In a significant development for bilateral relations, India and China have resumed direct flights after a five-year suspension. The first flight, IndiGo 6E1703, departed from Kolkata and landed in Guangzhou, China, early Sunday morning, marking the official restart of nonstop air links that were halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions. This move is seen as a symbolic step toward rebuilding ties between the two Asian giants, who remain strategic rivals but have gradually eased tensions since a deadly border clash in 2020. The resumption of flights is expected to enhance people-to-people contact and normalize bilateral exchanges, according to the Indian government. The decision comes amid strained relations between India and the United States, following President Donald Trump’s imposition of 50% tariffs and accusations that India is supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine by purchasing its oil. Regular flights between India and Hong Kong have already been operational, with additional services from New Delhi to Shanghai and Guangzhou set to begin in November. Business leaders, such as Rajeev Singh of the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata, have hailed the move, emphasizing its potential to reduce logistics costs and transit times. Kolkata, with its historical ties to China dating back to British rule, stands to benefit significantly from the renewed air connectivity. The city’s Indo-Chinese culinary fusion remains a testament to its cultural links with China. Civil society leaders in Kolkata’s Chinatown, like Chen Khoi Kui, have welcomed the development, noting its positive impact on trade, tourism, and family reunions. Despite the thaw, India faces a long-term challenge in managing its relationship with an increasingly assertive China. The two nations continue to grapple with a significant trade imbalance, with India heavily reliant on Chinese raw materials. While recent diplomatic engagements, including meetings between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, have improved relations, fundamental strategic realities remain unchanged. The resumption of flights is a step forward, but the path to full normalization of ties is fraught with complexities.
标签： Jamaica
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‘GO EASY, MELISSA’
As Jamaica prepares for the imminent arrival of Tropical Storm Melissa, which is expected to escalate into a Category 5 hurricane, the nation’s key sporting venues are intensifying their efforts to mitigate potential damage. Meteorologists have issued warnings of life-threatening flash floods and landslides due to the storm’s heavy rainfall and destructive winds, with its effects anticipated to be felt by Tuesday. The storm has already disrupted the sporting calendar, leading to the postponement of major events, including the Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League, ISSA schoolboy football competitions, and Mount Pleasant’s Concacaf Caribbean Cup semi-final against Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force FC. Only horse racing at Caymanas Park remains unaffected. Independence Park General Manager Major Desmon Brown expressed confidence in the National Stadium’s resilience but highlighted concerns about the National Aquatics Centre, where flooding from nearby roads poses a significant threat. Sandbags have been deployed as a temporary measure, but long-term solutions depend on road infrastructure improvements. Meanwhile, the National Arena and Trelawny Stadium have been designated as public shelters, with preparations overseen by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). Sabina Park, a premier cricket venue, faces potential flooding, though Jamaica Cricket Association President Dr. Donovan Bennett remains cautiously optimistic, citing recent repairs to the scoreboard and functional drainage systems. In Montego Bay, the Sports Complex’s robust steel structure has instilled confidence in its ability to withstand the storm, with Montego Bay United President Yoni Epstein emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the club and the St. James Municipal Corporation. Across the island, venues like Caymanas Park have also undertaken extensive preparations to safeguard their facilities. As Jamaica braces for Melissa’s impact, the resilience and proactive measures of its sporting community stand as a testament to their determination to weather the storm.
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#EyeOnMelissa: McKenzie urges Jamaicans to heed warnings as Hurricane Melissa nears
As Hurricane Melissa, now a Category 4 storm, approaches Jamaica, authorities are intensifying efforts to ensure public safety. Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, has issued a stern warning to citizens, urging them to take the impending threat seriously and adhere to all official directives.
McKenzie emphasized that the hurricane is moving steadily towards the island, albeit at a slow pace. He highlighted the importance of public cooperation, stating that effective disaster response relies on collective action. ‘This is not the time for complacency. We have been providing Jamaicans with ample notice through daily press briefings,’ he said.
