Latin American Summit Criticizes U.S. for Hindering Development and Threatening Peace
The 23rd Summit of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America – Trade Agreement held on the 24th in Caracas, Venezuela, called for further solidarity among Latin American and Caribbean countries to resist U.S. imperialist actions. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro stated that U.S. sanctions against Venezuela will not succeed and emphasized the country’s commitment to reinvigorate the new phase of the "Caribbean Oil Plan," aimed at promoting regional energy integration. Bolivian President Luis Arce pointed out that the recent U.S. foreign aid funding bill further undermines stability in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, demonstrating that the U.S. is unwilling to seek diplomatic solutions or dialogue, thus continuously threatening global peace.
Japan's IHI Company Under Inspection for Altering Fuel Consumption Data
In response to the issue of a subsidiary of Japan's renowned engine manufacturer IHI tampering with engine fuel consumption data, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism conducted inspections on the Niigata internal combustion engine factory in Niigata Prefecture and the Ota factory in Gunma Prefecture on April 25. IHI admitted on the 24th that its subsidiary altered fuel consumption data for more than 4,000 engines used in ships and land equipment, with the affected engines supplying clients such as the Japan Coast Guard and Hokkaido Railway Company.
Report Indicates Over 280 Million People Worldwide Facing Severe Food Insecurity
According to the latest Global Food Crisis Report jointly released by numerous international organizations, including the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Program on the 24th, more than 280 million people in 59 countries and regions are facing severe food insecurity in 2023, an increase of approximately 24 million from 2022, marking the fifth consecutive year of growth. Geopolitical conflicts, extreme weather, and economic crises will continue to exacerbate the situation. The report warns that the global food security outlook for 2024 is grim, with no substantial improvements expected. Severe food insecurity indicates that lives or livelihoods are at immediate risk due to food issues.
Dry Weather Leads to Early Wildfire Season in Western Canada
Due to drought conditions, Canada's western provinces, notably British Columbia and Alberta, have entered wildfire season earlier than usual. Currently, dozens of fires that are still burning have continued since 2023. Alberta's government announced on the 24th that it will implement restrictions province-wide to manage fire risks. Relevant departments reported that since the beginning of the year, Alberta has dealt with 205 wildfires, with a burned area exceeding 700 hectares.
