In a written statement, Xi hoped for the G20’s greater role as an important platform for international economic cooperation.
This year’s G20 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for Nov. 18-19, marks the first gathering of the kind since the accession of the African Union (AU) as a full member, a historic milestone that strengthens the voice of the Global South.
Javier Miranda, former president of Uruguay’s Broad Front party, expressed his hope that this summit will mark a significant step toward building a multi-polar world — one that fosters dialogue.
In a world fraught with wars and conflicts, the commitment to dialogue stands as one goal of this G20 meeting, he told Xinhua.
Following its assumption of the presidency, Brazil has established the summit theme as “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.” Key priorities outlined by the Brazilian government include combating hunger, poverty, and inequality, advancing sustainable development, and driving reforms in global governance.
“Building a just world requires the G20 to honor the principles of mutual respect, equal-footed cooperation and mutual benefit, and support Global South countries in achieving greater development,” Xi said in a signed article published in Brazilian media outlet Folha de S. Paulo on Sunday.
“Building a sustainable planet requires the G20 to promote sustainable production and lifestyle as a way to achieve harmony between humanity and nature,” he said.
The Chinese president also pledged China’s active support for the initiative of a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty proposed by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
“As we gather at the G20 to address critical global issues such as governance, hunger, sustainability, and the environment, we recognize the crucial role of our partnership with China,” said Rodrigo Castro, deputy secretary for Major Events and Promotion Actions of the Government of the State of Rio de Janeiro.
Many of the solutions to address challenges faced by developing nations stem from ideas and practices already implemented in China, Castro said.
“For us Brazilians who are hosting the G20 … we are very proud to welcome the president and the entire Chinese delegation,” he told Xinhua.
Apart from the G20 summit, Xi is also to pay a state visit to Brazil, as this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.
During the visit, Xi will hold an in-depth exchange of views with the Brazilian president on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of common interest.
Brazil is the second stop of Xi’s two-nation tour, which has taken him to Peru. In Lima, he kept to a tight schedule, attending the 31st APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, paying a state visit to Peru and holding a series of bilateral meetings, including one with his U.S. counterpart, Joe Biden, on the sidelines of the APEC meeting.
He made the remarks when addressing the 31st APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting held in the Peruvian capital. Under this year’s theme of Empower, Include, Grow, APEC members agreed to work towards an open, dynamic, resilient and peaceful Asia-Pacific community at a time of mounting challenges and uncertainties.
China’s hosting of the 2026 APEC summit underscores its advocacy for openness and cooperation, serving as a tangible step toward strengthening Asia-Pacific solidarity and fostering an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future.
It is expected to play a positive and pivotal role in building broader consensus and deliver more tangible results for regional connectivity and a more balanced, sustainable, and inclusive growth of Asia-Pacific and beyond.
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It will mark the third time China has hosted APEC. When China first hosted the APEC summit in 2001, it was poised to join the World Trade Organization, signaling its readiness to step fully into the global economic arena.
By the time China hosted APEC again in 2014, the country had become an economic powerhouse, driving global growth through deepened integration into the world economy.
Now, China is set to play host again with a significant mission: to unite Asia-Pacific economies to champion open economic and trade cooperation while rejecting protectionist and confrontational trade tactics.
To advance Asia-Pacific cooperation, China took the initiative to shoulder the responsibility by offering to host APEC in 2026, which is welcomed by APEC members and has received their endorsement at this year’s APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Saturday.
“We look forward to working with all parties to deepen Asia-Pacific cooperation to the benefit of the peoples in the region,” Xi said during his speech.
China’s previous experience in hosting APEC demonstrates its ability to build consensus, said Carlos Vasquez, 2024 chair of APEC senior officials ambassador.
“China played a very important role along with some other very important economies … to gain consensus again from the very beginning in the APEC year 2024 here in Peru,” said Vasquez.
Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan, executive director of the Islamabad-based Centre of South Asia and International Studies, said it is foreseeable that China will further share the achievements of its policies of openness, modernization, digitalization, and qualitative industrial development.
