Monthly Archive 24/10/2024

Netflix recently reported an impressive increase in subscriber numbers, surpassing Wall Street expectations. In the third quarter, the company added 5.1 million streaming subscribers, exceeding forecasts by over a million. Looking ahead, Netflix anticipates even stronger growth with the return of the popular Korean drama “Squid Game” ahead of the holiday season.

Analyst estimates from LSEG had projected that Netflix would attract 4 million new subscribers between July and September. This quarter saw the launch of new titles, including the mystery thriller “A Model Family” and the romantic comedy “Romantic Red Flags.”

Earnings per share came in at $5.40, exceeding the consensus estimate of $5.12, while revenue reached $9.825 billion, slightly above the expected $9.769 billion.

Netflix is optimistic about the final quarter of the year, traditionally a strong period around the Christmas holidays, predicting that subscriber growth will surpass that of the September quarter, though no specific numbers were provided.

The company has been shifting investor focus from subscriber counts to other metrics, including revenue growth and profitability. This quarter, Netflix reported an operating margin of 30%, up from 22% in the same period last year.

In their earnings statement, Netflix expressed satisfaction with the acceleration of business growth, stating, “We are excited to finish the year strong with a stellar fourth quarter.” Upcoming programming will feature the second season of “Squid Game.”

After last year’s Hollywood labor strikes disrupted production, the company has seen a rebound in its content pipeline. Viewer engagement remains high, with members averaging two hours of Netflix viewing per day.

As Netflix continues to develop its advertising business, which has been operational for nearly two years, the company projects that ad revenue will become a significant growth driver by 2026. In the September quarter, over 50% of registered users in its supported countries subscribed to the ad-supported service.

This service focuses on live broadcasts, including sports events, which are particularly appealing to advertisers. In November, Netflix will air a fight between YouTube star Jake Paul and boxing legend Mike Tyson, followed by its first NFL game in December.

Mike Proulx, a research director at Forrester, noted, “Advertisers want to be part of significant cultural moments. Engaging live programming always has the power to gather people and bring them together. For brands, this is an audience ready to receive advertising messages.”

On October 18, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration of China held a press conference announcing plans to establish several high-standard bases aimed at enhancing the supply capacity of forest foods.

During the event, Wang Junzhong, Director of the Forestry and Grassland Reform and Development Division, emphasized that developing forest food production will not compete with traditional agriculture for land. He highlighted that this initiative not only brings ecological, economic, and social benefits but is also a crucial step toward building a diversified food supply system that ensures national food security. According to Wang, significant progress has been made in forest food development thanks to the collective efforts of various stakeholders in recent years.

Wang noted that China is home to hundreds of tree species with food production capabilities, making its forests a vast “granary.” Currently, the country’s forest food production capacity is on the rise, with a planting area for economic forests reaching 70 million acres and over 60 million acres dedicated to under-forest economic utilization. The annual output of various forest foods exceeds 200 million tons, equating to 140 kilograms per person, making forest products the third largest agricultural category in China following grains and vegetables. The range of products has expanded significantly, including diverse offerings such as camellia oil and olive oil, ample supplies of chestnuts, pine nuts, and jujubes, along with a variety of fruits and an exciting array of new products like forest specialty foods, wood-based seasonings, and beverages. Additionally, under-forest farming and livestock activities now account for approximately 4.9 billion poultry and over 50 million livestock, greatly enriching the diets of local residents.

Wang also stated that the development of forest food production not only enhances the forest “granary” but also enriches the forest “treasury,” making it a vital strategy for rural revitalization. Out of more than 2,800 counties nationwide, over 2,400 are cultivating economic forests, with an annual output value exceeding 2 trillion yuan (approximately $300 billion), and under-forest economies generating about 1 trillion yuan (around $150 billion), which has helped millions of forestry workers improve their livelihoods.

Looking ahead, Wang outlined four key initiatives to advance this agenda: first, to promote superior seeds, techniques, and practices that increase yield per unit area; second, to accelerate the construction of bases for large-scale, standardized, and specialized planting in regions favorable for forestry oilseed and grain production, while encouraging the establishment of under-forest economic bases; third, to enhance supportive policies and increase financial investment; and fourth, to strengthen technological support for industry upgrades.

