Green, low-carbon development irreversible trend of times: Xi

Chinese President Xi Jinping said green and low-carbon development has become a trend of the times despite ups and downs in global climate governance, while delivering a speech via video link at the Leaders Meeting on Climate and the Just Transition on Wednesday.

Noting that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, Xi said as unprecedented global changes unfold at a faster pace, humanity has come to a new crossroads.

"Although some major country's persistent pursuit of unilateralism and protectionism has seriously impacted international rules and the international order, history will, as always, move forward through twists and turns. As long as we enhance confidence, solidarity and cooperation, we will overcome the headwinds and steadily move forward global climate governance and all progressive endeavors of the world," he said.

Xi shared four points in this regard, calling on the international community to adhere to multilateralism, deepen international cooperation, accelerate the just transition and strengthen results-oriented actions.

At the virtual summit on Wednesday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva brought together 17 national leaders from major economies and climate-vulnerable countries. The goal was to accelerate global climate ambition ahead of COP30, which will be held in Brazil later this year.

The meeting was part of effort to sustain political momentum during a pivotal year for combating climate change, according to a senior UN official. This year is the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement and the upcoming deadline for countries to submit new climate plans.

Green, low-carbon development irreversible trend of times: Xi

Green, low-carbon development irreversible trend of times: Xi

As China's elderly population grows, shopping malls in Shanghai have actively adapted part of their services to cater to the needs and preferences of elderly consumers, tapping into silver-haired consumer market.

This trend reflects the city's efforts to enhance elderly care services amid the population aging. By the end of 2023, people aged 60 and older reached 5.68 million in Shanghai, representing a whopping 37.4 percent of the city's total population.

A shopping mall on the downtown Nanjing East Road pedestrian street has opened a dedicated club for senior citizens, offering a diverse range of activities from the operation of health workshops to traditional handicraft classes.

"I gain a lot every time I come here. I can participate in various club activities and also exchange knowledge and everyday life hacks with others," said Fu Meilin, an elderly resident.

The mall houses nearly 60 time-honored brands, along with dining and entertainment options suited to senior citizens.

Another business district in Shanghai's Putuo District has adopted a different approach, focusing on attracting retirees during weekdays while catering to younger shoppers on weekends.

Restaurants offer affordable off-peak meal deals priced under 100 yuan (about 13.88 U.S. dollars), attracting a large number of senior customers.

To ensure a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience for the elderly, many shopping malls have conducted age-friendly renovations, including providing comfortable seating areas, accessible restrooms, and consumer guidance services for the elderly shoppers.

Driven by the population aging, China's "silver economy" has shown vast growth potential, with the market currently estimated at around seven trillion yuan and projected to reach a 30 trillion yuan by 2035.

Shopping malls in Shanghai adapt to cater to growing 'silver economy'