Premier Wen Says Toughest Year Ahead
Premier Wen Jiabao said during a State Council meeting yesterday(Jan 19th),that the country's economy faces its toughest year since the year 2000. He called for more steps to be taken in the first quarter this year to reverse this negative trend as soon as possible and realize a good start for the whole of 2009.

China Says Nuke Weapons Not Targeting any Country in Peacetime
For the first time in history, China revealed today the details of its policy of "no first use of nuclear weapons". China promises that its nuclear missiles will "not be aimed at any country" during peacetime. In a white paper on national defense released by the State Council's Information Office today(Jan 19th), China reaffirms its will to implement "a defensive nuclear strategy".

(photo source:General Office of the State Council of the People's Republic of China )

Huadu and Panyu Flower Markets Opens up Yesterday
The Huadu and Panyu flower markets opened up yesterday (Jan 19). This year flower prices have generally dropped by 10 to 20%. The Tianhe, Huangpu, and Pailu flower markets are now being set-up and will open to the public on the 23rd of this month.