The recent Chinese National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, spanning from October 1 to 8, showcased unprecedented levels of domestic and international travel, as well as robust consumer activity. Cross-regional passenger trips surged to a record 2.43 billion, marking a 6.3% year-on-year increase. Cross-border travel also hit historic highs, with daily inbound and outbound travelers exceeding 2.04 million, an 11.5% rise from the previous year. Bookings for flights to China by foreign tourists soared by over 40%, reflecting both the enthusiasm of Chinese tourists traveling abroad and the growing interest of international visitors in China. These trends underscore China’s steady economic growth, openness, and resilience amid global economic uncertainties. China’s ability to maintain stability and growth is attributed to several key factors: First, a consistent development strategy and scientific macroeconomic policies. Since 1953, China has implemented 14 Five-Year Plans, ensuring policy coherence and long-term vision. Second, a super-large market with over 1.4 billion people and a complete industrial system, which provides economic resilience. Third, a friendly investment environment, with over 1.24 million foreign-funded companies established by the end of 2024 and actual utilised foreign capital reaching 20.6 trillion yuan ($2.83 trillion). Fourth, an innovative and green development pattern, with China’s Global Innovation Index ranking rising to 10th in 2025 and significant progress in green transformation. Fifth, an inclusive development philosophy, exemplified by President Xi Jinping’s people-centered approach, which has lifted nearly 100 million rural residents out of poverty since 2012. China’s global initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Global Development Initiative (GDI), have further solidified its role in promoting inclusive and sustainable development worldwide. By 2030, the BRI is expected to lift 7.6 million people out of extreme poverty and 32 million out of moderate poverty in participating countries. Over 150 countries have joined the BRI, and more than 100 support the GDI. China remains committed to fostering a community with a shared future for humanity, bringing certainty to the global economy and contributing to global prosperity.
分类： world
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Tropical Storm Conditions Expected in Barbuda later this afternoon or evening and continue into the night
Tropical Storm Jerry is rapidly approaching the northern Leeward Islands, with Barbuda expected to experience its impact by Thursday afternoon. The U.S. National Hurricane Center reported that as of 11 a.m. AST, Jerry was positioned near latitude 15.9 North and longitude 59.1 West, approximately 310 miles east-southeast of the region. The storm is advancing west-northwest at 18 mph, boasting maximum sustained winds of 65 mph. A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Barbuda, signaling that severe conditions are imminent within the next 12 hours. Additionally, tropical storm watches are in place for Antigua, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Guadeloupe, along with its adjacent islands. Forecasters predict that Jerry will intensify in the coming days, potentially reaching hurricane status by late Friday or Saturday. Currently, tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 175 miles from the storm’s center, with a minimum central pressure of 999 millibars. The storm is expected to bring significant rainfall, with totals ranging from 2 to 4 inches and isolated areas receiving up to 6 inches across the Leeward and Virgin Islands through Friday. This raises concerns of flash flooding in low-lying and mountainous regions. Puerto Rico is also likely to experience similar rainfall due to the storm’s moisture. Swells generated by Jerry are already affecting parts of the Leeward and Windward Islands and are expected to spread toward the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico tonight, creating life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Authorities urge residents to finalize preparations, stay informed through official updates from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service, and monitor advisories from the National Hurricane Center. The next full update is scheduled for 5 p.m. AST.
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Body of embassy official repatriated to home state — US Air Force plane lands in Piarco
A United States Air Force (USAF) C17 aircraft landed at Piarco International Airport in Trinidad on October 9, igniting widespread speculation on social media about potential military operations in the Caribbean. Many speculated the arrival was linked to ongoing U.S. efforts to combat Venezuelan narco-terrorism. However, U.S. embassy officials clarified that the aircraft was there to repatriate the remains of a senior embassy official who had passed away earlier in October. The embassy expressed gratitude for the support of the Trinidadian government and people during this difficult time. Despite the official explanation, social media users remained unconvinced, with some claiming the aircraft’s presence signaled a broader military strategy. The aircraft departed later that afternoon after completing its mission. Additionally, reports emerged of a U.S. Navy reconnaissance plane, possibly a Boeing P-8 Poseidon, flying over southern Trinidad multiple times since October 7. Retired aviation expert Ramesh Lutchmedial noted that such activities are typically coordinated between governments and not disclosed publicly. Meanwhile, the U.S. government has requested permission to install radar equipment at Grenada’s Maurice Bishop International Airport, a move currently under review by Grenadian authorities. The request follows the Trump administration’s deployment of military assets to the Caribbean in late August to address narco-terrorism concerns.