Chiemelie Ezeobi
The newly appointed Executive Secretary/Chief Administrative Officer of Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund, Colonel Kingsley Umoh (Rtd.), has pledged total commitment to duty in ensuring the safety of residents of the state.
Umoh was appointed by Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, an appointment that was met with widespread applause from dignitaries, family, friends, and colleagues.
Expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him by the Governor and the people of Akwa Ibom State, he acknowledged the significance of the moment, emphasising that the establishment of the Security Trust Fund marks a pivotal milestone in the state’s journey toward ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
He said: “This is a pivotal moment for our State. I am proud beyond measure to be part of this historic occasion.
“The establishment of this Trust Fund is a testament to the vision and leadership of His Excellency, our Governor. It is a tangible demonstration of His unwavering resolve to provide a secure environment for our citizens to live, work, and thrive.”
Colonel Umoh pledged his commitment to ensuring that the Security Trust Fund’s resources are utilised efficiently to enhance security across the state.
He highlighted the importance of partnerships between government, law enforcement agencies, and the citizenry, as well as the private sector’s role in supporting security initiatives.
“As the Executive Secretary/CAO, I pledge to dedicate myself to the fulfilment of this noble mission. I will work tirelessly with the Chairman and esteemed members of the board to ensure that the resources entrusted to this Fund are utilised effectively to support law enforcement agencies and empower our communities to safeguard their neighborhoods,” he added.
The Security Trust Fund aims to enhance the state’s security by providing necessary support to law enforcement agencies, fostering a sense of justice and community, and promoting private sector participation in security efforts.
Colonel Umoh’s appointment has been widely praised as a strategic move, given his extensive experience and military background.
His leadership is expected to play a critical role in advancing the security objectives of Akwa Ibom State under Governor Eno’s administration, who through his security mandate and framework, keeps striving to create a safer and more secure environment for all residents.

In recent years, the integration of artificial intelligence with life sciences has shown promising potential for efficiently predicting protein structures and aiding in the development of new drugs. Concurrently, fields like materials science, clinical neuroscience, and engineering are converging towards breakthroughs in brain-computer interface technology. Furthermore, quantum computing, which merges physics and information science, is driving transformative progress in computational science.

The scientific landscape is increasingly characterized by interdisciplinary collaboration, where the fusion of distinct fields is emerging as a key driver of technological innovation. Experts suggest that this holistic approach to scientific inquiry is likely to yield more disruptive technologies and groundbreaking original contributions.

What does it mean when we talk about scientific research focusing on “extreme interdisciplinary integration”? What implications does this have for the field? We sat down with specialists to explore these questions.

Professor Kai Wu from Peking University’s School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering explains that the essence of extreme interdisciplinary research lies in the idea that scientific problems are no longer constrained to a single discipline; instead, they require the collaborative support of multiple fields to find solutions. This approach envisions a deep integration of various disciplines, harnessing diverse knowledge and methods to address complex scientific and technological problems and driving paradigm shifts in research, ultimately opening up new directions and fields of study.

Wu highlights that extreme interdisciplinary research tends to be project-oriented, often revolving around a complex central scientific question that requires solutions from multiple disciplines and perspectives. “When scientific research reaches a certain stage, breakthroughs within singular disciplinary frameworks become increasingly challenging. There’s an urgent need for cross-disciplinary collaboration to achieve better outcomes with less effort,” adds Zheng Huilong, a researcher at the Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Drawing from his own experiences in intelligent flight control research, Zheng illustrates how 3D printing technology has transformed his team’s approach. Initially tasked with creating over 40 components for a crucial part of an aircraft engine, the team is now able to achieve similar performance with just seven pieces thanks to integrated design and manufacturing. “By combining 3D printing and composite material technologies, we can weave carbon fiber into our designs, enhancing durability and weight efficiency while also enabling sensor integration for smarter devices,” Zheng notes.

Zheng’s team is also pioneering the application of artificial intelligence in aircraft control, molding an “intelligent brain” for self-learning flight posture control and trajectory planning, paving the way for autonomous flight—a potential future direction for the industry.

The transformative potential of interdisciplinary research is substantial, yielding an increasing number of scientific breakthroughs and technological advancements. Experts assert that this convergence should not be limited to the natural and engineering sciences but should also encompass collaborations between natural and social sciences.

