2024 FOCAC summit to be new milestone of China-Africa relations: Xi

The 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) will be a new milestone in the history of China-Africa relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday.

Xi made the remarks during a meeting with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who is in Beijing for the summit, which runs from Wednesday to Friday.

Calling Kagame an "old friend," Xi hailed the work of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) in leading the development of their respective countries.

"China is willing to enhance political mutual trust with Rwanda, expand our consensus of ideas, and move forward side by side on the road of realizing our respective modernization. This summit will be a new milestone in the history of China-Africa relations, and will bring historic opportunities for the upgrading of friendly China-Rwanda relations," Xi said.

For his part, Kagame spoke highly of the friendship between the two countries, saying that closer bilateral ties are mutually beneficial.

"Thank you very much, Your Excellency President Xi Jinping, and thank you for your friendship between us and among our people. Accordingly, we are ready, and have been, to work with China to implement the three global initiatives. Mr. President, I wish to commend your leadership in bringing China and Africa closer together for mutual benefit," said Kagame.

2024 FOCAC summit to be new milestone of China-Africa relations: Xi

2024 FOCAC summit to be new milestone of China-Africa relations: Xi

2024 FOCAC summit to be new milestone of China-Africa relations: Xi

2024 FOCAC summit to be new milestone of China-Africa relations: Xi

2024 FOCAC summit to be new milestone of China-Africa relations: Xi

The 2024 Macao International Marathon was held Sunday in Macao to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland.

The event drew approximately 12,000 runners from over 50 countries and regions, comprising professional athletes as well as running enthusiasts.

The race began at 06:00 from the Olympic Sports Center in Taipa, Macao's largest sporting complex, with the firing of the starting gun.

Runners traversed a scenic route that included iconic landmarks such as the Governador Nobre de Carvalho Bridge, Sai Van Bridge, and A-Ma Temple, dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess.

In addition to the full marathon, the event featured a half marathon and a mini marathon of approximately 4.5 kilometers. "This year marks the 43rd edition of the Macao International Marathon. We aim to promote tourism through sports, encouraging visitors to not only enjoy our cultural and tourism facilities but also to experience Macao's unique charm through events like this marathon," said Chang Tzu-hsuan, director of the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government.

Local resident Mai Wei-chung, participating for the 12th time, reflected on the changes in Macao over the years.

"This marks my 12th year participating in the Macao Marathon. Witnessing the transformation in Macao's scenery over the past decade reflects the city's burgeoning economy and the enhanced well-being of its residents, as well as advancements in sports and various other sectors," he said.

Portuguese tourist Frederick found the race challenging but rewarding.

"It was a challenge, but I fulfilled my goal. Very happy with that. The weather was very good, and the organization was also good. So I enjoyed it and still repeat next time," said Frederick.

Int'l marathon held to celebrate 25th anniversary of Macao's return to motherland