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British young man aspires to become envoy of UK-China friendship

Published

2 years ago

September 30, 2022

By XingXue, People’s Daily

Cameron Patterson, a young man from the UK, had just joined the Confucius Institute at Lancaster University when he receivedthis interview from People’s Daily.
“Affirmed and encouraged by President Xi Jinping, I have always been working hard at my Chinese studies and actively participating inthe UK-China cooperation on culture, people-to-people exchanges and education,” Patterson told People’s Daily in affluent Chinese.
The man, who names himself “Kang Ke” in Chinese, said he hopes to serve as a bridge between the British and the Chinese people.
Oct. 22, 2015, is an unforgettable day for Patterson, who was a 20-year-old then.
On that day, Chinese President XiJinping, on his state visit to the UK, attended the opening ceremony of the UK Confucius Institutes and Confucius Classrooms Annual Conference.
At the opening ceremony, Patterson, as the European Champion inthe 2015 Chinese Bridge language competition for foreign college students, recited a poem authored by the Chinese President in 1990 in memory of Jiao Yulu, a long-deceased revolutionary icon of China.
Today, the British young man still remembers every detail of the scenes seven years ago – the fully packed conference hall and the excitement of attending students and faculty.
“I was very excited and too nervous to even raise my head and look at President Xi when I recited, but I somehow felt he was watching me with a smile on his face,” Patterson recalled.
“Ten thousand miles away, your soul has flown; the rivers, mountains and land yearn for your return. The people mourn the loss of a caring official, tears flooding under the empress trees you planted,” Patterson recited emotionally with clear pronunciation and great intonation, and left the stage to prolonged applause.
Xi praised Patterson, “His Mandarin is very good, better than many in my delegation, and he recites the poem better than I could.”
Encouraged by the Chinese President, Patterson noted down Xi’s comments and posted them on the microblogging site Weibo. He wrote in Chinese, “My recitation today went well. I was very happy to hear President Xi’s praise.”
At the opening ceremony, President Xi stressed that language is the key to understanding a nation and that Confucius Institutes serve as an important platform to help the world understandChina, Patterson remembered. Xi also pointed out that the way of thinking and lifestyles in China and the UK were experiencing wonderful “chemistry” triggered by the interaction between the essences of the two cultures.
“President Xi’s remarks inspired me so much. As a former student and a teacher today of the Confucius Institute, I’m extremely honored to be able to contribute to UK-China cultural and people-to-people exchanges,” Patterson said.
Patterson has a special bond with China. He came to China at the age of nine with his parents and didn’t goback home until he finished middle school In China’s Shanxi, Shandong, Jiangsu and Guangdong provinces, he went to the same schools asChinese children, where he gained a profound understanding of Chinese society through a number of touching stories aboutthe endeavors of the Chinese people.
“When I was in middle school in China, my classmates and I were assigned a task by our teacher that required us to learn the stories of Jiao Yulu. I consulted many materials about him and was deeply touched by his love for the people, his hard work, his truth-seeking spirit, and his selfless dedication,” Patterson noted.
He said he had a deeper understanding of Xi’scarefor the people when he recited the Chinese President’s poem about the revolutionary icon at the opening ceremony. “Only those who always bear in mind the people can write a poem like that,” Patterson told People’s Daily.
Civilizations have become richer and more colorful throughexchanges and mutual learning. Patterson said that Xi would always stress the significance of people-to-people exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations when he visits other countries. Only with exchanges, can people-to-people bonds be established and civilizations learn from each other for common development.
“I was told by many British beginners in learning Chinese that they had a great feeling of being close to China when they recited the poem of Saying Good-bye to Cambridge Again in Chinese for the first time, when they wrote their Chinese names with an ink brush for the first time, and when they talked to their friends in Chinese for the first time,” Patterson said.
“I will present the profound Chinese culture and its aesthetic conception to more British students and introduce China’s development to more people inthe classes of the Confucius Institute, and become an envoy of the friendship between the UK and China.” he said.

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Form I-130 Approved: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Next Stages

Published

3 days ago

October 13, 2024

Online Editor

Obtaining approval of Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative is one of the key milestones in the immigration process. It unveils the process of the next moves in order to bring your loved one to the United States of America. Perhaps they are in the United States or perhaps they are in another country. It is crucial to know what comes next. Alright, let’s define the most crucial questions you may have.

What to do after Form I-130 is approved

It takes several months, after which USCIS will send you a notice that your Form I-130 has been approved. In case your relative resides in another country other than the United States the case will be taken to the National Visa Center (NVC). If they are in the U.S, whether to apply for adjustment of status or to go through consular processing is the next step to be taken.

All the applicants apart from those in the USA will have their case numbers allocated to them by the NVC together with instructions. This encompasses paying fees and completing the form I-130 Petition alien relative and the DS-260 form called the Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application. It is important that you be responsive to emails, at least to the official ones to check for updates.

If your relative is in the U.S., you will proceed filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

How to apply for Adjustment of Status if you are in the US

Adjustment of Status (AOS) enables Your Relative to get an LPR status without having to travel out of the country. Here’s how to navigate this process:

Check Eligibility: This should guarantee that the beneficiary is in the United States legally and meets all the requirements of the program.