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Flash flooding threat as Tropical Storm Jerry makes its way across the Leeward Islands
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) — Tropical Storm Jerry, the 10th named storm of the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season, is projected to pass north of the Leeward Islands on Friday morning before moving away later in the day. The Miami-based National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued warnings for residents to prepare for potential flash flooding caused by heavy rainfall. Currently located approximately 80 miles north-northeast of the Northern Leeward Islands, Jerry boasts maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. A tropical storm warning is active for St Barthelemy, St Martin, Sint Maarten, Guadeloupe, and adjacent islands, while a tropical storm watch remains in place for Saba and St Eustatius. The government of Antigua and Barbuda has lifted warnings for Barbuda, Anguilla, Antigua, St Kitts, Nevis, and Montserrat. Jerry is moving northwest at 17 mph, with a northward turn expected tonight into Saturday, followed by a north-northeast trajectory through the weekend. The NHC forecasts four to six inches of rain for Barbuda and two to four inches for other Leeward and Virgin Islands, raising concerns of flash flooding in urban and steep terrain areas. Additionally, swells generated by Jerry are creating life-threatening surf and rip current conditions across the region, with impacts expected to spread to the Greater Antilles on Friday.
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Eight killed as strong quakes strike southern Philippines
The southern Philippines was struck by two powerful earthquakes on Friday, resulting in at least eight fatalities and widespread panic. The initial quake, measuring 7.4 in magnitude, occurred approximately 20 kilometers off the coast of Manay town in the Mindanao region at around 10 am local time, as reported by the United States Geological Survey. A significant aftershock of magnitude 6.7 followed nearly 10 hours later, compounding the devastation. These seismic events came just 11 days after a 6.9-magnitude earthquake in Cebu province claimed 75 lives and injured over 1,200 people. Among the victims were three miners who perished in a tunnel collapse west of Manay during the initial quake. Rescue efforts saved one miner, while several others sustained injuries. In Mati city, one individual died from a collapsing wall, and two others succumbed to heart attacks. Davao city, located over 100 kilometers from the epicenter, reported another fatality due to falling debris. Philippine authorities issued tsunami warnings following both quakes, prompting evacuations along the eastern seaboard. However, no significant waves were observed, and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center lifted its alert by noon. The tremors caused minor structural damage, landslides, and bridge cracks, leading to the evacuation of over 200 patients from Manay district hospital. Classes were suspended, and non-essential workers were sent home. The Philippines, situated on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire,’ frequently experiences seismic activity. The 1976 Mindanao earthquake, which triggered a deadly tsunami, remains the country’s worst natural disaster.
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Brace for unstable weather conditions this weekend — Met Service
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has issued a weather advisory, warning residents to prepare for rainy conditions as a broad trough sweeps across the western Caribbean this weekend. The weather system is expected to linger over the region for several days, bringing unstable weather patterns to Jamaica and neighboring countries.