The minister revealed that mandatory evacuation orders will be issued for certain vulnerable communities, with announcements expected soon. He stressed that while the government is fully prepared to respond, individual responsibility is crucial. ‘The people must buy into the instructions being given. Our destiny is in our hands if we act wisely,’ McKenzie added.
In preparation for the storm, all emergency shelters have been activated, with three already accommodating evacuees. The government continues to monitor the situation closely, urging citizens to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Farmers told to reap early where possible to minimise losses – Green
In anticipation of Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Jamaica, Agriculture Minister Floyd Green has called on farmers to take immediate action to safeguard their crops and livestock. Speaking at a special media briefing at Jamaica House on Saturday, Green emphasized the importance of harvesting available crops to minimize potential losses. ‘We’ve been urging all types of farmers to take necessary precautions, starting with harvesting whatever they can,’ he stated. The minister highlighted ongoing efforts to collaborate with fruit and pepper farmers, as well as agro-processors, to ensure that produce is harvested and processed promptly. Green also advised livestock farmers to secure sufficient feed and clean water for their animals and to relocate them to higher ground if they are in flood-prone areas. The Ministry of Agriculture has issued advisories, and teams from the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) are actively visiting farmers to provide support. Farmers have been instructed to clear drains, remove overhanging trees, and prop up banana and plantain plants to mitigate damage. Green strongly cautioned against venturing out during the hurricane, noting that such actions often result in loss of life. Reflecting on the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which destroyed hundreds of greenhouse structures, Green urged greenhouse farmers to follow established protocols, including stripping plastic covers to allow wind to pass through. Additionally, AgroInvest Corporation and the Sugar Company of Jamaica are working to clean critical drains in agro parks to reduce flooding risks. -Lynford Simpson
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Switching off
In a significant shift for the music and entertainment industry, Paramount, the parent company of Music Television (MTV), has announced the discontinuation of its five music channels in the United Kingdom. MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live will cease broadcasting after December 31. This decision marks the end of an era for these iconic channels, which have been pivotal in shaping music culture since MTV’s inception in 1981. Following their shutdown in the UK and Ireland, the channels will also go off the air in France, Germany, Austria, Poland, Hungary, Australia, and Brazil. MTV revolutionized the music industry by introducing music videos as a mainstream medium, with The Buggles’ ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’ being the first video aired. Over the decades, MTV became a cultural phenomenon, launching the careers of artists like Madonna, ZZ Top, and Dire Straits. Its British and European channels played a crucial role in promoting Jamaican music, with acts such as Black Uhuru, Sean Paul, and Shaggy benefiting from their exposure. Christopher Schlarb, former director of promotions at VP Records, described MTV as the ultimate destination for success, particularly for dancehall and reggae acts in the early 2000s. Music video director Jay Will emphasized MTV’s role in amplifying radio hits, while industry veteran Cristy Barber expressed her heartbreak over the closure, recalling MTV’s unwavering support for reggae and dancehall. The discontinuation of these channels reflects changing consumer habits, as younger generations increasingly turn to digital platforms for music content. However, the legacy of MTV’s influence on music and culture remains undeniable.
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Two women escape serious injury in Mike Town, Manchester crash
In a harrowing incident on Sunday morning, two women narrowly avoided severe injuries after their vehicle veered off the road and overturned in Mike Town, Manchester. The accident occurred shortly after 8:00 am when the driver reportedly lost control of the car, causing it to leave the roadway and collide with a tree. Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, and the women were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. While details surrounding the cause of the crash remain under investigation, authorities have confirmed that both individuals are currently receiving care and are expected to recover. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and vigilance while driving.
