China is refusing to disclose why Qin Gang has been sacked as Foreign Minister. Beijing insists it is releasing information normally, despite Qin Gang having not been seen publicly for more than a month. Qin was removed from office by Beijing's top lawmaking body on Tuesday after just 207 days in the job. The removal came after weeks of speculation that the former ambassador to US & confidant of president Xi Jinping had fallen out of favour.

Xi Jinping's decisions 'very clear': Chinese Foreign Ministry ducks questions on Qin Gang | Details

There was a political tremor in Beijing today. The country's foreign minister was sacked & replaced with Wang Yi. What led to this turn of events? Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Wang Yi returns as China's foreign Minister | Is Xi Jinping losing power?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid9kjojMaM31b0" /><meta charset="utf-8" />A couple of days after India blocked Chinese automaker BYD's $1 billion bid to set up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in the country, Beijing's top diplomat has urged New Delhi to rethink the decision, adding that the two countries were not 'threats' to each other.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wang Yi, whose position within the Communist party ranks above that of a foreign minister, met India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and called for policies to “enhance strategic mutual trust” and “focus on consensus and cooperation”, according to a readout released by the Chinese foreign ministry.</p>

<p>The meeting took place on the sidelines of a gathering of BRICS members in Johannesburg, South Africa on Monday (July 24). BRICS is a grouping of emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.</p>

<p>"Whether China and India support or exhaust each other will directly affect the two countries' respective development processes and the global landscape," Wang reportedly told Doval, according to Chinese mouthpiece Global Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-ev-market-races-to-catch-up-indias-ev-infrastructure-roadblock-for-buyers-591456"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India's EV market races to catch up | India's EV infrastructure: Roadblock for buyers</strong></a></p>

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<p>The top diplomat added that Beijing was not looking to follow the old world order of 'seeking hegemony'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China will never tread the old path of seeking hegemony taken by some countries. It is willing to work together with a vast number of developing countries, including India, to support multilateralism and democratisation of international relations," Wang emphasised.</p>

<p>"Wang Yi said that China and India should adhere to the strategic judgment that the two countries are not threats to each other but opportunities for each other's development," the publication noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese leader added that both countries should put&nbsp;"relations back onto a track of healthy and stable development at an early date".</p>

<h2><strong>What happened with BYD?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, last week, India rejected the Chinese EV giant's proposal to build EVs as well as electric batteries in the lucrative Indian market, in partnership with an Indian company Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd., citing 'security concerns'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Security concerns with respect to Chinese investments in India were flagged during the deliberations,” an Indian official was quoted as saying by Economic Times. Another official cited ‘existing guidelines’ to claim that such Chinese investments were not possible.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-trashes-chinese-ev-maker-byds-proposal-to-set-up-1bn-plant-618479" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | India trashes Chinese EV maker BYD’s proposal to set up $1 billion plant</strong></a></p>

<p>Currently, BYD has plans to sell at least 15,000 units if EVs in the Indian market in 2023. Despite the rejection, the company plans to expand its distribution network in India and upgrade manufacturing capacity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A couple of days after India blocked Chinese automaker BYD's $1 billion bid to set up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in the country, Beijing's top diplomat has urged New Delhi to rethink the decision, adding that the two countries were not 'threats' to each other.

A couple of days after India blocked Chinese automaker BYD's $1 billion bid to set up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in the country, Beijing's top diplomat has urged New Delhi to rethink the decision, adding that the two countries were not 'threats' to each other. Wang Yi, whose position within the Communist party ranks above that of a foreign minister, met India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and called for policies to “enhance strategic mutual trust” and “focus on consensus and cooperation”, according to a readout released by the Chinese foreign ministry. The meeting took place on the sidelines of a gathering of BRICS members in Johannesburg, South Africa on Monday (July 24). BRICS is a grouping of emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. "Whether China and India support or exhaust each other will directly affect the two countries' respective development processes and the global landscape," Wang reportedly told Doval, according to Chinese mouthpiece Global Times. Watch | India's EV market races to catch up | India's EV infrastructure: Roadblock for buyers × The top diplomat added that Beijing was not looking to follow the old world order of 'seeking hegemony'. "China will never tread the old path of seeking hegemony taken by some countries. It is willing to work together with a vast number of developing countries, including India, to support multilateralism and democratisation of international relations," Wang emphasised. "Wang Yi said that China and India should adhere to the strategic judgment that the two countries are not threats to each other but opportunities for each other's development," the publication noted. The Chinese leader added that both countries should put "relations back onto a track of healthy and stable development at an early date". What happened with BYD? Notably, last week, India rejected the Chinese EV giant's proposal to build EVs as well as electric batteries in the lucrative Indian market, in partnership with an Indian company Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd., citing 'security concerns'. “Security concerns with respect to Chinese investments in India were flagged during the deliberations,” an Indian official was quoted as saying by Economic Times. Another official cited ‘existing guidelines’ to claim that such Chinese investments were not possible. Also read | India trashes Chinese EV maker BYD’s proposal to set up $1 billion plant Currently, BYD has plans to sell at least 15,000 units if EVs in the Indian market in 2023. Despite the rejection, the company plans to expand its distribution network in India and upgrade manufacturing capacity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'We are not threats...': After India dumps BYD’s factory plans, Beijing urges New Delhi to rethink

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<p>At least 11 people died after the roof of a middle school gymnasium collapsed under heavy rain in the northeast city of Qiqihar in China, according to a BBC report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place when 19 people were in the gymnasium. While four managed to escape, 15 got trapped under the debris. After the rescue officials arrived on the scene, all 15 were pulled out but only four survived the impact of the collapsing roof.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The ceiling of the gymnasium completely fell down and the venue covers an area of about 1,200 square meters," state media CGTN reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to preliminary investigations, perlite, a form of volcanic glass that was piled on the roof soaked up the rainwater, which caused the roof to collapse around 15:00 local time Sunday (July 23).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities launched a hunt to nab those who constructed the building and managed to apprehend one of them in no time.&nbsp;A further investigation is currently underway.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-floods-xi-jinping-urges-authorities-to-step-up-amid-torrential-rains-612161" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | China floods: Xi Jinping urges authorities to step up amid torrential rains</strong></a></p>

<h2><b>A routine phenomenon in China</b></h2>

<p>This is not the first time that a safety-related incident has happened in China. The country is notorious for such tragedies, primarily due to lax safety standards and poor enforcement of rules.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, at least 31 lost their lives while seven suffered serious injuries after a gas explosion took place at a barbecue restaurant in the city of Yinchuan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blast was caused by the leak of a liquified gas tank inside the restaurant. Images and videos of the damaged building show blackened exteriors and debris lying all across the area went viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/section-of-mountain-at-coal-mine-in-china-collapses-10-killed-500327"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Section of mountain at Coal mine in China collapses, 10 killed</strong></a></p>

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<p>Even Chinese President Xi Jinping commented on the incident, calling it 'heartbreaking', and added it was a 'profound lesson'. According to CCTV, Xi pulled up the officials and ordered a nationwide safety risk review and strengthening of safety supervision in key sectors.</p>

<p>Similarly, in February, at least 53 people were left dead while dozens were injured after a coal mine collapsed in Alxa League in Inner Mongolia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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At least 11 people died after the roof of a middle school gymnasium collapsed under heavy rain in the northeast city of Qiqihar in China, according to a BBC report.

At least 11 people died after the roof of a middle school gymnasium collapsed under heavy rain in the northeast city of Qiqihar in China, according to a BBC report. The incident took place when 19 people were in the gymnasium. While four managed to escape, 15 got trapped under the debris. After the rescue officials arrived on the scene, all 15 were pulled out but only four survived the impact of the collapsing roof. "The ceiling of the gymnasium completely fell down and the venue covers an area of about 1,200 square meters," state media CGTN reported. According to preliminary investigations, perlite, a form of volcanic glass that was piled on the roof soaked up the rainwater, which caused the roof to collapse around 15:00 local time Sunday (July 23). Authorities launched a hunt to nab those who constructed the building and managed to apprehend one of them in no time. A further investigation is currently underway. Also read | China floods: Xi Jinping urges authorities to step up amid torrential rains A routine phenomenon in China This is not the first time that a safety-related incident has happened in China. The country is notorious for such tragedies, primarily due to lax safety standards and poor enforcement of rules. Last month, at least 31 lost their lives while seven suffered serious injuries after a gas explosion took place at a barbecue restaurant in the city of Yinchuan. The blast was caused by the leak of a liquified gas tank inside the restaurant. Images and videos of the damaged building show blackened exteriors and debris lying all across the area went viral on social media platforms. Watch | Section of mountain at Coal mine in China collapses, 10 killed × Even Chinese President Xi Jinping commented on the incident, calling it 'heartbreaking', and added it was a 'profound lesson'. According to CCTV, Xi pulled up the officials and ordered a nationwide safety risk review and strengthening of safety supervision in key sectors. Similarly, in February, at least 53 people were left dead while dozens were injured after a coal mine collapsed in Alxa League in Inner Mongolia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China: 11 dead after middle school gymnasium roof collapses

Chinese leader Xi Jinping met former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger in Beijing on Thursday, state media reported, describing the 100-year-old as a "legendary diplomat".

Xi Jinping meets former US secretary of state Henry Kissinger in Beijing

<p>Continuing the trend of extreme climatic conditions across the globe, typhoon Talim made landfall in China late Monday (July 17) evening, forcing authorities to cancel flights, trains, issue flood warnings and order people to stay indoors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The typhoon made landfall around 10:20 pm, local time in&nbsp;Zhanjiang city of Guangdong province. According to the Guangdong weather bureau, the top wind speed near the centre of the typhoon was clocked at around&nbsp;136.8 kph or 85 mph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities informed that the country's second-highest warning level, the&nbsp;orange alert had already been issued. Nearly&nbsp;230,000 individuals in Guangdong were successfully evacuated while 8,000 workers from fish farms were brought ashore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/typhoon-talim-landfall-at-zhanjiang-on-south-china-coast-616914"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Typhoon Talim landfall at Zhanjiang on South China Coast</strong></a></p>

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<p>The meteorological department has predicted&nbsp;gale-force winds to continue with&nbsp;exceptionally heavy rains of 250-280 mm (9.8-11 inches)&nbsp;on the southwestern coast of Guangxi and northern Hainan Island.&nbsp;Parts of Guangxi were told to brace for flash floods through Tuesday.</p>

<p>The state media reports warned that 'violent' waves as tall as&nbsp;six&nbsp;to nine&nbsp;metres (20 to 30 feet) were expected to slam northern parts of the South China Sea through Tuesday (July 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6">Nearly 5,000 members of the city's emergency response and rescue teams have been mobilised in case of an emergency. Tourists have been advised to leave outlying islands while airports continue to face disruptions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the typhoon making landfall, at least 1,000 people were evacuated in the Yunfu city of the province. Meanwhile, Asia's financial hub Hong Kong came to a standstill when trading on the $5.2 trillion stock market was cancelled due to the storm disruptions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Global warming and its consequences&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While the southern region of the country braves the flood-like condition, the northwest has been scorching with extreme heat. On Sunday, the mercury hit&nbsp;52.2 degrees&nbsp;Celsius in Sanbao township, located in&nbsp;Xinjiang's Tupan Depression, a July record for the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-records-522-celsius-temperature-in-arid-northwest-616575"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;China records 52.2 Celsius temperature in arid northwest</strong></a></p>

<p>The previous record was set in 2015 near Ayding in the depression. Tupan Depression is a vast basin of sand dunes and dried-up lakes. It is more than 150 metres below sea level.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Continuing the trend of extreme climatic conditions across the globe, typhoon Talim made landfall in China late Monday (July 17) evening, forcing authorities to cancel flights, trains, issue flood warnings and order people to stay indoors.

