China's judicial authorities have resolutely defended national security over the past year, according to a work report of the Supreme People's Court submitted Monday to the national legislature for deliberation.
The work report was delivered by Zhang Jun, president of the Supreme People's Court, at the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing.
"The Supreme People's Court resolutely safeguarded national security in 2025. We intensified efforts in fighting against subversion, secession, terrorism and cult, and severely punished diehard separatists seeking 'Taiwan secession'. We punished crimes including smuggling rare earths abroad in accordance with the law, strengthening the judicial shield for the security of national strategic resources," said Zhang.
China committed to defending national security: top court
China committed to defending national security: top court
China committed to defending national security: top court
The 2026 Emei Mountain Trail Challenge wrapped up Sunday at Mount Emei in Leshan City, southwest China's Sichuan Province.
The event attracted more than 8,000 trail running enthusiasts and professional athletes from 15 countries and regions, including China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and India.
For the first time, the event was held over two weekends. The opening week, held from April 18 to 19, featured shorter distances of 8 km, 18 km, 28 km, and 42 km, designed for amateur and intermediate runners. The second week, held from April 25 to 26, catered to elite athletes with more challenging races of 27 km, 50 km, 75 km, and 102 km.
Runners tackled a variety of challenging terrains such as high alpine trails, dense forests, tea plantations, and flatter sections, while passing iconic landmarks.
In the most demanding 102 km challenge, Chinese athletes Yang Jianjian and Zheng Wen claimed the men's and women's titles respectively. In the 75 km event, China's Zhang Hongfu won the men's division, while American runner Ruby Lindquist secured the women's victory.
"It's very beautiful and everyone is so nice. I was so happy to see the people. They made me feel very supportive. And they were very nice and they clapped for me. And I really like that," said Lindquist.
The event, also known as North Face 100 Ultra Trail Mt. Emei Challenge, was staged on Mount Emei, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism.
Trail challengers conquer Mount Emei in Sichuan