Xu Feng, a researcher at the Scientific and Technical Information Research Institute, emphasizes that as artificial intelligence evolves, its implications will extend beyond technical challenges to ethical, moral, and cultural concerns. Hence, it is vital to instill values and legal standards into the products and services of AI. “This necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together scientists, engineers, policymakers, and the public to collectively explore the direction of AI development, its applications, and ethical considerations.”

When discussing the “extreme” aspect of interdisciplinary integration, experts caution against viewing this as a mere “1+1” scenario. Instead of simply combining two fields, the goal is to deeply explore original disciplines and uncover intrinsic connections that can foster new academic growth and create outcomes where “1+1 is greater than 2”. They warn that research purely for the sake of merging disciplines can lead to inefficiencies and wasted resources.

Extreme interdisciplinary research is pivotal for addressing cutting-edge scientific questions and producing significant outcomes. Historical examples abound, such as physicist Erwin Schrödinger’s application of quantum mechanics to unveil the essence of life, leading to molecular biology, or Tu Youyou’s extraction of artemisinin from traditional Chinese medicine, paving new pathways in malaria treatment. These illustrate the innovative power of cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Recent advancements across numerous disciplines have yielded breakthroughs in the field of interface science, which integrates chemistry, physics, nanomaterials, environmental energy, and health sciences. Wu’s team recently developed a national-level research instrument, the “Ultra-High Time-Space Resolution Ion Chemistry Research System,” which combines knowledge and techniques from various scientific fields to address pressing industrial needs.

China has seen impressive strides through deep interdisciplinary integration. The team led by Professor Xu Qi Kun from Tsinghua University discovered the “quantum anomalous Hall effect,” revolutionizing understanding of quantum systems and showcasing a new paradigm in interdisciplinary research. This discovery earned the team the First-Class Award at the National Natural Science Awards in 2018.

Similarly, Li Yongwang’s team from the Shanxi Coal Chemistry Research Institute leveraged intersections of quantum chemistry, catalysis, and chemical engineering to develop technology for converting coal to liquid fuel—an achievement that secures energy safety and facilitates efficient, clean coal resource utilization, winning the National Science and Technology Progress Award in 2020.

These cases underscore the ability of extreme interdisciplinary research to synthesize theoretical and practical knowledge, pushing the boundaries of scientific inquiry and generating impactful results.

The global scientific community acknowledges the importance of fostering interdisciplinary integration. Experts note that the trend toward “extreme interdisciplinary integration” arises from profound changes in contemporary science and the growing complexity and diversity of scientific inquiries. Countries around the world are actively promoting cross-disciplinary research to expand scientific horizons and generate innovative solutions.

Adopting a model of extreme interdisciplinary research is likely to drive major technological breakthroughs and original contributions. Many pivotal scientific discoveries and technological advancements emerge from the fusion of ideas across disciplines. In recent years, a significant number of Nobel Prizes in Natural Sciences have been awarded for interdisciplinary work, including this year’s Nobel Prize in Chemistry, awarded to three scientists for their outstanding contributions to protein structure prediction—yet another testament to the outcomes of integrated scientific research.

To effectively advance extreme interdisciplinary research, what areas should we focus on? Wu suggests accelerating the development of high-end research instruments, which are essential for enabling cross-disciplinary collaboration. Currently, China’s research framework predominantly follows traditional disciplinary categories, constraining resources such as talent and funding. Xu advocates for a shift toward an open, collaborative system that supports interdisciplinary work and refining project application and evaluation processes.

There’s also a crucial need to cultivate talent specializing in comprehensive interdisciplinary research. Zheng’s team, despite primarily focusing on engineering applications, actively seeks members with interdisciplinary backgrounds and aims to nurture young talents in this domain. Many universities and research institutes are now establishing interdisciplinary training models and offering general education courses to enhance the development of multifaceted innovation professionals, with promising results.

Wu argues for the proactive promotion of “cross-border” integration between natural and social sciences, as this interdisciplinary junction can substantially enhance China’s technological and cultural innovation capacities, contributing to sustainable and healthy development of human civilization.

