Gala for ethnic minorities games showcases cultural diversity, national cohesion

A gala celebrating the 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities of China was held in Sanya of southern Hainan Province on Tuesday afternoon, showcasing the country's rich cultural diversity and national cohesion among diverse ethnic groups.

The gala kicked off at Tianya Haijiao, the iconic scenic site in Sanya, referring to the "ends of the earth" in Chinese. Athletes and guests were treated to a variety of interactive activities, including lively performances of traditional songs and dances, as well as displays showcasing intangible cultural heritage projects.

This year, Hong Kong and Macao officially formed delegations to participate in the Games for the first time, while Taiwan continued to send a delegation to compete.

The dragon boat team members from Hong Kong exchanged gifts with the team from southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. "We are very happy with our first-ever participation. The Games has enabled us to acquaint with friends from different ethnic groups and experience the sentiment of the big family of the Chinese nation," said Wong Hei-man, a member of the dragon boat team from Hong Kong. "We can learn and progress together. Through competitions, we can enhance understanding and cultural identity among the various ethnic groups from different provinces. It also makes us feel that all 56 ethnic groups are tightly united like pomegranate seeds. I feel great joy and happiness," said Chen Changyu, an athlete from Jiangxi's delegation.

The Games runs from Nov 22 to 30.

Gala for ethnic minorities games showcases cultural diversity, national cohesion

Gala for ethnic minorities games showcases cultural diversity, national cohesion

Fuel price hikes due to the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict are placing significant cost pressures on livelihood industries in the Philippines and New Zealand, which are heavily dependent on imported energy, while also driving the growth of the new energy vehicle market.

In various gas stations across Manila, the Philippine capital, diesel prices have surged more than twice the levels seen at the end of February, with increases also noted in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices.

Businesses such as restaurants and vendors relying on LPG have expressed concerns over escalating costs, fearing they may soon be unable to cover their expenses.

"The cost of our goods has gone up. Our income has decreased as a result. The money we earn is barely enough to cover restocking, let alone pay our employees' wages," said Rey, a food vendor.

In Auckland, New Zealand, a senior executive at a local car dealership said the surge in fuel prices is prompting more consumers in the country to shift from conventional cars to new energy vehicles.

"(Fuel price hike) really has increased the sale of our electric vehicles, particularly battery electric vehicles. Consumers are now experiencing battery electric vehicles. They see their economic advantage. It's good for the market. It's also good for New Zealand in terms of sustainability," said Simon Rutherford, CEO of Auto Distributors New Zealand, a division of Armstrong Motor Group.

Fuel price hikes squeeze livelihoods in energy-importing Philippines, New Zealand