Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged global unity, inclusiveness, and cooperation to foster human civilization, emphasizing that peace is as pure as ice and snow.

Speaking at the inaugural banquet of the ninth Asian Winter Games in Harbin on Friday, Xi underscored the significance of the event, themed “Dream of Winter, Love among Asia,” as a symbol of shared aspirations for peace, development, and friendship across the continent.

“The cauldron of the ninth Asian Winter Games will be lit tonight. From the Olympic Winter Games Beijing to the Asian Winter Games Harbin, the passion in China for ice and snow has swept across the nation,” Xi said. “It has also invigorated winter sports globally.”

Highlighting the record-breaking participation of 1,275 athletes from 34 countries in 64 events across 11 sports, Xi expressed confidence in the success of the Games.

“I believe with the joint efforts of the Olympic Council of Asia and delegations from all participating countries and regions, Harbin will present to the world a great sports event that is distinctly Chinese, uniquely Asian, and spectacular,” he stated.

Xi also stressed the need for global collaboration in addressing security challenges and promoting economic growth.

“No matter how the international landscape evolves, we should join hands together to meet all kinds of security challenges and contribute Asian strength to building an equal and orderly multipolar world,” he said.

Encouraging unity in economic development, Xi drew a parallel between winter sports and global progress.

“Winter sports are fascinating because they require passion and collaboration. We should work together to promote progress and development, and provide sustained drive for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation,” he said.

He further emphasized Asia’s role as a melting pot of civilizations, calling for inclusiveness and cultural exchange.

“Every snowflake is unique, and every civilization is distinctive. Asia is a convergence of the world’s diverse civilizations. We should promote inclusiveness, coexistence, and mutual learning, and contribute more to the development and progress of human civilization,” Xi said.

Describing Harbin as the birthplace of China’s modern winter sports, he highlighted its transformation into a hub for ice and snow culture, boosting the city’s economy and global relevance.

“We feel truly that ice and snow are as valuable as gold and silver. The ice and snow culture and economy are becoming new driving forces for the high-quality development of Harbin and a new bond linking the city and the world,” he added.

Welcoming guests to experience the city’s charm, Xi referenced the Chinese zodiac, expressing hope that the Year of the Snake would bring wisdom and vitality.

“I wish all athletes excellent performance with the agility of the snake. May you all have beautiful and unforgettable memories of ice and snow in Harbin,” he concluded.

The ninth Asian Winter Games, running from February 3 to 14, is the largest edition in history, showcasing the growing prominence of winter sports in Asia.

Jubilant supporters celebrated Donald Trump’s apparent victory in Florida early Wednesday as he claimed a return to the White House, despite most major news networks holding off on officially calling the race.

At an event in Palm Beach, Trump supporters reveled in the win projected by Fox News, cheering as the former president declared a “political victory that our country has never seen before.”

“I feel extraordinary,” said 68-year-old supporter Ted Sarvanis, dancing with arms in the air. “This is the greatest American political story in the history of the country.”

Joined by running mate J.D. Vance, Trump took the stage, celebrating his projected win. The atmosphere at the convention center was electric, with supporters sporting “Make America Great Again” caps and mingling in formal attire and Trump-themed clothing.

“I feel relieved. I was a little bit scared because you never know how things are going to turn out,” said Stacy Kurtz, 45.

In contrast, a far different scene unfolded for Vice President Kamala Harris’s supporters at Howard University in Washington, where they were hoping for a Democratic win.

As the night wore on and Trump gained electoral votes in key battleground states, disappointment swept through the crowd.

“I am scared, I am anxious now,” said Charlyn Anderson earlier in the evening.

Democratic watch parties in places like Atlanta and Pennsylvania grew somber as results rolled in, with Lynn Johnson, 65, expressing concern, “It’s going to be dangerous if he wins. I don’t feel safe.”

While Trump’s supporters celebrated a comeback, the mood among Democrats was marked by worry and disbelief.

“He’s a terrible candidate, so it just doesn’t make sense,” said Harris supporter Ken Brown.

The contrasting scenes highlighted the nation’s deep political divide on election night.

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday vowed to strengthen his country’s “ironclad bond” with the United States as he congratulated Donald Trump, who claimed victory in the US election.

“Congratulations to President @realDonaldTrump on your historic return to the White House… I look forward to working with you to strengthen the ironclad bond between our peoples, to build a future of peace and security for the Middle East, and to uphold our shared values,” Herzog said in a statement.