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What can breathe new life into an elderly American woman battling a serious blood disease? Many answers may come to mind, but one that's hard to imagine is the gift of life from a stranger - a Chinese man she had never met but whose generosity would forever alter her fate.

On September 12, 2024, life-saving stem cells traveled through a needle and catheter, infusing the essence of life into a woman in Houston, teetering on the brink of life and death. Meanwhile, across the ocean, the donor - a 40-year-old man surnamed Li - was struggling to rise from his hospital bed after enduring four painful hours of stem cell extraction.

Li never sought to be a hero, nor did he wish to gain reputation for his kindness; he simply wanted to help a person suffering from a blood disorder. His act of generosity became a poignant testament to the simple yet profound friendship that can exist between people from different corners of the world, and specifically between China and the US.

On January 10, a charity event to raise awareness about blood and hematopoietic stem cell donation was held in Beijing, gathering Chinese and American medical experts, charity representatives, dedicated blood donation volunteers, and diplomats. Through engaging scientific presentations, heartfelt personal stories, and lively discussions, the event sought to deepen public understanding of blood and stem cell donation from both scientific and humanistic angles. A standout moment was sharing of this cross-border relay of stem cell donation.

From the initial screening to the successful transplantation, this was more than a medical achievement; it was a life-affirming relay that spanned oceans. Kristen Gonzalez, a health science coordinator for the United States Department of Health and Human Services in China, underscored in her address at the event that this cross-border donation not only showcased the successes of medical collaboration between the two countries, but also epitomized the essence of human solidarity and cooperation.
'I am lucky to still be able to save others'

In 2012, Li registered as a voluntary stem cell donor in response to a call from his alumnus from his alma mater Peking University, Liu Zhengchen, the founder of the Sunshine Bone Marrow Donor Registry, an organization dedicated to promoting altruistic bone marrow donation. Little did Li know that 12 years later, he would receive a call from the registry informing him that he was a perfect match for a woman battling Myelodysplastic Syndrome, a type of rare blood cancer, thousands of kilometers away in the US.

Without any hesitation, he made his decision: He would help save a woman whose life hung in the balance. In that moment, the distance between them faded, and the bond of humanity shone brightly, illuminating the path of hope that connected their lives in ways they could never have imagined.

After reassuring his mother, who was deeply worried about his health and safety, he set off on his donation journey from his hometown Northeast China's Shenyang to Beijing on August 30, 2024, accompanied by his parents, following a series of thorough medical examinations.

"Some people say it's as painful as giving birth. So, my mom was especially anxious at first," Li told the Global Times. To ease her concerns, Li showed his mother educational videos explaining the process and its safety. "I wanted her to understand that this was a chance to save a life, and that my health would be fine," he said.

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is an effective treatment for hematological tumors, including leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. The human body possesses a remarkable ability to regenerate hematopoietic stem cells, according to medical experts in media reports.

As the stem cells flowed from Li's body into the collection bag, a connection was forged - one that transcended borders, cultures, and language barriers between China and the US. Li's act of kindness was not just a medical procedure; it was a lifeline thrown across the ocean, a bridge built on hope and compassion.

According to medical protocols, cell counting occurs after the first day of collection. If the quantity falls short of the transplant hospital's requirements, additional collection will occur the next day, with cells from both days being transported together. The transport team will book flights for both days and pre-apply to customs for clearance of hematopoietic stem cells, requesting exemptions from X-ray inspections for the transport boxes at the airport to ensure meticulous handling. Fortunately, Li's health indicators were excellent, allowing for enough cells to be collected on the same day, said Wang Jing, a project officer from the Sunshine Bone Marrow Donor Registry.

"The viability of hematopoietic stem cells decreases once they leave the human body, so minimizing the time from collection to transplantation is crucial. With confirmation of adequate cells on the same day, we quickly coordinated with US transport personnel coming to China, and with support from the hospital, the China Marrow Donor Program (CMDP), and Chinese customs, we successfully sent the cell samples across the border. This was a remarkable cross-border relay of goodwill between China and the US," said Wang.

