This is NEWS Plus Special English.
Vertebrates in China face a higher risk of extinction than the world's average level.
The Ministry of Environmental Protection made the evaluation, based on the situation of the 4,300 species of vertebrate known in China.
Experts say the situation is grave, with almost 20 percent of vertebrate species and 10 percent of the plant species in China on the verge of extinction.
At a gathering marking the International Biodiversity Day, China's minister of environmental protection said biodiversity in China has deteriorated in recent years and it is a difficult task to arrest the process.
A new guideline for eco-friendly development was issued by the State Council last month, making it easier for law enforcement on biodiversity protection.
The Chinese government has an action plan on biodiversity protection for the period between 2011 and 2030.
You are listening to NEWS Plus Special English. I'm Ning Yan in Beijing.
A research center has been set up in China to provide policy advice on government and trade cooperation between China and Jordan.
The Jordan Research Center, in the University of Geosciences, is the first Chinese institution that focuses on Jordan studies, including politics, economy, higher education, religion and culture of the Middle East country.
The research center will serve as a think tank that offers policy advice and strategic consultation on bilateral cooperation.
The China University of Geosciences, headquartered in Beijing and Wuhai in central China, has friendly ties with eight universities in Jordan.
This is NEWS Plus Special English.
The Confucius Institute of the Royal Academy of Cambodia has held another Chinese proficiency competition for Cambodian secondary school students.
The contest is the eighth in a row. Thirteen contestants, who had been shortlisted from dozens of competitors, participated in the final contest at the Asia-Euro University.
Each contestant was required to provide a three-minute talk on the topic "My Chinese Dream" based on their understanding of the Chinese culture. They also displayed their knowledge and skills in Chinese music and arts in their talent shows.
Lay Monyreach, winner of the contest, will go to China to take part in the annual final Chinese proficiency competition, competing with mandarin learners from around the world.
A Cambodian official said the contest is essential to encourage Cambodian students to study Chinese and win a free trip to China.
In Cambodia, an increasing number of young people learn Chinese for better job opportunities.