HEADLINES FROM THE CHINESE PRESS
Note: These headlines are from print editions which may not be the same on the publication’s websites.
JANUARY 18 NEWSPAPERS
Whither Microsoft ‘s RMB6.2 billion?
微软62亿下落
A year and a half ago, Microsoft signed a memorandum of understanding with the Chinese government which involved the software giant investing almost USD800 million (RMB6.2 billion) in China. The money is going into product development and manufacturing of items such as Microsoft mouses. The journalist also comments on government policies designed to encourage local hi-tech development which have a negative effect on foreign companies such as Microsoft. However, apparently once Microsoft’s local operations are somehow localized enough (translation: once they spent enough money), these restrictions will not be a problem.
Hu Jintao: no delayed payment [to migrant workers]
胡锦涛：从源头防止新拖欠
Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao put their feet down and order laws to stop the practice of paying migrant workers late.
9 departments to cancel automobile purchase restrictions
9部门要废按排量限行
The city government is canceling various policies that force companies and individuals to buy locally produced cars or place other restrictions on what kind of vehicle consumers can purchase. The move is designed to make the automobile market more competitive. Of course, the one thing Beijing really does need is more cars on the road.
The Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party holds a ‘discussion meeting’ for non Party members to celebrate Spring Festival
中共中央举行党外人士迎春座谈会
Japanese Liberal Democratic Party looking hardline, ‘paying respects to the war memorial’ becomes part of the Party guidelines
日本自民党凸显鹰派强硬 “参拜靖国神社”写入纲领
Other Asian countries are vigilant and concerned about increased Japanese military activity.
1:30 PM INTERNET
Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticizes ‘Taiwan Independence’ action, urges the U.S. to keep their promise
外交部痛批“台独”行经 敦促美信守承诺
Chen Shuibian provokes, China urges the U.S. to oppose ‘Taiwan Independence’
陈水扁挑衅和平 中方促美反“台独”
JANUARY 17 NEWSPAPERS
One third of Beijing residents have lifestyle diseases
三分之一北京人患有生活方式病
The article notes a large increase in diseases caused by unhealthy lifestyle particularly among primary school students.
Shanghai Xinmin Evening News 新民晚报
When you travel abroad, don’t forget China’s image
出国旅游别忘了中国形象
A reader wrote to the newspaper about his experience traveling in Europe when he saw other Chinese visitors throw litter in the streets and engage in other activities harmful to China’s image.