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  • Divided Democratic Party Holds National Convention Amid Tensions
    Divided Democratic Party Holds National Convention Amid Tensions 17일 열린 더불어민주당 전당대회는 마치 둘로 쪼개진 당을 보는 것 같은 격정적인 현장이었다. 각 후보 지지자들이 상대 후보를 향한 '명청 갈등(이재명 대통령과 정청래 당대표 후보의 갈등)을 촉발시킨 후보' '고(故) 노무현 전 대통령을 배신한 후보' 등 원색적인 발언도 서슴지 않았다.아주경제는 이날 민주당 제3차 정기전국당원대회가 열리는 대전 컨벤션센터를 찾아 김민석 후보와 정 후보 지지자들에게 이야기를 들어봤다. 전당대회 시작 2시간 전인 이날 오전 11시 30분부터 대전 컨벤션센터는 각 후보 지지자들로 인산인해를 이뤘다.이날 현장에서는 지지자들이 안무에 맞춰 춤을 추거나 북을 치는 등 열띤 응원전을 펼쳤다.먼저 김 후보 지지자들은 '당청 갈등(민주당과 청와대의 갈등)을 수습하고, 당을 통합해야 한다고 주장했다. 김 후보 지역구인 서울 영등포에 거주하는 65세 남성 최지원씨는 "김 후보가 역량이 풍부해 협치하고 노력하는 당대표가 될 것이라고 확신한다"고 말했다. 이어 "이재명 대통령과 같이 호흡을 맞출 수 있고, 이재명 정권에 큰 도움이 될 것이라고 본다"며 "당대표가 되면 당을 화합하고, 국민들을 통합해 잘 사는 나라를 만들어주길 바란다"고 덧붙였다.70대 남성 신흥식씨도 "이 대통령 중심으로 하나가 돼야 하는데 명청 대결이라는 단어가 정 후보의 당대표 시절에 나왔다"면서 "책임은 정 후보에게 있다고 본다. 김 후보가 당선되면 중도 확장이 될 것"이라고 전망했다.40대 여성 박아영씨는 "정 후보는 1년 동안 충분히 했다. 1년만 한다고 약속했으니 집권 2~3년 차에는 총리였던 김 후보가 당을 맡아 나라를 부강하게 만들어줘야 한다"고 강조했다. 또 "내란 청산이 추진되고 있다"며 "이제 저희는 국민의 안정, 평화, 화합을 만들어야 한다. 김 후보가 적격한 이유"라고 설명했다.반면 정 후보 지지자들은 충신과 간신을 가려내야 한다고 언급하며 김 후보의 '후단협(후보 단일화 협의회) 사태도 거론하며 공세 수위를 높였다. 후단협 사태란 2002년 16대 대선을 앞두고 새천년민주당 대선 후보였던 노무현 전 대통령 지지율이 떨어지자 국민통합21 정몽준 후보와 단일화할 것을 요구하면서 노 전 대통령의 후보 사퇴를 주장한 것을 뜻한다. 김 후보는 이번 전당대회 과정에서 후단협 사태에 대해 사과하기도 했다.정 후보 지지자라고 밝힌 60대 남성 황경련씨는 "저는 노 전 대통령에게 많은 도움을 받았다"며 "후단협 사태로 배신한 김 후보를 지지하지 않는 이유"라고 말했다. 그러면서 "김 후보가 서울대 인맥 등을 통해 후광을 등에 업고 정치를 하는데 그러한 정치는 사라져야 한다고 본다"고 강조했다.70대 여성 이영희씨는 "이 대통령이 충신과 간신을 잘 구별하는 현명한 눈을 가졌으면 좋겠다"며 "명심을 파는 간신이 아닌 충직한 정 후보에게 기회가 가길 바란다"고 전했다. 이와 함께 "이 대통령이 확고한 검찰 개혁 의지를 보여 줬으면 좋겠다"고 말했다.전국 대의원이라는 50대 여성도 "사실 이번 선거는 누가 돼도 상관이 없었는데 정 후보 지지자들을 반명으로 몰아 화가 나 있는 상태"라며 "반칙하는 행위에 화가 난다"고 목소리를 높였다. 한 30대 남성은 정 후보에 대해 "사람이 깨끗하고 정정당당하다. 언제나 당을 지켰고, 자기 정치를 하지 않았다"고 평가했다. 2026-08-17 15:28:00
  • Hanwhas Kim Dong-kwan Sees RSU Value Approach 270 Billion Won Amid Stock Surge
    Hanwha's Kim Dong-kwan Sees RSU Value Approach 270 Billion Won Amid Stock Surge Kim Dong-kwan, vice chairman of Hanwha Group, has seen the value of his restricted stock units (RSUs) approach 270 billion won, driven by a surge in stock prices, particularly in the defense and shipbuilding sectors.According to the semi-annual reports from Hanwha Corporation, Hanwha Aerospace, and Hanwha Solutions, the market value of the RSUs granted to Kim was estimated at 268.2 billion won as of the end of last year.By company, Hanwha Aerospace accounted for the largest share at 165.1 billion won, followed by Hanwha Corporation at 77.1 billion won and Hanwha Solutions at 26 billion won. Notably, Hanwha Aerospace's stock price remained around 100,000 won until 2023 but has sharply increased since last year due to a rally in defense stocks, boosting the value of Kim's RSUs.Kim has been receiving RSUs annually since 2020 from Hanwha Corporation and Hanwha Solutions, and since 2021 from Hanwha Aerospace. Last year, he received 20,684 shares from Hanwha Aerospace, 233,178 shares from Hanwha Corporation, and 398,964 shares from Hanwha Solutions.However, the current estimated value should not be considered as actual compensation. RSUs are part of a long-term performance compensation system that requires meeting certain conditions over a specified period before shares are granted. The RSUs granted to Kim must not incur significant losses or liabilities for up to 10 years, with actual payouts beginning in 2030. The value may vary depending on the stock price at the time of payout.Recently, the adoption of RSUs has been on the rise among domestic companies. Since Hanwha introduced them in 2020, other firms such as Naver, Coupang, Doosan, Krafton, and EcoPro have followed suit. Unlike stock options, RSUs retain some value even if stock prices decline, which can encourage long-term employment and performance.Doosan Group's Chairman Park Jung-won also benefited from the rise in stock prices related to RSUs. In the first half of this year, he received 45.58 billion won in compensation, the highest among major group leaders, with the value of RSUs granted three years ago reaching 37.6 billion won, increasing approximately 13-fold due to the rise in Doosan's stock price.This has led to concerns that RSUs could be used as a means to strengthen the control of owner families.In response to these concerns, Hanwha stated, "RSUs were introduced to replace cash bonuses that were previously paid annually, serving as a long-term performance compensation system. The recent increase in estimated value reflects the management performance resulting from the rise in stock prices of the defense and shipbuilding sectors."They added, "Chairman Kim Seung-yeon has already transferred shares of Hanwha Corporation to his three sons, effectively completing the succession process. The RSUs granted to Kim Dong-kwan also do not significantly influence succession or control enhancement." 2026-08-17 15:28:00
