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U.S. Professor Rose receives her Stockholm Water Prize

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By Xuefei Chen Axelsson
Stockholm, Sept. 1 (Greenpost)–Professor Joan B. Rose from American Michigan State University received her Stockholm Water Prize from the hands of the Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf in Stockholm City Hall on Wednesday.
Rose won the prize  for her tireless contributions to global public health; by assessing risks to human health in water and creating guidelines and tools for decision-makers and communities to improve global wellbeing.

She was treated as a good example of translating scientific achievement into policies and applied in communities.

In its citation, The Stockholm Water Prize Nominating Committee said that “The nexus of water-related microbiology, water quality and public health is rife with uncertainty – in both theory and practice. The world is blessed with few individuals who can tackle the increasing and changing challenges to clean water and health, starting from state-of-the-art science through dedicated and original research, then moving to professional dissemination, effective lobbying of the legislative arena, influencing practitioners, and raising the general awareness. Joan Rose is the leading example of this extremely rare blend of talents.”

After she received the Prize, Professor Rose said she was honored.

“As an individual it is an honour and I am overflowing with gratitude. But it means even more, because it is a prize that honours water, it honours the blue planet and it honours the human condition. Therefore, I am very proud”.

Joan Rose is widely regarded as the world’s foremost authority on the microorganism Cryptosporidium. In 1993, the largest outbreak to date of the intestinal parasite Cryptosporidium affected more than 400 000 people in Milwaukee, US, who got sick from contaminated drinking water. 69 people died in the outbreak. Cryptosporidium, which exists in both humans and animals, cannot be killed by chlorine, and lives for several months.

Professor Rose and her team, whom she calls “water detectives” investigate waterborne disease outbreaks globally, to determine how they can be stopped, and prevented. She was the first person to present the widespread occurrence ofCryptosporidium in water supplies in 1988.

“More than two billion people still lack adequate sanitation, and over one billion lack access to safe drinking water. Hundreds of thousands of deaths from diarrhoeal diseases each year could be prevented by improved water, sanitation and hygiene. Joan Rose, our water hero, is a beacon of light in the quest for securing a better, healthier life for this and future generations,” commented SIWI’s Executive Director Torgny Holmgren.

Talking about what she believes is the world’s greatest water challenge, Professor Rose said: “I think it is going to be the reversal of water quality problems around the world; the algal blooms in fresh water and coastal waters, and the pollution, not just associated with humans, but also with disease outbreaks among our wildlife, like amphibians and fish. I also think reconnecting water and food security will be a major challenge. We are starting to do it but it will definitely continue to be a challenge.”

Professor Rose was key in establishing the 2004 WHO Drinking Water Standard, setting out a new WHO paradigm with direct impact on virtually all countries; Rose also worked in Malawi and Kenya to help translate these into local regulation. UNESCO’s International Hydrological Program asked for her leadership in meeting its goals of resource management and capacity building for Member States. She chaired a specialist group within the International Water Association to ensure understanding and incorporation of updated standards at the state and national level in engineer standards around the world. Her expertise in identifying and prioritizing issues of water quality led to codification of the Great Lakes Water Quality agreement. She Chairs Singapore’s Water Audit Panel of the influential Public Utilities Board; Canada and Korea sought her guidance. And to use today’s technology, she established an online collective of 140 scientists in the Global Water Pathogens Project.

The Stockholm Water Prize is a global award founded in 1991 and presented annually by Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) to an individual, organization or institution for outstanding water-related achievements. H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden is patron of the prize. The Stockholm Water Prize Founders, united in their strong conviction to drive sustainability in the water sector, are: Bacardi, Borealis & Borouge, Europeiska ERV, HP, Kemira, Poul Due Jensen Foundation, Ragn-Sells, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Snecma/Safran, Water Environment Federation (WEF), Xylem and Ålandsbanken.

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Top story: Thai girl students win 2016 Stockholm Junior Water Prize

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Stockholm (30 August 2016) – Three girl students from Thailand, Sureeporn Triphetprapa, Thidarat Phianchat and Kanjana Komkla, received the 2016 Stockholm Junior Water Prize on Tuesday for their innovative water retention device that mimics the water retention of the Bromeliad plant. H.R.H. Prince Carl Philip of Sweden presented the prize at an award ceremony during World Water Week in Stockholm.

SJWP-Winners-20161

As the three received the prize, Kanjana Komkla said “I’m really happy but I think every team is the best! And thank you everyone.”

By examining the efficacy of natural water collection by plants – especially in terms of the shape of plants that collect and capture water – Sureeporn Triphetprapa, Thidarat Phianchat and Kanjana Komkla built a device that mimics the water retention of the Bromeliad plant. The device has also been installed on rubber trees on rubber plantations. For this, they have been awarded the 2016 Stockholm Junior Water Prize, showcasing that nature is the best teacher.

The Jury was impressed by the winners, in particular their exceptional creativity, unrelenting diligence, enthusiasm and true passion for water.

