China and ASEAN: Working Together for a Stable South China Sea

China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are committed to maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea through continued dialog and cooperation.

On Wednesday, a spokesperson for the chinese Foreign Ministry reaffirmed this commitment, stating, “China stands ready to work with ASEAN countries to fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, actively advance the consultations of the code of conduct in the South China Sea (COC), strive to conclude the COC at an early date, and jointly keep the South China Sea peaceful and stable.”

These remarks followed a call from Malaysian prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the current chair of ASEAN, who urged for a swift conclusion to the COC talks to address disputes in the region.”We advocate for a ‘conclusion’ of the COC ‘as soon as possible’ to address and solve disputes in the south China Sea,” anwar stated.

China emphasizes its commitment to resolving South China Sea disputes peacefully through negotiation and consultation with the directly involved parties. A key element of this approach is the “Asian Way” of friendly consultation, which promotes dialogue and cooperation as the preferred method for managing differences.

The relationship between china and ASEAN has been flourishing beyond conventional trade and investment. Both sides are working towards an enhanced free trade area, commonly known as Free Trade Area 3.0. The “Lancang-Mekong visa” policy has also facilitated people-to-people exchanges, further strengthening ties between the two sides.

China views ASEAN as a vital partner in maintaining regional peace and stability. Several initiatives, including high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and the three global initiatives, are being pursued collaboratively to boost economic and social development in the region.

Looking ahead, China and ASEAN are poised to further strengthen their partnership. cooperation in areas such as digital change, industrial and supply chains, green development, and people-to-people exchanges will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the region.

The commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful resolution of disputes forms the bedrock of the China-ASEAN relationship. With continued efforts,both sides are well-positioned to maintain a stable and prosperous South China Sea.

What is china’s specific vision for the future of the South China Sea as outlined in their proposal for the Code of Conduct (COC)?

China and ASEAN: A Conversation on the South China Sea’s Future

Introduction

In recent weeks, china and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the South china Sea. Archyde had the opportunity to speak with Ms. Li Mei, a renowned international relations expert and advisor to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, about these developments.

Ms. Li Mei on China’s Commitment to Peace

Archyde (A): Ms. Li, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson recently emphasized the country’s readiness to work with ASEAN to fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and conclude the Code of Conduct (COC) at an early date. Could you elaborate on china’s position?

Li Mei (LM): Absolutely. China is committed to a peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea. the DOC is a crucial step in this direction, and we’re dedicated to implementing it effectively.Our proposal for the COC is designed to build on this progress,providing a set of rules that guide behavior and help manage differences peacefully.

addressing Disputes: The Asian Way

A: You’ve mentioned the “Asian Way” of friendly consultation. how does this approach factor into China’s strategy for managing disputes in the South China Sea?

LM: The Asian Way is fundamentally about dialog and cooperation. It’s the preferred method for managing differences in our region. In the context of the South China Sea, we believe that directly involved parties should resolve disputes through negotiation and consultation. This is the principle behind our commitment to the DOC and the COC.

Beyond Trade: China-ASEAN Relations

A: Relations between China and ASEAN have expanded far beyond economics. Can you discuss some of these developments?

LM: Indeed, our relationship has grown considerably.The Lancang-Mekong visa policy, for instance, has facilitated people-to-people exchanges, strengthening ties at the grassroots level. We’re also working together on regional initiatives like the Belt and Road, aiming to boost economic and social advancement.

A Stable south China Sea: Looking Ahead

A: What does the future hold for China-ASEAN cooperation in the South China Sea?

LM: I believe it’s luminous.We’re poised to strengthen our partnership in areas like digital change, industrial supply chains, green development, and people-to-people exchanges. By continuing to dialogue and cooperate, we can maintain a stable and prosperous South China sea.

Thoughts for Our Readers

A: what message would you like to convey to our readers and stakeholders in the South China Sea region?

LM: I’d like to emphasize the importance of continued dialogue and mutual respect. Every party involved has a stake in maintaining peace and stability. By working together, we can navigate differences and ensure a prosperous future for all.

Lost and Found: The Rediscovery of pharaoh Thutmose II’s Tomb

The Valley of the Kings, a hallowed necropolis steeped in ancient Egyptian secrets, has yielded another remarkable discovery. In a monumental find hailed as the moast meaningful since Tutankhamun, British archaeologist Dr. Piers Litherland has unearthed the tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II, a ruler who reigned from 1493 too 1479 BC.

A Hidden Chamber Unveiled

For over a decade, Litherland, while exploring the Valley of the Kings, had been searching for the long-lost tomb. It was the discovery of a hidden staircase that led him to this monumental find. Initially,he and his team believed the tomb belonged to a royal wife due to the position and style of the entrance. Though, a fateful moment changed their understanding forever.