  • Lucy’s Choi Sang-yeop to Marry in August, Mystic Announces Private Ceremony
    Lucy’s Choi Sang-yeop to Marry in August, Mystic Announces Private Ceremony Choi Sang-yeop of the band Lucy is set to marry this month.His agency, Mystic Story, announced on August 17 that "Choi Sang-yeop of LUCY is preparing for a new beginning with a precious relationship this August."The agency expressed understanding for fans who may be surprised by the sudden news, stating, "We appreciate your warm support as we navigate this moment."The ceremony will be private. Mystic Story explained, "To respect the non-celebrity partner, the ceremony will be held privately, and specific details will be difficult to disclose."Choi Sang-yeop will continue to be active as a member of Lucy after the wedding. The agency added, "Choi Sang-yeop plans to repay fans with good music and activities as a member of Lucy."Lucy, a four-member band, debuted in 2020 and gained popularity with songs like 'Flowering,' 'Jogging,' and 'She Smiles.' They will hold an encore concert titled 'Island' at Korea University’s Hwajeong Gymnasium from October 23 to 25.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-17 15:16:00
  • Vietnam Stock Market Shifts Focus to Real Estate in First Half of 2026, Vinhomes Leads
    Vietnam Stock Market Shifts Focus to Real Estate in First Half of 2026, Vinhomes Leads This year, the profit landscape of the Vietnamese stock market has shifted towards real estate and non-financial sectors. Real estate developer Vinhomes and its parent company Vingroup have secured top positions in profits, while banks accounted for only nine of the top 20 companies, marking their lowest share in recent years. According to a report by Vietnamese media outlet VnExpress on August 17, based on second-quarter earnings reports from listed companies, 13 firms exceeded a pre-tax profit of 10 trillion dong (approximately $541 million) in the first half of the year. Among these, three companies reported pre-tax profits exceeding $1 billion (about 26.3 trillion dong), and all top 20 companies saw an increase in pre-tax profits compared to the same period last year. Vinhomes claimed the top spot in profits for the first half of the year, with a pre-tax profit of 63.57 trillion dong (approximately $3.44 billion), nearly five times higher than the same period last year. Vinhomes also ranked first in pre-tax profits on the Vietnamese stock market last year. The company's performance surge is attributed to the delivery of large projects and increased sales. Its consolidated net revenue, including financial income from joint venture contracts and large land sales, reached 134.21 trillion dong, a 203% increase year-on-year. The company noted that housing deliveries from major projects such as Ocean Park 2&3 and Green Paradise contributed to this improvement. Vingroup also saw a significant rise in its profit ranking, benefiting from Vinhomes' strong performance. The company's pre-tax profit for the first half of the year was 33.71 trillion dong, more than triple that of the same period last year. Vingroup, which ranked eighth in profits last year, moved up to second place this year, surpassing Vietcombank. In the banking sector, Vietcombank secured third place with a pre-tax profit of 29.22 trillion dong. Its net interest income increased by over 32% year-on-year, reaching approximately 36.8 trillion dong, driving its performance. Improvements were also noted in its service and foreign exchange trading sectors. VietinBank and MB both reported pre-tax profits exceeding 20 trillion dong in the first half. BIDV's pre-tax profit was 18.91 trillion dong, an 18% increase from the previous year, but it lost its third-place position to MB. Among private banks, VPBank's pre-tax profit rose by 68% to 18.88 trillion dong, while Techcombank's profit increased by 22% to 18.54 trillion dong. Among the top 20 companies by pre-tax profit, nine were banks, including SHB, ACB, and HDBank. This represents less than half of the total, the lowest share in recent years. Some banks that previously ranked high, such as Sacombank and LPBank, saw declines in profits during the first half. Both banks significantly increased their provisions for credit risk compared to the same period last year, impacting their profit declines. The spots vacated by some banks in the rankings were filled