance and reduced utility bills. Home construction under this initiative involves collaboration with manufactured home builders who prioritize energy efficiency and include the Energy Star® certification. sustainability. The northwest program's standards promote a reduction in energy consumption, further solidifying TropicResidential's dedication to eco-friendly practices. With these enhancements, homeowners can expect significant savings, as homes built under this initiative often qualify for a rebate. Ultimately, this acquisition strengthens TropicResidential's portfolio, offering homes that are both environmentally responsible and cost-effective. Navigating Rebates for Energy Star Certified Homes Homeowners purchasing Energy Star certified homes from TropicResidential can take advantage of various rebates designed to make eco-friendly living homes built under the Northwest Program more affordable due to their energy-saving designs. The Energy Star program offers incentives through state energy initiatives and partnerships with the NEEM team, encouraging residential construction that prioritizes energy efficiency. Builders in the region are motivated to create new homes built to these standards, ensuring they meet eco-rated requirements. In the Pacific Northwest National region, specific rebates are available to homeowners, reducing the cost of green living. These financial incentives not only lower upfront costs but also promote long-term savings on utility bills. By integrating these benefits, TropicResidential helps prospective homeowners navigate the complexities of rebates, making energy-efficient living a practical choice for many families. Meeting NEEA Standards: A Guide for Homeowners Achieving energy efficiency involves more than just taking advantage of rebates; it also requires meeting rigorous standards set by the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA). Homes built to meet these NEEA standards must incorporate advanced systems and technologies. New manufactured homes often use energy-efficient heat pumps, reducing reliance on natural gas and enhancing efficiency in zonal electrically heated homes. Energy Star certification aligns with these standards, ensuring prototype homes and traditional builds alike maximize performance. Homeowners can optimize HVAC systems, balancing energy use with comfort in gas-heated homes. Understanding NEEA standards empowers them to choose or upgrade homes that meet these criteria, ultimately leading to reduced energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. The focus remains on smart energy use and sustainable living choices. Northwest Energy Works Compliment Energy-Efficient Homes TropicResidential's acquisition of marks a significant leap forward in the pursuit of energy-efficient living. Going beyond Energy Star certified homes are the NEEA and NEEM standards, as they're setting a new benchmark for sustainable housing. Who wouldn't want a home that not only conserves energy but also offers financial perks through rebates? This initiative not only fosters eco-friendly practices but also ensures homeowners enjoy long-term savings, making it a win-win for both the environment and the wallet. Media Contact Mark Sanchez Tropic Residential 1420 Celebration Blvd #294, Kissimmee, FL 34747
Associated Press
14-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
China's opening-up embraces inclusiveness, delivers global collective goods
03/13/2025, Beijing, China // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // The two sessions are not only a major political event in China but also a key window for the world to observe the country's democratic politics and development trajectory. This year, as in years past, the event has captured considerable global attention, highlighting China's ongoing development and its implications for the world stage. In the 'Unraveling the allure of China' series, the Global Times (GT) invites experts and scholars from around the world to delve into the multifaceted allure of China and explore how the lessons drawn from its unique experiences can provide valuable insights for other nations. This year's Chinese government work report proposed to 'expand higher-standard opening up and stabilize foreign trade and investment.' In the seventh installment of the series, Oleg Timofeev (Timofeev), associate professor at the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, talked with GT reporter Xia Wenxin to share his thoughts on China's opening-up policy and its impact on global development, especially that of Russia and Eurasia. GT: What, in your opinion, is the significance of this year's two sessions? What topics are you most interested in? Timofeev: Contrary to slowdown forecasts by certain Western naysayers, the Chinese economy is well-positioned to sustain its recovery and maintain steady growth this year. Being one of the economic superpowers, China is making efforts to ride this trend with great success. During the two sessions, fresh efforts have developed new quality productive forces through measures of scientific and technological innovation. Recently, China's high-tech startups DeepSeek and Unitree Robotics have caught attention around the world and highlighted China's technological progress. Moreover, in 2024, China launched the AI Plus initiative, which implies wider use of AI in various sectors of industry and building digital industry clusters with international competitiveness. It is widely expressed that China's AI Plus initiative, big data application and other programs, which integrate technological and industrial development, will generate new sources of growth