China: a new era of China-Central Asia relations

Held in the ancient Chinese city of Xi’an, the historic eastern end of the Silk Road that linked China to Europe through Central Asia, Beijing has said this week’s meeting is of “milestone significance”.

And in a speech to the region’s leaders at a welcoming banquet Thursday evening, Xi said strengthening ties was a “strategic choice”.

“I am confident that with our joint efforts, tomorrow’s summit will be a full success and will herald a new era of China-Central Asia relations,” Xi was quoted as saying in a readout of the speech seen by AFP.

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Coronavirus on the increase? : Europe and Central Asia could see 500k COVID deaths by February 1, says WHO Europe chief - by Lauren Chadwick

Europe and Central Asia are once again at the "epicentre" of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a possible 500,000 additional deaths before February 1, the World Health Organization (WHO)'s European regional director said at a press conference.

Dr Hans Kluge said the 55% increase in new COVID-19 cases over the last four weeks in the region was due to low vaccination rates and few preventive measures.

Europe and Central Asia accounted for 59% of global cases and 48% of reported deaths, he added.

Read more at Europe and Central Asia could see 500k COVID deaths by February 1, says WHO Europe chief | Euronews