Continuing the trend of extreme climatic conditions across the globe, typhoon Talim made landfall in China late Monday (July 17) evening, forcing authorities to cancel flights, trains, issue flood warnings and order people to stay indoors. The typhoon made landfall around 10:20 pm, local time in Zhanjiang city of Guangdong province. According to the Guangdong weather bureau, the top wind speed near the centre of the typhoon was clocked at around 136.8 kph or 85 mph. Authorities informed that the country's second-highest warning level, the orange alert had already been issued. Nearly 230,000 individuals in Guangdong were successfully evacuated while 8,000 workers from fish farms were brought ashore. Watch | Typhoon Talim landfall at Zhanjiang on South China Coast × The meteorological department has predicted gale-force winds to continue with exceptionally heavy rains of 250-280 mm (9.8-11 inches) on the southwestern coast of Guangxi and northern Hainan Island. Parts of Guangxi were told to brace for flash floods through Tuesday. The state media reports warned that 'violent' waves as tall as six to nine metres (20 to 30 feet) were expected to slam northern parts of the South China Sea through Tuesday (July 18). Nearly 5,000 members of the city's emergency response and rescue teams have been mobilised in case of an emergency. Tourists have been advised to leave outlying islands while airports continue to face disruptions. Prior to the typhoon making landfall, at least 1,000 people were evacuated in the Yunfu city of the province. Meanwhile, Asia's financial hub Hong Kong came to a standstill when trading on the $5.2 trillion stock market was cancelled due to the storm disruptions. Global warming and its consequences While the southern region of the country braves the flood-like condition, the northwest has been scorching with extreme heat. On Sunday, the mercury hit 52.2 degrees Celsius in Sanbao township, located in Xinjiang's Tupan Depression, a July record for the region. Also read | China records 52.2 Celsius temperature in arid northwest The previous record was set in 2015 near Ayding in the depression. Tupan Depression is a vast basin of sand dunes and dried-up lakes. It is more than 150 metres below sea level. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Typhoon Talim makes landfall in southern China as authorities evacuate thousands

<p>Age may be "just" a number for the world, but in China, for those over 35, it can become the basis for "discrimination" and rejection from jobs and even hostels.</p>

<p>Recently, taking to Xiaohongshu, a social media platform that has been described as "China's answer to Instagram" a consumer complained about hostels rejecting bookings from those in their late 30s. This has sparked a debate on China's "35-year-old crisis", with some labelling this discrimination towards a particular age demographic. However, others are of the opinion that this is justified. Here's all you need to know.</p>

<h2><strong>A dearth of hostels</strong></h2>

<p>In a now-viral post, a user complained that many youth hostels in the Chinese capital Beijing are refusing accommodation to customers over 35 years of age. The user alleged that he faced quite a struggle looking for hostels without such restrictions.</p>

<p>Apparently, he was informed of the age restriction over the phone and hostel owners defended this constraint, citing safety concerns.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-nyu-professor-thinks-donald-trump-will-quit-presidential-race-heres-why-617128">An NYU professor thinks Donald Trump will quit presidential race. Here's why</a></strong></p>

<p>He claims that the hostel owner told him that "it is unsafe for older people to get in and out of bed and is prone to accidents."</p>

<p>In frustration, the user asked netizens, "I am getting close (to 35 years old) but I can still do 50 pushups, run five kilometres, and jump over a two-meter wall. What's the danger?"</p>

<h2><strong>Safety, peace and more</strong></h2>

<p>Sixth Tone, which does extensive coverage of all things China, reports that a search across major online travel-based platforms reveals that many youth hostels in Beijing now impose an age restriction.</p>

<p>Reportedly, many of them have set the age requirement between 18 and 40 years. Additionally, some have raised this restriction and cater to people till the ages of 45 to 50, but many have drawn the line at 35 years.</p>

<p>And it's not just the capital Beijing. Similar restrictions are in place in other major Chinese cities, including Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Guangzhou.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-woman-jailed-after-illegally-obtaining-abortion-pills-freed-617097">Court sets free UK woman jailed for illegally obtaining abortion pills, terms it 'sad' case</a></strong></p>

<p>Responding to a booking request by Sixth Tone posing as a middle-aged guest, one Beijing hotel said that the reason for their 35-year age restriction is precautionary. They claimed that they were trying to avoid conflicts between their young guests and the "old" ones and that the schedules, and living habits of the two broad age groups are different.</p>

<p><img alt="Hotels" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6de566e-f67e-478e-94bf-2c562490a213" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%2835%29.png" /></p>

<p>Another hostel, which has set the age restriction lower at 30 years, said this was done as a safety measure.</p>

<p>"We only offer bunk beds and don’t host elderly guests in general since we are a youth hostel," said a member of the staff, revealing that in the past, a 50-year-old guest had to be rushed to the hospital for treatment after falling off a bunk bed.</p>

<h2><strong>Discrimination or not</strong></h2>

<p>On Weibo, the Chinese alternative to Twitter, the age limit has led to a discussion of sorts. While many mocked the practice, calling it discrimination, others say that the practice was normal since most hostels cater to the younger demographic.</p>

<p>One user commented, "Such opportunities should be left for youngsters to experience life."</p>

<p>However, another user was quick to point out that, "After being excluded from applying for jobs at public and private companies, now people above 35 have been abandoned by hostels too."</p>

<p>Talking to local news publication Baidu, the user behind the viral social media post which helped shine the limelight on this issue, says that staying in a youth hostel is not only cheaper but also helps you make friends with people with similar interests.</p>

<p>Fu Jian, a lawyer at Henan-based Zejin Law Firm, says that age restrictions are not illegal, but that "operators should inform customers of such conditions in advance to prevent unnecessary disputes."</p>

<h2><strong>China's '35-year-old' crisis</strong></h2>

<p>In China, there is apparently a long-standing bias towards those over 35 years of age. As per Sixth Tone, in the nation, this particular demographic faces an increasingly long list of life pressures, this predicament has now come to be known as the "35-year-old" crisis.</p>

<p>Those over 35 years shoulder familial burdens while battling a bleak job market. Reportedly, in China, more and more public and private companies are now setting 35 years as the maximum age for new hires. So, for the older youth, the competition is so much tougher.</p>

<p>A 2022 survey conducted by the All-China Federation of Trade Unions revealed that among individuals aged between 35 and 39, 54 per cent were worried about losing their job&nbsp; <span style="color: rgb(32, 33, 36); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;">—</span> the highest percentage among all age groups surveyed. Additionally, 71 per cent of respondents in this age group expressed concerns about their job skills becoming outdated.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Age may be "just" a number for the world, but in China, for those over 35, it can become the basis for "discrimination" and rejection from jobs and even hostels.

Age may be "just" a number for the world, but in China, for those over 35, it can become the basis for "discrimination" and rejection from jobs and even hostels. Recently, taking to Xiaohongshu, a social media platform that has been described as "China's answer to Instagram" a consumer complained about hostels rejecting bookings from those in their late 30s. This has sparked a debate on China's "35-year-old crisis", with some labelling this discrimination towards a particular age demographic. However, others are of the opinion that this is justified. Here's all you need to know. A dearth of hostels In a now-viral post, a user complained that many youth hostels in the Chinese capital Beijing are refusing accommodation to customers over 35 years of age. The user alleged that he faced quite a struggle looking for hostels without such restrictions. Apparently, he was informed of the age restriction over the phone and hostel owners defended this constraint, citing safety concerns. Also read | An NYU professor thinks Donald Trump will quit presidential race. Here's why He claims that the hostel owner told him that "it is unsafe for older people to get in and out of bed and is prone to accidents." In frustration, the user asked netizens, "I am getting close (to 35 years old) but I can still do 50 pushups, run five kilometres, and jump over a two-meter wall. What's the danger?" Safety, peace and more Sixth Tone, which does extensive coverage of all things China, reports that a search across major online travel-based platforms reveals that many youth hostels in Beijing now impose an age restriction. Reportedly, many of them have set the age requirement between 18 and 40 years. Additionally, some have raised this restriction and cater to people till the ages of 45 to 50, but many have drawn the line at 35 years. And it's not just the capital Beijing. Similar restrictions are in place in other major Chinese cities, including Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Guangzhou. Also read | Court sets free UK woman jailed for illegally obtaining abortion pills, terms it 'sad' case Responding to a booking request by Sixth Tone posing as a middle-aged guest, one Beijing hotel said that the reason for their 35-year age restriction is precautionary. They claimed that they were trying to avoid conflicts between their young guests and the "old" ones and that the schedules, and living habits of the two broad age groups are different. Another hostel, which has set the age restriction lower at 30 years, said this was done as a safety measure. "We only offer bunk beds and don’t host elderly guests in general since we are a youth hostel," said a member of the staff, revealing that in the past, a 50-year-old guest had to be rushed to the hospital for treatment after falling off a bunk bed. Discrimination or not On Weibo, the Chinese alternative to Twitter, the age limit has led to a discussion of sorts. While many mocked the practice, calling it discrimination, others say that the practice was normal since most hostels cater to the younger demographic. One user commented, "Such opportunities should be left for youngsters to experience life." However, another user was quick to point out that, "After being excluded from applying for jobs at public and private companies, now people above 35 have been abandoned by hostels too." Talking to local news publication Baidu, the user behind the viral social media post which helped shine the limelight on this issue, says that staying in a youth hostel is not only cheaper but also helps you make friends with people with similar interests. Fu Jian, a lawyer at Henan-based Zejin Law Firm, says that age restrictions are not illegal, but that "operators should inform customers of such conditions in advance to prevent unnecessary disputes." China's '35-year-old' crisis In China, there is apparently a long-standing bias towards those over 35 years of age. As per Sixth Tone, in the nation, this particular demographic faces an increasingly long list of life pressures, this predicament has now come to be known as the "35-year-old" crisis. Those over 35 years shoulder familial burdens while battling a bleak job market. Reportedly, in China, more and more public and private companies are now setting 35 years as the maximum age for new hires. So, for the older youth, the competition is so much tougher. A 2022 survey conducted by the All-China Federation of Trade Unions revealed that among individuals aged between 35 and 39, 54 per cent were worried about losing their job — the highest percentage among all age groups surveyed. Additionally, 71 per cent of respondents in this age group expressed concerns about their job skills becoming outdated. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Age is just a number? China youth hostels refuse to serve customers aged 35 and above

<p>China and the Solomon Islands have strengthened their relations by signing a police cooperation deal and upgrading their partnership to a "comprehensive strategic partnership." This move comes four years after the Solomon Islands switched its diplomatic ties from Taiwan to China. During Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare's visit to Beijing, several agreements were signed, emphasising the nation's shift in foreign policy.</p>

<h2><strong>Nine deals signed</strong></h2>

<p>The police cooperation pact is one of the nine deals signed between the two countries. Sogavare expressed gratitude to China for its contributions to addressing global challenges such as peace and sustainable development. He also acknowledged that his country has much to learn from China's experiences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chinese Premier Li Qiang hailed the rapid development of the relationship between in the past four years, referring to it as "fruitful."<br />
"In just four years, the relationship between China and the Solomon Islands has developed rapidly, and we can now say that it is very fruitful," Li told Sogavare.</p>