He also noted that the registry had contacted the US Embassy in China to prepare alternative plans for any unexpected transport issues, allowing for expedited visa processing if needed.

Liu, the founder of the registry, told the Global Times that finding a match is quite challenging. "For certain patients, locating a compatible marrow donor can be extremely rare. The patient in the US reached out to us through their national merit donor program in February 2024. The process of screening the donor and coordinating with the collection hospital takes a considerable amount of time. This was the only match that the patient in the US could find globally," Liu noted.

"Hematopoietic stem cells are related to genetics, and the success rate of matching hematopoietic stem cells between different ethnic groups is very low. So we also feel amazed when we heard that stem cells from people of different ethnicities in two different countries can match as we do. It feels like a connection through blood, exemplifying the concept of a community of shared future for humanity in the field of health," said Liu.

Li told the Global Times that he considers himself "very fortunate to be still able to save lives."

Li also conveyed his blessings to the American beneficiary through a note, in which he wrote, "You are the same age as my mother. What a coincidence! I wish eternal good health and happiness to both of you."
Building bridges of friendship with cells

This isn't the organization's initial foray into cross-border donations. Since its inception, the Sunshine Bone Marrow Donor Registry has gathered nearly 3,000 donor profiles and supported over 900 patients from around the world. These success stories highlight a spirit of humanity that goes beyond national borders. In a world frequently marked by divisions and conflicts, these acts of generosity remind us of the common ground between China and the US.

At just 23 years old, Liu found himself facing a life-altering crisis. While pursuing his graduate studies at Peking University, he received the devastating diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia. After a failed bone marrow match with his younger brother, Liu was determined to not only fight for his own life, but to also help others battling similar fates. This resolve led him to establish the Sunshine Bone Marrow Donor Registry in 2002, a beacon of hope for patients in desperate need of transplants.

Liu told the Global Times that when his registry was established, China did not have a large-scale, mature bone marrow bank. Therefore, from 2002 to 2006, his registry referenced many materials and guidelines from the US National Marrow Donor Program. Over the following decades, there have been exchanges with organizations like the American Cancer Society and the American Society of Hematology. "The marrow bank we built by learning from the US now gives back to the American people, benefiting them. It's like a relay of love. From learning to giving: Our marrow bank benefits all," he said, noting that the future of healthcare cooperation between China and the US is promising.

The story of Chinese hematopoietic stem cells aiding foreign patients is not a new one. The non-related hematopoietic stem cell donations from the Red Cross Society of China's Marrow Donor Program have officially surpassed 18,000 cases, including 383 cases donated to 31 countries and regions abroad. These donors embodied the spirit and the traditional virtues of the Chinese people, according to data given by the CMDP.

Due to the double-blind principle of the donation process, the Global Times was ultimately unable to reach the elderly woman in the US to hear her personal reflections on this life-changing experience.

But for Li and the elderly recipient in the US, their lives are forever intertwined by a single act of generosity. They may never meet in person, but their story is a powerful reminder of the bonds that can be formed through compassion and kindness. In a world that often feels disconnected, their journey illustrates the profound impact that one person can have on another, regardless of distance or background.

Looking to the future, Liu said he will continue to offer services to patients with hematological disorders worldwide, not only in the US. For him, it's a lifelong mission.

In response to an inquiry about whether China will consider dropping the sanctions against Marco Rubio, who has been confirmed as the next secretary of state under the Trump administration, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday that China will firmly defend national interests. In the meantime, it’s necessary for high-level Chinese and American officials to maintain contact in an appropriate way.

Bulgaria's Vice President Iliana Iotova and Chinese Ambassador to Bulgaria Dai Qingli reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the enduring relationship between the two nations during a Spring Festival reception held here on Wednesday.

Iotova highlighted the importance of the event as a celebration of the strong and lasting Bulgarian-Chinese relations, as well as a platform to discuss future plans for collaboration across various fields.