“The theme of the 2016 World Water Week is Water for Sustainable Growth. The winning project addresses future water security and rural livelihoods using an elegant leap-frog technology which looks simple, but its beauty masks its complexity! The project embodies the theme well through its journey from the idea to application,” the Jury said in its citation.

“It has already proven to be scalable and is now being tested in the field, by hundreds of farmers, who are now benefiting from the inspiration from beautiful plants which have an exceptional capacity to collect and store water.”

Asked how she would want to take the winning project further, Sureeporn Triphetprapa said: “I will use our idea to relieve poverty in our community.”

“This shows that to make real progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, we need to start at the local level. This is a very good example of that; a simple, smart and scalable solution, making a big difference”, said Torgny Holmgren, Executive Director of SIWI.

The Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition brings together the world’s brightest young scientists to encourage their continued interest in water and the environment. This year, thousands of participants in countries all over the globe joined national competitions for the chance to represent their nation at the international final held during the World Water Week in Stockholm. Teams from 29 countries competed in the 2016 finals.

Diploma of Excellence to students from Mexico

A Diploma of Excellence was awarded to the students Gabriel David Alejandro Trujillo, Eunice Yaneli Masegosa Gaona and Carlos Castellanos Dominguez from Mexico. Their project – a pilot plant – combines an artificial wetland, electrofoculation process and a purification system to promote the use of reclaim water for small agricultural activities and school uses, such as bathroom discharges and cleansing.

“This team went right ahead to build and operate the kind of system that is often researched but rarely implemented well – if at all. Their accessible, practical solution is simple. The selection of local plants, previously undervalued, has made this innovation cost-effective to implement, and at the same time scientifically sophisticated,” the Jury said.

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Zeming Zhang, Zhongpei Luo and Shiyong He from Guangdong Experiment School represented China to attend the Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition.

Their project was to use double supersonic  frequency to destroy and then eradicate blue or green algae in polluted water.

It was impressive that the motivation of the team was to revive the river in their hometown so that the childhood happiness of holding dragon boat competition can be resumed and further to avoid diseases for many people due to the polluted water.

When asked why he participated in this project, Zeming Zhang said,

“There is a river in my hometown and we often held dragon boat competition and it was full of fun. But in recent years due to industrial pollutants and household waste water flowing into the river, we can’t hold dragon boat competition any more. I hope this kind of joy should be enjoyed by my young brothers and sisters too.”

Zhang said in the future, he hopes he can learn artificial intelligence or other environmentally related subject.

SIWI is a policy institute working for a water wise world. SIWI does independent research, generates knowledge and provides expert analysis and advice on water issues to decision-makers and other agents of change. SIWI organizes the World Water Week in Stockholm – the leading annual global meeting place on water and development issues – and hosts the Stockholm Water Prize and the Stockholm Junior Water Prize, which will be awarded during World Water Week.

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World Water Week experts call for green water usage in Africa

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Stockholm, August 30(Greenpost)–Water and climate experts have called for a Green Water Initiative in Africa, as part of a Water Revolution in Africa for alleviating hunger on the continent and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals.

“Large parts of the world are struggling to adapt to a drier reality, but challenges are especially dire in Africa’s drylands. Africa’s climate is its Achilles Heel”, said Professor Malin Falkenmark, Senior Scientific Advisor to Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) at the beginning of the World Water Week.

In the water-scarce regions of sub-Saharan Africa (mainly consisting of savannah), direct management of scarce rainfall must form an integral part of the development agenda,

Green water refers to the part of the rain that infiltrates into, and is stored in, the soil.

At the onset of World Water Week, a group of world-renowned hydro-climate experts said that rainwater harvesting and other green water management methods, are key to alleviating hunger in sub-Saharan Africa and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals.

 

Johan Rockström, Director of Stockholm Resilience Center and  Johan Kuylenstierna, Director of Stockholm Environment Institute, Charles J. Vörösmarty and Torgny Holmgren from SIWI attended the  Malin Falkenmark Symposium at World Water Week.

The vast drylands encircling the Congo Basin are home to some 750 million people, a number that is expected to increase to 1.6 billion in the next 35 years. Meanwhile, agricultural yields in this region are very low, on average around one tonne per hectare, as a result of frequent droughts.

The group said that to meet the Sustainable Development Goal 2 (End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture), Africa needs a Triple Green Revolution: green for productive use of green water, green for intensification and enhanced food production, and green for sustainability and building water resilience in watersheds.

Rain, the scientists said, is the ultimate water source in dryland agriculture, as the limited blue water (such as rivers and streams) will be needed for increased urban water supply, industry and energy production.

They suggest rainwater harvesting systems that can offer supplementary irrigation, harvested from slopes and valley bottoms and stored in ponds or dams for use during dry spells and drought periods.

To finance the initiative, the group proposed a Water Harvesting Innovation Fund for Africa, to build water resilience for food security and human well-being.