He expressed the hope that Chinese policymakers will share new befitting propositions, plans, and initiatives to enhance regional and global economic integration and foster international cooperation.
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During his speech, Xi urged APEC economies to “act in solidarity and cooperation to meet the challenges, fully deliver on the Putrajaya Vision 2040, build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and start a new era in Asia-Pacific development.”
The Putrajaya Vision 2040, adopted by APEC leaders in 2020, envisions “an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040, for the prosperity of all our people and future generations.”
This vision of shared prosperity and enduring stability faces growing challenges. Geopolitical tensions, coupled with economic disruptions fueled by unilateralism, protectionism, and attempts at “decoupling” and “de-risking,” have placed unprecedented strain on the region’s stability and growth.
“We should stay committed to multilateralism and an open economy, firmly uphold the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core, fully reactivate APEC’s role as an incubator of global economic and trade rules, and advance regional economic integration and connectivity,” said Xi.
He also emphasized the need to make green innovation a catalyst for the Asia-Pacific and called on APEC members to increase support for developing economies and disadvantaged groups and work together to grow the pie and distribute it equitably to allow more economies and people to benefit from development.
Neo Letswalo, a researcher at the Department of Politics and International Relations in South Africa’s University of Johannesburg, said APEC members should foster more regional integration efforts, starting with establishing joint commitments to enhancing free trade, decarbonization and investments, as “strong economic interdependency prevents conflict and tension.”
In the views of Khan, “Xi’s suggestions facilitate a positive, productive, and participatory trading system, producing win-win situations for every country in the Asia-Pacific.”
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For the past three decades, APEC members have joined hands towards closer cooperation and deeper regional integration, making Asia-Pacific the world’s most dynamic and promising economic powerhouse, as well as a key driving force for global growth and poverty reduction.
Today, the world looks different. It is gripped by anemic growth and confronted with challenges such as unilateralism and protectionism. China, which has made great strides in economic growth and social development since its reform and opening up over 40 years ago, has offered and will continue to provide solutions to these problems.
Opening up is a distinct hallmark of Chinese modernization, and China has remained committed to opening its door wider to the world.
China continues to implement the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership against high standards, and is also working actively to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement, Xi said.
“China welcomes all parties to continue riding the ‘express train’ of its development and grow together with the Chinese economy so that we can all contribute to the modernization of all countries featuring peaceful development, mutually beneficial cooperation and common prosperity,” he added.
In interviews with Xinhua, Asia-Pacific experts and officials noted that China’s remarkable success through high-quality opening up has given it a deep understanding of the importance of an open global economic system and the critical need to advance multilateral and win-win cooperation.
As a major country in the Asia-Pacific, China “has consistently adhered to a development path that aligns with APEC’s spirit of openness, inclusiveness, and mutual benefit,” said Woo Su-keun, director of the Institute of East Asian Studies of Korea.
“It is more important for countries to demonstrate strong leadership through concrete actions rather than words,” Woo said.
For Ong Chong Yi, executive director of the Malaysian think tank Belt and Road Initiative Caucus for Asia-Pacific, China has opened its market to provide development opportunities for countries in the region, driving inclusive economic growth within the Asia-Pacific.
“At the same time, China actively supports infrastructure development in developing nations, enhancing connectivity and economic and social inclusivity across the region. These efforts create more opportunities for shared progress and prosperity,” he said.
To access this service, customers with any bank-issued VISA or Mastercard can withdraw cash directly at Ecobank branches across Rwanda. Joselyne Mutesi, Head of Digital Payments at Ecobank, explained that the service is designed to streamline transactions for individuals who often spend time searching for forex exchange services.
“As the world advances technologically, it’s crucial for banks to offer services that allow customers quick, convenient, and secure access to their funds. This service enables foreign currency withdrawals for clients with VISA or Mastercard accounts, regardless of where the account is held,” Mutesi stated.
The new service primarily provides US dollar withdrawals, given the currency’s widespread acceptance. Mutesi added, “We offer US dollars as they are widely used internationally and accepted by most businesses. Each individual may withdraw up to $5,000 per day.”