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Caricom expresses ‘cautious optimism’ on Gaza peace deal
GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – The Caribbean Community (Caricom), a 15-member regional bloc, expressed cautious optimism on Friday regarding the initial phase of a peace plan for Gaza. In an official statement, Caricom described the agreement as a pivotal step toward mitigating the suffering of Palestinians and ensuring the safe return of Israeli hostages. The ceasefire, declared by Israel, took effect at noon (0900 GMT) on Friday, with Israeli troops beginning their withdrawal from Gaza. Concurrently, thousands of displaced Palestinians started returning to their devastated homes. The United States Pentagon confirmed that Israel had completed the first phase of its military pullback, as outlined in President Donald Trump’s peace plan. Under the agreement, Hamas is set to release 47 hostages, both living and deceased, who were abducted two years ago. Additionally, the remains of another hostage held since 2014 are expected to be returned. Caricom emphasized the importance of the stipulated terms, including a sustained pause in hostilities, the withdrawal of military forces, the reciprocal release of hostages and prisoners, and the guarantee of immediate and safe humanitarian access. The regional body urged all signatories to fully honor their commitments, stressing that this initial phase should lay the groundwork for a permanent and unconditional ceasefire. Caricom reiterated its stance that a just and lasting peace, in line with international law, can only be achieved through a negotiated Two-State Solution, which addresses the legitimate security and dignity aspirations of both nations.
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NODS urges Residents to complete preparedness plans ahead of Tropical Storm Jerry
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Office has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for Barbuda as Tropical Storm Jerry shifts closer to the island. Residents are urged to finalize their hurricane preparedness plans immediately, as sustained tropical storm-force winds are expected within the next 12 to 18 hours. While the warning specifically targets Barbuda, a Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for Antigua and the broader Leeward Islands. The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) is closely monitoring the situation and advises residents to stay updated through local media channels. Emergency kits should include essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, first aid items, flashlights, and medications. Additionally, securing homes, businesses, and agricultural equipment is critical. NODS has also warned against walking or driving through floodwaters, which can pose severe risks. The Met Office emphasizes that tropical storm conditions may extend farther south than currently projected, underscoring the need for vigilance and readiness.
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Veerverbinding Albina–St. Laurent ligt stil: reparatie La Gabrielle kan lang duren
The ferry service connecting Albina, Suriname, and St. Laurent, French Guiana, has been temporarily suspended due to a technical malfunction. The service, traditionally operated by the French ferry La Gabrielle, has been halted following damage to its propeller. The defective propeller has been transferred to the Suriname Dock and Shipbuilding Company (SDSM) for repairs. According to NV Havenbeheer Suriname, the repair process is expected to take approximately two weeks, provided the propeller can be fixed. However, if a replacement is required, the suspension could extend up to four months. This disruption follows recent issues, including the ferry’s earlier withdrawal due to the captain’s illness. The suspension has raised concerns among passengers and businesses reliant on cross-border trade, as alternative transportation methods are costlier and riskier. Efforts are underway to deploy the new ferry Le Malani as a temporary solution, but it awaits full approval from French authorities, which could take up to six months. Additionally, reports of shallow waters and debris near the Surinamese docking area have prompted inspections by the Suriname Maritime Authority. While these conditions are not the cause of the current suspension, measures are being taken to address potential obstacles. The ferry service is crucial for the economic and social connectivity of the region, and authorities are working to resume operations swiftly. The Surinamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs is collaborating with French officials to seek a long-term solution.
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The government of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for Barbuda
Tropical Storm Jerry is rapidly approaching the northern Leeward Islands, prompting urgent warnings from meteorological authorities. As of 1100 AM AST, the storm was located near latitude 15.9 North, longitude 59.1 West, approximately 310 miles east-southeast of the region. With maximum sustained winds of 65 mph and a westward-northwest movement at 18 mph, Jerry is expected to pass near or northeast of the northern Leeward Islands later today and tonight. The government of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for Barbuda, indicating that tropical storm conditions are imminent within the next 12 hours. Additionally, a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Antigua, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Guadeloupe, and adjacent islands, signaling possible storm conditions within 48 hours. Jerry is forecasted to strengthen in the coming days, potentially reaching hurricane status by late Friday or Saturday. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, with 2 to 4 inches anticipated across the Leeward and Virgin Islands, and isolated totals up to 6 inches. This poses a significant risk of flash flooding, particularly in urban areas and steep terrain. Swells generated by Jerry are already affecting the Leeward and Windward Islands, with life-threatening surf and rip current conditions expected to spread westward. Residents are urged to monitor updates from their national meteorological services and prepare for hazardous weather. The next advisory will be issued at 2:00 PM AST, followed by a complete update at 5:00 PM AST.