Chinese state media continued to highlight President Xi Jinping's directives on advancing Chinese modernization through the rule of law and improving support for disabled persons, with multiple outlets featuring "warm stories" about his care throughout the day. Concurrently, Hong Kong media reported a significant increase in the Tai Po fire death toll, rising to 159 by mid-morning, with calls for a commission of inquiry and an arrest over a fake donation website. Separately, China and Russia conducted strategic security consultations in Moscow, aligning on Japan-related issues. French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Beijing for a state visit in the late morning. China also reported the partial success of its first reusable rocket, Zhuque-3, with a failed recovery attempt.