by non-financial companies. Steelmaker Hoa Phat and Vietnamese oil company BSR entered the top 10 in profits for the first half of the year, unlike last year. Hoa Phat's pre-tax profit for the first half was 17.95 trillion dong, doubling from the previous year, driven by strong performance in its steel business. Additionally, one-time income exceeding 3.8 trillion dong from the sale of shares in the Phu No City Development Project in Hung Yen Province was included. BSR's profit growth was even more pronounced, with a pre-tax profit of 17.74 trillion dong, a nearly 12-fold increase from the same period last year. The company attributed this surge to improved margins resulting from widening gaps between crude oil prices, petroleum product prices, and input material costs. Established large listed companies also maintained their positions in the top 20. PV Gas, Viettel Global, Mobile World, Vinamilk, Masan Group, and the Vietnam Rubber Industry Group were among those listed. Newly listed Dien May Xanh entered the top 20 for the first time with a pre-tax profit of 6.94 trillion dong, a 72% increase from the previous year. Securities firms predict that the profit growth trend for Vietnamese listed companies will continue this year. VNDirect Securities forecasts that net profits for Vietnamese listed companies could increase by 21% this year, supported by a GDP growth rate exceeding 8%, private economic support policies, and improvements in the business environment. However, profit growth may slow in the second half compared to the first half, as fewer companies are expected to report large one-time profits. BSC Securities anticipates that profit growth rates in sectors such as chemicals, oil and gas, and real estate will exceed 30%. The food and beverage, retail, and consumer goods sectors are also expected to maintain high profit growth rates. In contrast, the banking sector, which has a significant market capitalization on the Vietnamese stock market, may see profits decrease by 3% due to the impact of increased provisions at some banks, including Sacombank and Eximbank.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-17 15:12:00
  • President Lee: Democratic Party Strongest When United Under New Leadership
    President Lee: Democratic Party Strongest When United Under New Leadership President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the importance of unity within the Democratic Party ahead of the election of its new leader. In a video message delivered on August 17 at the Democratic Party convention held at the Daejeon Convention Center, he stated, "While we have engaged in vigorous discussions and competition as a party, we must now come together as one under the new leadership." He noted, "Our Democratic Party has been strongest when united," highlighting the party's resilience through numerous crises, which he attributed to the dedication of its members and the trust of the public. He expressed confidence that the party would continue to grow stronger, driven by the collective desire for a better nation. Reflecting on the past year, President Lee remarked, "Amid various crises, we have confirmed the potential and opportunities of South Korea. Let us make this year the beginning of a bold dream for an irreplaceable South Korea that no other nation can substitute." He urged the party to strive towards becoming an essential nation that the world needs, where all citizens and regions share in growth and benefits. "I hope we can move forward together towards a South Korea where the people are the masters and everyone shares in happiness," he said, expressing trust in the capable and strong leadership of the Democratic Party that is committed to building a democratic South Korea. In closing, President Lee emphasized, "Dear comrades and respected party members, we are one." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-17 15:12:00
  • U.S. Trade Tensions Rise as Key South Korean Trade Position Remains Vacant
