China, Kazakhstan deepen bonds through vibrant cultural exchanges, tourism initiatives: minister

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠China and Kazakhstan are deepening cultural ties through vibrant cultrual performances and tourism initiatives, forging stronger cross-border connections, said Kazakhstan's Minister of Culture and Information, Aida Balayeva.

In an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN), Balayeva highlighted how these efforts have fostered greater mutual understanding between the two nations.

"We have become a big, united family that is truly interested in popularizing our culture, popularizing our traditions, so that the peoples of our countries can get to know each other better and more closely. The visa-free policy with China has contributed to an increase in the number of tourists from China to Kazakhstan. And this is very beneficial," she said.

One notable collaboration featured Astana Opera's recent performances, including a dedicated production of Chinese Rhapsody. According to Balayeva, leading Chinese soloists performed alongside Kazakhstan's symphony orchestra, under the masterful direction of a renowned conductor, creating a seamless fusion of artistry.

"It is great that our interaction in the cultural sphere contributed to the fact that such joint events are also becoming more and more and that also attracts the attention of the residents of our countries," she continued.

"Of course, our task is to deepen this cooperation. Last year was the year of tourism of Kazakhstan in China. This year, in a few days’ time, the year of tourism of China in Kazakhstan will begin. This is important, to show, and to advertise. It is important that our citizens know, contribute, and actively participate in these events. It will reflect our efforts, which promote the involvement of people, the involvement of our residents. This is a direct result of our joint efforts, so I would like us to strengthen our interaction. I would like us to further expand cooperation in all areas of culture and information and, of course, improve our work," she said. 

China, Kazakhstan deepen bonds through vibrant cultural exchanges, tourism initiatives: minister

Typhoon Noul, the 12th typhoon of the year, made landfall in Huidong County of Huizhou City in south China's Guangdong Province, at about 03:50 Sunday, bringing strong winds and heavy rain, according to the National Meteorological Center (NMC).

At the time of landfall, the storm packed maximum winds near its center reaching Force 14, the NMC said.

By 05:00, the typhoon had moved to Daya Bay in Huizhou, with its intensity downgraded slightly to Force 13. The storm is moving northwestward at a speed of 10 to 15 kilometers per hour and is expected to weaken gradually as it progresses further inland.

Typhoon Noul marks the most powerful typhoon to make landfall east of the Pearl River Estuary in the past ten years. Meteorologists warn that the storm brings a dangerous compounding effect of high winds, torrential rain, and massive waves, significantly elevating the risk of severe secondary disasters, including urban waterlogging, flash floods, mudslides, and landslides.

In response to the threat, local authorities issued an advisory early Sunday morning, urging the public to closely monitor official weather updates and strictly adhere to local emergency protocols. Officials warned that evacuated residents must not leave designated shelters to ensure their safety.

The NMC on Saturday activated a red alert, the highest level in the country's typhoon warning system, before the landfall.

It expects heavy to torrential rainfall to impact central, eastern, and southern Guangdong, southern Fujian Province, southern Jiangxi Province, southeastern Hunan Province, and southeastern Taiwan Island through 22:00 on Sunday.

Typhoon Noul makes landfall in south China's Guangdong, bringing strong wind, heavy rain