On October 16th, we commemorate the 60th anniversary of China’s first successful atomic bomb detonation. Sixty years ago, a massive mushroom cloud billowed into the sky above Lop Nur, marking the “Eastern Giant’s Roar” that astonished the world. Today, at the Atomic City, China’s first nuclear weapon development base, visitors are flocking to honor the spirit of “Two Bombs, One Satellite,” a testament engraved in the annals of New China’s history, reflecting the immense strength encapsulated in the spirit of the Chinese Communist Party.

At the foot of the Qilian Mountains, the biting cold winds sweep across the Golden and Silver Beach grasslands. Inside the steel-structured “596” theme corridor at the Atomic City Memorial Park in Haiyan County, Qinghai Province, statues commemorate 23 laureates of the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” merit medal, while the names of 31,564 workers who contributed to this monumental task are etched along the walls.

Sixty years ago, we resolutely announced to the world: the Chinese people, relying on their own strength, have mastered atomic bomb technology, effectively breaking through the nuclear monopoly and coercion of superpowers.

Great endeavors forge great spirits. Hu Sided, former president of the China Engineering Physics Research Institute, remarked that under the strong leadership of the Party, we created the miracle of “Two Bombs, One Satellite” despite immense challenges. This effort birthed the enduring spirit characterized by “patriotism, selfless dedication, self-reliance, hard work, collaboration, and the courage to climb.”

Today, within China’s Atomic City—the place where our nation holds its head high—we gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and challenges that have marked the Chinese journey from standing up to getting rich, and now to becoming strong.

From Qian Xuesen’s steadfast belief that “the purpose of life is to serve the people” to Wang Gan Chang’s declaration, “I wish to dedicate myself to the country,” the early developers of “Two Bombs, One Satellite” unfurled the flag of patriotism, consciously linking personal aspirations to national rejuvenation. Their love for the country translated into tangible actions promoting the strength of the nation.

Behind the beautiful name of Golden and Silver Beach lies an elevation of over 3,200 meters, an average temperature of only 0.4 degrees Celsius, and an environment marked by high altitude and low oxygen levels. People from all corners of the country, in the absence of blueprints and detailed information, worked alongside the Gobi Desert. In an environment lacking advanced equipment, scientists utilized hand-cranked calculators to process thousands of data; during the pouring of explosives into aluminum pots, thick masks were donned to mitigate the noxious gases produced by chemical reactions; when cutting explosives, technicians used basins filled with water to cool the materials and avert explosions.

More than a thousand farming and pastoral households were relocated from their ancestral grasslands at Golden and Silver Beach. An 86-year-old Tibetan elder, Angba, who resides in Dayurixiu Village, Qinghai Lake Township, recalls those years with tears in his eyes: “For the Republic’s defense, many herders drove their cattle and sheep, moving their families without a single complaint.”

The echoes of past struggles intertwine with the footsteps of future dreamers, as the spirit of Chinese Communists continues to be passed down through the ages. Ma Qingfang, curator of the Qinghai Atomic City Museum, shared that since its opening, the venue has welcomed over 4 million visitors, with 272,000 coming just between January and September of this year.

“An atomic bomb is not merely a weapon; it symbolizes the unyielding spirit of the Chinese nation,” said Kong Qingrong, an associate professor at Qinghai Normal University, emotionally reflecting on the achievements of “Two Bombs, One Satellite.” These endeavors inspire ambition, bolster resilience, and enhance our determination.

From missiles to atomic and hydrogen bombs, and onto artificial satellites, successive generations of Chinese scientists have risen to the challenge, embodying the ethos of “making groundbreaking achievements while remaining anonymous.” Uniting in purpose, they have persevered through hard work to collaboratively overcome obstacles and shoulder the historical responsibilities of mastering critical technologies.

The spirit of “Two Bombs, One Satellite” is being interpreted in more fields today—
the “Jiaolong” manned submersible overcame critical technologies related to pressure resistance, life support, long-distance underwater communication, and system control; the “Tian Kun” heavy-duty self-propelled dredger has achieved the country’s first application of dredging automation; and the “Hualong One” represents China’s first complete independent intellectual property system in nuclear energy, with the core components all produced domestically.

Amidst unprecedented changes worldwide, China is undergoing significant and unique innovations in human history, facing a challenging path ahead. Building a technologically powerful nation requires cherishing and promoting the spirit of “Two Bombs, One Satellite,” integrating patriotism, national pride, and a spirit of hard work into our collective journey toward the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

In this new era, the spirit of “Two Bombs, One Satellite” shines ever brighter.