“Initiatives like the Green Water Initiative in Africa, within the framework of the 2030 Agenda is of great importance if we will have any chance of realizing the Sustainable Development Goals. I hope to see some concrete response to this call,” said SIWI’s Executive Director Torgny Holmgren.

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The South China Sea nine-dash line

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Stockholm, July 15(Greenpost)–The South China Sea territorial disputes between China and its neighbours can be partly traced to an internal map published by the Republic of China government in 1947 that included an “eleven-dash line” enclosing much of the waters. China did not explain the significance of the line at the time. It was adopted by the People’s Republic of China government after the Communists came to power two years later. Then, in 1953, China unveiled a new map with a “nine-dash line” that covered a slightly smaller area of the South China Sea, losing two dashes that ran through the Gulf of Tonkin between China and Vietnam.
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The US remained silent on the “nine-dash line” until February 2014 when Daniel Russel, a top state department official, said China should clarify its meaning.
Trefor Moss, 12 September, 2013:
Diaoyu/Senkaku islands … administered from Taiwan long before Japan annexed them.
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China arguably has a decent case regarding Scarborough Shoal. Here’s one important element of the case: China publicised its claim in 1948, and it took the Philippines five decades to object and counter with a claim of its own. Prima facie, that strengthens China’s claim quite substantially.
On the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA):
From wikipedia:
The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) is an intergovernmental organization located at The Hague in the Netherlands. The PCA is not a court, but rather an organiser of arbitral tribunals to resolve conflicts between member states, international organizations, or private parties. It should not be confused with the International Court of Justice which is the primary judicial branch of the United Nations, while the PCA is not a UN agency.
…
1899
The court was established in 1899 by the first Hague Peace Conference. The Peace Palace was built for the Court in 1913 with funds from American steel magnate Andrew Carnegie.
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Unlike the judges from the International Court of Justice who are paid by the UN, members of the PCA are paid from that same income the PCA earns.
South China Morning Post, 14 July, 2016:
The Permanent Court of Arbitration rents space in the same building as the UN’s International Court of Justice, but the two organisations are not related.
Members of «the court»:
Most of them come from countries unfriendly towards China – and most of these countries are characterized by heavy American news domination:
Many «international courts» are also dominated by American lawyers. Here is one reasons:
From Yale Law School guide (2012):
This guide provides information regarding some of the courts outside of the U.S.—international tribunals and intergovernmental courts, as well as national courts—where current law students and graduates may find temporary positions, paid and unpaid:
On UNCLOS
Huffington Post on UNCLOS: China, the Philippines and the Rule of Law
The threshold question really is whether the PRC can be bound by UNCLOS courts and tribunals, including its arbitral panels. The PRC ratified UNCLOS in 1996, but in 2006 the Chinese government filed a statement with UNCLOS saying that it “does not accept any of the procedures provided for in Section 2 of Part XV of the Convention with respect to all the categories of disputes referred to in paragraph 1 (a), (b), and (c) of Article 298 of the Convention.” These provisions of the Convention refer to “Compulsory Procedures Entailing Binding Decisions” issued by at least four venues: the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea, the International Court of Justice, an “arbitral tribunal” which may refer to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), and a “special arbitral tribunal.”
While there are venues available for the resolutions of disputes under the UNCLOS regime, the PRC does not wish to be bound by its compulsory processes — the ICJ and PCA included.
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The PRC knew this day would come. Its 2006 statement effectively served as a “reservation” against any binding outcome of UNCLOS’s grievance procedure in the future.
Maps:
By LPJ: «The South China Sea Arbitration: A Chinese Perspective», most part of the book are accessible through Google Books:
From page 193:
(By Demetri Sevastopulo )
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Top story: China rejects the ruling of the Arbitral Tribunal in the South China Sea Arbitration

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STOCKHOLM, July 12(Greenpost)–Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected the Arbitral Tribunal’s ruling on the South China Sea on July 12, 2016.

The following is the full text translation of Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China on the Award of 12 July 2016 of the Arbitral Tribunal in the South China Sea Arbitration Established at the Request of the Republic of the Philippines

2016/07/12

With regard to the award rendered on 12 July 2016 by the Arbitral Tribunal in the South China Sea arbitration established at the unilateral request of the Republic of the Philippines (hereinafter referred to as the “Arbitral Tribunal”), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China solemnly declares that the award is null and void and has no binding force. China neither accepts nor recognizes it.

1. On 22 January 2013, the then government of the Republic of the Philippines unilaterally initiated arbitration on the relevant disputes in the South China Sea between China and the Philippines. On 19 February 2013, the Chinese government solemnly declared that it neither accepts nor participates in that arbitration and has since repeatedly reiterated that position. On 7 December 2014, the Chinese government released the Position Paper of the Government of the People’s Republic of China on the Matter of Jurisdiction in the South China Sea Arbitration Initiated by the Republic of the Philippines, pointing out that the Philippines’ initiation of arbitration breaches the agreement between the two states, violates the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and goes against the general practice of international arbitration, and that the Arbitral Tribunal has no jurisdiction. On 29 October 2015, the Arbitral Tribunal rendered an award on jurisdiction and admissibility. The Chinese government immediately stated that the award is null and void and has no binding force. China’s positions are clear and consistent.