Ecobank emphasizes that the ability to withdraw foreign currency through POS and card services will be especially valuable for tourists and international business travelers. By making foreign currency more accessible, Ecobank aims to support seamless international transactions.
As a pan-African bank, Ecobank is committed to providing innovative digital solutions to its customers. Operating in 33 African countries, Ecobank has eight branches in Rwanda, including the Main Branch, Remera, Kigali Heights, Nyabugogo, Kicukiro, Chic, Huye, and Rusizi branches and its widely spread agency network.
The funding is an additional contribution to the €20 million pledged towards the end of 2022 under the European Peace Facility (EPF).
According to a statement from the EU Council, the new support will facilitate the acquisition of personal equipment and cover costs associated with the strategic airlift needed to sustain the Rwandan deployment in Cabo Delgado.
Rwandan troops began their deployment in July 2021 at the request of Mozambican authorities to assist in the fight against terrorism in Cabo Delgado. Prior to their intervention, terrorist activities had claimed the lives of over 3,000 civilians and displaced more than 800,000 people.
Insecurity had also caused all development projects in insurgent-controlled areas to come to a halt.
Over the past three years, Rwandan security forces, in collaboration with Mozambique’s armed forces, have made significant progress in dismantling the Al Sunna Wa Jama (ASWJ) terrorist group from their strongholds in Mocimboa da Praia and Palma. This has enabled a considerable number of internally displaced persons to safely return to their homes.
Since 2021, Mozambique has also received military support from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), although SADC forces began withdrawing in April 2024 as their mandate ended.
Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, emphasized that the presence of Rwandan Defence Force troops has been crucial in making progress, and their continued presence remains vital, especially following the recent withdrawal of the Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM).
“This top-up measure is a testimony of the EU’s support to ‘African solutions for African problems’ and, as part of the global fight against terrorism, it will also serve EU interests in the region,” Borrell stated.
This additional support further complements the parallel assistance measure of €89 million for the Mozambican Armed Forces, who have previously been trained under the EU Training Mission (EUTM) Mozambique.
The European Peace Facility, established in March 2021, is designed to finance EU external actions with military or defense implications, with the aim of preventing conflict, preserving peace, and enhancing international security and stability.
In particular, the EPF enables the EU to fund actions that strengthen the military and defense capabilities of third countries, as well as regional and international organizations.
From 11th November to 20th December 2024, customers will have the chance to win great gifts by enjoying their favorite products. This exciting nationwide campaign celebrates our commitment to rewarding our loyal customers while creating an engaging and fun experience.
Once a customer buys a Bralirwa soft drink in a returnable bottle, they are invited to look under the crown of the bottle for a unique code. Once found, customers can enter the code by dialing *786# and find out if they have won exciting cash prizes. In addition to the cash prizes, those customers will also be automatically entered into weekly and monthly draws, giving them even more chances to win fantastic prizes.
The prizes offered by the Under the Crown Lottery (UTC) are as exciting as the experience itself. Those who submit codes are eligible for direct deposits to their mobile cash accounts. This makes the awarding of prizes a simple and straightforward process.
Through the weekly and monthly draws, customers stand a chance to win larger cash prizes. The grand prize is a reward of 5 million Rwandan francs which will be awarded to three lucky winners. This considerable sum, transferred directly to the winner’s MTN MoMo or Airtel account, is intended to recognize and celebrate Bralirwa’s most loyal customers and bring them joy in a meaningful way.
This Lottery is designed to bring the joy of true togetherness to all soft drinks consumers and encourage them to interact with Bralirwa’s products in a fun and engaging way.
“We are committed to creating great moments and rewarding experiences for our consumers. We want our customers to enjoy the products they love and feel valued and appreciated every step of the way,” said Fleury Sekiyuku, Bralirwa Sales Director.
Reports surfaced on Sunday that Biden had given the green light for Ukraine to use long-range missiles supplied by the U.S. to strike Russia, drawing concerns about the stakes in a war Trump will inherit once he is inaugurated in January 2025.
