Briefly

DPRK

Chinese representative attends treaty event

China's top political adviser Wang Huning and Pak Thae-song, premier of the Cabinet of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, delivered speeches in Pyongyang on Thursday at a reception commemorating the 65th anniversary of the signing of the China-DPRK Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance. Wang, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, said that over the past 65 years, the two sides have upheld the spirit of the treaty, supported each other, stood united, cooperated closely and worked together, vividly demonstrating the defining features of China-DPRK ties — friendship passed down from generation to generation, a shared future and mutual support. Pak said that since its signing 65 years ago, the treaty has made important contributions to vigorously advancing DPRK-China relations and the development of the socialist cause in both countries, as well as to safeguarding peace, stability and security in Northeast Asia.

ALGERIA

11 killed, 19 injured in orphanage fire

Eleven people, including children, were killed and 19 injured in a fire at an orphanage close to the Algerian capital Algiers early on Thursday, authorities said. Locals and emergency crews rushed to the building in the Mohammadia District in the province of Algiers, where blackened masonry was visible above two window openings behind the exterior gates. Ten of the injured suffered burns of varying severity, and emergency crews evacuated five people with disabilities from the orphanage to safety, the civil protection agency said. It gave no details about the victims or the possible cause of the fire.

XINHUA-AGENCIES