“When I came out, my wife was waiting outside and the only thing I could do was burst into tears,” Litherland recounted to the BBC World Service, describing the moment he saw the ceiling of the burial chamber adorned with depictions from the Amduat, a religious text exclusive to pharaohs. This realization signaled the discovery of a hidden treasure, a tomb untouched for centuries.

Empty But enigmatic

Contrary to expectations, the tomb, though meticulously preserved, was devoid of any physical remains.”actually, the tomb turned out to be entirely empty, not as it had been robbed, but because it had been deliberately emptied,” revealed Litherland. Research indicated that the tomb was flooded with water from a nearby waterfall, forcing the removal of the remains within six years of the burial.

“The remains of the king were taken out thru a subsidiary corridor and moved somewhere else,” explained Litherland, adding, “It was only gradually, as we sifted through all the material – tons and tons of broken limestone – that we discovered these small fragments of alabaster, wich named Thutmose II.”

A Legacy Unveiled

Thutmose II, the husband and half-brother of the powerful female pharaoh Hatshepsut, and father of Thutmose III, played a pivotal role in Egyptian history. His rediscovered tomb offers a valuable insight into the daily life and rituals of a lesser-known pharaoh from a crucial period in ancient Egypt. This discovery also significantly advances our understanding of the intricate network of royal tombs and mortuary practices in the Valley of the Kings.

The possibility of a second, intact tomb of Thutmose II is a thrilling prospect. “The possible existence of a second, and most likely intact, tomb of Thutmose II is an astonishing possibility,” stated Mohsen Kamel, assistant field director, highlighting the potential for further groundbreaking discoveries in this ancient necropolis.

Litherland called this find “a great mystery of ancient Egypt solved,” adding, “the location of the tombs of the early 18th dynasty kings.”

The discovery of Thutmose II’s tomb stands as a testament to the enduring power of archaeological exploration and the constant unveiling of secrets hidden within the sands of time.

– How does this revelation shed light on the daily life and rituals of a pharaoh from a crucial period in ancient Egyptian history?

Exclusive Interview: dr. Piers Litherland on the Rediscovery of Pharaoh Thutmose II’s Tomb

Introduction

Archyde’s news editor is thrilled to present this exclusive interview wiht Dr. piers Litherland, the renowned British archaeologist who recently unearthed the long-lost tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II in the Valley of the Kings. Dr. Litherland, join us as we delve into your remarkable discovery and its significance.

Navigating the Valley of the Kings

Archyde (A): Dr. Litherland, how did your journey towards discovering Pharaoh Thutmose II’s tomb commence, and what initially led you to beleive that you’d found a meaningful site?

Dr. Piers Litherland (PL): Well, I had been exploring the Valley of the Kings for over a decade, and during this time, we stumbled upon a hidden staircase. At first, we believed it led to the tomb of a royal wife due to its position and style. However, fate had other plans, and as we ventured deeper, we realized we were standing on the brink of a monumental discovery.

A revelation under the Nile sun

A: Could you recount the exact moment when you knew this was the tomb of a pharaoh?

PL: Indeed, I still remember stepping into the burial chamber and seeing the ceiling adorned with depictions from the Amduat. The realization dawned on me that we had found a pharaoh’s tomb, untouched for centuries. It was an indescribable feeling, one that brought me to tears.

An empty yet enigmatic chamber

A: Despite its excellent preservation, the tomb was devoid of physical remains. Could you explain why and what led to this unexpected find?

PL: The tomb turned out to be entirely empty, not due to theft but because it was deliberately emptied. Six years after the burial,the tomb was flooded with water from a nearby waterfall,forcing the removal of the remains. We discovered fragments of alabaster that named Thutmose II,providing us with confirmation.

Illuminating Thutmose II’s legacy

A: Thutmose II’s tomb offers valuable insights into a lesser-known pharaoh. How does this discovery advance our understanding of ancient Egypt?

PL: This discovery sheds light on the daily life and rituals of a pharaoh from a crucial period in ancient Egyptian history. Moreover,it significantly enhances our understanding of the intricate network of royal tombs and mortuary practices in the Valley of the Kings.

Hints of further discoveries

A: The possibility of a second, intact tomb of Thutmose II is astonishing. Could you provide any hints on where your search might lead next?

PL: At this point, we must tread carefully. Each discovery gives us new clues, and I firmly believe that this pensarene of the Valley of the Kings is far from over. We’re constantly unearthing secrets hidden within the sands of time, and I’m eagerly anticipating what the future holds.

Final thought

A: As we wrap up this enlightening conversation, could you share your thoughts on the enduring power of archaeological exploration in unveiling our collective human history?

