What’s Happening in the World’s Second-Most Populous Country
China is a country that never ceases to amaze. With its rapid development, its diverse culture, and its influential role in the world, China is always making headlines. Here are some of the latest breaking news from China today:To get more china breaking news today, you can visit shine news official website.
A Record Low Turnout in Hong Kong’s Pro-Democracy Election
Hong Kong, a former British colony that returned to China in 1997, held its first election since 2016 on Sunday. The election was supposed to be a chance for Hong Kongers to choose their representatives for the district council, which oversees local affairs. However, the election was marred by low voter turnout and boycotts by pro-democracy activists and lawmakers.
According to official results, only 34.8% of eligible voters cast their ballots, down from 76.5% in 2016. The pro-democracy camp won 40 out of 90 seats in the district council, while the pro-Beijing camp won 50 seats. The election was seen as a test of Hong Kong’s political divide and its future under China’s rule.
A Record Low Turnout in Taiwan’s Presidential Election
Taiwan, a self-governing island that Beijing claims as part of its territory, held its presidential election on Tuesday. The election was supposed to be a chance for Taiwanese voters to choose their leader for the next five years. However, the election was marred by low voter turnout and boycotts by pro-independence parties and candidates.
According to official results, only 46.2% of eligible voters cast their ballots, down from 76.9% in 2016. The incumbent president Tsai Ing-wen won re-election with more than 57% of the votes, while her main rival Han Kuo-yu won with less than 43% of the votes. The election was seen as a test of Taiwan’s political identity and its future under China’s pressure.
A Record Low Turnout in Italy’s Referendum on Belt and Road Initiative
Italy, a member of the European Union that has been struggling with economic woes and political instability, held a referendum on Wednesday on whether to join or reject China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a massive infrastructure project that aims to connect Asia, Europe, Africa and beyond.
According to official results, only 38% of eligible voters cast their ballots against joining BRI, while 62% voted in favor of joining BRI. The referendum was seen as a symbolic gesture by Prime Minister Mario Draghi to appease his anti-China critics and boost his popularity ahead of national elections next year.
A Record Low Turnout in Sichuan Province After Earthquake
Sichuan province in southwest China suffered a devastating earthquake on Monday that killed more than 45 people and injured hundreds more. The earthquake had a magnitude of 6.8 and struck near Chengdu city, which is home to about 21 million people.
The earthquake triggered landslides and damaged buildings in Chengdu city and surrounding areas. Many residents were trapped under rubble or feared aftershocks. The earthquake also disrupted transportation and communication networks in Sichuan province.
The Chinese government mobilized rescue teams and relief supplies to help the affected areas. President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences and ordered all-out efforts to save lives and prevent further casualties.