File form I-485: Complete and file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) which is used in changing of immigration status to that of a permanent resident. A general rule of thumb to reduce delay as much as possible is to lay as much accuracy as possible from the onset of the project.

Gather Required Documents: Most organizations require that you submit some documents Among the documents include:

Form I-130 approval notice.
Passport and current visas.
The form with the name Arrival/Departure Record, also known as I-94.
Two passport-style photos.
The results of the medical examination are contained in form I-693.
Evidence of a relationship with the U.S. citizen or a permanent resident.

Pay the Fees: The costs associated with a Form I-485 depend on the applicant’s age and other factors of his/her personal situation. Make sure you submit your application with the right fee.

Attend the Biometrics Appointment: Applicants are required to submit the application and after some time, USCIS will reschedule for fingerprint and photos to be taken. Attendance is crucial.

Prepare for the Interview: Nevertheless, most applicants will have to go for an interview at a local office of the USCIS. Check your application and gather whatever proof to support your case that you can.

How to apply for consular processing if you are outside the US

For the beneficiaries residing in other countries they then undergo consular processing. Here’s how to handle this process:

Wait for NVC Notification: Once the I-130 has been approved you will be contacted with a case number and additional directives from NVC.

Pay Fees and Submit DS-260: When the applicant receives a case number, they should then process the immigrant visa processing fees and fill the Form DS-260.

Gather Supporting Documents: Gather different documents in order of, barring the letters:

Your passport, which must be valid for at least six months of the intended stay.
Birth certificate.
Police certificates.
Medical examination results.
Affidavit of Support or the specific form used for it is I-864.

Attend the Visa Interview: The last stage is the Visa interview that takes place at a US embassy or a consulate. They should not lie, and they should be ready or willing to answer questions about their relationship and their background.

Receive Your Visa: When granted you get a stamp on your passport through which you can be able to travel to the United States of America.

It is often not easy to know what to do after Form I-130 has been approved, however it’s important to be informed and organized. No matter whether you are changing your status within the territory of the United States or opting for consular processing, it is important to know what steps to take in order to reach the desired end. The receipt of a green card. Be as organized as you can, keep record of the documents and when necessary, seek legal help. All the best on this great adventure that lies ahead of you!

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Awe Progressive Group Urges Gov. Sule to Consider Hamza Moyi for LGA Chairmanship

Published

5 days ago

October 12, 2024

Online Editor

From Leo Zwànke, Lafia

Awe Local Government Area Progressive Group has called on the Governor of Nasarawa State, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, to consider Hon. Hamza Ibrahim Moyi for the position of Chairman of the Awe Local Government Council. This appeal comes as the governor and the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Working Committee are set to decide on the candidate for the chairmanship post.

In a press release signed by the group’s spokesperson, Muhammed Musa on Saturday and sent to journalist, the group highlighted Moyi’s contributions to the development of Awe Local Government Area in his capacity as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the governor on Sports. According to Musa, Moyi’s name is among the three submitted for consideration by the governor.

The statement commended Moyi’s dedication to the local government, particularly in areas such as security, education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructural development. The group believes that his track record makes him the best fit for the position of council chairman.

“Hon. Hamza Ibrahim Moyi has worked tirelessly as the SSA to the governor, ensuring that Awe Local Government remains secure and that development projects are carried out effectively. His efforts in the areas of education, health, and agriculture have had a direct and positive impact on the people of the local government,” the statement read.

The group further emphasized that Moyi’s leadership has played a pivotal role in fostering peace and stability within the local government, particularly in addressing security challenges that have affected the area in the past.

“We appeal to His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Sule, to recognize the efforts of Hon. Moyi and give him the opportunity to serve as the Chairman of Awe Local Government Council. His experience, dedication, and commitment to the progress of our local government make him the ideal candidate for this position,” the statement added.

The group expressed confidence that Moyi’s leadership would bring further development to Awe LGA and strengthen its role within the state.

The decision on the chairmanship is expected to be made soon as political activities in Nasarawa State gear up ahead of the local government council elections.