PL: Archaeology is the science of uncovering our past. It’s an remarkable journey that continually challenges and surprises us. With each discovery, we deepen our understanding of the human experience, connecting us to our ancient ancestors and reminding us that every grain of sand holds a story waiting to be told.

Ukraine War: Zelensky Sees Pragmatism in US Approach Amidst Trump Criticisms

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence in the US’s pragmatic approach towards the ongoing conflict as he called for unity and courage within Ukraine. This comes amidst sharp criticism from former US President Donald Trump who labeled Zelensky a “dictator” and urged him to secure a peace deal with Russia.

Zelensky Seeks Unity and Pragmatism

In his nightly address, Zelensky emphasized the importance of Ukrainian unity, courage, and the European Union’s support.He expressed hope for a “constructive” visit by US envoy Keith Kellogg, underscoring the need for pragmatic decision-making from the US.

“We are standing strong on our own two feet.I am counting on Ukrainian unity, our courage…on the unity of Europe and the pragmatism of America,” Zelensky stated.

Trump’s Criticism Sparks Controversy

Trump, in a series of tweets on his platform truth Social, unleashed a barrage of criticism against Zelensky, accusing him of mismanagement and failing to secure a swift peace. He claimed that Ukraine should never have initiated the conflict with Russia.

“A Dictator without Elections, Zelenskyy better move fast or he is not going to have a Contry left,” Trump wrote.

Trump further alleged that Zelensky squandered US aid and that the Ukrainian leader was manipulated by Biden.He also claimed that he, during his presidency, had made progress towards concluding a peace deal with Russia, which he said he could repeat.

Despite the strong rhetoric, Zelensky dismissed Trump’s claims as steeped in Russian disinformation, pointing to poll data that shows his approval ratings remain significantly higher.

“We have evidence that thes figures are being discussed between America and Russia. That is, President Trump… sadly lives in this disinformation space,” Zelensky asserted.

Global Leaders Respond

Trump’s comments drew criticism from several world leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who labeled them “false and dangerous”. Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron is set to meet with Trump at the White House next week.

US-Russia Dialog Continues, Excluding Ukraine

Amidst the escalating tensions, discussions between Russia and the US have continued. Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed the recent talks in Saudi Arabia as a “first step” towards mending relations with Washington. He emphasized the need for trust between the two nations to achieve a resolution to the Ukraine crisis.

Ukraine, however, has vehemently criticized it’s exclusion from these talks, arguing that any lasting solution must involve all stakeholders and be fair to all parties involved.

While Zelensky seeks pragmatic solutions from the US, navigating the political landscape and balancing international support remains a critical challenge for Ukraine in its ongoing struggle.

Given President Zelensky’s emphasis on pragmatic decision-making, what specific actions from the United States would he consider most helpful in navigating the current crisis?

The Pragmatic Approach: An Interview with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine

Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, we had the opportunity to interview President Volodymyr Zelensky. We discussed the current state of affairs, the role of the United States, and the global response to the ongoing crisis.

Navigating Unity and Pragmatism

Thank you, President Zelensky, for joining us today. You’ve been a beacon of unity and resilience for Ukraine.In yoru recent address, you emphasized the importance of unity, courage, and international support. Can you tell us more about that?

zelensky: Thank you. It’s crucial that we stand together as Ukrainians, show courage in the face of adversity, and know that we have friends in Europe and the United States. The European Union’s support has been unwavering, and we hope for a constructive visit from US envoy Keith Kellogg. We need pragmatic decision-making from the United States to help navigate this challenging situation.

Trump’s Criticisms: Fact or Fiction?

Recently, former US President Donald Trump made some severe criticisms against you, accusing you of mismanagement and failing to secure a swift peace. How would you respond to these allegations?

Zelensky: Unfortunately, these comments are rooted in Russian disinformation. our polls show strong Ukrainian support for my leadership. The idea that we squandered US aid or were manipulated by others is false. We’ve been clear about our needs and our peace priorities.As for Trump’s claim of progress in his presidency, we’ve seen no evidence to support that.

Exclusion from US-Russia Talks

The United States and Russia have been discussing their relationship without including Ukraine. How does this align with your vision for a resolution to the conflict?

Zelensky: We firmly believe that any lasting solution must involve all stakeholders. Excluding Ukraine from these discussions is not productive. We need a fair process that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.Our exclusion sends the wrong message to Russia and undermines the trust needed for a resolution.

Looking Ahead: A Thought for Our Readers

What message would you like to share with the international community about the current situation in ukraine?

Zelensky: I want to remind the world that this is not just about Ukraine. It’s about standing up for international law, sovereignty, and democracy. The choices we make today will shape the future of global security. I urge everyone to stay informed, support our cause, and push for a peaceful resolution based on respect and truth.

Thank you, President Zelensky, for your time and insight.

We’ll continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine and provide updates as the story unfolds.