"We have the desire, ambition, and a proven formula for successful cooperation: trust, respect, a willingness for dialogue, and a shared commitment to development," she said.

Dai Qingli emphasized the significance of the past year, during which the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Bulgaria was marked. She noted that the Embassy co-hosted more than 20 events as part of the commemorative activities, which have further solidified the traditional friendship between the two nations.

"The success of these anniversary activities has deepened our traditional ties, facilitated cooperation in various areas, and strengthened understanding and friendship between the Chinese and Bulgarian peoples," Dai said.

Looking ahead, Dai expressed her enthusiasm for fostering even closer ties. "We look forward to working with Bulgarian colleagues and friends to facilitate high-level exchanges, strengthen political mutual trust, and achieve tangible outcomes of cooperation to enhance the well-being of our people," she said.

China and Vietnam pledged to promote the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, as the two countries celebrated the 75th anniversary of their bilateral ties in Beijing on Friday.

Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, attended a reception celebrating the anniversary, saying that the friendship between China and Vietnam has grown stronger over the past 75 years.

Li, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China is willing to work with Vietnam to promote the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance under the strategic guidance of the top leaders of the two parties and countries, better benefiting the two peoples. 

The wildfire at Kai Kung Leng in Hong Kong burned for over 20 hours and was largely extinguished by the Fire Services Department at 2:08pm on Sunday, TVB news reported. 

According to a statement released by the Hong Kong government, a fire broke out among the vegetation at Kai Kung Leng, Yuen Long at 5.31pm Saturday (January 11). The fire was put under control at 10.40am Sunday (January 12). Two fire zones were involved in the incident: one measuring 20 x 20 meters and the other 5 x 5 meters. 

Firefighters combated the blaze using fire beaters, while the Government Flying Service has deployed helicopters for water bombing operations at the site, the statement said.

Haikou in South China's Hainan Province plans to invite one overseas artist to perform in the city every month, a local official confirmed with the Global Times on Monday, adding that US rappers Cardi B and Travis Scott are the most likely candidates.

The cooperation project may be finalized in the near future, Ma Haotian, section chief of Haikou's Bureau of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports, told the Global Times. Previously, Wang Ke, director of the bureau, announced at a public meeting on Friday that rap stars, including Cardi B and Travis Scott, have been invited to perform in Haikou.

Wang further noted that this year, the bureau will intensify efforts to integrate culture and tourism with performing arts, sports, and exhibitions. Haikou will continue to attract concerts and music festivals featuring domestic and international stars such as the Chinese singer Dao Lang, Travis Scott, and Cardi B, as well as international sporting events, including beach sports, water sports, and the World Table Tennis Finals, official Hainan media outlet hinews.cn reported.

According to the Hainan Daily, Haikou has gained significant recognition with its strategy combining tourism with performing arts in recent years.

With the advantage of the free trade port, Haikou anchors the goal of a special performing arts capital, choosing to introduce international artists, international performing arts festivals, and exhibitions of differentiated development routes, according to the Hainan government.

Also, Haikou is located in the central region of Asia, with only one to two hours of flight to many countries in the region, benefiting from its advantageous geographical position, Wang said.

Highlighting Haikou's exceptional strengths in location and infrastructure, Wang noted that the city is well-positioned as a prime destination for large-scale performances.

When it comes to performance infrastructure, Haikou boasts two state-of-the-art venues capable of hosting large-scale performances and sporting events, with Wuyuan River Stadium able to accommodate up to 45,000 spectators.

According to the Hainan Daily, in the second half of 2024, renowned international artists and groups, including Kanye West, Charlie Puth, and the Philadelphia Orchestra, performed in Haikou.

On September 2024, Grammy Award-winning rapper Kanye West performed a sold-out show for his album series "Vultures" in Haikou. 

A spokesperson for the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office on Wednesday thanked organizations, individuals, and enterprises in the Taiwan region for their donations and support following the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Dingri county, Xigaze, Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on January 7. 

