The Qatari Foreign Affairs Ministry on Saturday denied Western media reports on Qatar's withdrawal from its mediation in the negotiations on ceasefire in the war-ravaged Gaza Strip, saying that the Israel-Hamas talks have been stalled only.
In a statement posted on its official website, the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the media reports about Qatar's withdrawal from the mediation are not "accurate".
Qatar's efforts to mediate between the warring parties are currently "stalled", and Qatar will "resume" its mediation efforts as long as all parties are serious and sincere in ending the conflict and humanitarian disasters in the Gaza Strip, said the statement.
The statement also said that previous reports about the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) office in Doha were "inaccurate", the main purpose of establishing the office was to serve as a channel of communication for the relevant parties, and this channel facilitated a temporary ceasefire between Hamas and Israel in November last year.
Several Western media reported earlier that Qatar has withdrawn from the mediation between the warring parties and demanded that Hamas close its Doha office.
Qatar denies reports on withdrawal from mediation in Gaza ceasefire talks
Qatar denies reports on withdrawal from mediation in Gaza ceasefire talks
People in China welcomed the New Year with vibrant celebrations and cultural displays on Tuesday night, from spectacular light show and night cruise to dazzling iron flower performances.
The combination of vibrant lights, festive events, and cultural showcases exemplified the spirit of celebration as people welcomed 2024 with joy and hope.
As the clock struck midnight, the bustling Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center in the city came alive with vibrant light shows and unique night cruises, drawing crowds of locals and tourists eager to welcome the new year.
In addition to the light display, the newly-opened Fushan Bay New Year's Eve special cruise also provided visitors with a fresh perspective and experience.
"This is my first New Year's Eve on a boat. It's very special and the scenery is beautiful," said Li, a tourist.
Meanwhile, in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Changshou District unveiled its spring festival lights, instantly filling the city with a peaceful festive atmosphere. As night fell, colorful decorations illuminated the streets, creating a comfortable urban landscape.
This year's light show prominently featured red and yellow hues, incorporating traditional elements such as red lanterns, Chinese knots and lucky bags, along with auspicious clouds, phoenixes, and pomelos, showcasing the region's characteristic culture.
"I think the fancy lanterns this year are very beautiful and spectacular. It's very colorful and in a new style. It brings strong New Year atmosphere," said Chen Hongling, a resident.
"The colorful lights has made the city more lively and warmer, providing a good place for citizens to take photos and hang out together, enhancing the festive atmosphere," said Chuan Yaqi, another resident.
In Kaifeng, an ancient capital in central China's Henan Province, elaborate fireworks lit up the night sky, greeting the arrival of 2025.
Traditional performances, including the "Iron Flower" intangible heritage performance, captivated spectators with molten iron tossed into the air, creating a dazzling shower of sparks against the backdrop of ancient architecture.
Cities ring in New Year with spectacular night celebrations