2. The unilateral initiation of arbitration by the Philippines is out of bad faith. It aims not to resolve the relevant disputes between China and the Philippines, or to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea, but to deny China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea. The initiation of this arbitration violates international law. First, the subject-matter of the arbitration initiated by the Philippines is in essence an issue of territorial sovereignty over some islands and reefs of Nansha Qundao (the Nansha Islands), and inevitably concerns and cannot be separated from maritime delimitation between China and the Philippines. Fully aware that territorial issues are not subject to UNCLOS, and that maritime delimitation disputes have been excluded from the UNCLOS compulsory dispute settlement procedures by China’s 2006 declaration, the Philippines deliberately packaged the relevant disputes as mere issues concerning the interpretation or application of UNCLOS. Second, the Philippines’ unilateral initiation of arbitration infringes upon China’s right as a state party to UNCLOS to choose on its own will the procedures and means for dispute settlement. As early as in 2006, pursuant to Article 298 of UNCLOS, China excluded from the compulsory dispute settlement procedures of UNCLOS disputes concerning, among others, maritime delimitation, historic bays or titles, military and law enforcement activities. Third, the Philippines’ unilateral initiation of arbitration violates the bilateral agreement reached between China and the Philippines, and repeatedly reaffirmed over the years, to resolve relevant disputes in the South China Sea through negotiations. Fourth, the Philippines’ unilateral initiation of arbitration violates the commitment made by China and ASEAN Member States, including the Philippines, in the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) to resolve the relevant disputes through negotiations by states directly concerned. By unilaterally initiating the arbitration, the Philippines violates UNCLOS and its provisions on the application of dispute settlement procedures, the principle of “pacta sunt servanda” and other rules and principles of international law.

3. The Arbitral Tribunal disregards the fact that the essence of the subject-matter of the arbitration initiated by the Philippines is issues of territorial sovereignty and maritime delimitation, erroneously interprets the common choice of means of dispute settlement already made jointly by China and the Philippines, erroneously construes the legal effect of the relevant commitment in the DOC, deliberately circumvents the optional exceptions declaration made by China under Article 298 of UNCLOS, selectively takes relevant islands and reefs out of the macro-geographical framework of Nanhai Zhudao (the South China Sea Islands), subjectively and speculatively interprets and applies UNCLOS, and obviously errs in ascertaining facts and applying the law. The conduct of the Arbitral Tribunal and its awards seriously contravene the general practice of international arbitration, completely deviate from the object and purpose of UNCLOS to promote peaceful settlement of disputes, substantially impair the integrity and authority of UNCLOS, gravely infringe upon China’s legitimate rights as a sovereign state and state party to UNCLOS, and are unjust and unlawful.

4. China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea shall under no circumstances be affected by those awards. China opposes and will never accept any claim or action based on those awards.

5. The Chinese government reiterates that, regarding territorial issues and maritime delimitation disputes, China does not accept any means of third party dispute settlement or any solution imposed on China. The Chinese government will continue to abide by international law and basic norms governing international relations as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, including the principles of respecting state sovereignty and territorial integrity and peaceful settlement of disputes, and continue to work with states directly concerned to resolve the relevant disputes in the South China Sea through negotiations and consultations on the basis of respecting historical facts and in accordance with international law, so as to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Source: Foreign Affairs Ministry of People’s Republic of China.

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Top story: China’s stance on its Territorial Sovereignty and Maritime Rights and interests in the South China Sea

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STOCKHOLM, July 12, (Greenpost)- Chinese government has issued a statement on its stance on the South China Sea.

The following is the full text of the statement:

Statement of the Government of the People’s Republic of China on China’s Territorial Sovereignty and Maritime Rights and Interests in the South China Sea

2016/07/12

To reaffirm China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, enhance cooperation in the South China Sea with other countries, and uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea, the Government of the People’s Republic of China hereby states as follows:

I. China’s Nanhai Zhudao (the South China Sea Islands) consist of Dongsha Qundao (the Dongsha Islands), Xisha Qundao (the Xisha Islands), Zhongsha Qundao (the Zhongsha Islands) and Nansha Qundao (the Nansha Islands). The activities of the Chinese people in the South China Sea date back to over 2,000 years ago. China is the first to have discovered, named, and explored and exploited Nanhai Zhudao and relevant waters, and the first to have exercised sovereignty and jurisdiction over them continuously, peacefully and effectively, thus establishing territorial sovereignty and relevant rights and interests in the South China Sea.

