World
Turbulence between Kim, Xi: Exhibition Hall, symbol of North Korea-China Friendship, also closed
The “footprint tribute,” known to commemorate the stroll and friendship building between Chairman Kim Jong-un and President Xi Jinping during Kim’s visit to Dalian, China, in 2018, has recently been identified to be removed.
According to multiple sources on the 10th, the tribute, which was located on the beach of Bangchui Island on the outskirts of Dalian where the two leaders walked and conversed, can no longer be found anymore. Recent photos obtained through North sources by JoongAngIlbo show only traces covered with black asphalt concrete where the footprints used to be.
JoongAngIlbo also obtained photos from the past showing the tribute installed, with two pairs of footprints facing the same direction side by side. Although there has been no official announcement from China regarding the installation of the tribute, it is widely known to have been installed to commemorate the stroll of the two leaders.
In light of this, there is speculation in diplomatic circles that the removal of the footprints would have been impossible without President Xi’s approval. A local source familiar with the matter said, “there is a high possibility that the central government issued instructions for the removal.”
Another source mentioned, “it is also known that the ‘7th Exhibition Hall,’ previously located in a restaurant near the Bangchui Island beach, has been closed,” adding. “Chairman Kim had also come by the exhibition hall as it displayed photos of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il’s visits to Banchui Island.” The exact timing of the removal of the footprint tribute and the closure of the exhibition hall has not been confirmed.
Oh Kyung-seop, a researcher at the Korea Institute for national Unification, said, “this decision seems to be made as there is no longer a need to maintain or manage the tribute, whether due to problems in North Kore-China relations or for any other reason.”
Considering the symbolism inherent in the meeting between the two leaders, more questions are arising. Chairman Kim made a surprise visit to Dalian just a month before the first North Korea-Us summit (June 12, 2018). Chairman Kim, who rode a private plane on his way to China, had a tight schedule in order of official meetings, welcome dinner, stroll on the Bangchui Island beach, and luncheon with President Xi. The highlight of the event was the beach stroll.
At the time, the two leaders walked side by side, showcasing their friendship with only interpreters accompanying them. Bangchui Island has been a place where Chinese leaders have visited to host foreign leaders or relax since the tome of Mao Zedong. Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-un’s grandfather, also visited the Island many times. This location also serves as the background of Chairman Kim and President Xi’s ‘stroll diplomacy.’
At the time of the summit, China’s state-owned news outlet, CCTV reportedly aired scenes of the two leaders strolling on the Bangchui Island beach. According to the Korean Central News Agency, Chairman Kim described North Korea-China relations as a “new heyday” and “an inseparable one body” to which President Xi responded, “the two countries are destined partners, bound by an unchanging relationship of loyalty.”
Against this backdrop, some view the disappearance of the footprint tribute and the closure of the exhibition hall as indications of turbulence in the relationship between the two countries.
In fact, recently, the North Korean Foreign Minister exhibited an unusual stance by issuing a statement criticizing China along with the ROK and Japan immediately after the trilateral summit on May 27. On the same day, North Korea launched a military reconnaissance satellite. This can be interpreted as a clear expression of dissatisfaction with China by Chairman Kim.
Diplomatic sources said, “despite this year marking the 75th anniversary of North Korea-China diplomatic relations, North Korea seems to be seeing China’s attitude as exceedingly inflexible.” On Zhao Leji’s visit in April the sources added that “although the third highest-ranking Chinese official visited North Korea, the country was dissatisfied because his visit did not ‘bear any gifts’.”
The future of work is undergoing a seismic shift as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integral to global industries. A new report from the World Economic Forum (WEF) reveals that 92 million jobs, representing 8% of the global workforce, are expected to be displaced by 2030 due to advancements in AI.
While this statistic may sound alarming, the report offers a glimmer of hope: 170 million new jobs are projected to emerge, leading to a net growth of 78 million jobs globally. However, the transition won’t be seamless.
Key sectors like graphic design and legal administration are already witnessing a wave of automation, with generative AI tools replacing traditional roles. Employers worldwide are feeling the pressure to adapt. According to the WEF, 41% of employers plan to downsize, citing AI’s ability to handle complex tasks more efficiently than humans.
Despite these disruptions, the report emphasizes the potential of AI to revolutionize industries positively. AI and big data top the list of in-demand skills, followed by networks, cybersecurity, and technology literacy. Employers are responding by prioritizing retraining, with 77% committing to upskill their workforce for AI integration.
The WEF warns that the road to this AI-driven future requires careful planning. Millions of workers lack the skills needed to transition to these emerging roles, posing a significant challenge. Without comprehensive support systems, the economic and social impact of job displacement could be severe.
“While technology will enhance productivity, equipping workers with the necessary skills is crucial to ensuring no one is left behind,” the report concludes.
As the AI revolution accelerates, the focus must shift to preparing the workforce for a rapidly changing landscape—transforming what could be a crisis into an opportunity.
Former finance minister Joseph Mwanamveka and four other former government officials have been apprehended by Malawi’s police for their involvement in an alleged embezzlement scheme worth around $250 million.
The funds are said to have been misappropriated from two state-owned enterprises, Salima Sugar Company and Greenbelt Initiative.
Those arrested include former secretary to the president Lloyd Muhara, former treasury secretary Cliff Chiunda, and Collins Magalasi, the former CEO of Malawi’s energy regulatory authority. The arrests are coming after a 2023 audit of Salima Sugar revealed massive mismanagement of funds.
In total, nine individuals have now been arrested in connection with the fraud, with authorities still pursuing Henry Njoloma, the former acting CEO of Greenbelt Initiative, who remains on the run.
The five arrested on Monday will be brought before a court of law once police complete their statements.
The accused officials served under the presidency of Peter Mutharika from 2014 to 2020. Following Mutharika’s ouster in 2020, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) transitioned into the opposition, while President Lazarus Chakwera’s government took over.
The 39th president of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize laureate,Jimmy Carter has passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind an enduring legacy of leadership, humanitarian service, and moral integrity.
Carter’s remarkable journey from a peanut farmer in Plains, Georgia, to the Oval Office epitomized the American dream.
Elected in 1976, he championed human rights, brokered the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, and tackled domestic challenges with honesty and resilience. Despite facing setbacks such as the Iran hostage crisis and economic difficulties, Carter’s single term in office laid the groundwork for policies that emphasized peace and social justice.
While his presidency was met with mixed reviews, Carter’s post-presidential life earned widespread admiration. In 1982, he established the Carter Center, which became a global force for democracy, health, and conflict resolution.
His efforts earned him the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing his tireless work to alleviate suffering and promote fairness worldwide.
Carter’s dedication extended beyond politics. A devout Christian, he spent decades teaching Sunday school and embodying values of faith, humility, and service.
His advocacy for affordable housing through Habitat for Humanity showcased his belief in empowering the less fortunate.
The loss of his wife, Rosalynn, in November 2023 marked the end of a 77-year partnership defined by mutual love and commitment to humanitarian causes.
Even in grief, Carter’s devotion to family and faith remained steadfast.
Carter’s legacy as a statesman, peacemaker, and advocate for human dignity will continue to inspire generations.
His life reminds the world that leadership grounded in compassion and integrity can leave an indelible mark on history.
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