Biden’s move, which comes two months before he exits the Oval Office, marks a significant shift in Washington’s stance, as it had previously declined for months to grant Kyiv permission to deploy ATACMS missiles beyond its own borders.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has consistently cautioned that strikes on Russia’s internationally recognized territory using U.S.-supplied weapons would be interpreted as direct involvement by NATO in the conflict. He has hinted that such actions could provoke serious consequences, potentially including retaliatory measures against Western interests.
“It is not a question of allowing the Ukrainian regime to strike Russia with these weapons or not. It is about deciding whether NATO countries become directly involved in the military conflict or not,” he said.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, a close confidant of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, has opposed any attempt to escalate the ongoing war.
Musk, who also owns social media giant X, weighed in on the matter while agreeing with a post stating “libs love war.”
The post was published by Utah Senator Mike Lee, a Republican, who reacted to the news, saying “Libs [liberals] love war,” adding: “war facilitates bigger government.”
In response, Musk, designated to lead the Department of Government Efficiency in the next administration, replied with “True.”
Richard Grenell, a close adviser to the president-elect who served as acting director of national intelligence in 2020, accused Biden of “escalating the wars before he leaves office.”
Trump’s son, Donald Jr., also weighed in on the sensitive matter, accusing Biden of an attempt to trigger World War III.
“The Military Industrial Complex seems to want to make sure they get World War 3 going before my father has a chance to create peace and save lives,” Trump’s son wrote on X.
“Gotta lock in those $Trillions. Life be damned!!! Imbeciles!” he added.
Trump has committed to ending the conflict which began on February 24, 2022, when Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Prior to the full-scale war, tensions between the two countries had been escalating for years, particularly after Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its involvement in the conflict in Eastern Ukraine, where Russian-backed separatists were fighting Ukrainian forces.
To bring the conflict to a speedy conclusion, Trump is expected to push Moscow and Kyiv to agree to peace talks.
For the Ugandan filmmaker, her first visit to Mashariki was more than a chance to conceptualize her dream. It was a homecoming to the creative community that inspired her to push boundaries and embrace regional collaboration in her storytelling.
“Mashariki opened my eyes to the potential of regional cinema. The films I saw and the people I met encouraged me to think beyond borders and tell stories that resonate across East Africa,” Nankabirwa recalls.
Her newest film, “The Head” is a poignant exploration of the shifting dynamics in East African families.
Tackling the consequences of absent fathers and the evolving roles of women in traditional households.
The film delves into the struggles faced by single mothers and the societal ripple effects of fathers abandoning their roles.
“The title “The Head” symbolizes the role of the father as the head of the family. I wanted to highlight how the absence of fathers disrupts families and impacts society as a whole,” she explained.
Nankabirwa’s filmmaking journey began in Uganda, where she initially trained as a teacher. Over time, her passion for storytelling took precedence, leading her to produce films addressing social issues, children’s rights, and cultural dynamics. “My goal has always been to create films that educate as much as they entertain,” she said.
This vision materialized when she filmed in both Uganda and Rwanda. Featuring actors from both countries and dialogues in English, Kinyarwanda, and Luganda, the film embodies the spirit of East African unity.
“We have so much in common culturally and socially, and I wanted this film to reflect that,” she said. “It’s not just a Ugandan story; it’s an East African story.”
Collaboration was at the heart of the project. She worked closely with Rwandan actors, navigating cultural nuances and building a shared understanding. “It was a learning experience for all of us,” she said. “By blending Ugandan and Rwandan talent, we created something truly unique.”
Despite logistical and financial challenges, including funding constraints and equipment failures, Jennifer remained undeterred. The support of the local Rwandan community proved invaluable during a critical moment of production.
She vividly remembers a scenario when her team’s cameras failed, local people photographers lent them their own equipment, trusting hem to pay later. “It’s something I’ll never forget—a true testament to the generosity and spirit of the Rwandan people,” she recounted.