Following the end of the Second World War, China recovered and resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao which had been illegally occupied by Japan during its war of aggression against China. To strengthen the administration over Nanhai Zhudao, the Chinese government in 1947 reviewed and updated the geographical names of Nanhai Zhudao, compiled Nan Hai Zhu Dao Di Li Zhi Lüe (A Brief Account of the Geography of the South China Sea Islands), and drew Nan Hai Zhu Dao Wei Zhi Tu (Location Map of the South China Sea Islands) on which the dotted line is marked. This map was officially published and made known to the world by the Chinese government in February 1948.

II. Since its founding on 1 October 1949, the People’s Republic of China has been firm in upholding China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea. A series of legal instruments, such as the 1958 Declaration of the Government of the People’s Republic of China on China’s Territorial Sea, the 1992 Law of the People’s Republic of China on the Territorial Sea and the Contiguous Zone, the 1998 Law of the People’s Republic of China on the Exclusive Economic Zone and the Continental Shelf and the 1996 Decision of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China on the Ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, have further reaffirmed China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea.

III. Based on the practice of the Chinese people and the Chinese government in the long course of history and the position consistently upheld by successive Chinese governments, and in accordance with national law and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, China has territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, including, inter alia:

i. China has sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao, consisting of Dongsha Qundao, Xisha Qundao, Zhongsha Qundao and Nansha Qundao;

ii. China has internal waters, territorial sea and contiguous zone, based on Nanhai Zhudao;

iii. China has exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, based on Nanhai Zhudao;

iv. China has historic rights in the South China Sea.

The above positions are consistent with relevant international law and practice.

IV. China is always firmly opposed to the invasion and illegal occupation by certain states of some islands and reefs of China’s Nansha Qundao, and activities infringing upon China’s rights and interests in relevant maritime areas under China’s jurisdiction. China stands ready to continue to resolve the relevant disputes peacefully through negotiation and consultation with the states directly concerned on the basis of respecting historical facts and in accordance with international law. Pending final settlement, China is also ready to make every effort with the states directly concerned to enter into provisional arrangements of a practical nature, including joint development in relevant maritime areas, in order to achieve win-win results and jointly maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.

V. China respects and upholds the freedom of navigation and overflight enjoyed by all states under international law in the South China Sea, and stays ready to work with other coastal states and the international community to ensure the safety of and the unimpeded access to the international shipping lanes in the South China Sea.

Source: Website of Chinese Ministry for  Foreign Affairs.
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Sweden becomes a member of the UN Security Council

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STOCKHOLM, June 29(Greenpost)–Sweden has been elected to the United Nations Security Council 2017-2018, announced Minister for Foreign Affairs Margot Wallström on Tuesday.

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“Six months ago we were considered to be out of the running. Today we have a seat on the Security Council. This is a great victory for Swedish foreign policy and Swedish diplomacy,” said Wallström in a statement.

“For a government that stands for solidarity and cooperation, a seat on the Security Council is an acknowledgement that a global policy for sustainable peace and development pays off. For the United Nations, this means that one of its largest donors is taking its engagement and ideas, along with its demands for reform and change, into the organisation’s innermost room,” said the statement.

“During our two-year term, we will take our share of responsibility for international peace and security that membership of the Security Council entails. On 1 January 2017, when we take our seat at the table that has become a symbol of world affairs, we will do so as President, at the same time as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations takes office,” said Wallström.

Sweden’s candidacy was based on issues and on a belief in dialogue and diplomacy as tools. Deeper contacts with many countries around the world have given us a better understanding of how today’s challenges are perceived and experienced, but also a basis for advancing Sweden’s vision of democracy and human rights, gender equality and development. This is also how Sweden will work as a member:” we will listen to those concerned, defend those who need to be defended and stand up for those we believe in”.

Security, development and gender equality are interlinked. Poor countries run a much greater risk of being affected by conflict. Sweden will work to make the Security Council better at acting before conflicts erupt.

“We will work to make the Security Council see the nexus between security, development, climate and gender equality. We will work to highlight the perspective of women in conflict situations. Half of the world’s population cannot be excluded if we want to achieve sustainable peace,” said Wallström in the statement.

Wallström said the UN must become more open – even more open. “We want to work for greater transparency and openness in the Security Council. We want to talk with countries, rather than about countries. We want to strengthen dialogue with civil society, women’s organisations and other peace actors. This is how to build a peaceful world.”

She said Sweden will deal with issues on the Security Council agenda on the basis of Swedish values. “The last time we had a seat on the Security Council, we were always the ones to emphasise international law and human rights. And that’s how it will be this time too.”

The situation in Sweden’s neighbourhood and the fact that our European security order is being challenged demonstrate the importance of respect for international rules and principles. “This perspective will be central during our two-year term on the Security Council,”.

Sweden will be a member of the UN security Council from January 1, 2017.

“We will be doing so at a time when, all around the world, uncertainty and insecurity are taking a toll on people’s lives, and the need to work together to build sustainable peace and resilient communities has never been clearer. We will do so because we are convinced that as a small and open country dependent on the rest of the world, it is in our interest to contribute to and defend the international order that has at its core the United Nations and the Security Council. And we will do so because we believe we can make a difference – through our policies, our values and our engagement,” the statement said.

