CPPCC helps drive modernization, prosperity in China's rural areas: spokesman

The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, China's top political advisory body, made concerted efforts in last year to help advance work related to agriculture, rural development and farmers, and promote rural revitalization, said a spokesman on Monday.

Speaking at a press conference held by the CPPCC National Committee in Beijing one day before the opening of its annual session, Liu Jieyi, spokesman for the third session of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC, emphasized the importance of rural development in achieving China's modernization goals, stressing that since ancient times, China has always underlined the importance of agriculture and seen it as a matter of national significance.

The spokesman said the most arduous and demanding task in building China into a modern socialist country in all respects and realizing national rejuvenation still lies in the rural areas, where the most extensive and profound foundation remains.

"Last year, big achievements was made in work related to agriculture, rural areas, and rural residents. Grain output exceeded 700 million tonnes for the first time. Poverty alleviation achievements continued to be consolidated and expanded, with 33 million new jobs being created for labor force lifted out of poverty. Modernization of the rural areas and agriculture continued to advance, and industries boosting rural residents' income were thriving. The per capita disposable income of rural residents and those in poverty-alleviated counties increased by 6.3 percent and 6.5 percent, respectively. And efforts to build a beautiful and harmonious countryside were soundly advancing, with sustained improvements in the living environment and public services," he said.

Noting that rural revitalization work is enjoying new progress, Liu said the CPPCC National Committee always closely follows the work in agriculture, rural areas and rural residents, focusing on major themes like building a strong agriculture, rural revitalization and common prosperity. It draws on its diverse members - academicians, experts, and grassroots representatives - to conduct in-depth research on topics like grain production, rural infrastructure, and public services, while actively providing consultations and recommendations.

"The CPPCC National Committee members conducted on-the-ground research into challenges in rural development, offering targeted suggestions. They went to 33 cities in 11 provinces, submitted over 600 proposals, and collected a wealth of social and public opinions. Focusing on agricultural development, rural construction, and increasing farmers' incomes, they held biweekly consultation meetings to study how to boost the enthusiasm of farmers and major grain-producing areas to grow grain and coordinated the layout of urban-rural infrastructure and public services. They invited grassroots CPPCC members and major grain producers to participate in discussions, directly gathering grassroots voices, pooling ideas, and promoting the implementation of policies. They achieved solid results," said Liu.

CPPCC helps drive modernization, prosperity in China's rural areas: spokesman

CPPCC helps drive modernization, prosperity in China's rural areas: spokesman

CPPCC helps drive modernization, prosperity in China's rural areas: spokesman

CPPCC helps drive modernization, prosperity in China's rural areas: spokesman

Thailand will release detained Cambodian soldiers once peace is restored, a Thai official said on Saturday, after the two countries agreed to a ceasefire following days of heavy clashes.

The ceasefire was agreed following intense discussions at General Border Committee (GBC) meetings between Cambodia and Thailand in Thailand’s Chanthaburi province.

Under the agreement, the truce took effect at noon local time and will be monitored by both sides for 72 hours. The Thai government said it reached the agreement after considering the impact of the crisis on the country's economy and international standing.

"Once peace has been restored, civilians can return to their homes safely. Thailand will then release 18 detained Cambodian soldiers," said Thai Defense Minister Gen. Nattaphon Narkphanit at a press conference after the meeting.

Thailand, in turn, expressed hope that Cambodian authorities will allow Thai citizens remaining in Cambodia to return safely.

The coming hours will be a key test of mutual trust. The two countries have agreed to keep communication channels open and work together to combat disinformation, which has complicated negotiations. Thailand also expects Cambodia to assist in clearing landmines in disputed areas.

Thailand said it is watching closely to see whether the ceasefire will be fully implemented, while remaining prepared to defend itself if hostilities resume.

"The ceasefire must be sincerely conducted and maintained. We are going to wait. That is why we have the 72-hour monitoring period in place. If things are not settled within the 72 hours, we will fall back to our protocol of using our right to defend our country," said Thai Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sonjaidee.

Prior to the ceasefire, the situation along the border was tense. During the General Border Committee talks, airstrikes and clashes occurred almost daily, with frontline control shifting frequently, taking a heavy toll on civilians.

Thailand to release detained Cambodian soldiers once peace is restored: official