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WATCH: #EyeOnMelissa: Warning System triggered in St Catherine
ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — On Sunday afternoon, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Early Warning System in Old Harbour Bay was activated at 2:43 pm, issuing evacuation alerts due to rapidly rising sea levels caused by Hurricane Melissa. The system, which was transferred to Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) in 2024 as part of the Emergency Communications System Improvement Project, plays a critical role in disaster response by disseminating ODPEM warnings. Reports confirm that the surging waters have inundated numerous homes, roads, and parts of the local fishing village, exacerbating the crisis. Hurricane Melissa is expected to unleash torrential rains and powerful winds, with the potential for life-threatening storm surges. The Parish Disaster Management team is actively monitoring the situation to ensure public safety and coordinate emergency efforts.
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‘Tremendous sacrifice’
As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, most citizens are seeking safety in their homes. However, essential workers, including firefighters and medical professionals, are preparing to leave their families and face the storm head-on to protect lives and maintain order. For these individuals, the call of duty often means personal sacrifice and emotional strain.
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US warship docks in Trinidad amid fears of military aggression in the Caribbean
The arrival of the USS Gravely, a United States warship, in Trinidad and Tobago has reignited debates over military aggression and regional stability in the Caribbean. While Trinidadian Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar emphasized the necessity of US collaboration in combating drug trafficking and crime, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley voiced concerns over the militarization of the region, urging dialogue to preserve peace. Mottley, addressing her party’s annual conference, highlighted the Caribbean’s vulnerability to external threats, including the presence of US military vessels and the impending Hurricane Melissa. She called for adherence to the Caribbean Community’s (Caricom) founding principle of maintaining the region as a ‘zone of peace.’
This development follows the Trump administration’s announcement of intensified military operations in the Caribbean, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, as part of a counter-drug initiative. Critics argue that these actions could serve as a pretext for a potential land invasion of Venezuela. Recent US military strikes in international waters, which resulted in the deaths of Trinidad and Tobago nationals, have further fueled tensions. The US has yet to provide evidence supporting its claims of drug trafficking.
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar defended the US presence, citing Trinidad and Tobago’s severe crime and drug-related challenges. She emphasized the benefits of joint training exercises and infrastructure upgrades facilitated by the US military. However, former Caricom leaders, including PJ Patterson and Bruce Golding, have called for a reduction in military buildup to avoid destabilizing the region.
Mottley, a staunch advocate for the rule of law, condemned extrajudicial killings and unilateral military actions, urging disputes to be resolved through the United Nations. She stressed the importance of negotiation and peaceful conflict resolution, warning against conflating law enforcement with military intervention. As the Caribbean grapples with these complex issues, the region’s leaders remain divided on the best path forward to ensure safety and stability.
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Bellingham scores Clasico winner for Real Madrid over Barca
In a thrilling El Clásico showdown at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over arch-rivals Barcelona, extending their lead at the top of La Liga to five points. Jude Bellingham’s decisive goal proved the difference in a match filled with drama, tension, and high stakes.
Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring with a clinical finish, capitalizing on a brilliant assist from Bellingham. Despite Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez equalizing before halftime, Bellingham struck again just minutes later to restore Madrid’s lead. The second half saw missed opportunities, including a Mbappe penalty saved by Barcelona’s Wojciech Szczesny, but Madrid’s defense held firm.
The match’s intensity escalated in the closing stages, with Barcelona’s Pedri receiving a second yellow card and being sent off. Tempers flared both on and off the pitch, culminating in a heated exchange between players after the final whistle.
This victory marked a significant turnaround for Real Madrid under new coach Xabi Alonso, who secured his first El Clásico win after Barcelona dominated their encounters last season. Alonso praised his team’s resilience, emphasizing the importance of this triumph in boosting their confidence.
Barcelona, missing key players like Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski, struggled to find their rhythm. Assistant coach Marcus Sorg, standing in for the suspended Hansi Flick, remained optimistic despite the defeat, acknowledging the long season ahead.
The win solidifies Real Madrid’s position as La Liga leaders, while Barcelona faces mounting pressure to close the gap. The match not only showcased Bellingham’s growing influence but also highlighted the fierce rivalry that continues to define Spanish football.