Core Points - The completion of the green protective belt project around the Taklamakan Desert marks a significant achievement in combating desertification in Xinjiang, covering a total length of 3,046 kilometers [3] - The Taklamakan Desert, which spans 337,600 square kilometers, is the largest desert in China and the second-largest moving desert in the world, facing severe sandstorm activities and ecological challenges [3] - The project involved over 600,000 participants working tirelessly for more than 500 days to fill the remaining 285 kilometers of the green protective belt [3] Environmental Initiatives - Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, there has been a consistent emphasis on ecological protection and sustainable development in Xinjiang, with directives from the General Secretary [4][5] - The ecological improvements in Xinjiang have led to tangible economic benefits for local communities, with the sand industry generating an annual output value exceeding 4.37 billion yuan [5] - The integration of ecological protection with economic development is highlighted as a priority, aiming for a comprehensive green transformation of the economy and society [5]

Core Points - The ongoing forest fires near Mount Vesuvius in the Campania region of Italy have led to the closure of all hiking routes for tourists, with firefighting efforts involving 12 teams and 6 aircraft [1][2] - The area affected by the fire has reached approximately 500 hectares since it ignited on August 8, exacerbated by high temperatures and strong winds [1][3] - The Vesuvius National Park, known for its unique natural beauty and wildlife, is facing significant challenges in firefighting due to the environmental conditions [2][3] Industry Impact - The fire has prompted the suspension of all activities along the trail network in Vesuvius National Park until further notice, impacting tourism, which had projected nearly 620,000 visitors by 2024 [3] - Local farmers, particularly those involved in vineyards and farms known for wine, apricots, and tomatoes, are facing severe economic consequences due to the fires, described as a "huge disaster" [3] - Investigations into the cause of the fire are underway, with suspicions of arson being raised by local authorities [3]

Core Points - The article describes the successful grafting of plum trees into apricot trees, highlighting the patience and care required for the process [1][2] - The initial years of grafting showed no apricot fruit, but after four years, the grafting proved successful with the appearance of numerous apricot buds [1] - The article emphasizes the transformation of the original plum trees into fruitful apricot trees, showcasing the potential for growth and change in nature [2] Summary by Sections - **Grafting Process**: The initial grafting of apricot branches onto plum trees took several years to show results, with the first signs of fruit appearing in the fourth year [1] - **Fruit Development**: The apricots changed color from green to yellow, indicating ripeness, and the yield from the grafted trees varied, with one tree producing only ten fruits due to poor sunlight exposure [2] - **Future Improvements**: The article suggests relocating the less productive grafted tree to a sunnier spot to improve fruit yield in the following year [2]

Group 1: G20 Summit and Agricultural Cooperation - South Africa emphasizes the need for trade opportunities rather than aid from developed countries, aiming for fair market access for high-quality agricultural products [1][7] - The G20 summit, hosted by South Africa, will focus on three core issues: African development, energy transition and debt sustainability, and reform of the global governance system [1] - The summit aims to gather global agricultural stakeholders to discuss equitable market access, benefiting both developing and developed countries [1][7] Group 2: South Africa's Agricultural Exports to China - South Africa has gained access to the Chinese market for fresh avocados, marking a significant growth opportunity for local agriculture [2] - The introduction of a zero-tariff policy for all products from African countries with diplomatic ties to China enhances the competitiveness of South African agricultural exports [2][3] - The trade volume between China and South Africa reached $52.46 billion in 2024, with South Africa exporting $30.64 billion worth of goods to China, including popular products like wine and avocados [3] Group 3: Agricultural Technology and Collaboration - South Africa seeks to enhance agricultural productivity through technology sharing with China, focusing on smart agriculture and sustainable practices [5][7] - The collaboration includes agreements for South African students to learn advanced agricultural technologies in China, which can improve yield and quality [5] - Both countries are exploring joint efforts in developing environmentally friendly agricultural inputs and improving soil quality management [7]

Group 1 - The narrative revolves around a family meal where the protagonist's grandson tries a traditional Beijing drink called Douzhi, highlighting generational differences in food preferences and experiences [1] - The grandson expresses curiosity about the snacks of the past, indicating a contrast between his current experiences and those of his elders [3][4] - The conversation touches on various traditional snacks, illustrating the cultural significance and nostalgia associated with them [6][8] Group 2 - A story from the protagonist's childhood is recounted, focusing on a teacher's influence on students regarding snack consumption and the social dynamics in the classroom [11][12] - The teacher's efforts to discourage snack consumption lead to a notable change in behavior among students, showcasing the impact of authority figures on children's choices [14][20] - The narrative concludes with a poignant moment about dignity and respect, as a student refuses to accept food due to personal principles, emphasizing moral values over material needs [20][21]

Group 1 - The narrative reflects on the beauty and variability of apricot blossoms and fruits, emphasizing the unique characteristics of each tree's produce [1][2][3] - The author expresses a desire to experience the apricot harvest fully, highlighting missed opportunities to engage with the trees and their fruits over the years [2][3] - The passage illustrates the passage of time and seasonal changes, noting the transition from apricot blossoms to apple blossoms, and the cyclical nature of fruit-bearing trees [3][4] Group 2 - The text describes the process of making apricot jam, showcasing a communal activity that brings friends together and the abundance of apricots that often goes unappreciated [3] - It mentions the neglect of fallen apricots over the years, as other fruits become more prominent during the harvest season, indicating a shift in focus [3] - The sound of falling apricots and the wind's interaction with the environment are poetically described, creating a sensory experience that connects the reader to the natural setting [4]