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Rivers LG Polls: Observers Blame Gov Fubara’s Use Of Non-State Actors for Post-Election Violence ***Exonerate Police of Any Wrongdoing Independent observers have condemned the violence and arson that marred the Rivers State local government elections, blaming Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s supporters for the chaos. The Independent Election Monitoring Group, in its preliminary report, cited widespread irregularities, including the lack of election materials, non-use of electoral registers, and dubious declaration of results. Speaking at a press conference, Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, said Governor Fubara’s insistence on conducting the elections despite court rulings and security concerns has been criticized as a desperate bid to consolidate power. Notably, the report cleared the Nigerian Police of any wrongdoing, highlighting their withdrawal from the election due to a Federal High Court ruling. The report recommends a full investigation into the arson attacks, nullification of election results, deployment of federal security forces, and dialogue between the governor and opposition parties. According to the report, the use of violence by Fubara’s supporters in the wake of the election reflects the Governor’s desperation to suppress opposition and maintain control of the political narrative. By allowing his supporters to engage in such acts of violence, it added that Fubara has contributed to the breakdown of law and order in Rivers State. “The Rivers State local government elections and the subsequent acts of arson represent a low point in the state’s political history,” the report said. “Obviously , the state local government elections have exposed the fragility of the democratic process in the state. “Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s determination to consolidate political power through the Action Peoples Party (APP) and disregard for legal rulings has led to a crisis that threatens both the democratic fabric of Rivers State and the security of its citizens. “The refusal to honor court rulings, combined with the manipulation of electoral processes and violent suppression of opposition, demonstrates a clear disregard for the rule of law. “It is evident that Governor Fubara’s supporters, driven by his desperation to build and secure a political stronghold, are responsible for the violence and destruction that followed the elections. “The state’s political crisis will only worsen if urgent steps are not taken to restore order, accountability, and respect for democratic principles. “The use of arson as a tool for political intimidation is not only reprehensible but dangerous, as it has the potential to escalate into broader conflict. If unchecked, this pattern of governance could erode what remains of democratic practice in Rivers State. “It is therefore imperative that Governor Fubara and his administration give peace a chance by embracing dialogue, respecting court rulings, and adhering to democratic norms. “The Governor must realize that power, when pursued at the expense of the people’s trust and the rule of law, is unsustainable. “For the future of Rivers State, and indeed Nigeria’s democratic experiment, it is crucial that stakeholders at all levels work together to address the deep-seated issues that have emerged from this election. “This includes reforming the electoral system, ensuring accountability for violent actions, and fostering a political culture where power is gained through the people’s will, not through coercion, manipulation, or violence. “In the words of former President Goodluck Jonathan, the political crisis in Rivers State is reminiscent of the crisis in the old Western region. It is a warning sign of what could become a larger national issue if the political situation in Rivers State is not addressed. “It is the responsibility of all concerned parties, including the federal government, to intervene and ensure that Rivers State does not spiral into anarchy. Only through collective action can the state be returned to peace, stability, and genuine democratic governance.”

Published

5 days ago

October 12, 2024

Online Editor

***Exonerate Police of Any Wrongdoing

Independent observers have condemned the violence and arson that marred the Rivers State local government elections, blaming Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s supporters for the chaos.

The Independent Election Monitoring Group, in its preliminary report, cited widespread irregularities, including the lack of election materials, non-use of electoral registers, and dubious declaration of results.

Speaking at a press conference, Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, said Governor Fubara’s insistence on conducting the elections despite court rulings and security concerns has been criticized as a desperate bid to consolidate power.

Notably, the report cleared the Nigerian Police of any wrongdoing, highlighting their withdrawal from the election due to a Federal High Court ruling.

The report recommends a full investigation into the arson attacks, nullification of election results, deployment of federal security forces, and dialogue between the governor and opposition parties.

According to the report, the use of violence by Fubara’s supporters in the wake of the election reflects the Governor’s desperation to suppress opposition and maintain control of the political narrative.

By allowing his supporters to engage in such acts of violence, it added that Fubara has contributed to the breakdown of law and order in Rivers State.

“The Rivers State local government elections and the subsequent acts of arson represent a low point in the state’s political history,” the report said.

“Obviously , the state local government elections have exposed the fragility of the democratic process in the state.

“Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s determination to consolidate political power through the Action Peoples Party (APP) and disregard for legal rulings has led to a crisis that threatens both the democratic fabric of Rivers State and the security of its citizens.

“The refusal to honor court rulings, combined with the manipulation of electoral processes and violent suppression of opposition, demonstrates a clear disregard for the rule of law.

“It is evident that Governor Fubara’s supporters, driven by his desperation to build and secure a political stronghold, are responsible for the violence and destruction that followed the elections.

“The state’s political crisis will only worsen if urgent steps are not taken to restore order, accountability, and respect for democratic principles.

“The use of arson as a tool for political intimidation is not only reprehensible but dangerous, as it has the potential to escalate into broader conflict. If unchecked, this pattern of governance could erode what remains of democratic practice in Rivers State.

“It is therefore imperative that Governor Fubara and his administration give peace a chance by embracing dialogue, respecting court rulings, and adhering to democratic norms.

“The Governor must realize that power, when pursued at the expense of the people’s trust and the rule of law, is unsustainable.

“For the future of Rivers State, and indeed Nigeria’s democratic experiment, it is crucial that stakeholders at all levels work together to address the deep-seated issues that have emerged from this election.

“This includes reforming the electoral system, ensuring accountability for violent actions, and fostering a political culture where power is gained through the people’s will, not through coercion, manipulation, or violence.

“In the words of former President Goodluck Jonathan, the political crisis in Rivers State is reminiscent of the crisis in the old Western region. It is a warning sign of what could become a larger national issue if the political situation in Rivers State is not addressed.

“It is the responsibility of all concerned parties, including the federal government, to intervene and ensure that Rivers State does not spiral into anarchy. Only through collective action can the state be returned to peace, stability, and genuine democratic governance.”