[Infrastructure investment accelerated in many places]Infrastructure investment has picked up sharply recently, as evidenced by data released from a number of places. On the basis of major projects started in earnest in the first four months, new projects are being laid out in some localities. In addition, the large-scale construction of new infrastructure in 2023 will help accelerate the release of digital dividends. According to experts, there are many reasons for the acceleration of infrastructure investment, including sufficient project reserves, strong policy support such as land use, and a wide range of funding channels. In 2023, the central government will invest 640 billion yuan, an increase of 30 billion yuan over 2022. At the same time, 3.65 trillion yuan of local government special bonds will be allocated in 2023, much of which will be used for infrastructure investment. National Development and Reform Commission spokesperson Meng Wei said recently that the quota of special bonds for local governments to be used for construction projects in 2022 has been fully allocated. By the end of April, about 1.4 trillion yuan of special bonds had been issued in 2023. Editor/Xu Shengpeng
Wang Yi met with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Baylamov during his attendance at the 7th CICA Summit in Baku. Both sides acknowledge the progress of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Armenia, explore cooperation in economic, trade, energy, and connectivity of the Middle Corridor, and exchange views on regional security and the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Editor/Min Jing
Ulaanbaatar held the groundbreaking ceremony for the China Mongolia Yuanshou Sports Center, attended by Mongolian President Khurilesukh, Chinese charg é d'affaires Cao Li, and others. This project is a Chinese free aid project, constructed by Shaanxi Construction Engineering Group, covering an area of 30000 square meters with a construction period of 48 months. It is expected to be completed in 2030 and will become a new landmark of China Mongolia friendly cooperation. Editor/Min Jing