On October 17, during a speech at the 2024 Astana International Forum, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that resolving the Ukraine crisis through peaceful means is the only viable solution.

According to the presidential office’s website, Tokayev spoke about the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. He stated, “If we don’t pursue peace, this war will lead both sides to destruction. While some forces in the world may be interested in a different outcome, that path leads to a deep abyss.”

Tokayev underscored the importance of supporting international proposals for peace in Ukraine, specifically highlighting initiatives put forth by China and Brazil. He remarked that striving for peace through constructive dialogue is not a sign of weakness, but rather a prudent strategy.

In a meeting with visiting German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on September 16, Tokayev reiterated the existing opportunity for peace between Russia and Ukraine, mentioning that the peace initiatives from China and Brazil deserve backing.

On May 23, China and Brazil jointly released a “six-point consensus” advocating for a political solution to the Ukraine crisis, stating that “dialogue and negotiation are the only feasible paths to resolving the Ukraine crisis.”

In a recent interview, we explored the significant role of arts and culture in shaping modern society. As stated, “Art is the horn that heralds the progress of our times, embodying the essence of an era and steering its spirit.” Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, General Secretary Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of cultural initiatives, providing a strategic vision for the arts in the context of realizing the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.

During a recent performance, members of the Ulan Muqi troupe in Sunitai, Inner Mongolia, were seen actively engaging with local communities just 100 kilometers from the city. They showcased their latest dances and songs to the herdsmen, reflecting a deep commitment to grassroots cultural outreach. Established in 1957, the Sunitai Ulan Muqi is the first of its kind in Inner Mongolia and has evolved from a small troupe of nine to a national symbol of artistic excellence over the past 67 years.

Art is not just a passion but a vital endeavor for both the Party and the people, comprising an essential battleground for their initiatives. Since the 18th National Congress, Xi Jinping’s administration has prioritized the development of the arts. Notably, during a symposium on October 15, 2014, Xi highlighted that the most fundamental aspect of promoting artistic prosperity is the creation of exceptional works that reflect the greatness of our nation and era.

Xi’s commitment is evident through his participation in various cultural events and conferences, where he articulates a vision for the arts that emphasizes the unprecedented opportunities available for cultural flourishing in modern China. He insists that fostering socialism in the arts and building a strong cultural nation is a significant responsibility for artists today.

Under Xi’s guidance, important policies to bolster arts development have been introduced, including the 2015 “Opinions of the Central Committee on Promoting Socialist Culture,” and recent mandates focusing on producing culturally rich and people-centered artistic works. From broad national strategies to localized innovation, China’s artistic landscape is witnessing a remarkable bloom, reflecting an array of genres and styles.

Over the last decade, artists have engaged deeply with the public and everyday life, producing works that resonate with shared human experiences. Major artistic events like the “Great Journey” performance for the centennial of the Party and the concert celebrating the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China showcase the national revival’s spirit through passionate artistic expressions. Productions like the operas “The Party’s Daughter” and “Mountains and Seas,” along with numerous dramas and films, have captured the collective historical journey and social evolution, moving audiences profoundly.

Furthermore, traditional cultural roots are celebrated in numerous acclaimed works, such as the majestic sculptures exhibited at the Chinese Communist Party History Museum. The integration of technology and art continues to thrive, as seen in initiatives like the “China’s Historical Painting Series” exhibition, which revitalizes classical art forms, and the National Grand Theatre’s dual approach to live and online performances, both of which have garnered billions of views.

As we tell the story of China to the world, events like the cultural performances at the Beijing Winter Olympics and Hangzhou Asian Games beautifully reflect Chinese values through a lens of Eastern aesthetics, showcasing the unique charm of Chinese civilization.

Looking ahead, the collective resolve of artists to maintain cultural confidence and uphold artistic ideals signifies their commitment to addressing contemporary societal themes. By drawing inspiration from the changing times, progression in China, and the voice of the people, they are poised to make significant contributions toward the fulfillment of the second centenary goals and the realization of the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.

