Chinese Literature Day boosts China-LAC cultural ties

In China, on 18 May 2026, the government presented its first 'Outstanding Diplomatic Envoy Medal' to eight foreign diplomats, among them a former Russian ambassador to China. The Chinese Foreign Ministry honored the envoys, and a Global Times expert called the award an affirmation of their long-standing diplomatic efforts.

The Chinese foreign minister also briefed on Putin's upcoming state visit to China, saying China and Russia will further deepen ties, and the Kremlin gave details of the trip at its own briefing. Wang Yi praised Seychelles for barring Lai's outbound flight and commended its firm one-China stance. Reuters reports that Taiwan is open to direct talks between Trump and Lai after the Beijing summit. China Daily wrote that Chinese Literature Day boosts China-LAC cultural ties.