    U.S. Trade Tensions Rise as Key South Korean Trade Position Remains Vacant At a critical time when trade tensions from the U.S. are escalating, South Korea's trade policy leadership is vacant following the dismissal of Yeohan Gu, head of the Trade Negotiation Headquarters at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, on August 15. Minister Kim Jeong-kwan immediately traveled to the U.S. for urgent discussions amid pressing issues such as investment in the U.S. and Section 301 tariffs.The focus now is not on the controversy surrounding the circumstances of Ye's dismissal, but rather on ensuring South Korea's trade negotiation power remains intact. Negotiations with the U.S. have entered a particularly sensitive phase. The U.S. has raised concerns about the pace of South Korea's investment commitments and the ongoing risk of additional tariffs under Section 301. A 12.5% Section 301 tariff related to forced labor has already been imposed on South Korea. Additionally, results from an investigation into overproduction under Section 301 are expected to be announced by the end of this month. If additional tariffs are implemented, the 15% tariff ceiling that South Korea and the U.S. have painstakingly established could be put to the test.Moreover, the issue of trade does not end with tariffs alone. The U.S. is also demanding faster progress on the $350 billion investment commitment. Multiple issues, including project selection, tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and supply chain restructuring, are all interconnected. This situation requires solving a complex equation that is far more intricate than traditional trade negotiations, where concessions in one area could yield gains in another.In this context, the vacancy in the Trade Negotiation Headquarters should not be prolonged. Trade negotiations cannot simply restart from square one with a change in personnel. The established negotiation channels, logic, and response scenarios with the U.S. must continue without interruption. The Ministry of Trade has decided to activate an emergency response system led by Deputy Minister Park Jeong-seong, aiming to minimize the immediate gap while also expediting the selection of a successor.Minister Kim's visit to the U.S. should not be limited to merely managing the situation. Above all, he must clearly demand the reliability of the tariff system agreed upon by South Korea and the U.S. last year. If new tariffs emerge and undermine existing agreements, companies will struggle to formulate investment and export strategies. It is crucial to maintain negotiation power until the very end to ensure that the results of the Section 301 overproduction investigation do not disrupt the balance of benefits established by previous agreements.Rushing into investments in response to U.S. demands is also inadvisable. While it is necessary to show goodwill towards the U.S., the $350 billion investment has significant implications for our economy and businesses. The viability of investment projects, participation of our companies, and the benefits to domestic industries must be thoroughly evaluated. If hasty decisions are made to avoid tariff pressures, it may extinguish immediate fires but could lead to greater costs in the long run.The government's overall response system also needs to be restructured. This is not solely an issue for the Ministry of Trade. Financial, diplomatic, and presidential offices must operate under a unified strategy. Tariffs and investments should not be negotiated separately; instead, a comprehensive package strategy that includes shipbuilding, semiconductors, energy, and supply chains should be developed to ensure that the U.S. views South Korea as a partner to collaborate with rather than a target for pressure.In a trade war, the most dangerous factor is not the pressure from the opponent but our own confusion. The sudden vacancy of a key operational leader must not lead to a gap in negotiation strategy. Minister Kim's urgent visit to the U.S. should serve as a starting point to fill that gap. The government must quickly normalize its trade command structure and send a consistent message to the U.S. What is needed now is not hasty concessions but a meticulous strategy and unwavering negotiation power. There can be no allowance for even a single day of vacancy on the trade front, where South Korea's national interests are at stake. 2026-08-17 15:08:00
  • Jared Kushner Meets with Hamas and Netanyahu to Seek Gaza Peace Breakthrough
    Jared Kushner Meets with Hamas and Netanyahu to Seek Gaza Peace Breakthrough Jared Kushner, the U.S. special envoy and son-in-law of President Donald Trump, is meeting with Hamas leaders and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an effort to break the deadlock in Gaza peace negotiations. The meetings come as both sides clash over the sequence of Hamas disarmament and Israeli military withdrawal.On August 16, Kushner met with Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya and other officials in Egypt, alongside representatives from mediating countries including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. It is unusual for a senior U.S. official to engage directly with Hamas leadership.The discussions aim to revive a U.S.