Leonel Kayitare, the festival coordinator, reflected on the broader impact of Mashariki on filmmakers like Nankabirwa. “The Mashariki Africa Film Festival has always aimed to inspire and connect creatives across the region. We’re thrilled to see filmmakers embracing the festival’s spirit of collaboration and using their platforms to address important societal issues.”
The festival’s growth is evident as the increased audience and enthusiasm grows over the years. It is becoming a hub for African filmmakers to connect, learn, and collaborate. It gives the opportunity to not just showcase individual work, but to inspire one another.
Looking ahead, Nankabirwa envisions a future where cross-border collaborations become the norm in East African cinema. “There are so many untold stories in our region. If we continue to work together, we can create films that not only entertain but also educate and inspire change.”
With a sleek design and an irresistibly refined taste, the new SKOL Malt bottle wowed fans who turned up in droves to celebrate the brand’s exciting transformation.
Held at Kigali Universe, the event delivered a night of unforgettable vibes, boasting stellar performances from Rwanda’s top hip-hop artists. Hosted by the dynamic duo Anita Pendo and Kate Gustave, the concert united music lovers in a showcase of talent, energy, and community spirit.
Fans were treated to electrifying performances from heavyweights Riderman and Bulldog, whose iconic beats and lyrics ignited the crowd. The stage also sizzled with the raw energy of Fireman, Bushali, Zeotrap, Nessa, and other rising stars like Be Attilla, Boy Chopper, Slum Drip, and Papa Cyangwe.
Mariepaule Niwemfura, the Marketing Manager at SKOL Brewery Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm about the rebranding. “This new SKOL Malt bottle represents our dedication to innovation and quality. We are thrilled to offer our consumers a product that not only tastes exceptional but also embodies the vibrant spirit of Rwanda’s culture,” she said.
The friendly basket ball games between select teams and the surprise guest acts brought an extra dose of thrill, solidifying the event as a standout night in Kigali’s entertainment calendar.
As SKOL Malt’s new bottle took center stage, attendees couldn’t stop raving about its fresh, modern look and upgraded taste. Complementing the concert’s vibrant atmosphere, the new SKOL Malt became the perfect partner for fans to toast to the beats, the culture, and the brand’s unwavering commitment to Rwanda’s hip-hop scene.
Rafael Mugenzi, a reveler who turned up with his family and friends to enjoy the evening, shared his excitement. “I’ve attended many concerts, but this one was truly special. The performances were incredible, the vibe was unmatched, and SKOL’s new malt bottle is a game-changer. We all enjoyed to the maximum.”
With a massive crowd, iconic performances, and the unveiling of a game-changing SKOL Malt bottle, the “Keep It 100% Concert” delivered a night that will be etched in Kigali’s memory.
If current trends continue, AMR could lead to as many as 10 million deaths annually by 2050. Statistics show that economically, AMR could cost the global economy $3.4 trillion each year while pushing millions into poverty.
For low- and middle-income countries with healthcare systems already under strain, the need for coordinated, strategic responses is urgent.
From a layman’s understanding, AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms evolve to resist the drugs designed to kill them. Over time, these “superbugs” render standard treatments ineffective, harder and sometimes impossible.
Dr. Eric Mugabo, a Rwandan Public Health activist and The Executive Director of Oazis Health, explains that AMR doesn’t discriminate; it’s a global issue that affects everyone. Human daily actions ranging from handwashing to responsible antibiotic use, play a critical role in fighting AMR.
Rwanda is addressing AMR through antimicrobial stewardship, a strategy designed to promote the responsible use of antimicrobials in order to preserve their effectiveness. This means ensuring antibiotics and other antimicrobials are used correctly and only when necessary.
Consuming these antimicrobials without professional guidance increases chances of developing AMR since misuse and overuse are primary drivers. It means that healthcare providers are key players in ensuring that medications like antibiotics are administered with care to avoid fueling resistance.
Through its Antibiotic Stewardship Program, Oazis Health and partners have developed initiatives to equip Rwandan healthcare professionals to become effective antimicrobial stewards.
This training emphasizes on understanding AMR from a scientific perspective, best practices for antibiotic prescribing, and patient engagement on responsible medication use.