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Stockholm ranks 11th in tourism in European cities

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STOCKHOLM, June 10th(Greenpost)–Stockholm has one of the highest growth rates in Europe when one considers the number of guest nights.

This year, Stockholm has climbed up two places in the rankings, from 13th to 11thplace, on the International ECM Benchmarking Report’s list that measures the growth of tourism in European cities.

“Stockholm is one of Europe’s fastest growing cities and we are regularly ranked one of the best cities in the world to live and work. We work with the Stockholm brand from a long-term perspective, so that it stands out internationally,” commented  Karin Wanngård, (S), Mayor of Stockholm.

“Therefore, it is extremely gratifying to see the great results we have been seeing.”

Even for guest night statistics from a global perspective, Stockholm climbs up the list from 22nd place to 21st place. And of the top 25 cities, Stockholm has the highest rate of growth, a considerable 13.8%.

“Stockholm is all about openness, diversity and sustainability, with a strong international vibe. Our city is a hub for innovation within the music, tech and creative industries,” says Karin Mäntymäki, acting CEO of Visit Stockholm.

The ECM Benchmarking Report is produced by European Cities Marketing.

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在瑞典装修房子垃圾怎么办？

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北欧绿色邮报网报道（记者陈雪霏）——今天上午，一个朋友对我说，他的邻居向他吼，说务必把他家门前的垃圾尽快清走。否则，无法忍受。

 

无巧不成书，我们家邻居也是一样，把垃圾袋，还是绿色垃圾袋放在我们楼门前马路边上，好几个星期没有清走，结果业主委员会的人两次督促我们家，要求我们把垃圾清走。因为我们家也正在装修，但是，垃圾确实不是我们家扔的。我们被冤枉了，于是我老公怀疑垃圾是另一家的，直接去问她，“门前的垃圾是你们家的吗？”“不是。”

 

她矢口否认。据了解她还是一名律师。我老公不甘心，于是到垃圾堆里乱翻，翻来翻去，没有我们家的东西，问我们的装修工人，他说我们没有扔垃圾。我老公翻出一个旧烤箱，还有一些标志性东西，然后直接又去问，请你们看看，那垃圾袋子里有烤箱，那是不是你们家的？这回他们不得不承认，那确实是他们家扔的垃圾袋。

 

这里出现一个问题，就是主人不知道垃圾到底该怎么处理。那么我们家是怎么处理垃圾的呢？

 

因为我们有两个厨房，早在三年前，我们就用另一个厨房了。我们装修这个厨房的主要原因是水管子年久失修，漏水了。水都漏到楼下的垃圾站里了。被业主委员会发现，然后，给我们打电话，我老公拿水盆子接了一盆水。没办法，第二天立即给保险公司打电话，给有关部门打电话，他们来测试湿度，发现超标，立即拿烘干机来烘干，同时，把厨房都拆了。地板业拆了。于是，我们不得不考虑重新装修，因为厨房本身也20多年了。尽管厨房古色古香。橱柜很有特色，冰箱很好，烤箱也非常好。于是，我们一样一样地把他们都打扫干净，放到二手网站上了。冰箱我们捐给教堂在郊区的一个活动地点了。橱柜被一个农场主买去了，他老婆说就喜欢这个样子的。烤箱卖给了一个摩洛哥人。这人正好开车要回摩洛哥，他就拿出500克朗说，谢谢你们。他自己把烤箱拉走了。

 

我们的东西能够有人欣赏，愿意继续使用，我们就很高兴，卖几百块钱是小事，主要是不需要自己花钱雇车把他们扔掉。就这样，我们基本上没有垃圾。装修工人来了，对我老公说，垃圾必须我们自己处理。

 

我们也经常看到周边邻居有大垃圾袋，原来，根据市政府规定，装修家庭业主要自己到固定地方去取大垃圾袋，花钱，然后，自己把垃圾送走，或者花钱找固定人来取走。

 

考虑到这个问题，我老公花了每周900克朗的价格买了一个车位，为装修工买的。结果他一个半星期就把活儿都干完了，所以，我们就不再给他留车位了。同时，我们产生的最大垃圾就是在墙上挖了一个门，这个门的垃圾，他立即放到车里拉走了。第二天及以后剩下的材料，和包装等垃圾，他都随时拉走了。因此，我们没有在门外扔任何垃圾。

所以，当老公受到业主委员会询问的时候，他有点儿恼火，直接去找肇事者了。结果，第二天，大垃圾袋被人用车拉走了。我们的楼前再现一片干净的街道。

 

我们经常看到楼门前有垃圾，那都是需要主人来处理的。

Business, China, Chinese circle, culture, Energy, Environment, Exchange, Green-tech, Indepth, Life, News, Opinion, Sport, World News

Long live to Sino-Swedish relations

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By Xuefei Chen Axelsson

Today marks the 66th anniversary of Sino-Swedish relations. In China, when a person becomes 66 years old, we will give a grand celebration with food and wine.