<h2><strong>Concerns in US and Australia</strong></h2>

<p>The United States and Australia have been closely monitoring China's growing influence in the region. Sogavare's decision to review the 2017 security treaty with China had raised concerns. Historically, Australia has provided policing support to the Solomon Islands, but China has been increasing its police training efforts there. The United States has encouraged transparency and discussions about the regional security implications of these agreements.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Chinese President Xi calls for greater legislative cooperation with Russia</strong></p>

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<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Sogavare also met and agreed to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership. Xi emphasised the importance of South-South cooperation between China and Pacific island countries, highlighting the 'shared development status' of developing nations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>China's growing presence in Solomon Islands</strong></h2>

<p>China's assistance to the Solomon Islands includes enhancing law enforcement capacity and promoting economic development. Chinese companies, such as Huawei, are already involved in infrastructure projects in the Solomon Islands. Huawei is building a cellular network with funding from a Chinese bank loan, and a Chinese state company will redevelop the port in the capital city of Honiara.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China also expressed support for the Solomon Islands' 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which aims to advance the region's strategic goals over the next three decades.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-expansionist-policies-continue-to-redevelop-solomon-islands-port-574690"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;China continues its expansionist policies, to redevelop Solomon Islands port</strong></a></p>

<p>In addition to the police cooperation deal, the two countries reached agreements in civil aviation, trade, economy, technology, and sports. China has constructed a stadium in Honiara, which will host the Pacific Games in November. The visit concluded with the official opening of the Solomon Islands' embassy in Beijing.<br />
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China and the Solomon Islands have strengthened their relations by signing a police cooperation deal and upgrading their partnership to a "comprehensive strategic partnership.

China and the Solomon Islands have strengthened their relations by signing a police cooperation deal and upgrading their partnership to a "comprehensive strategic partnership." This move comes four years after the Solomon Islands switched its diplomatic ties from Taiwan to China. During Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare's visit to Beijing, several agreements were signed, emphasising the nation's shift in foreign policy. Nine deals signed The police cooperation pact is one of the nine deals signed between the two countries. Sogavare expressed gratitude to China for its contributions to addressing global challenges such as peace and sustainable development. He also acknowledged that his country has much to learn from China's experiences. Chinese Premier Li Qiang hailed the rapid development of the relationship between in the past four years, referring to it as "fruitful." "In just four years, the relationship between China and the Solomon Islands has developed rapidly, and we can now say that it is very fruitful," Li told Sogavare. Concerns in US and Australia The United States and Australia have been closely monitoring China's growing influence in the region. Sogavare's decision to review the 2017 security treaty with China had raised concerns. Historically, Australia has provided policing support to the Solomon Islands, but China has been increasing its police training efforts there. The United States has encouraged transparency and discussions about the regional security implications of these agreements. Watch: Chinese President Xi calls for greater legislative cooperation with Russia × Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Sogavare also met and agreed to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership. Xi emphasised the importance of South-South cooperation between China and Pacific island countries, highlighting the 'shared development status' of developing nations. China's growing presence in Solomon Islands China's assistance to the Solomon Islands includes enhancing law enforcement capacity and promoting economic development. Chinese companies, such as Huawei, are already involved in infrastructure projects in the Solomon Islands. Huawei is building a cellular network with funding from a Chinese bank loan, and a Chinese state company will redevelop the port in the capital city of Honiara. China also expressed support for the Solomon Islands' 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which aims to advance the region's strategic goals over the next three decades. Also read: China continues its expansionist policies, to redevelop Solomon Islands port In addition to the police cooperation deal, the two countries reached agreements in civil aviation, trade, economy, technology, and sports. China has constructed a stadium in Honiara, which will host the Pacific Games in November. The visit concluded with the official opening of the Solomon Islands' embassy in Beijing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Solomon Islands signs controversial policing deal with China, upgrades ties with Beijing

The US Treasury Secretary arrived in Beijing on Thursday, kicking off a visit aimed at improving communication and stabilising the tense relationship. Yellen's China visit marks the second trip by a cabinet official since ties between world's top two economies deteriorated further, earlier this year. Washington has shifted from being ambiguous about how far it was supporting decoupling to explicitly adopting a strategy of de-risking instead.

Xi Jinping sees red as U.S. aims to curtail technology investment in China | Yellen in Beijing

After Secretary of State Blinken's visit to China, it is now US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen turn to attempt expanding ties with Beijing and ensure steady and open lines of communication. Will Yellen be able to thaw the icy relations between the two? Collins Chong, a foreign affairs and security strategist joins us to discuss.

Janet Yellen's high-stakes China visit

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is all set to arrive in China for a three-day visit that is from 6th from 9th July and this is the second high profile visit by top Washington official to China in just a couple of months. In a big boost, the bilateral ties between both the countries, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Beijing.

Janet Yellen on three-day trip to China; Yellen to calm US-China ties?

<p>In response to scorching summer temperatures predicted to reach 40 degrees Celsius&nbsp;in Beijing, employers in the capital were directed by the government on Thursday to suspend outdoor work.</p>

<p>The city, home to 22 million residents, issued a ‘red alert’,&nbsp;the highest level of warning', for extreme temperatures, prompting government departments to ensure the elderly and ill have access to cool environments, reported the Hill.</p>

<p>According to the government's report on Monday, Beijing experienced a record-breaking streak of 10 consecutive days with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees C (95ºF), the longest such period since 1961.</p>

<p>To combat the heatwave, the city government issued a notice urging relevant departments and units to implement emergency measures for heatstroke prevention and cooling. Employers were specifically instructed to halt outdoor operations.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, southern China has been grappling with floods, forcing thousands of people to evacuate their homes. The government issued an alert on Wednesday, warning of potential flash flooding in Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Tibet, and Sichuan due to heavy rain.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-in-grip-of-heatwave-beijing-temperature-hits-record-high-for-mid-june-605226">China in grip of heatwave, Beijing temperature hits record high for mid-June</a></p>

<h2><strong>China's heatwave situation</strong></h2>

<p>China is facing an unprecedented heatwave, as the country witnesses a record-breaking number of scorching hot days. According to the National Climate Center, China has experienced the highest number of days with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) since 1961, averaging 4.1 such days in the first half of this year, reported CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The data is based on recordings from weather stations across the country, indicating the widespread impact of the heatwave. China has already encountered four regional heatwaves this summer, which arrived earlier, were more extensive, and reached greater intensity compared to previous years, reported the National Climate Center.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;China detains graduate who allegedly stole data for website rating students' attractiveness</strong></p>

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<p>The northern part of China, with its densely populated areas and millions of residents, has been particularly affected, and more heatwaves are expected in the coming weeks. Shijiazhuang, the capital of Hebei province, has experienced the highest number of high-temperature days so far this year, followed by Beijing.</p>

<p>In mid-June, over 200 million people in northern China endured daily temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). During the fourth and most severe heatwave from June 21 to 30, Beijing witnessed a record-breaking temperature above 41 degrees Celsius (105.8 degrees Fahrenheit), marking the hottest June day ever recorded in the capital.</p>

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In response to scorching summer temperatures predicted to reach 40 degrees Celsius in Beijing, employers in the capital were directed by the government on Thursday to suspend outdoor work.

In response to scorching summer temperatures predicted to reach 40 degrees Celsius in Beijing, employers in the capital were directed by the government on Thursday to suspend outdoor work. The city, home to 22 million residents, issued a ‘red alert’, the highest level of warning', for extreme temperatures, prompting government departments to ensure the elderly and ill have access to cool environments, reported the Hill. According to the government's report on Monday, Beijing experienced a record-breaking streak of 10 consecutive days with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees C (95ºF), the longest such period since 1961. To combat the heatwave, the city government issued a notice urging relevant departments and units to implement emergency measures for heatstroke prevention and cooling. Employers were specifically instructed to halt outdoor operations. Meanwhile, southern China has been grappling with floods, forcing thousands of people to evacuate their homes. The government issued an alert on Wednesday, warning of potential flash flooding in Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Tibet, and Sichuan due to heavy rain. Also read | China in grip of heatwave, Beijing temperature hits record high for mid-June China's heatwave situation China is facing an unprecedented heatwave, as the country witnesses a record-breaking number of scorching hot days. According to the National Climate Center, China has experienced the highest number of days with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) since 1961, averaging 4.1 such days in the first half of this year, reported CNN. The data is based on recordings from weather stations across the country, indicating the widespread impact of the heatwave. China has already encountered four regional heatwaves this summer, which arrived earlier, were more extensive, and reached greater intensity compared to previous years, reported the National Climate Center. Watch | China detains graduate who allegedly stole data for website rating students' attractiveness The northern part of China, with its densely populated areas and millions of residents, has been particularly affected, and more heatwaves are expected in the coming weeks. Shijiazhuang, the capital of Hebei province, has experienced the highest number of high-temperature days so far this year, followed by Beijing. In mid-June, over 200 million people in northern China endured daily temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). During the fourth and most severe heatwave from June 21 to 30, Beijing witnessed a record-breaking temperature above 41 degrees Celsius (105.8 degrees Fahrenheit), marking the hottest June day ever recorded in the capital. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Heatwave havoc: Beijing halts outdoor work as scorching summer temperatures shoot up

<p>On Monday, Chinese pop star and fashion icon Cai Xukun took to Weibo to release an official statement and address the allegations made by a blogger who claimed last week that Cai had a one-night stand with a woman referred to as "Ms C" and that he coerced her into getting an abortion when he found out she was pregnant.</p>

<p>Breaking days of silence, Cai denied forcing the woman to have an abortion in his statement. But he promised to change his behaviour after getting embroiled in a major sex scandal that has taken China by storm.</p>

<p>Cai admitted having a relationship with Ms C but stated that it ended in 2021, adding that the two were no longer seeing each other.&nbsp;"The relationship between Ms C and I was voluntary... It did not involve illegal activities," Cai posted on Weibo. "I implore relevant independent media not to spread or believe rumours."</p>

<p>"In the future, I will strictly constrain my words and actions and accept public and societal supervision," Cai added.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ed-sheeran-pays-surprise-visit-to-young-musicians-at-their-concert-in-boston-watch-611265">Ed Sheeran pays surprise visit to young musicians at their concert in Boston: Watch</a><br />
<br />
The sex scandal has threatened Cai's lucrative partnerships with major international brands, including Prada and Tag Heuer. Several music videos featuring Cai were unavailable on state broadcaster CCTV's video streaming app and a search for the star's name yielded no results.<br />
<br />
But signs of waning confidence emerged on Saturday when a Chinese celebrity-focused advertising association urged clients to be aware of "risks" concerning a "male singer named Cai".</p>

<p>"This incident is tending toward further hype and expansion," a body under the Beijing Advertising Association said in a statement published on WeChat. It did not give Cai's full name. "Related brands, performance management firms, and multi-channel network operators are requested to control risks of male singer Cai."</p>

<p>Chinese authorities have kept a close eye on the domestic entertainment sector in recent years, launching a wide-ranging crackdown on dodgy financial practices and "immoral" conduct in 2021 after numerous scandals implicated some of the nation's biggest entertainers.</p>

<p>In November, Chinese-Canadian superstar Kris Wu was sentenced to 13 years in jail after being found guilty of rape.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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On Monday, Chinese pop star and fashion icon Cai Xukun took to Weibo to release an official statement and address the allegations made by a blogger who claimed last week that Cai had a one-night stand with a woman referred to as "Ms C" and that he coerced her into getting an abortion when he found out she was pregnant.

