China calls for all necessary actions to reach ceasefire in Gaza

China on Wednesday called for all necessary actions to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, and emphasized that the two-state solution is the only viable way to solve the Palestinian Question.

The UN Security Council held a meeting on the situation of Palestine-Israel conflict at the UN headquarters in New York on Wednesday. Speaking at the meeting, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Geng Shuang said that more than two million people in Gaza are still suffering from war, hunger, diseases and severe cold, and the international community is expected to bring them the dawn of peace at an early date.

The UN Security Council has made tremendous efforts to promote a ceasefire and stop the violence and alleviate the disaster. However, due to a permanent member's repeated obstruction, the Security Council's response to the Palestine-Israel issue has caused deep disappointment to the international community, Geng stated.

"We noted that some countries claimed that the ceasefire negotiations have been about to be reached. However, the strikes against Gaza have not stopped, and innocent residents in Gaza are still being killed. China supports the UN Security Council to use all options in the toolbox and take all necessary actions to reach a ceasefire in Gaza, and to urge countries concerned to stop blocking the Security Council from taking actions," said Song.

China urges Israel to immediately stop its military operations in Gaza, Geng stated at the meeting, adding that Israel should fulfill its obligations under international humanitarian law, lift the blockade of Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian access, stop suppressing humanitarian agencies such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for the Near East, and provide security guarantees for humanitarian operations throughout Gaza. Geng stressed that case-by-case crisis management model cannot prevent a vicious cycle of conflict and turmoil.

Only a comprehensive, just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue can bring true and lasting peace between Palestine and Israel and open a new chapter of peace and stability in the Middle East, he said.

"History has fully proved that long-term occupation will only hinder the Palestinian people from making their own national determinations. Allowing Israel to have an exclusive veto over the establishment of a Palestinian state will only breed more hatred and confrontation and sow the seeds of unrest in the Middle East. Israel's occupation violates the resolutions of the UN Security Council and the General Assembly, and violates the international law. It's Israel's international obligation that must be fulfilled to end its illegal behavior," Geng said.

China is willing to continue to work with the international community to make unremitting efforts to reach the ceasefire, restore regional peace, and achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue as early as possible, Geng stated.

China calls for all necessary actions to reach ceasefire in Gaza

China calls for all necessary actions to reach ceasefire in Gaza

Macao has seen a surge in visitors this year, welcoming over 32 million tourists eager to experience the region's renowned historic buildings and photogenic views.

The region has seen a 26 percent increase in visits compared to the same period last year, according to official data. Tourism from the Chinese mainland is the main force, accounting for nearly 70 percent of visits, data showed.

The Ruins of St. Paul's, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to one of the earliest and most enduring encounters between China and the West. It is typically an early and essential stop for every tourist.

"We came from Zhuhai City, Guangdong Province (in southern China). We have just arrived in Macao, and this is our first stop. We've taken many photos and enjoyed a wonderful meal. We are very happy," said a tourist.

"I came from Anhui Province (in eastern China). The people in Macao are very hospitable, and I think the city is wonderful," said another visitor.

The enchanting city also attracts numerous tourists from around the world.

"It's a really vibrant city. I love the architecture," said an international tourist.

A narrow and elongated area in the city is dotted with historic buildings, from the A-Ma Temple dedicated to the sea-goddess Mazu, to the Mandarin's House -- the former residence of a prominent Chinese historical figure and the landmark Ruins of St. Paul's.

This year, a newly unveiled building in the area offers visitors a panoramic view of eight World Heritage sites from its rooftop, earning it the name "M8." It is the first commercial urban renewal and reconstruction project since Macao's return to the motherland.

"This place is perfect for photography. I've been here before, but at that time I only used my phone to take pictures. Today, I brought my camera specifically for this visit. Beneath the layers of history and culture, there are also bustling, lively, and prosperous scenes. I feel that the blend of (tradition and modern life) is very well integrated," said a tourist.

Project organizers said they hope to showcase the rich history and modern life of Macao while helping to tap into tourism to boost the region's economy.

"We bring together both culture and commerce. We hope to explore a new path for development in this historic city and establish a fresh direction for cultural tourism in Macao," said Loi U Man, Project Director of M8.

Macao sees surge in tourism with cultural and modern charms