-led 15-point roadmap focused on Hamas disarmament and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Before meeting with Netanyahu, Kushner reportedly sought to reaffirm Hamas's commitment to the roadmap, particularly regarding disarmament.While Hamas expressed willingness to implement the roadmap, it insisted that Israel must first cease its attacks on Gaza and withdraw its troops beyond the so-called 'yellow line.' Hamas also urged mediators and the U.S.-led peace committee to pressure Israel to adhere to a ceasefire agreement and approve the roadmap.Kushner is scheduled to meet with Netanyahu on August 17, alongside former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Nikolai Mladenov, a senior representative of the peace committee. Netanyahu has stated that he cannot accept the U.S. roadmap and will not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas is fully disarmed.Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have issued a joint statement criticizing Netanyahu's rejection of the roadmap and calling for pressure on him. Jordan, Pakistan, Indonesia, and other ceasefire mediators have also joined in the statement.The two sides are at odds over the sequence of disarmament and withdrawal. The U.S. roadmap proposes that Hamas gradually relinquish its weapons while Israel halts its attacks and withdraws. However, Israel has resumed airstrikes in Gaza, citing Hamas's rearmament.Internal pressure from hardliners within the Israeli coalition is also complicating Kushner's mediation efforts. Itamar Ben-Gvir, the far-right Minister of National Security, criticized the recent reduction in airstrikes in a podcast, asserting that targeted assassinations should eliminate 30 to 40 individuals each night.He argued that the focus should not only be on immediate threats, stating that some Palestinian residents are 'not worth living' and 'are not even human.'Ben-Gvir has reiterated calls for the mass relocation of Palestinian residents and the reconstruction of Jewish settlements in Gaza, claiming, 'We see all of Gaza as ours' and advocating for the establishment of settlements throughout Gaza while encouraging the relocation of as many Palestinians as possible.As Netanyahu approaches the general elections on October 27, he must consider the hardliners in his coalition and right-wing voters.Gail Talsir, a political science professor at Hebrew University, noted in the Spanish daily El País that while Gaza is not a central issue in this election, it highlights the gap between Netanyahu's claims and the realities faced by the Israeli public.Recent polls indicate Netanyahu is trailing behind his main rival, former Israeli Defense Forces Chief Gadi Eisenkot, with only 38% of respondents considering him suitable for the role of prime minister, compared to Eisenkot's 49%. 2026-08-17 15:08:00
  • Parnas Hotel Reports Record-Breaking First Half Performance
    Parnas Hotel Reports Record-Breaking First Half Performance Parnas Hotel and Resort has reported its highest-ever performance for the first half of the year. This achievement is attributed to balanced growth across its main hotels and the rapid establishment of new businesses under CEO Yoon Chang.The company announced that it recorded revenue of 285.5 billion won and an operating profit of 54.3 billion won for the first half of the year. Compared to the same period last year, revenue increased by approximately 41%, while operating profit surged by about 92%. The growth in operating profit outpaced revenue growth, indicating improved profitability.This performance is seen as a result of reducing reliance on a single business location and enhancing the competitiveness of its overall portfolio. A key factor driving the growth in the first half was the Westin Seoul Parnas, which opened in September last year. The hotel generated 69.9 billion won in revenue and 5.3 billion won in operating profit during the first half.After achieving operational profitability in its first quarter, the hotel recorded an operating profit margin of 13.4% in the second quarter, quickly stabilizing its revenue structure. The occupancy rate for the second quarter was 91.5%, establishing a strong presence in the premium hotel market in Seoul, despite being less than a year old. Key business segments, including food and beverage and events, have also stabilized.The Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas, a core existing business, continued to perform steadily, with revenue of 104.3 billion won and operating profit of 18.7 billion won in the first half. The occupancy rate for the second quarter reached 91.8%. Notably, food