On Monday, Chinese pop star and fashion icon Cai Xukun took to Weibo to release an official statement and address the allegations made by a blogger who claimed last week that Cai had a one-night stand with a woman referred to as "Ms C" and that he coerced her into getting an abortion when he found out she was pregnant. Breaking days of silence, Cai denied forcing the woman to have an abortion in his statement. But he promised to change his behaviour after getting embroiled in a major sex scandal that has taken China by storm. Cai admitted having a relationship with Ms C but stated that it ended in 2021, adding that the two were no longer seeing each other. "The relationship between Ms C and I was voluntary... It did not involve illegal activities," Cai posted on Weibo. "I implore relevant independent media not to spread or believe rumours." "In the future, I will strictly constrain my words and actions and accept public and societal supervision," Cai added. Also read: Ed Sheeran pays surprise visit to young musicians at their concert in Boston: Watch The sex scandal has threatened Cai's lucrative partnerships with major international brands, including Prada and Tag Heuer. Several music videos featuring Cai were unavailable on state broadcaster CCTV's video streaming app and a search for the star's name yielded no results. But signs of waning confidence emerged on Saturday when a Chinese celebrity-focused advertising association urged clients to be aware of "risks" concerning a "male singer named Cai". "This incident is tending toward further hype and expansion," a body under the Beijing Advertising Association said in a statement published on WeChat. It did not give Cai's full name. "Related brands, performance management firms, and multi-channel network operators are requested to control risks of male singer Cai." Chinese authorities have kept a close eye on the domestic entertainment sector in recent years, launching a wide-ranging crackdown on dodgy financial practices and "immoral" conduct in 2021 after numerous scandals implicated some of the nation's biggest entertainers. In November, Chinese-Canadian superstar Kris Wu was sentenced to 13 years in jail after being found guilty of rape. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese pop idol Cai Xukun finally breaks silence; denies wrongdoing in sex scandal

The possibility of Taiwan being unified with China appears to be becoming more real by the day, and tensions in South Asia are continuing to rise as a result. Taiwan must defend itself against a military threat from China.

'Beijing remains undecided on Taiwan's unification', says Pentagon

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidBQYNYXylnow8" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Despite having high ambitions, Chinese President Xi Jinping remains undecided on Taiwan's unification timeline, according to a top Pentagon official. US military officer, Army General Mark Milley said Xi has not made up his mind on whether to order a military unification programme by 2027 or not.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to an audience at the National Press Club in Washington, General Milley said Xi had been challenging his military to develop the capability to undertake the unification process when the time comes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He [Xi] has stated publicly that he has challenged the People’s Liberation Army to develop the military capability to unify Taiwan with China by 2027. So he didn’t say, ‘I’ve decided to attack and invade’," Milley explained.</p>

<p>Milley noted Xi didn't outrightly say he was going to invade Taiwan, albeit, he insinuated by giving his military a timeframe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He said, you generals, you develop the capability to do that; we’ll make the decision later. There’s a very subtle distinction there,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>US military should accelerate modernisation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Milley called upon the US military to accelerate military modernisation to retain superiority and deter Beijing from invading Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You want to make sure that every single day President Xi wakes up and says today’s not that day, and that decision never comes,” Milley said.</p>

<p>“The faster we move [on military modernisation], the faster we can retain military superiority, then I believe … we are more likely than not to deter war...and if war does happen, we will prevail.”</p>

<p>The statement by the Pentagon officials comes a few days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's meeting with Xi wherein the former said Washington did not support Taiwan's independence bid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;"At the same time, we and many others have deep concerns about some of the provocative actions that China has taken in recent years going back to 2016," Blinken told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the meeting between Blinken and Xi, the Chinese president urged the US not to "hurt China's legitimate rights and interests", a sign towards potential flashpoints such as Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/china/china-taiwan-unification-xi-jinping-mark-milley-b2367710.html" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | US, China want to stabilise relationship, says Blinken after meeting Xi</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Will never renounce option to use force in Taiwan: Xi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While Washington believes the Chinese president is undecided, Xi, on multiple occasions has made it clear that Taiwan's unification remains his ultimate aim.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, addressing the 20th party congress, a once-in-a-five-year event, Xi said the Taiwan matter was for the Chinese people only to decide.</p>

<p>“The resolution of the Taiwan issue is a matter for the Chinese people themselves, to be decided by the Chinese people," said Xi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pentagon-says-beijing-remains-undecided-on-taiwans-unification-610871"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pentagon says Beijing remains undecided on Taiwan's unification</strong></a></p>

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<p>The CCP leader added that China reserves the option of “taking all measures necessary” against separatist forces.</p>

<p>“We will continue to strive for peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity and the utmost effort. But, we will never promise to renounce the use of force. And we reserve the option of taking all measures necessary.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Despite having high ambitions, Chinese President Xi Jinping remains undecided on Taiwan's unification timeline, according to a top Pentagon official. US military officer, Army General Mark Milley said Xi has not made up his mind on whether to order a military unification programme by 2027 or not.

Despite having high ambitions, Chinese President Xi Jinping remains undecided on Taiwan's unification timeline, according to a top Pentagon official. US military officer, Army General Mark Milley said Xi has not made up his mind on whether to order a military unification programme by 2027 or not. Speaking to an audience at the National Press Club in Washington, General Milley said Xi had been challenging his military to develop the capability to undertake the unification process when the time comes. "He [Xi] has stated publicly that he has challenged the People’s Liberation Army to develop the military capability to unify Taiwan with China by 2027. So he didn’t say, ‘I’ve decided to attack and invade’," Milley explained. Milley noted Xi didn't outrightly say he was going to invade Taiwan, albeit, he insinuated by giving his military a timeframe. “He said, you generals, you develop the capability to do that; we’ll make the decision later. There’s a very subtle distinction there,” he added. US military should accelerate modernisation Milley called upon the US military to accelerate military modernisation to retain superiority and deter Beijing from invading Taiwan. “You want to make sure that every single day President Xi wakes up and says today’s not that day, and that decision never comes,” Milley said. “The faster we move [on military modernisation], the faster we can retain military superiority, then I believe … we are more likely than not to deter war...and if war does happen, we will prevail.” The statement by the Pentagon officials comes a few days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's meeting with Xi wherein the former said Washington did not support Taiwan's independence bid. "At the same time, we and many others have deep concerns about some of the provocative actions that China has taken in recent years going back to 2016," Blinken told reporters. During the meeting between Blinken and Xi, the Chinese president urged the US not to "hurt China's legitimate rights and interests", a sign towards potential flashpoints such as Taiwan. Also read | US, China want to stabilise relationship, says Blinken after meeting Xi Will never renounce option to use force in Taiwan: Xi While Washington believes the Chinese president is undecided, Xi, on multiple occasions has made it clear that Taiwan's unification remains his ultimate aim. Last year, addressing the 20th party congress, a once-in-a-five-year event, Xi said the Taiwan matter was for the Chinese people only to decide. “The resolution of the Taiwan issue is a matter for the Chinese people themselves, to be decided by the Chinese people," said Xi. WATCH | Pentagon says Beijing remains undecided on Taiwan's unification × The CCP leader added that China reserves the option of “taking all measures necessary” against separatist forces. “We will continue to strive for peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity and the utmost effort. But, we will never promise to renounce the use of force. And we reserve the option of taking all measures necessary.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Beijing remains undecided on Taiwan's unification: Top Pentagon official

<p>Deeping Chinese President Xi Jinping's control over the country's external relations, a new foreign relations law has been passed in the National People’s Congress (NPC). The law strengthens Politburo's legal basis for 'countermeasures' against the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The passing of the law was set in motion after a report presented in front of the&nbsp;20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) last October called up for legislations in&nbsp;key, emerging, and foreign-related fields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Consequently, the first draft of the law was presented before China's rubber-stamp parliament in December 2022 and instantly received the support of NPC deputies and&nbsp;members of the advisory body.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Law implements Xi's signature policies</strong></h2>

<p>Top diplomat Wang Yi asserted that the passing of the law will act as a 'deterrent' to Western sanctions and simultaneously safeguard national sovereignty and security.&nbsp;The law will come into effect from Saturday (July 1) and consists of six chapters, encompassing Xi's signature foreign policy initiatives on global security, development and civilisation into law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Any organisation or individual who commits acts that are detrimental to China's national interests in violation of this Law and other applicable laws in the course of engaging in international exchanges shall be held accountable by law," reads one of the articles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The People's Republic of China has the right to take, as called for, measures to counter or take restrictive measures against acts that endanger its sovereignty, national security and development interests in violation of international law or fundamental norms governing international relations," added another article.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-china-relations-hit-an-all-time-low-heres-why-604071"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: India-China relations hit an all-time low. Here's why</strong></a></p>

<p>CCP mouthpiece Global Times hailed the new law as a milestone and the first of the many laws to fix the "loopholes in the rule of law in foreign-related affairs".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For the first time, the law states the purpose, conditions and policy orientation of the application of Chinese law in foreign relations, and stipulates principles for the measures to counter and restrictive measures against foreign countries, individuals or organisations," the publication noted.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Timing of the approval</strong></h2>

<p>The passing of the law comes at a crucial time when US-China bilateral relations have plummeted to a new low. Despite Antony Blinken's recent visit to Beijing, US President Joe Biden did not hesitate&nbsp;in calling Xi a 'dictator' - setting stage for another round of back-and-forth between the two nations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The spy balloon saga has already caused tremendous animosity between the two sides and fuel has been added to the fire due to Xi's continued support to Russian President Vladimir Putin in his war against the Ukrainians. Keeping all the permutations in mind, the Chinese government approved the foreign relations law in quick time to shield itself from future Western sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Deeping Chinese President Xi Jinping's control over the country's external relations, a new foreign relations law has been passed in the National People’s Congress (NPC).

Deeping Chinese President Xi Jinping's control over the country's external relations, a new foreign relations law has been passed in the National People’s Congress (NPC). The law strengthens Politburo's legal basis for 'countermeasures' against the West. The passing of the law was set in motion after a report presented in front of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) last October called up for legislations in key, emerging, and foreign-related fields. Consequently, the first draft of the law was presented before China's rubber-stamp parliament in December 2022 and instantly received the support of NPC deputies and members of the advisory body. Law implements Xi's signature policies Top diplomat Wang Yi asserted that the passing of the law will act as a 'deterrent' to Western sanctions and simultaneously safeguard national sovereignty and security. The law will come into effect from Saturday (July 1) and consists of six chapters, encompassing Xi's signature foreign policy initiatives on global security, development and civilisation into law. “Any organisation or individual who commits acts that are detrimental to China's national interests in violation of this Law and other applicable laws in the course of engaging in international exchanges shall be held accountable by law," reads one of the articles. “The People's Republic of China has the right to take, as called for, measures to counter or take restrictive measures against acts that endanger its sovereignty, national security and development interests in violation of international law or fundamental norms governing international relations," added another article. WATCH | Gravitas: India-China relations hit an all-time low. Here's why CCP mouthpiece Global Times hailed the new law as a milestone and the first of the many laws to fix the "loopholes in the rule of law in foreign-related affairs". "For the first time, the law states the purpose, conditions and policy orientation of the application of Chinese law in foreign relations, and stipulates principles for the measures to counter and restrictive measures against foreign countries, individuals or organisations," the publication noted. Timing of the approval The passing of the law comes at a crucial time when US-China bilateral relations have plummeted to a new low. Despite Antony Blinken's recent visit to Beijing, US President Joe Biden did not hesitate in calling Xi a 'dictator' - setting stage for another round of back-and-forth between the two nations. The spy balloon saga has already caused tremendous animosity between the two sides and fuel has been added to the fire due to Xi's continued support to Russian President Vladimir Putin in his war against the Ukrainians. Keeping all the permutations in mind, the Chinese government approved the foreign relations law in quick time to shield itself from future Western sanctions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China passes foreign relations law to counter West's sanctions hegemony

In Pics | Beijing experiences high temperatures amid heatwave

Northern China experiences record-breaking heat waves. On Thursday, Beijing's temperature climbed to 41.8° C, breaking the previous June record.