Ebere Nwoji
Insurance underwriting firm, emPLE Insurance has unveiled its insurance businesses and strategic market posturing. Following its acquisition of Old Mutual’s Life and General Insurance businesses in Nigeria.
emPLE said it has been positioned to deliver enhanced services and solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of Nigerians across various sectors.
Managing Director of the firm Rantimi Ogunleye said his management team was excited to lead the new chapter in Nigeria’s insurance industry.
He said at emPLE, both the management and staff focus on empowering individuals, households and families with accessible insurance products that not only protect their existing lifestyle but also contribute to long-term generational wealth creation.
“We are here to showcase the peerless benefits and the possibilities that insurance can unlock for Nigerians.The company’s general insurance arm is also driving change through its offerings. These include comprehensive and innovative motor, home, and business insurance products tailored to meet the demands of today’s dynamic and uncertain business landscape.
Also speaking, Managing Director of EmPLE General Insurance, Olalekan Oyinlade,
noted that the goal of the company’s management team was to make insurance more accessible to all Nigerians, their enterprise and industries.
“From motor to home and business insurance policies, these solutions will protect our customers from unforeseen risks, focusing on tailored products, quick claims processing and personalised service. We are particularly proud of how our offerings cater to existing and emerging needs in a rapidly changing global and local micro-economic realities.”
He said emPLE was committed to promoting financial inclusion by ensuring its products were affordable and accessible to a wide range of targeted customers.
According to him, the company’s understanding of the industry’s dynamics, would collaborate with key stakeholders, including brokers, agents, and tech innovators, to reshape the Nigerian insurance market through unique product development and exceptional value creation.

AFP via Getty ImagesEach Thaad system – like this one seen in an archive photo – costs about $1bn (£766m)The Pentagon has confirmed it is sending a high-altitude anti-missile system operated by US troops to Israel.
Officials say the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (Thaad) battery will bolster Israeli air defences after Iran’s missile attack on the country earlier this month.
President Joe Biden has said it is meant "to defend Israel", which is still expected to retaliate against an Iranian strike involving more than 180 ballistic missiles fired at Israel on 1 October.
The move has become the focus of attention as it involves putting American boots on the ground in Israel.
There are already a small number of US forces in the country – but this new deployment of about 100 troops is significant as it signals further US entanglement in the expanding regional war.
It is also being scoured for clues as to what it means about the effectiveness of Israel’s missile defences as the crisis grows.
Israel has yet to launch its retaliation for Iran’s attack, which will be "lethal, precise and above all, surprising" according to Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.
Tehran said it fired on Israel because it assassinated Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Iranian-backed Hezbollah, in Beirut.
Follow live updates on this storyAnalysing footage from the Gaza strikesWatch: ‘I say bye to my kids, in case we don’t wake up’ – two Gazans film a year under attack by IsraelAnalysis: Drone attack on Israel puts spotlight on Iron Dome's limitationsGaza Strip in maps: How a year of war has drastically changed life in the territoryThe Pentagon said an advance team and components needed for the battery arrived in Israel on Monday – with further personnel and parts to follow in the coming days. The battery will be operational in the “near future”, a statement said.
Israeli journalist Avi Scharf, who routinely monitors flight tracking data, said two C-17 US military transporters flew from Alabama to the Israeli Air Force's Nevatim base overnight, likely carrying Thaad equipment.
It’s still unclear whether the Thaad deployment is part of US contingency planning to bridge gaps identified in Israel’s aerial defences, or whether it points to growing concerns in Washington of a more forceful Israeli strike on Iran.
President Biden has opposed any attack on Iranian nuclear facilities, as well as on its oil or energy infrastructure, amid fears that it would trigger a spiralling conflict and affect the global economy.
Whatever the background to the decision, it signals a further need by Israel for US defence assistance amid the expanding Middle East war.

On October 17, a fleet comprising the Chinese Coast Guard vessels Meishan and Xiushan successfully concluded the joint maritime exercise and patrol with Russia, returning triumphantly to Zhoushan.

