Today’s Headlines from 澎湃新闻 (The Paper) ― August 28, 2025

Beijing hosted a press briefing this evening ahead of the 80th anniversary of the victory in China’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the global anti-fascist campaign. Officials from the commemorative activities’ news center outlined final preparations for the September 3 ceremonies, emphasizing patriotic education and international outreach efforts.

The All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce released its 2025 Private Enterprise Top 500 list today. JD Group, Alibaba (China) Co., Ltd., and Hengli Group claimed the top three spots, marking the first time Hengli has entered the leader trio. Analysts noted robust year-over-year revenue growth across the board, driven by digital transformation and overseas expansion.

At China Life’s 2025 mid-year earnings press conference, President Li Mingguang reaffirmed his confidence in the long-term prospects of the life insurance sector. He cited China’s growing middle-income population, rising per-capita disposable incomes, and the industry’s current low penetration rates as key drivers for sustained expansion. Li noted that adjustments in guaranteed interest rates would have only a limited impact on future profitability.

During the Ministry of Defense’s routine afternoon briefing, spokesperson Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang sharply rebuked Japan’s reported allocation of ¥56 billion to reshape its wartime narrative. Zhang stressed that “covering up historical facts cannot ‘wash white’ wrongdoing,” and urged Tokyo to confront its past with genuine remorse rather than propaganda.

Central government guidelines on urban renewal were unveiled, emphasizing the steady transformation of “urban villages” and dilapidated housing. The plan encourages residents to pursue autonomous renovation or rebuild existing structures, while promoting mixed-use community development and safeguarding affordable housing needs. Officials said the measures aim to activate idle city assets and foster high-quality growth in metropolitan areas.