China's hot temperatures break records

<p>Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh arrived at the Beijing Capital International Airport on Sunday afternoon on his first visit to China since taking office two years ago.</p>

<p>This is also the first official visit by a Vietnamese prime minister to China in seven years. Vietnamese ambassador to China Pham Sao Mai said the visit has "extreme importance" amid complex and unpredictable international relations and the downturn of the world economy.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-combat-ship-to-make-rare-port-call-in-vietnam-amid-south-china-sea-tensions-607798">US combat ship to make rare port call in Vietnam amid South China Sea tensions</a></strong></p>

<p>The ambassador believes the trip will pave the way for the leaders of the two countries to hold in-depth discussions on measures to comprehensively implement the outcomes and common perceptions reached last year in the visit to China by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong in October last year. Nguyen and Chinese President Xi Jinping laid out the blueprint for a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Vietnam in the new era.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH&nbsp;Vietnamese PM visits China for first time since holding office</strong></p>

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<p>At the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Pham will also attend the 14th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as the Summer Davos Forum, which is set to be held in north China's Tianjin Municipality from June 27 to 29. It's an avenue through which Vietnam hopes to strengthen cooperation with companies from around the world, especially with Chinese companies, in areas including digital transformation and green development.</p>

<p>China is Vietnam's largest trading partner, largest import market and second largest export market. Vietnam is China's largest trading partner in ASEAN.</p>

<p>During the visit, the two countries are expected to exchange views on deepening cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, strengthening connectivity, and stabilizing production and supply chains.</p>

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Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh arrived at the Beijing Capital International Airport on Sunday afternoon on his first visit to China since taking office two years ago.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh arrived at the Beijing Capital International Airport on Sunday afternoon on his first visit to China since taking office two years ago. This is also the first official visit by a Vietnamese prime minister to China in seven years. Vietnamese ambassador to China Pham Sao Mai said the visit has "extreme importance" amid complex and unpredictable international relations and the downturn of the world economy. ALSO READ US combat ship to make rare port call in Vietnam amid South China Sea tensions The ambassador believes the trip will pave the way for the leaders of the two countries to hold in-depth discussions on measures to comprehensively implement the outcomes and common perceptions reached last year in the visit to China by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong in October last year. Nguyen and Chinese President Xi Jinping laid out the blueprint for a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Vietnam in the new era. WATCH Vietnamese PM visits China for first time since holding office × At the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Pham will also attend the 14th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as the Summer Davos Forum, which is set to be held in north China's Tianjin Municipality from June 27 to 29. It's an avenue through which Vietnam hopes to strengthen cooperation with companies from around the world, especially with Chinese companies, in areas including digital transformation and green development. China is Vietnam's largest trading partner, largest import market and second largest export market. Vietnam is China's largest trading partner in ASEAN. During the visit, the two countries are expected to exchange views on deepening cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, strengthening connectivity, and stabilizing production and supply chains. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Vietnamese PM visits China for first time since holding office

<p>Chinese capital Beijing on Thursday (June 22) raised orange alert, the second highest weather warning as temperatures crossed 40 degrees Celsius mark. This has made Thursday the hottest June day ever since record-keeping began. The city has warned of blistering hot weather through the weekend. A heatwave that scorched northern China a week earlier has returned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A weather station on the southern outskirts of Beijing recorded 41.1C (106&nbsp;Fahrenheit) at 1:25 p.m. local time (0525 GMT), according to the municipal weather bureau.</p>

<p>Authorities in Beijing, a city of nearly 22 million people, have also said the temperatures could remain high at 39 degrees Celcius from Thursday to Saturday.</p>

<p>Last week, Beijing along with Tianjin, Hebei and Shandong in northern and eastern China were struck by heatwaves. This prompted local authorities to take steps to safeguard crops, to&nbsp;ensure that the tourists are safe. They also suspended outdoor work during the hottest part of the day.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Heat stroke alert</strong></h2>

<p>The national weather bureau issued a heat stroke alert last week. This year, this alert came almost a fortnight earlier than in previous years. Cities across northern China have battled new record temperatures.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China's Yuan vs Dollar: China's Yuan on a slippery slope as it hits 7-month low</strong></p>

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<p>Increased electricity demand for air-conditioners pushed power grid load to 14.54 million kilowatts on June 15 in the port city of Tianjin. This is 23 per cent up from a year earlier. The increased load made the local authorities dispatch workers to patrol underground tunnels every day to ensure that electrical cables are working fine.</p>

<p>The latest round of heatwaves has coincided with the Dragon Boat Festival long weekend in China. The heatwave is also expected to hit the northern Chinese region of Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang in the far west, said China Meteorological Administration.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-nasa-videos-show-shocking-visualisation-of-global-carbon-emissions-606508">New NASA videos show shocking visualisation of global carbon emissions</a></strong></p>

<p>China has a four-tier, colour-coded weather warning system, with red the most severe, followed by orange, yellow and blue.</p>

<p>An orange alert is issued when the maximum temperature exceeds 40C in a single day, or the maximum temperature remains above 37C for two consecutive days.</p>

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Chinese capital Beijing on Thursday (June 22) raised orange alert, the second highest weather warning as temperatures crossed 40 degrees Celsius mark. This has made Thursday the hottest June day ever since record-keeping began.

Chinese capital Beijing on Thursday (June 22) raised orange alert, the second highest weather warning as temperatures crossed 40 degrees Celsius mark. This has made Thursday the hottest June day ever since record-keeping began. The city has warned of blistering hot weather through the weekend. A heatwave that scorched northern China a week earlier has returned. A weather station on the southern outskirts of Beijing recorded 41.1C (106 Fahrenheit) at 1:25 p.m. local time (0525 GMT), according to the municipal weather bureau. Authorities in Beijing, a city of nearly 22 million people, have also said the temperatures could remain high at 39 degrees Celcius from Thursday to Saturday. Last week, Beijing along with Tianjin, Hebei and Shandong in northern and eastern China were struck by heatwaves. This prompted local authorities to take steps to safeguard crops, to ensure that the tourists are safe. They also suspended outdoor work during the hottest part of the day. Heat stroke alert The national weather bureau issued a heat stroke alert last week. This year, this alert came almost a fortnight earlier than in previous years. Cities across northern China have battled new record temperatures. Watch | China's Yuan vs Dollar: China's Yuan on a slippery slope as it hits 7-month low × Increased electricity demand for air-conditioners pushed power grid load to 14.54 million kilowatts on June 15 in the port city of Tianjin. This is 23 per cent up from a year earlier. The increased load made the local authorities dispatch workers to patrol underground tunnels every day to ensure that electrical cables are working fine. The latest round of heatwaves has coincided with the Dragon Boat Festival long weekend in China. The heatwave is also expected to hit the northern Chinese region of Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang in the far west, said China Meteorological Administration. Also Read | New NASA videos show shocking visualisation of global carbon emissions China has a four-tier, colour-coded weather warning system, with red the most severe, followed by orange, yellow and blue. An orange alert is issued when the maximum temperature exceeds 40C in a single day, or the maximum temperature remains above 37C for two consecutive days. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Temperature crosses 40 degrees Celsius in Beijing, shatters all-time June record

Germany's ability to maintain economic ties with China and at the same time comply with G7 pledge to reduce reliance on Beijing is going to put through a tough test. The Chinese Premier League Li Qiang is set to make a visit to Berlin.

Chinese Premiere Li Qiang to visit Germany, to hold talks with German Chancellor

<p>Italian tyremaker giant Pirelli has moved to block a Chinese state-owned company from taking control of the legacy brand. On Sunday, Pirelli issued a statement to its investors wherein it said the Italian government had ruled that only Camfin - a company controlled by Pirelli boss Marco Tronchetti Provera - could nominate candidates to be its chief executive.</p>

<p>Chinese&nbsp;chemical giant Sinochem has been the largest investor in Pirelli since 2015. It owns a 37 per cent stake in the 151-year-old Milan-based company, following a 2017 listing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2015, Pirelli was sold for $7.8 billion to a group of investors including ChemChina and Camfin. However, six years later, ChemChina was merged with the state-owned Sinochem. Apart from Sinochem, the Chinese government has an additional 9 per cent stake in Pirelli through its Silk Road investment fund.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The developments come in the light of Sinochem, earlier this year, informing the Italian government that it planned to renew and update an existing shareholder pact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, taking evasive measures, examined the agreement under the &nbsp;"Golden Power Procedure" rules - aimed at protecting businesses that are strategically important to the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Meloni's office said the latest measures were&nbsp;“aimed at creating a network of measures to safeguard Pirelli’s independence and its management”.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-italy-exposes-chinas-underground-banking-network-570737"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Italy exposes China's underground banking network</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Italy working to slither out of BRI</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, Italy in 2019 became the only G7 country to join China's highly controversial and ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Since then, critics have argued that Rome may have served itself up on a platter to Beijing which could gain access to sensitive technologies and vital infrastructure for its own gains.</p>

<p>Meloni, however, has hinted that Italy&nbsp;intends to exit BRI. Her government intervening to limit the influence of a Chinese company in a legacy Italian brand was a test of resolve, experts argue, one that she may have passed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-attempts-image-building-italians-demand-payment-of-damages-289546"><strong>Also read | As China attempts image-building, Italians demand payment of damages</strong></a></p>

<p>China's relationship with the West has been on a downward slope in recent times. Akin to most European nations, Italy understands that it cannot sever trade and business ties with China altogether as it would be economically unsustainable. However, it is seeking avenues to limit the influence of the Asian country on strategic assets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Founded in 1872, Pirelli is one of Italy's most storied companies. It specialises in high-end tyres for premium carmakers like Ferrari, Porsche and BMW and is the sole supplier of Formula One cars.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Italian tyremaker giant Pirelli has moved to block a Chinese state-owned company from taking control of the legacy brand. On Sunday, Pirelli issued a statement to its investors wherein it said the Italian government had ruled that only Camfin - a company controlled by Pirelli boss Marco Tronchetti Provera - could nominate candidates to be its chief executive.