Similar, the relations between China and Sweden is worthwhile to celebrate too.

Recalling the past 66 years,  a lot has happened between the two countries.

Sweden was the first western country that established diplomatic relatlions with China.  That was May 9, 1950.

According to historical documents, Norway, Danmark, Finland and Sweden all recognized China in January.  But due to Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai’s diplomacy of cleaning up the house first, they decided to accept Swedish offer first and established diplomatic relations with Sweden on May, 9, 1950.

So the former Swedish to China Ambassador said Sweden was chosen to be the first one to establish relations with China. Then Denmark, Finland and Norway established relations with China.

The consideration likely involves the history between China and Sweden. As early as 1700 century, Sweden had sent Gothenburg Ship to China to buy the tea, porshelin and silk. The trade caused a wave of China heat.  Even Queen Lovisa was a fan of China.

China Pavillion in Drottningholm was the typical evidence of this craze. It was Lovisa’s gift from the king when she was 33 years old.  Inside the pavillion there are a lot of Chinese books. The most impressive thing was the echoing room on the second floor.

Sometimes I feel the down to earth manner and the honesty Swedish people own are the trace of Chinese virtues. Honesty and down to earth are also the virtues Chinese seek.

In the 19th century, Sweden was the first country that signed a business agreement, but didn’t openly invade China or rob China like the other eight western  power.   But the two sides did sign agreements to divid the antiques people unearthened in Beijing Suburbs. That is why people today can see a whole lot of precious antiques dating back to Xia, Shang and Zhou Dynasty in Fareastern Antiquities Museum.

Swedish explorer Sven Hedin explored a lot along the silk road. Many Swedish like to have adventures in China. Ericsson established its office in Shanghai at the end of 19th century.

Meanwhile, Chinese also visited Sweden.  Liang Qichao, one of the six Gentlemen who presented a proposal to the Qing Emperor but faced severe punishment escaped to Sweden and lived here for a year.

When New China was established, General Geng Biao who was also vice premier then became the first ambassador to Sweden.  New China sent quite a few generals abroad to become the first ambassador.

DSC_9023Sino-Swedish relations have been so good that they sometimes can criticise each other. But they remain good friends.

Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf visited China many times. Crown Princess Victoria had her training in China for a month.

Chinese President Hu Jintao visited Sweden in June 2007. President Xi Jinping visited Sweden in 2010 when he was vice president.   Premier Wen Jiabao visited Sweden in 2012.

Yu Zhengsheng, Chairman of CPPCC visited Sweden in June 2014.

While about 500 Swedish companies operate in China, many Chinese companies come to Sweden to invest. Volvo car owner now is Chinese Geely. Saab was also bought by Chinese from Shandong province.

Many Chinese investors bought houses in Sweden and like to contribute to Swedish economies.

Meanwhile, Swedish companies are also seeking opportunities in China.

In terms of culture, a new Chinese Culture Center will be established right in the center of the Stockholm City.  It is a good present for the 66th anniversary of Sino-Swedish relations.

What will be the future like?  In fact, from what I observed, more and more tourists, especially ordinary tourists are visiting Sweden. This is a sign that the Chinese are getting richer and richer. They can spend money from their own pocket to go abroad. They can afford it and they are allowed to do this.  There is no lofty slogan going on, but there is still a lot happening on the ground.

In my opinion, it is these down to business kind of relations that can be more sustainable if the embassy can allow this to happen. More freedom to move and more permission to visit,  it will be good for both sides, for the common people to exchange and do business.

Without such freedom, without such permission, it is difficult to really get the business booming.  Without exchange of people, we cannot talk about exchange of culture and business.

Sweden has advantage in environmental technology and practices, design, water and air and green energy while China is in need of green food, green tech and green energy.

DSC_9577Recently the exchange of Ice Hockey becomes frequent too. Several activities have taken place.  It is hoped more and more exchange activities will take place with the support from both government and businesses.

Business, China, Chinese circle, Energy, Environment, Green-tech

China sets major tasks for reform in 2016

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BEIJING, April 16 (Xinhua) — China’s top economic planner has listed major tasks in propelling economic reforms this year, including reforms of state-owned enterprises (SOE), market supervision, investment, urbanization, opening up and innovation.

China will initiate mixed-ownership pilots in SOEs and push forward reforms in electricity, oil, natural gas and salt industries, said a statement issued after a two-day meeting of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), held on Thursday and Friday.
The government will further cut red tape and improve market supervision, including compiling a negative list to enhance market access regulation. Market threshold of some major industries will be lowered for investors, and the current investment and financing mechanism will be improved, according to the statement.
China will implement the household registration reform to urbanize more rural migrants with a plan to help 100 million people settle in cities.
The country will continue to push forward opening up, stepping up the Belt and Road construction, promoting international production capacity cooperation, further opening service and manufacturing sectors, and establishing a negative list for foreign investment.
The government will also better its support for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Other tasks include accelerating a pricing reform in electricity, medical services and transport, and improving the way China uses natural resources and protects the environment. Enditem

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Daimler launches car-sharing service in China

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CHONGQING, April 15 (Xinhua) — German carmaker Daimler on Friday launched its car2go rental service in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, marking its entry to the Asian market.

