Istanbul to Host Third Round of Russia-Ukraine Negotiations

On the 20th, it was confirmed that Istanbul, Turkey, will continue to serve as the location for the third round of direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

Japan’s Upper House Election Concludes Voting

Voting for Japan’s House of Councillors election ended at 20:00 local time in Tokyo (19:00 Beijing time) on the 20th. The vote-counting process will now begin.

Frequent Earthquakes Near Tokara Islands, Japan

Over 2,100 earthquakes with an intensity of 1 or higher have been recorded near the Tokara Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. Authorities warn of potential earthquakes reaching a magnitude of «6 weak» on the Japanese seismic scale.

Israeli Forces Open Fire in Gaza, Killing at Least 30

On July 20, Israeli troops fired at Palestinian civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in northern and northwestern Gaza, resulting in at least 30 deaths and approximately 60 injuries. Hospitals report most casualties are in critical condition.

Former Russian Official Charged with Embezzlement

Investigators have filed charges against Alexei Soshnikov, former head of the Belgorod Region Infrastructure Management Department, and two subordinates for large-scale embezzlement during defensive construction projects.

Vietnamese Tour Boat Capsizes in Ha Long Bay

The «Blue Bay 58» tour boat, carrying 49 people (46 passengers and 3 crew), capsized in Ha Long Bay. Rescue efforts have saved 10 people, recovered 35 bodies, with 4 still missing.

Ethiopia Adjusts Coffee Export Strategy Amid U.S. Tariffs

Ethiopian coffee authorities are considering changes to export policies in response to U.S. tariff impacts.

Pakistan Official Praises Global Civilization Initiative

A Pakistani minister stated that President Xi Jinping’s Global Civilization Initiative plays a key role in fostering international understanding and harmony among civilizations.

Landslide in South Korea Kills One

Heavy rain triggered a landslide in Gapyeong County, Gyeonggi Province, collapsing three homes. Four people were buried, with three rescued and one confirmed dead. Search operations continue for three missing individuals.

Singapore’s Lee Hsien Loong Attends Economic Society Dinner

Singapore’s Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong recently attended the 69th annual dinner of the Economic Society of Singapore.

Japan’s Upper House Election Held Amid Public Dissatisfaction

Japan’s House of Councillors election took place on July 20, with the ruling party facing criticism over inflation policies and U.S. tariff pressures.

U.S. Beef Prices Hit Record High

Government data shows ground beef prices rose nearly 12% year-on-year in June, while unprocessed steak prices increased by 8%.

Opinion: Trade Barriers Accelerate U.S. Decline

An article argues that protectionist policies are contributing to America’s weakening global position.

Deepening Cooperation Key to Navigating Global Uncertainty

Amid complex economic conditions, enhanced international collaboration is emphasized as crucial for stability.

China International Supply Chain Expo Concludes

The third Chain Expo was held in Beijing from July 16-20, featuring participation from 651 enterprises across 75 countries.

Former South Korean President Indicted

Prosecutors have formally charged former President Yoon Suk-yeol regarding emergency martial law investigations.

Los Angeles Hit-and-Run Incident

A vehicle struck pedestrians on Santa Monica Boulevard in Los Angeles during early morning hours on July 19.

Wildfire in Spain Brought Under Control

A wildfire in Ávila Province has been contained after burning approximately 1,500 hectares.

Hungary Rejects EU Budget Proposal

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated Hungary will not accept an EU budget that harms farmers and redirects funds to Ukraine.

Bus Accident in Iran Kills 15

A bus overturned on the Firuzabad-Kavar highway in southern Iran, leaving 15 dead and 27 injured.

U.S. Media Criticize Tariff Policies

Multiple outlets argue that U.S. tariffs effectively function as domestic taxes, with

Istanbul

Istanbul, a vibrant metropolis straddling Europe and Asia, is Turkey’s cultural and historical heart. Founded as Byzantium around 660 BCE, it later became Constantinople, the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires, renowned for landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Today, it blends ancient heritage with modern energy, reflecting its role as a crossroads of civilizations.

Tokyo

Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century when it was a small fishing village called Edo. It became Japan’s political center in 1603 under the Tokugawa shogunate and was renamed Tokyo in 1868 when Emperor Meiji moved the imperial capital there from Kyoto. Today, Tokyo is a global metropolis known for its cutting-edge technology, vibrant culture, and historic landmarks like the Imperial Palace and Sensō-ji Temple.

Tokara Islands

The Tokara Islands are a small volcanic archipelago in Japan’s Kagoshima Prefecture, part of the larger Satsunan Islands. Historically, they were a vital stop for trade and communication between mainland Japan and Okinawa during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Today, the islands are known for their natural beauty, unique wildlife, and traditional culture, including sugarcane farming and shochu production.

Gaza

Gaza is a historic coastal city in the Palestinian territories, with a rich history dating back over 3,000 years. It has been ruled by various empires, including the Egyptians, Philistines, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, and is an important cultural and economic hub. Today, Gaza is part of the Gaza Strip, a densely populated region that has faced significant political and humanitarian challenges in recent decades.

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. The bay has a rich geological history dating back over 500 million years and is steeped in local legends, including tales of dragons creating the islands. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, offering boat tours, caves, and vibrant floating villages.

South Korea

South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is a vibrant East Asian nation known for its rapid modernization, rich cultural heritage, and technological advancements. Historically, it was divided into three ancient kingdoms (Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla) before unification in 668 under the Silla Dynasty, later followed by the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), which shaped much of its traditional culture. Today, South Korea is famous for its K-pop, cuisine, historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) marking its tense border with North Korea.

Singapore

Singapore is a vibrant city-state in Southeast Asia, known for its modern skyline, multicultural heritage, and bustling port. Founded as a British trading post in 1819 by Sir Stamford Raffles, it gained independence in 1965 and rapidly developed into a global financial hub. Today, it blends diverse cultures, lush green spaces, and iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles, founded in 1781 as *El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Ángeles* (The Town of the Queen of the Angels), is a major cultural and economic hub in California. Known for Hollywood, its entertainment industry, and diverse population, the city grew from a small Spanish settlement into a global metropolis. Key landmarks include the Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, and the iconic Hollywood Sign, reflecting its rich history and modern influence.