Italian tyremaker giant Pirelli has moved to block a Chinese state-owned company from taking control of the legacy brand. On Sunday, Pirelli issued a statement to its investors wherein it said the Italian government had ruled that only Camfin - a company controlled by Pirelli boss Marco Tronchetti Provera - could nominate candidates to be its chief executive. Chinese chemical giant Sinochem has been the largest investor in Pirelli since 2015. It owns a 37 per cent stake in the 151-year-old Milan-based company, following a 2017 listing. In 2015, Pirelli was sold for $7.8 billion to a group of investors including ChemChina and Camfin. However, six years later, ChemChina was merged with the state-owned Sinochem. Apart from Sinochem, the Chinese government has an additional 9 per cent stake in Pirelli through its Silk Road investment fund. The developments come in the light of Sinochem, earlier this year, informing the Italian government that it planned to renew and update an existing shareholder pact. Afterwards, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, taking evasive measures, examined the agreement under the "Golden Power Procedure" rules - aimed at protecting businesses that are strategically important to the country. In a statement, Meloni's office said the latest measures were “aimed at creating a network of measures to safeguard Pirelli’s independence and its management”. Watch | Gravitas: Italy exposes China's underground banking network × Italy working to slither out of BRI Notably, Italy in 2019 became the only G7 country to join China's highly controversial and ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Since then, critics have argued that Rome may have served itself up on a platter to Beijing which could gain access to sensitive technologies and vital infrastructure for its own gains. Meloni, however, has hinted that Italy intends to exit BRI. Her government intervening to limit the influence of a Chinese company in a legacy Italian brand was a test of resolve, experts argue, one that she may have passed. Also read | As China attempts image-building, Italians demand payment of damages China's relationship with the West has been on a downward slope in recent times. Akin to most European nations, Italy understands that it cannot sever trade and business ties with China altogether as it would be economically unsustainable. However, it is seeking avenues to limit the influence of the Asian country on strategic assets. Founded in 1872, Pirelli is one of Italy's most storied companies. It specialises in high-end tyres for premium carmakers like Ferrari, Porsche and BMW and is the sole supplier of Formula One cars. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Italian government's intervention blocks Chinese control of tyre giant Pirelli

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Beijing on Sunday (June 18) amid deteriorating ties between China and the United States over spy balloons and escalating chip wars to meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang. Officials in Washington said that the country’s top diplomat stressed the importance of keeping open lines of communication and held “candid, substantive, and constructive talks” during the first meeting with the Chinese foreign minister.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Candid’ talks between Blinken and Qin: US</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>“The secretary emphasized the importance of diplomacy and maintaining open channels of communication across the full range of issues to reduce the risk of misperception and miscalculation,” said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/blinken-us-to-try-to-avoid-miscalculations-with-china-605762">Blinken: US to try to avoid miscalculations with China</a></strong></p>

<p>This came after Blinken, the highest-ranking US official to visit Beijing in nearly five years, spoke to the country’s foreign minister for nearly five and a half hours on the first day of his visit followed by a working dinner. Meanwhile, the Chinese FM has also agreed to pay a return visit to Washington upon Blinken’s invitation to “continue the discussions, and they agreed to schedule a reciprocal visit at a mutually suitable time.”</p>

<p>Miller also said that the US official “raised a number of issues of concern,” and “opportunities to explore cooperation on shared transnational issues with the (People’s Republic of China) PRC where our interests align”. Notably, Blinken’s visit was postponed after a suspected Chinese spy balloon flew over US airspace which sparked a row between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-ties-blinken-lands-in-beijing-ahead-of-modis-state-visit-to-the-us-growing-chip-wars-605641">US-China ties: Blinken lands in Beijing ahead of Modi's state visit to the US, growing chip wars</a></strong></p>

<p>The two diplomats have also agreed to work together to expand flights between the world’s two largest economies as the numbers have dropped following the COVID-19 pandemic. The visit also comes months after US President Joe Biden met with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a Group of 20 (G20)&nbsp;summit in Bali, Indonesia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US-China relations at ‘lowest point’: Beijin</strong>g</h2>

<p>Blinken and Qin did not address the press on the first day after the US official's arrival as they&nbsp;shook hands at the state guesthouse before their respective flags. According to the Chinese state-run broadcaster CCTV, Qin told Blinken that relations between Washington and Beijing “are at the lowest point since the establishment of diplomatic relations” over four decades ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/blinken-in-beijing-blinken-meets-counterpart-over-hopes-to-improve-communication-prevent-conflict-605820">Blinken in Beijing: Blinken meets counterpart over hopes to improve communication &amp; prevent conflict</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, “This does not conform to the fundamental interests of the two peoples, nor does it meet the common expectations of the international community.” The Chinese FM also reportedly issued a warning on Taiwan, the self-ruling democracy claimed by Beijing. China recently held live-fire military drills after visits from Washington’s top officials to the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Taiwan issue is the core of China’s core interests, the most important issue in China-US relations and the most prominent risk,” Qin told Washington’s top diplomat, as per the Chinese state media. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken’s visit to Beijin</strong>g&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The US secretary of state is also scheduled for an extended discussion&nbsp;and additional talks with Qin, as well as China’s top diplomat Wang Yi, on Monday. However, it is not certain that Blinken&nbsp;will&nbsp;meet&nbsp;with the Chinese president.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/in-us-china-struggle-for-global-dominance-the-outcome-is-uncertain-580010">In US-China struggle for global dominance, the outcome is uncertain</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, the talks on Sunday have been described as useful by both China and US as Washington called them “candid, substantive, and constructive” while&nbsp;Chinese state media characterised them as “candid, in-depth and constructive.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday, Qin greeted Blinken and his delegation at the door to a villa on the grounds of Beijing’s Diaoyutai State Guest House. The US official will also hold a second day of meetings Monday and address reporters before leaving for Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Beijing on Sunday (June 18) amid deteriorating ties between China and the United States over spy balloons and escalating chip wars to meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Beijing on Sunday (June 18) amid deteriorating ties between China and the United States over spy balloons and escalating chip wars to meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang. Officials in Washington said that the country’s top diplomat stressed the importance of keeping open lines of communication and held “candid, substantive, and constructive talks” during the first meeting with the Chinese foreign minister. ‘Candid’ talks between Blinken and Qin: US “The secretary emphasized the importance of diplomacy and maintaining open channels of communication across the full range of issues to reduce the risk of misperception and miscalculation,” said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. ALSO WATCH | Blinken: US to try to avoid miscalculations with China This came after Blinken, the highest-ranking US official to visit Beijing in nearly five years, spoke to the country’s foreign minister for nearly five and a half hours on the first day of his visit followed by a working dinner. Meanwhile, the Chinese FM has also agreed to pay a return visit to Washington upon Blinken’s invitation to “continue the discussions, and they agreed to schedule a reciprocal visit at a mutually suitable time.” Miller also said that the US official “raised a number of issues of concern,” and “opportunities to explore cooperation on shared transnational issues with the (People’s Republic of China) PRC where our interests align”. Notably, Blinken’s visit was postponed after a suspected Chinese spy balloon flew over US airspace which sparked a row between the two countries. ALSO READ | US-China ties: Blinken lands in Beijing ahead of Modi's state visit to the US, growing chip wars The two diplomats have also agreed to work together to expand flights between the world’s two largest economies as the numbers have dropped following the COVID-19 pandemic. The visit also comes months after US President Joe Biden met with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a Group of 20 (G20) summit in Bali, Indonesia. US-China relations at ‘lowest point’: Beijing Blinken and Qin did not address the press on the first day after the US official's arrival as they shook hands at the state guesthouse before their respective flags. According to the Chinese state-run broadcaster CCTV, Qin told Blinken that relations between Washington and Beijing “are at the lowest point since the establishment of diplomatic relations” over four decades ago. ALSO WATCH | Blinken in Beijing: Blinken meets counterpart over hopes to improve communication & prevent conflict He added, “This does not conform to the fundamental interests of the two peoples, nor does it meet the common expectations of the international community.” The Chinese FM also reportedly issued a warning on Taiwan, the self-ruling democracy claimed by Beijing. China recently held live-fire military drills after visits from Washington’s top officials to the island. “The Taiwan issue is the core of China’s core interests, the most important issue in China-US relations and the most prominent risk,” Qin told Washington’s top diplomat, as per the Chinese state media. Blinken’s visit to Beijing The US secretary of state is also scheduled for an extended discussion and additional talks with Qin, as well as China’s top diplomat Wang Yi, on Monday. However, it is not certain that Blinken will meet with the Chinese president. ALSO READ | In US-China struggle for global dominance, the outcome is uncertain Notably, the talks on Sunday have been described as useful by both China and US as Washington called them “candid, substantive, and constructive” while Chinese state media characterised them as “candid, in-depth and constructive.” On Sunday, Qin greeted Blinken and his delegation at the door to a villa on the grounds of Beijing’s Diaoyutai State Guest House. The US official will also hold a second day of meetings Monday and address reporters before leaving for Washington. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US-China ties: Blinken, Qin hold ‘candid,’ ‘constructive’ talks, agree to meet again in Washington

On Sunday, months after changing its diplomatic allegiance from Taipei to Beijing, Honduras formally opened an embassy in China. China has promised to one day seize control of the island and regards Taiwan, which is self-ruled, as a part of its territory.

Honduras Foreign Minister unveils embassy plaque in Beijing

<p>Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC.</p>

<p>On the other hand, during the talks, Tehran accused Islamabad of not doing enough to prevent terrorists from conducting cross-border terrorism into Iran, as per Voice of America (VOA) reports as cited by ANI.</p>

<p>Baloch anarchists oppose CPEC, asserting that it is aiding Pakistan's efforts to deprive the local population of the region's natural resources.</p>

<p>"The delegations held detailed discussions on the regional security situation, particularly the threat of terrorism faced by the region," said a post-meeting statement in Islamabad, which shared no further details, Voice of America (VOA) reported.</p>

<p>The Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministries said that the three nations had decided to institutionalise and hold the meeting regularly, as per VOA reports,&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senior Chinese, Pakistani and Iranian counterterrorism officials, each from their respective foreign ministries, led their teams at Wednesday's dialogue.</p>

<p>As per analysts, the main agenda of the discussion was Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province which is at the paramountcy of a multibillion-dollar Chinese-funded programme, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reported VOA.</p>

<p>"The establishment of a trilateral security mechanism between China, Pakistan and Iran reflects their shared concerns regarding security in Balochistan," observed Baqir Sajjad, a Pakistan fellow at the Wilson Center in Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that stability in Balochistan was extremely important in the successful implementation of CPEC projects, reported VOA.</p>

<p>"Collaboration among these countries can potentially contribute to improved regional security and counter the activities of insurgents who find refuge in Iran," he said.</p>

<p>Balochistan, which is a Pakistani province bordering Iran, for the longest time has experienced a low-level insurgency, led by outlawed ethnic Baloch groups.</p>

<p>Islamabad asserts that the insurgents use shelters on Iranian soil to stage cross-border attacks in their bid to debase CPEC. The Iranian authorities deny the presence of Baloch extremists on their soil, as per VOA reports.</p>

<p>CPEC has built road networks and power plants across Pakistan and to the Arabian Sea deep-water Gwadar port in Balochistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC.

Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC. On the other hand, during the talks, Tehran accused Islamabad of not doing enough to prevent terrorists from conducting cross-border terrorism into Iran, as per Voice of America (VOA) reports as cited by ANI. Baloch anarchists oppose CPEC, asserting that it is aiding Pakistan's efforts to deprive the local population of the region's natural resources. "The delegations held detailed discussions on the regional security situation, particularly the threat of terrorism faced by the region," said a post-meeting statement in Islamabad, which shared no further details, Voice of America (VOA) reported. The Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministries said that the three nations had decided to institutionalise and hold the meeting regularly, as per VOA reports, Senior Chinese, Pakistani and Iranian counterterrorism officials, each from their respective foreign ministries, led their teams at Wednesday's dialogue. As per analysts, the main agenda of the discussion was Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province which is at the paramountcy of a multibillion-dollar Chinese-funded programme, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reported VOA. "The establishment of a trilateral security mechanism between China, Pakistan and Iran reflects their shared concerns regarding security in Balochistan," observed Baqir Sajjad, a Pakistan fellow at the Wilson Center in Washington. He said that stability in Balochistan was extremely important in the successful implementation of CPEC projects, reported VOA. "Collaboration among these countries can potentially contribute to improved regional security and counter the activities of insurgents who find refuge in Iran," he said. Balochistan, which is a Pakistani province bordering Iran, for the longest time has experienced a low-level insurgency, led by outlawed ethnic Baloch groups. Islamabad asserts that the insurgents use shelters on Iranian soil to stage cross-border attacks in their bid to debase CPEC. The Iranian authorities deny the presence of Baloch extremists on their soil, as per VOA reports. CPEC has built road networks and power plants across Pakistan and to the Arabian Sea deep-water Gwadar port in Balochistan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan accuses Iran of cross-border attacks at trilateral counterterrorism conference in Beijing

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<p>A former executive at TikTok's parent company ByteDance has claimed that China's Communist Party (CCP) accessed user data collected by the short-video app to spy upon and monitor Hong Kong activists in 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yintao Yu, the executive who led ByteDance's US engineering team made the stunning revelations in a wrongful termination lawsuit filed in May. The court filings, accessed by Wall Street Journal revealed that the CCP collected IP addresses, SIM card IDs and communication data of users in Hong Kong in 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Protesters’, supporters’, and civil rights activists’ device identifiers were tracked in addition to their network information, SIM card identifications, and IP addresses,” said Yu during the hearing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This information was used to determine both the users’ identity and locations. The TikTok app stores all the users’ direct messages, their search histories, the content viewed by the users, and duration. From the logs, I saw that the Committee accessed the protestors’, civil rights activists’, and supporters’ unique user data, locations, and communications," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tiktok-says-disappointed-over-the-ban-in-us-545332"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;TikTok says 'disappointed over the ban' in US</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tiktok-says-disappointed-over-the-ban-in-us-545332/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-banned-on-all-federal-government-devices-in-the-us-548235#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>God credential: A passkey to access user data&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The former employee said the existence of the 'god credential' is a well-known fact amongst the top hierarchy of ByteDance which contradicts the claims made to the legislators in US and other countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-pressures-tiktoks-chinese-owners-to-sell-stakes-threatens-complete-ban-572563" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Biden administration pressures TikTok's Chinese owners to sell stakes, threatens complete ban</strong></a></p>

<p>Yu worked from ByteDance's Menlo Park office in California and also spent time in the company’s offices in Los Angeles and Beijing. He added that the alleged backdoor allowed certain high-level persons in Beijing the ability to access user data, no matter where it was located.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, ByteDance termed Yu's claims as baseless and that he was looking to attract media attention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We vigorously oppose what we believe are baseless claims and allegations in this complaint," said a spokesperson. “His actions are clearly intended to garner media attention."</p>

<p>“We plan to vigorously oppose what we believe are baseless claims and allegations in this complaint. Mr. Yu worked for ByteDance Inc. for less than a year and his employment ended in July 2018."</p>

<p>The spokesperson added that Yu worked on an app called Flipagram which was discontinued years ago for business reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TikTok has come under heavy scrutiny across the globe for its shoddy data handling practices. Countries such as India and US have imposed a complete or partial ban on the app's operations, primarily because of its CCP connection.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A former executive at TikTok's parent company ByteDance has claimed that China's Communist Party (CCP) accessed user data collected by the short-video app to spy upon and monitor Hong Kong activists in 2018.

A former executive at TikTok's parent company ByteDance has claimed that China's Communist Party (CCP) accessed user data collected by the short-video app to spy upon and monitor Hong Kong activists in 2018. Yintao Yu, the executive who led ByteDance's US engineering team made the stunning revelations in a wrongful termination lawsuit filed in May. The court filings, accessed by Wall Street Journal revealed that the CCP collected IP addresses, SIM card IDs and communication data of users in Hong Kong in 2018. “Protesters’, supporters’, and civil rights activists’ device identifiers were tracked in addition to their network information, SIM card identifications, and IP addresses,” said Yu during the hearing. “This information was used to determine both the users’ identity and locations. The TikTok app stores all the users’ direct messages, their search histories, the content viewed by the users, and duration. From the logs, I saw that the Committee accessed the protestors’, civil rights activists’, and supporters’ unique user data, locations, and communications," he added. WATCH | TikTok says 'disappointed over the ban' in US × God credential: A passkey to access user data The former employee said the existence of the 'god credential' is a well-known fact amongst the top hierarchy of ByteDance which contradicts the claims made to the legislators in US and other countries. Also read | Biden administration pressures TikTok's Chinese owners to sell stakes, threatens complete ban Yu worked from ByteDance's Menlo Park office in California and also spent time in the company’s offices in Los Angeles and Beijing. He added that the alleged backdoor allowed certain high-level persons in Beijing the ability to access user data, no matter where it was located. Meanwhile, ByteDance termed Yu's claims as baseless and that he was looking to attract media attention. “We vigorously oppose what we believe are baseless claims and allegations in this complaint," said a spokesperson. “His actions are clearly intended to garner media attention." “We plan to vigorously oppose what we believe are baseless claims and allegations in this complaint. Mr. Yu worked for ByteDance Inc. for less than a year and his employment ended in July 2018." The spokesperson added that Yu worked on an app called Flipagram which was discontinued years ago for business reasons. TikTok has come under heavy scrutiny across the globe for its shoddy data handling practices. Countries such as India and US have imposed a complete or partial ban on the app's operations, primarily because of its CCP connection. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Using TikTok, China spied on Hong Kong activists, claims former employee

<p>The White House fears that China's "growing aggressiveness" in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea may soon lead to casualties. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby noted the "unsafe" and "unprofessional" intercepts by China in recent days, and issued the warning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It won't be long before somebody gets hurt," the White House spokesperson told reporters. "That's the concern with these unsafe and unprofessional intercepts."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">Kirby added that Washington&nbsp;would continue to stand up for the freedom of navigation in the air and sea.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">"I sure would like to hear Beijing justify what they're doing," Kirby said. "Air and maritime intercepts happen all the time. Heck, we do it. The difference is...when we feel like we need to do it, it's done professionally."</p>

<h2 data-testid="paragraph-4"><strong>US military's allegations</strong></h2>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">The US Navy on Sunday released a video titled "Unsafe interaction" in the Taiwan Strait. The video showed a Chinese warship crossing in front of a US destroyer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US military alleged that the Chinese Navy knowingly carried out “unsafe manoeuvres” near the destroyer transiting the sensitive Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, the two nations locked horns when a Chinese plane “flew directly in front of and within 400 feet of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a declassified video footage, a fighter plane could be seen crossing in front of the American aircraft which appears to be shaking due to the resulting turbulence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Thaw in U.S-China relationship? Spotlight on Beijing's state-led development, calls to rethink ties</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>China says war with the US would be an 'unbearable disaster'</strong></h2>

<p>The statements by Kirby come a couple of days after&nbsp;Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu said any conflict with the US&nbsp;would be an "unbearable disaster" for the world, during the&nbsp;Shangri-La security summit in Singapore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China and the US have different systems and are different in many other ways," said Li who was giving his first major speech since taking on the role.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"However, this should not keep the two sides from seeking common ground and common interests to grow bilateral ties and deepen cooperation," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-defence-minister-says-war-with-us-would-be-unbearable-disaster-seeks-dialogue-600646"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Chinese defence minister says war with US would be 'unbearable disaster', seeks dialogue</strong></a></p>

<p>"It is undeniable that a severe conflict or confrontation between China and the US will be an unbearable disaster for the world."</p>

<p>Despite both sides talking of caution, it was Beijing that declined an invitation for a meeting between the country's defence ministers along the sidelines of Asia's top security summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The White House fears that China's "growing aggressiveness" in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea may soon lead to casualties. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby noted the "unsafe" and "unprofessional" intercepts by China in recent days, and issued the warning.

The White House fears that China's "growing aggressiveness" in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea may soon lead to casualties. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby noted the "unsafe" and "unprofessional" intercepts by China in recent days, and issued the warning. "It won't be long before somebody gets hurt," the White House spokesperson told reporters. "That's the concern with these unsafe and unprofessional intercepts." Kirby added that Washington would continue to stand up for the freedom of navigation in the air and sea. "I sure would like to hear Beijing justify what they're doing," Kirby said. "Air and maritime intercepts happen all the time. Heck, we do it. The difference is...when we feel like we need to do it, it's done professionally." US military's allegations The US Navy on Sunday released a video titled "Unsafe interaction" in the Taiwan Strait. The video showed a Chinese warship crossing in front of a US destroyer. The US military alleged that the Chinese Navy knowingly carried out “unsafe manoeuvres” near the destroyer transiting the sensitive Taiwan Strait. Previously, the two nations locked horns when a Chinese plane “flew directly in front of and within 400 feet of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence". In a declassified video footage, a fighter plane could be seen crossing in front of the American aircraft which appears to be shaking due to the resulting turbulence. WATCH | Thaw in U.S-China relationship? Spotlight on Beijing's state-led development, calls to rethink ties China says war with the US would be an 'unbearable disaster' The statements by Kirby come a couple of days after Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu said any conflict with the US would be an "unbearable disaster" for the world, during the Shangri-La security summit in Singapore. "China and the US have different systems and are different in many other ways," said Li who was giving his first major speech since taking on the role. "However, this should not keep the two sides from seeking common ground and common interests to grow bilateral ties and deepen cooperation," he said. Also read | Chinese defence minister says war with US would be 'unbearable disaster', seeks dialogue "It is undeniable that a severe conflict or confrontation between China and the US will be an unbearable disaster for the world." Despite both sides talking of caution, it was Beijing that declined an invitation for a meeting between the country's defence ministers along the sidelines of Asia's top security summit. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

White House warns someone may get 'hurt' by Chinese military's 'aggressiveness'

<p>Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from The Capitals worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A lone protestor standing in front of a line of army tanks at Beijing's Tiananmen Square remains one of the most iconic pictures of defiance in the twentieth century. Crushed by China's Communist Party rulers in June, 1989, Beijing's Tianenmen Square horror turned 34 this week.</p>

<p>In what started as student-led protests in the mid-1980s, by this time of 1989, catapulted huge sections of the Chinese society, demanding political openness and less censorship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the weeks following June 4, 1989, up to one million protestors gathered in Tiananmen Square, making it one of the largest public moments of defiance in the 20th century.</p>

<p>Between June 3 to June 4 in 1989, the troops began to move towards Tiananmen Square, opening fire, crushing and arresting protestors to regain control of the area.</p>

<p>The Chinese government deemed them "counter-revolutionary riots". They said that 200 civilians and several dozen security personnel died. But in 2017, newly released documents revealed that Sir Alan Donald, the British Ambassador to China was told by a member of China's State Council that at least 10,000 people were killed in the Tiananmen crackdown.</p>

<p>In 2023, the commemoration of the events of June 1989 remains a muted affair subject to Beijing's massive censorship. Eight people in Hong Kong were arrested earlier as they staged symbolic protest to commemorate the victims of the events of June 1989.</p>

<p>A carnival celebrating Hong Kong's handover to China is scheduled to take place at the park where public commemoration of Tiananmen Square horror used to take place in the city for decades. Elsewhere, overseas Chinese commemorated the victims of Tiananmen with symbolic vigils and anti-Communist Party candle marches.</p>