for the Chinese economy. GT: What are your expectations for China's implementation and promotion efforts regarding opening-up this year? Are you confident about the overall prospects of China's opening-up policy? Timofeev: The third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, held in July last year, along with the Central Economic Work Conference in December and the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on February 28, clearly emphasized the need to expand institutional opening-up as a key task of economic work in 2025. This deployment is not only a new trend of high-quality economic development, but also a major step to respond to the turbulence in international relations, unilateral sanctions and trade wars imposed by Western countries. The unique characteristics of China's opening-up policy are its inclusiveness and its provision of global collective goods. Unlike Western nations, China is widely sharing its achievements, even in the most sensitive high-tech and AI sectors. Through its opening-up policy, China is making efforts to promote multilateralism around the world. It is participating in institutions, such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, while also actively seeking to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, Digital Economy Partnership Agreement and other multilateral institutions launched with the participation of some Western states. China's interest in multilateral cooperation underlines its desire to actively participate in the formation of the new international order of global economic governance. The two sessions this year exerts an active and responsible influence on the formulation of new international norms and will adapt them to the conditions of the new international situation. Traditional trade rules mainly focus on border measures such as tariffs and non-tariff measures. As Chinese economists point out, a new generation of economic and trade rules extends beyond border measures - such as tariffs and trade facilitation - to post-border measures, including environmental standards, labor protection and intellectual property rights. Promoting these goals would contribute to strengthening China's institutional rights in the international arena. GT: In your opinion, what impact has China's opening-up policy had on China-Russia relations and the development of the Russian economy and society? Timofeev: Cooperation with China promotes irreplaceable opportunities for Russia. First of all, it alleviates the consequences of Western sanctions on Russia's economy. In the past three years, China has taken a leading position in the Russian market of cars, smartphones, electronic devices and construction equipment with a significant export growth rate. Many Chinese banks established their presence in Russia, among them are large-scale financial institutions, while some major Russian banks are also operating in China. Within several months since the imposition of Western sanctions against Russia, the renminbi has surpassed the US dollar and the euro as the primary currency for trade between the two parties, strengthening its position as the most exchanged currency on the Moscow stock exchange. Furthermore, the Russia-China economic cooperation in the new era of expanding high-level opening-up policy has involved some megaprojects, especially in the energy sector. One of the latest examples is the Amur Gas Chemical Complex, a joint venture between Russia's leading polymer and rubber manufacturer SIBUR and China's energy and chemical giant Sinopec. After its full commissioning, the plant will become a leading producer of basic polymers in the world and the industrial capacity of the complex will be 2.7 million metric tons a year. Russian business structures are waiting for further development of China's opening-up strategy. For instance, Russian consumers of China-made cars and electronic equipment need Chinese service centers to be more efficient. Under quid pro quo conditions, Russian energy giants Gazprom and Rosneft are planning to get access to more of China's market. GT: China views the Eurasian region as a key area for its opening-up. What are your thoughts on the potential of projects such as the Ice Silk Road and the China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor? Timofeev: China's trade with Russia grew by almost 3 percent in 2024, reaching $237 billion. In my opinion, in the near future, the two parties' attention will be focused on the problems of mutual investment and multilateral transport and logistic infrastructure. In the latter field, the so-called Ice Silk Road project is of special interest. Both Russia, a traditional multi-century littoral power, and China, positioning itself as a rising near-Arctic stakeholder, are increasingly interested in the joint development of the Northern Sea Route. The interest is driven by the expanding shipping opportunities due to increased accessibility of polar waters, as well as the need to address the US' recent efforts to turn the Arctic into a region of an arms race. While Russia and China may have disagreements regarding issues such as the organization of icebreaker fleets in the region, these differences can likely be resolved through joint political will. The China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor could bring even more benefits to economic multilateralism in Eurasia since it provides more prospective logistics of the routes connecting Asia and Europe. This article first appeared in the Global Times: Contact Person: Anna Li Email: [email protected] Website: City: Beijing Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