Oazis Health offers an online, CPD-accredited course available to clinicians and para-clinicians across Rwanda. Through this course, healthcare providers gain insights into AMR drivers and effects, learning how to incorporate antimicrobial stewardship principles into their daily clinical practice.
“Stewardship isn’t just about prescribing less; it’s about understanding when and why to use antimicrobials to balance their benefits while minimizing risks “Through education, we’re empowering healthcare providers to be guardians of these vital medicines,” says Dr Mugabo.
Rwanda’s healthcare workers increasingly recognize that every prescription matters in the fight against AMR and are learning to engage patients on responsible antibiotic use.
Public awareness is another critical strategy in containing AMR as recommended by the WHO. In collaboration with the University of Manchester, Oazis Health recently organized the “30 Days of Antibiotic Stewardship” campaign, designed to engage the public and raise awareness about AMR.
The campaign used an online course called Antibiotics and You, encouraging participants to learn about AMR and motivate others to take the course. Instead of relying on social media “likes,” the campaign measured engagement by the number of course certificates participants earned and shared online.
One standout participant was Felix Nahimana, a medical student at the University of Rwanda, who mobilized over 100 individuals to complete the course. He reflected on and shared his experience.
“Through this course, I understood the seriousness of AMR. As a future doctor, I’m committed to raising awareness and using social media to combat the spread of superbugs.”
The campaign’s hashtag-driven format allowed participants to spread key messages on hygiene, the dangers of self-prescribing antibiotics, and the global threat of resistance.
Despite these promising efforts, Rwanda faces challenges in its fight against AMR. Public awareness of AMR remains low, diagnostic resources are limited, and antibiotics are often purchased without prescription, which increases misuse.
Dr. Mugabo highlights the importance of addressing these gaps: “We’re making strides, but there’s a real gap in public understanding and policy enforcement. Rwandans need to understand that self-prescribing antibiotics or using them when unnecessarily contributes to AMR, impacting everyone in the long term.”
Experts agree that a multifaceted approach is essential to combat AMR effectively. For Rwanda, this includes increasing investments in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in healthcare settings, raising public awareness, enforcing strict regulations around antibiotic prescriptions, and providing healthcare workers with proper diagnostic tools and training.
Dr Mugabo underscores the importance of collaboration: “Only by embracing the One Health approach and partnering with academic institutions, government bodies, and community organizations can we sustain change and successfully mitigate AMR’s impact.”
Oazis Health has ambitious plans to expand its impact. The organization aims to establish a regional Antimicrobial Stewardship Hub, dedicated to education, clinical training, and public awareness.
This hub would serve as a center for AMR knowledge and advocacy, connecting healthcare professionals with resources on AMR best practices.
Additionally, an online platform for AMR-related content is operational, with plans to collaborate with other media outlets to keep AMR a visible issue within the community.
These efforts are designed to build a foundation of knowledge, awareness, and responsible action against AMR in Rwanda and the wider region.
The battle against AMR requires sustained collaboration across all levels of society. While Rwanda advances its healthcare system, the commitment of healthcare professionals, activists, and community members provides a promising foundation.
Rwanda’s growing focus on antimicrobial stewardship and public engagement may pave the way for a healthcare system equipped to confront the silent but deadly threat of antimicrobial resistance.
Data from Eurostat reveals that approximately 3.2 million elderly Germans aged 65 and over are at risk of poverty, according to the German news agency dpa.
The number has remained relatively stable in recent years, with 3.245 million seniors affected in 2023 compared to 3.157 million in 2022. This, however, stands in contrast to 2013, when only 2.4 million elderly individuals in Germany were at risk of poverty.
Poverty risk is defined as having an income below 60 percent of the median after social benefits.
Germany’s elderly population has grown significantly over the years, rising from 12 million in 1991 to 18.7 million in 2022. This demographic shift means seniors now make up a larger share of the population, according to the Federal Statistical Office.
The issue of elderly poverty has intensified debates over pension reform in the country, with German political parties sharply divided on potential solutions. According to dpa, major changes are unlikely to occur before the formation of a new government.
