Dazzling fireworks, light shows illuminate China on National Day‘s eve

A stunning array of fireworks display and light shows lit up the night sky across China on Monday as part of the grand celebrations for the 75th birthday of the people's republic.

At the Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal in Shanghai, huge fireworks exploded in a riot of colors, casting a brilliant glow over the beautiful riverside and bustling port. Residents raised their phones and cameras to capture the mesmerizing moments.

The Daming Ancient City scenic spot in north China's Hebei came alive as magical light projections bathed the time-honored city walls in vibrant colors and dynamic patterns, drawing throngs of visitors.

"It's very spectacular, very lively," said Zhang Linfei, a visitor.

Meanwhile, in Hubei's Xiaogan, 30,000 glistening streetlights brighten up the city's trunk roads and let the five-star red flags hung beneath shine in a beautiful glow. Fiery lanterns also line the streets, creating an enchanting atmosphere that resonates with the joyful occasion.

"The five-star red flags shine even brighter against the backdrop of the lights, enhancing the vibrant festive atmosphere. I feel very proud of the country's growth and strength," said a citizen Zhou Xiao.

An amazing display of 1,000 illuminated drones took to the skies in Xinchang, Zhejiang Province. Choreographed to recreate images of key historical events like the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China and the important wartime Zunyi Meeting, this aerial show captivated crowds through an exciting blend of technology and history.

"It's tech-laden, making me feel the strength and prosperity of our country," said local resident Chen Shaowei.

In Guangzhou, south China's economic hub, skyscrapers and iconic landmarks along the Pearl River became the stage for fascinating display of lights as the countdown to the 75th National Day. Animated images including the national flag and the Great Wall ignited a fervor of national pride among residents.

"While enjoying this prosperity, we should also bear in bind the history," said a resident.

Dazzling fireworks, light shows illuminate China on National Day‘s eve

Two major Qatari energy facilities shut down operations after being damaged during Iran's strikes targeting the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari said on Tuesday, adding that the situation had been contained.

QatarEnergy announced on Monday that it had suspended liquefied natural gas (LNG) production following attacks on two of its energy facilities, and on Tuesday said it was suspending production of downstream natural gas products such as urea and methanol.

The shutdown sent gas prices skyrocketing on global energy markets, provoking fears of an energy crisis sparked by the conflict in the Middle East.

Speaking during his weekly press conference, Al-Ansari said that the decision to shut down the facilities was taken as a precaution, to ensure the safety of personnel and infrastructure after the strike damaged key production and processing sites.

"The damage was contained and now the operations to assess, technically, the safety of the facilities is underway. And from the defensive posture, as you have seen, we have been ready in monitoring and dealing with all of these attacks," he said.

Al-Ansari said that Qatar is committed to de-escalating the situation, and added that Qatar had not had any contact with Iran since Feb 28.

"Qatar's diplomatic stance has always been firm and clear: committed to peace, actively promoting de-escalation, advocating dialogue and consultation, and striving to resolve the conflict peacefully," he said.

Major Qatari energy facilities damaged in Iranian strikes: foreign ministry