and beverage revenue increased by 15.9% compared to the same period last year. The fine dining restaurant Hinotsuki's sushi omakase, Sushi Kanesaka, received a Michelin one-star rating about 15 months after its opening in November 2024, enhancing its culinary competitiveness.Parnas Hotel Jeju recorded revenue of 22.4 billion won in the first half, despite operational constraints due to facility upgrades for guest rooms and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. There was a notable increase in foreign guests, with the number of international visitors rising by approximately 29% compared to the same period last year. The proportion of foreign guests among all visitors increased from 16.0% in the first half of last year to 23.6% this year, a rise of 7.6 percentage points.Nine Tree by Parnas absorbed demand from foreign individual travelers, achieving revenue of 51.2 billion won and operating profit of 12 billion won in the first half, marking increases of 11.8% and 21.8%, respectively, compared to the previous year. Major locations such as Myeongdong, Insadong, Dongdaemun, Pangyo, and Yongsan secured stable room demand, while proprietary content like the local experience program 'Navista' enhanced brand competitiveness.The rental business of Parnas Tower, a non-hotel segment, also reported revenue of 35.5 billion won and operating profit of 19.2 billion won in the first half, both up 7.9% year-on-year, supporting a stable revenue base.Additionally, Parnas Hotel and Resort is expanding its portfolio beyond direct ownership and operation, leveraging over 40 years of accumulated hotel management expertise and brand competitiveness. The company has entered the senior residence market as the operator of 'Sohyang Hanam by Parnas,' the first high-end senior residence in the country, and is broadening its hotel management business through projects like 'Inscape Yangyang by Parnas.' This strategy aims to transform the company into a comprehensive hospitality enterprise encompassing luxury hotels, resorts, premium business hotels, senior residences, and management contracts.A representative from Parnas Hotel and Resort stated, "This record performance for the first half is a result of the competitiveness of the entire portfolio, not just a specific hotel. The successful market entry of the Westin Seoul Parnas, along with balanced growth across key business segments, has significantly strengthened our revenue structure and business competitiveness."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-17 15:00:00
  • Jiang Zemins 100th Birthday Celebration Highlights Party Unity, Xi Jinping Emphasizes Leadership
    Jiang Zemin's 100th Birthday Celebration Highlights Party Unity, Xi Jinping Emphasizes Leadership On August 17, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized party unity during a ceremony marking the 100th birthday of former President Jiang Zemin, attended by the top leadership of the Chinese Communist Party.According to state broadcaster CCTV, Xi delivered a significant 40-minute speech at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, praising Jiang's political loyalty to the party and listing his achievements, including the establishment of a socialist market economy, China's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the expansion of reform and opening-up policies.Xi noted that Jiang maintained a steadfast commitment to economic development during the turbulent international landscape of the late 1980s and early 1990s, stating, "He firmly upheld the central task of economic development while safeguarding the 'Four Cardinal Principles' of socialism and the leadership of the Communist Party, continuing the reform and opening-up process."He further emphasized that Jiang was unwavering in his communist ideology and dedicated to the development of the Communist Party and the people, urging others to emulate Jiang's strong political convictions.As attention turns to next year's 21st National Congress of the Communist Party, where Xi's potential fourth term is under scrutiny, analysts interpret the celebration of Jiang's legacy as a means to reinforce party leadership and unity under Xi's administration. The South China Morning Post also noted that the event showcased the political continuity of the Chinese leadership ahead of the upcoming leadership reshuffle.The ceremony saw the attendance of all seven members of the Politburo Standing Committee, including Xi, as well as former Premier Wen Jiabao and retired senior leaders like Wang Qishan and Zeng Qinghong. Jiang's family members were also present, although former President Hu