The service, already popular in Europe and North America, allows users to access nearby for-rent cars via a mobile app, saving them the lengthy paperwork and other inconveniences of the traditional car rental business.
Sam Guo, COO of car2go China Co., Ltd., said 400 Mercedes-Benz Smart vehicles will be available for rent in the city. Users can park their cars anywhere in an area of 60 square kilometers in the city after use.
“China is our third key market after North America and Europe,” Guo said.
Rainer Becker, CEO of car2go China, said they hope car2go can alleviate the traffic congestion in many big cities. Chongqing was selected as their first step in Asia given its supportive government and the locals’ high acceptance of new ideas.
The company said it will add more cars and launch the service in more cities, if this model proves popular. Enditem

 

 

 

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Swedish Spring Budget: Building a society – responsibility, security and development

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By  Xuefei Chen Axelsson

STOCKHOLM, April 28, (Greenpost)–Swedish Government has presented its proposed direction for economic policy ahead of the Budget Bill for 2017.

The Government’s priorities – jobs, schools and climate action – remain firm. In addition, proposals are presented to increase funding in the budget for 2016 to address the refugee situation. The Spring Fiscal Policy Bill and the proposals in the spring amending budget are based on an agreement between the government parties and the Left Party.

“In the spring budget, the Government continues to address the refugee situation and sets out the future direction – building our society takes precedence over new tax cuts. With the Swedish model as a foundation and modernisation as a tool, we will respond to the challenges our country is facing. Unemployment must be fought, pupils’ learning outcomes strengthened and climate emissions reduced,” says Minister for Finance Magdalena Andersson.

Strong Swedish economy

The prospects for the Swedish economy are good. The growth rate in 2015 was just over 4 per cent, which is well above the average rate of growth for Sweden in the last twenty years. The growth rate was also higher than for many other countries, including the US and Germany. Unemployment fell significantly in 2015 and is now at around 7 per cent. This is the lowest level of unemployment for seven years. Youth unemployment and long-term unemployment also decreased significantly in 2015.

The Government has adjusted fiscal policy along more responsible lines, and the deficit has fallen sharply since the Government took office. The large number of people seeking asylum in Sweden in 2015 and the important investments being made to enable new Swedes to establish themselves in society and the labour market involve temporary costs. Towards the end of the forecast period, public finances will be in balance and show a surplus.

However, the economic forecast is uncertain and there is a substantial risk of a weaker outlook.

Government priorities ahead of the autumn budget

“The challenges that Sweden is facing make the Government’s ongoing efforts to build a cohesive society even more important,” says Ms Andersson.

Reducing unemployment

The Government’s objective that Sweden will have the lowest unemployment rate in the EU by 2020 remains firmly in place. Investments in job creation will be made under the Government’s jobs agenda. These include skills, education and matching initiatives, investments for the future including in housing and infrastructure, and an active business policy for more and growing companies. Welfare investments are also an important part of employment policy.

Providing equitable knowledge-based education and time for each pupil

Central to building our society is an equitable school system that gives every child the opportunity to develop. The main focus is on boosting learning outcomes through early intervention, enhancing the attractiveness of the teaching profession and improving equity in education.

Tightening up climate policy

Sweden aspires to be one of the world’s first fossil-free welfare nations. Climate change is the Government’s top environmental priority. To lead global development, Sweden is taking further steps to tighten up its national climate policy and reducing emissions.

Strengthening welfare and increasing equity

The Government’s objective is that everyone will benefit from Sweden’s growth and prosperity. The Government prioritises building a society in which welfare is strengthened and opportunities are made to employ more people in welfare services.

Increasing equality between women and men

The Government will continue its efforts to ensure gender mainstreaming in all areas of policy-making and is also implementing special initiatives.

Initiatives in the budget for 2016

The current situation has given rise to needs in a number of areas that will be addressed this year. The Swedish Migration Agency will receive a significant increase in appropriations to manage the large number of asylum seekers.

As more people seek asylum, more asylum cases end in rejection. Return activities will be improved.

To facilitate introduction, funds will be allocated for language initiatives and skills assessment for asylum seekers, and skills validation of new arrivals. A new fast track for newly arrived entrepreneurs will be introduced.

The Swedish Police will receive increased resources, community police will be strengthened and efforts to combat hate crimes will be prioritised. Anti-terrorism efforts will be enhanced, including through increased resources to the Swedish Security Service. In addition, resources to the Swedish Migration Agency will be reinforced to increase security at asylum centres.

Preventive action to protect our open society against violent extremism and racism will be strengthened.