In response to media inquiry on the assistance and compassion shown by the Taiwan society after the quake in Xizang, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office told media at a Wednesday briefing that various sectors and individuals in Taiwan have expressed their concern and condolences as well as offered support to the affected areas through various means. 

As of January 10, the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland, along with Foxconn, Want Want China, Ting Hsin International Group, Uni-President, and other Taiwan enterprises had collectively donated over 32 million yuan（$4.36 million）,said Chen, noting that relevant groups, organizations, entertainers, and actors from the Taiwan region have also contributed by donating money and goods to the disaster-hit areas.

This once again demonstrates the deep bond and shared sentiment between compatriots across the Taiwan Straits, Chen said. 

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the relevant organizations and individuals in Taiwan, as well as to many Taiwan businesspeople and enterprises, for their care and assistance, Chen said.

A number of foreign hacker organizations have been utilizing malicious websites and overseas IP addresses to execute cyberattacks targeting China and other nations, according to China's national cybersecurity and information security information center on Monday. 

These malicious websites and IPs are linked to specific Trojan programs or their control endpoints. 

The types of cyberattacks include establishing botnets, phishing, stealing trade secrets and intellectual property, and infringing on citizens' personal information, presenting a serious risk to domestic networks and internet users in China. 

Some of these activities are suspected to constitute criminal offenses, the center said.

The locations of the relevant malicious websites and IPs mainly involve the US, the Netherlands, Singapore, Turkey, Mexico, Vietnam, and others, according to the center.

Of the listed malicious websites and IP addresses, two were traced to the US.

The center recommended maintaining heightened vigilance toward all documents and links received through social media platforms or email channels, with a particular focus on situations where the source is unknown or untrustworthy. Avoid trusting or opening such files without verification.

Timely updates to threat intelligence products or network security devices are essential to block access to the identified malicious websites and IP addresses, and also promptly report to relevant authorities and cooperate in conducting on-site investigations and technical tracing, the center said.

President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out rescue efforts to save lives and minimize casualties following a 6.8-magnitude earthquake that took a heavy toll after jolting a county in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region Tuesday morning.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made an important instruction, demanding utmost efforts to carry out search and rescue and provide medical treatment for the injured.

He also urged efforts to prevent secondary disasters, properly resettle affected residents, and handle the aftermath effectively.

It is essential to strengthen earthquake monitoring and early warning, promptly allocate disaster relief supplies, expedite the repair of damaged infrastructure, ensure the basic needs of residents are met, and guarantee a safe and warm winter for all, Xi said.

In a Tuesday instruction, Premier Li Qiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, urged efforts to swiftly check the disaster situation and the extent of casualties, organize all-out search and rescue operations and minimize casualties.

He said as the quake-stricken area is located in a cold plateau region, every possible means must be employed to ensure the basic livelihood of the affected people and help them stay warm during the winter.

Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, led a team to the quake site to guide the rescue and relief efforts.

The Party secretary of Rongchang district, Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Gao Hongbo, urged officials to lead, drive, and guide local consumption, hoping that every official will buy new clothes to embrace the upcoming Spring Festival and dine out with their families every weekend, The Paper reported on Wednesday.

Gao's remarks were made at the economic work conference held locally on Monday.

In the meeting, Gao said that it is necessary to stimulate consumption across various sectors and vigorously implement the "three major consumption initiatives," which refers to promoting consumption through policies, activities and new media platforms, The Paper said.

In detail, officials should focus on stabilizing bulk consumption through policy guidance, attract external consumption through cultural and sports activities, and stimulate local consumption through new media platforms, said Gao.

Gao also urged officials to actively participate in consumption by dining out and purchasing new clothes. "The average meal cost per person in the area is between 60 and 100 yuan (around $8 and $13). If 10,000 people spend that, it amounts to 1 million yuan in a week, which can support local small businesses," Gao said, according to the report.

Additionally, Gao also called on social organizations and private enterprises to provide employees with extra wages and bonuses before the Spring Festival, recognizing employees' hard work and diligence, if the employers can afford, as reported by The Paper.