Jintao was absent.On the eve of the ceremony, the People's Daily published a lengthy article under the name of the Central Party History and Literature Research Institute, honoring Jiang's significant achievements while stressing the need to uphold the party's leadership. The article compared Jiang's political accomplishments with Xi's governance, highlighting how Xi has inherited and developed Jiang's legacy.It stated, "Jiang consistently emphasized the need to firmly uphold the authority of the Party Central Committee. History has repeatedly shown that there must be a core within the entire party, and the Party Central Committee must also have a core; leadership without a core is unreliable."The article also underscored that China's ability to withstand unprecedented shocks and challenges during Xi's leadership is fundamentally due to the direction and guidance provided by the Party Central Committee, with Xi at its core, and the scientific leadership of Xi Jinping's Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.In the new journey of Xi's era, it called for a stronger defense of the authority and centralized leadership of the Party Central Committee, especially in times of crisis and upheaval.Moreover, with just over 20 years remaining to achieve the goal of fully building a modern socialist country, it urged closer unity around the Party Central Committee led by Xi, advocating for the comprehensive implementation of Xi Jinping's Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and a deeper study and application of Xi's thoughts on party building.Meanwhile, the funeral arrangements for former Premier Zhu Rongji, who led China's economic reforms during Jiang's era, are also underway. According to Xinhua News Agency, Zhu's remains will be cremated on August 18.Zhu passed away at the age of 98 on August 12 in Beijing while undergoing treatment for illness. He served as Premier from 1998 during the latter part of Jiang's presidency, overseeing state-owned enterprise restructuring, government reform, and leading negotiations for China's WTO accession.Reports indicate that in tribute to Zhu, flags will be flown at half-mast on August 18 at Tiananmen Square, Xinhua Gate, the Great Hall of the People, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and various party and government locations across provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, as well as in Hong Kong, Macau, and overseas embassies. 2026-08-17 14:52:00
  • Cristiano Ronaldo Hints at Retirement After 2026-2027 Season
    Cristiano Ronaldo Hints at Retirement After 2026-2027 Season Global soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al Nassr, has hinted that he may retire at the end of the upcoming 2026-2027 season.In an interview with the U.S. lifestyle magazine Vogue published on August 17, Ronaldo stated, "This year will probably be the last year of my soccer career. I want to leave a great legacy behind." Until recently, just before the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, Ronaldo had avoided confirming his retirement plans. After Portugal's 1-0 loss to Spain in the Round of 16, he remarked, "This game might be my last World Cup," but added, "I still have plenty of time to think about other aspects. I won’t make hasty decisions and will spend time with my family." While he had previously shown caution regarding his future, it seems his mindset has shifted following a private wedding with his long-time partner, Georgina Rodriguez. The couple, who officially acknowledged their relationship in 2017, are raising five children together: twins Eva and Mateo, daughters Alana and Bella, and Ronaldo's eldest son, Cristiano Jr.Ronaldo mentioned, "I have already planned my future. There are so many things to do that it’s hard to pick just one. The void left by soccer will be significant, so I need to fill my time in various ways. There will be plenty to keep me busy after retirement." He added, "I want to enjoy more, travel frequently, and play and watch padel, which I really love. After 25 years of many sacrifices, I want to fully enjoy what I and my family have achieved during that time." Ronaldo began his professional career in 2002 with Sporting Lisbon in Portugal and has played for top European clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He has also represented Portugal since 2003, leading the national team to victories in the UEFA European Championship and the Nations League, while personally winning the prestigious Ballon d'Or five times, leaving a significant mark in soccer history.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-17 14:48:00