On the morning of October 17, the Meishan and Xiushan docked at the pier, where the second bureau of the Chinese Coast Guard held a grand welcome ceremony to celebrate the fleet’s return. The fleet set sail from Zhoushan on September 13 and traveled through the Sea of Japan, the Sea of Okhotsk, the Bering Sea, and the Chukchi Sea before entering the Arctic Ocean, completing its journey in 35 days. It logged over 1,200 hours at sea and covered more than 17,000 nautical miles. During this period, the Chinese and Russian Coast Guards conducted various activities, including ship open days, deck receptions, and cultural exchanges. They also carried out joint exercises in the vicinity of Peter the Great Gulf, testing their ability to jointly tackle maritime safety risks through coordinated search and rescue operations, interception and inspection of suspected criminal vessels, and assistance with overboard incidents.

Captain Feng Mingming of the Meishan stated, “We actively expand the scope of our law enforcement mission, continuously honing our fleet’s capability to execute diverse tasks, and effectively showcase the Chinese Coast Guard’s confident, open, and professional image.”

On September 21, the Chinese Coast Guard transitioned into a joint patrol phase, efficiently coordinating with Russian vessels as they entered the North Pacific’s high seas for cooperative monitoring of fishing activities. This included joint search and rescue operations and other practical exercises aimed at maintaining order in the North Pacific fishing grounds.

Commander He Feng of the Chinese Coast Guard fleet emphasized the significance of this mission in solidifying the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership in the new era and enhancing mutual trust and cooperation between the two countries’ maritime agencies. He noted, “Our next steps will include practical bilateral and multilateral maritime law enforcement cooperation while actively engaging in international and regional maritime governance to fulfill our international obligations and demonstrate our great power responsibility.”

The joint maritime patrol, lasting 35 days with over 1,200 hours at sea, marks a significant milestone as this is the first time the Chinese Coast Guard has dispatched the Meishan and Xiushan vessels into the Arctic Ocean. Why were these two ships chosen for such a pivotal mission?

Both the Meishan and Xiushan belong to the second bureau of the Chinese Coast Guard and are 3,000-ton vessels capable of operating efficiently in high seas, except in extreme cold conditions. They can endure winds up to force 12 and are equipped to sustain a month-long journey under adequate supply conditions.

Marine expert Yang Xiao from the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations explained, “These 3,000-ton vessels are not only the mainstay of the Chinese Coast Guard but also align with the typical scale used in international coast guard operations. Their comprehensive capabilities make them suitable for maritime law enforcement and long-term presence at sea, adapting to a variety of tactical needs, thereby making them the preferred choice for far-reaching maritime law enforcement.”

Notably, this joint operation is a historic first for both the Chinese and Russian Coast Guards, representing a major advance in expanding maritime patrol ranges and effectively testing their operational capabilities in unfamiliar waters. Researcher Chen Xiangmiao from Huayang Marine Research Center commented, “The joint patrol in the Arctic Ocean is a significant breakthrough in this special maritime region. As an observer in the Arctic Council, China’s cooperation with Russia—an Arctic coastal state—demonstrates our collective commitment to managing the promising Arctic routes.”

In recent years, China has actively engaged in fulfilling United Nations resolutions and complying with regulations pertaining to the conservation and management of North Pacific maritime resources. What significance does the Chinese Coast Guard’s role in maintaining safety and stability in the North Pacific hold? Yang Xiao elaborated, “Joint maritime law enforcement itself is a constructive act that maintains regional peace and stability. The cooperation between the Chinese and Russian Coast Guards serves as a model for other countries, highlighting a friendly and constructive approach to maritime law enforcement and contributing positively to regional peace and stability.”

According to publicly available reports from the Chinese Coast Guard, in 2024, there will be a focus on enhancing standardized maritime law enforcement practices. This includes revising and issuing a guiding directory and implementing administrative law enforcement protocols. Furthermore, in 2024, there will be 11 working-level talks and high-level meetings with countries like Cambodia, South Korea, and Peru, alongside two international drills to strengthen bilateral maritime law enforcement cooperation. Additionally, initiatives to protect fishery resources have been launched, culminating in successful enforcement patrols in North Pacific waters.

Yang Xiao remarked, “In recent years, through measures such as seasonal fishing bans, maintaining maritime traffic safety, mitigating marine pollution incidents, and managing environmental degradation, we have upheld our maritime rights lawfully while leading collaborative efforts with neighboring countries and global partners to safeguard the marine ecosystem, collectively tapping into oceanic resources and energy to establish a community with a shared marine destiny.”