<h2><strong>Singapore</strong></h2>

<p>Singapore became the most significant diplomatic capital this week as the city-state hosted the Shangri-La Dialogue, one of Asia's key defence summits. While the lack of US-China talks disappointed many, it's the Washington-Beijing showdown in itself which emerged as the summit's highlight despite war in Ukraine being presented as the most pressing issues faced by the world at the moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the Chinese defence minister took a veiled dig at the United States, accusing Washington of indulging in other's business with a 'cold war mentality', the Pentagon flagged China's 'increasingly risky' behaviour in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto's proposal to bring peace between Russia and Ukraine brought Jakarta support from Beijing but flak from the most capitals in the West. Calling for the cessation of hostilities, Subianto called for a referendum to be held in the disputed areas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Washington DC, United States</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden this week signed into law the debt ceiling bill that had been passed by Congress preventing a potential default in the largest economy worldwide. The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 enables the government to raise the debt ceiling and continue borrowing, ensuring the timely payment of obligations. The enactment of law follows a rare moment of display of bipartisan support which raised the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Dakar, Senegal</strong></h2>

<p>Tensions rose high in Dakar after clashes broke out between the supporters of an Opposition politician and police, leading to 15 deaths over two days.</p>

<p>The army was deployed to the streets but scuffles erupted on Friday night in parts of the capital, Dakar, and in other parts of the country.</p>

<p>The tensions flared up after a court convicted opposition leader Ousmane Sonko of morally "corrupting" a young woman and sentenced to two years in prison. This, his supporters say, is government's move to take Sonko out of the running for the 2024 poll.</p>

<p>The United Nations, the European Union and Senegal's former colonial power France have also expressed concern over the violence.</p>

<h2><strong>Kampala, Uganda</strong></h2>

<p>A group of Ugandan street kids from a Kampala slum will perform at the grand finale of Britain's Got Talent. The children of the Triplets Ghetto Kids troupe have already wowed the Britain's Got Talent judges and viewers alike with their energetic dance medley, colourful costumes and captivating smiles.</p>

<p>The Ghetto Kids first became an internet sensation in 2014 when their homemade dance video featuring the hit "Sitya Loss" by Eddy Kenzo, another Ugandan orphan turned music star, went viral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The clip of several youngsters dancing on a dirt road opened a floodgate of opportunities for the group whose videos on YouTube have had many millions of hits.</p>

<p>They have gone on to win several African and global awards, and have worked with international music stars such as American singer-songwriter Chris Brown and Nigerian Afrobeats star Wizkid.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from The Capitals worldwide. A lone protestor standing in front of a line of army tanks at Beijing's Tiananmen Square remains one of the most iconic pictures of defiance in the twentieth century.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from The Capitals worldwide. A lone protestor standing in front of a line of army tanks at Beijing's Tiananmen Square remains one of the most iconic pictures of defiance in the twentieth century. Crushed by China's Communist Party rulers in June, 1989, Beijing's Tianenmen Square horror turned 34 this week. In what started as student-led protests in the mid-1980s, by this time of 1989, catapulted huge sections of the Chinese society, demanding political openness and less censorship. In the weeks following June 4, 1989, up to one million protestors gathered in Tiananmen Square, making it one of the largest public moments of defiance in the 20th century. Between June 3 to June 4 in 1989, the troops began to move towards Tiananmen Square, opening fire, crushing and arresting protestors to regain control of the area. The Chinese government deemed them "counter-revolutionary riots". They said that 200 civilians and several dozen security personnel died. But in 2017, newly released documents revealed that Sir Alan Donald, the British Ambassador to China was told by a member of China's State Council that at least 10,000 people were killed in the Tiananmen crackdown. In 2023, the commemoration of the events of June 1989 remains a muted affair subject to Beijing's massive censorship. Eight people in Hong Kong were arrested earlier as they staged symbolic protest to commemorate the victims of the events of June 1989. A carnival celebrating Hong Kong's handover to China is scheduled to take place at the park where public commemoration of Tiananmen Square horror used to take place in the city for decades. Elsewhere, overseas Chinese commemorated the victims of Tiananmen with symbolic vigils and anti-Communist Party candle marches. Singapore Singapore became the most significant diplomatic capital this week as the city-state hosted the Shangri-La Dialogue, one of Asia's key defence summits. While the lack of US-China talks disappointed many, it's the Washington-Beijing showdown in itself which emerged as the summit's highlight despite war in Ukraine being presented as the most pressing issues faced by the world at the moment. While the Chinese defence minister took a veiled dig at the United States, accusing Washington of indulging in other's business with a 'cold war mentality', the Pentagon flagged China's 'increasingly risky' behaviour in the region. Meanwhile, Indonesian defence minister Prabowo Subianto's proposal to bring peace between Russia and Ukraine brought Jakarta support from Beijing but flak from the most capitals in the West. Calling for the cessation of hostilities, Subianto called for a referendum to be held in the disputed areas. Washington DC, United States US President Joe Biden this week signed into law the debt ceiling bill that had been passed by Congress preventing a potential default in the largest economy worldwide. The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 enables the government to raise the debt ceiling and continue borrowing, ensuring the timely payment of obligations. The enactment of law follows a rare moment of display of bipartisan support which raised the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. Dakar, Senegal Tensions rose high in Dakar after clashes broke out between the supporters of an Opposition politician and police, leading to 15 deaths over two days. The army was deployed to the streets but scuffles erupted on Friday night in parts of the capital, Dakar, and in other parts of the country. The tensions flared up after a court convicted opposition leader Ousmane Sonko of morally "corrupting" a young woman and sentenced to two years in prison. This, his supporters say, is government's move to take Sonko out of the running for the 2024 poll. The United Nations, the European Union and Senegal's former colonial power France have also expressed concern over the violence. Kampala, Uganda A group of Ugandan street kids from a Kampala slum will perform at the grand finale of Britain's Got Talent. The children of the Triplets Ghetto Kids troupe have already wowed the Britain's Got Talent judges and viewers alike with their energetic dance medley, colourful costumes and captivating smiles. The Ghetto Kids first became an internet sensation in 2014 when their homemade dance video featuring the hit "Sitya Loss" by Eddy Kenzo, another Ugandan orphan turned music star, went viral. The clip of several youngsters dancing on a dirt road opened a floodgate of opportunities for the group whose videos on YouTube have had many millions of hits. They have gone on to win several African and global awards, and have worked with international music stars such as American singer-songwriter Chris Brown and Nigerian Afrobeats star Wizkid. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The Capitals: Beijing's Tiananmen horror turns 34, Singapore's Shangri-La moment under sun, and more

<p>After the balloon controversy which erupted at the start of the year, the relations between US and China nose-dived to a new level which appeared to have pushed the partnership between the nations to a standstill. However, a new development seems to raise brows. As per media reports citing a US official, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns made a secret trip to China last month in a bid to reopen the lines of communication with Beijing.</p>

<p>"Last month, Director Burns traveled to Beijing where he met with Chinese counterparts and emphasized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication in intelligence channels," the US official said on condition of anonymity, as per AFP news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-scientists-discover-62-plants-that-can-live-without-water-in-western-ghats-599626">Indian scientists discover 62 plants that can live without water in Western Ghats</a></p>

<p>This comes as China declined a US offer to hold talks with the US at a Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore this week. The decision taken by China seems to have drawn criticism from US with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin terming it “unfortunate" saying that the situation could lead to “an incident that could very, very quickly spiral out of control.”</p>

<p>“(Y)ou’ve heard me talk a number of times about the importance of countries, with large, with significant capabilities, being able to talk to each other so you can manage crises and prevent things from spiraling out of control unnecessarily,” Austin told reporters in a news conference alongside Japanese Minster of Defense Yasukazu Hamada.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-2611-attack-accused-tahawwur-rana-challenges-extradition-to-india-599609">US: Mumbai 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana challenges order of his extradition to India</a></p>

<p>“And as we take a look at some of the things that China is doing in the international airspace in the region and international waterways, you know, the provocative intercepts of our aircraft and also our allies’ aircraft, that’s very concerning, and we would hope that they would alter their actions. But since they haven’t yet, I’m concerned about, at some point, having an incident that could very, very quickly spiral out of control,” Austin added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Hollywood star Bruce Willis' daughter Tallulah talks about her father's daily battle with dementia</strong></p>

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<p>In a positive statement, Austin also said that US is ready to “welcome any opportunity to engage” with China.</p>

<h2><strong>Sullivan's meeting with Wang Yi</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In the month of May, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met&nbsp;with Chinese Communist Party Politburo Member and Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission Wang Yi in Vienna. The two sides had discussions on key issues ranging from global and regional security issues, Russia’s war against Ukraine, and cross-Strait issues. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting was an effort to maintain open lines of communication between the US and China. Biden last met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2022. Additionally, US trade representative Katherine Tai held a meeting with the Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao a week prior to the Sullivan-Wang Yi meeting.</p>

<h2><strong>Canceled Blinken trip</strong> &nbsp;</h2>

<p>The spy balloon controversy led to the cancellation of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing. Since then, the canceled trip has yet not been rescheduled. Prior to becoming CIA director, Burns has handled other missions as well for President Joe Biden. In an interview, Burns said US is confident that the Chinese leadership is considering the provision of lethal equipment to help Russia in the war on Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

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After the balloon controversy which erupted at the start of the year, the relations between US and China nose-dived to a new level which appeared to have pushed the partnership between the nations to a standstill.

After the balloon controversy which erupted at the start of the year, the relations between US and China nose-dived to a new level which appeared to have pushed the partnership between the nations to a standstill. However, a new development seems to raise brows. As per media reports citing a US official, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns made a secret trip to China last month in a bid to reopen the lines of communication with Beijing. "Last month, Director Burns traveled to Beijing where he met with Chinese counterparts and emphasized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication in intelligence channels," the US official said on condition of anonymity, as per AFP news agency. Also Read | Indian scientists discover 62 plants that can live without water in Western Ghats This comes as China declined a US offer to hold talks with the US at a Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore this week. The decision taken by China seems to have drawn criticism from US with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin terming it “unfortunate" saying that the situation could lead to “an incident that could very, very quickly spiral out of control.” “(Y)ou’ve heard me talk a number of times about the importance of countries, with large, with significant capabilities, being able to talk to each other so you can manage crises and prevent things from spiraling out of control unnecessarily,” Austin told reporters in a news conference alongside Japanese Minster of Defense Yasukazu Hamada. Also Read | US: Mumbai 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana challenges order of his extradition to India “And as we take a look at some of the things that China is doing in the international airspace in the region and international waterways, you know, the provocative intercepts of our aircraft and also our allies’ aircraft, that’s very concerning, and we would hope that they would alter their actions. But since they haven’t yet, I’m concerned about, at some point, having an incident that could very, very quickly spiral out of control,” Austin added. Watch | Hollywood star Bruce Willis' daughter Tallulah talks about her father's daily battle with dementia × In a positive statement, Austin also said that US is ready to “welcome any opportunity to engage” with China. Sullivan's meeting with Wang Yi In the month of May, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with Chinese Communist Party Politburo Member and Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission Wang Yi in Vienna. The two sides had discussions on key issues ranging from global and regional security issues, Russia’s war against Ukraine, and cross-Strait issues. The meeting was an effort to maintain open lines of communication between the US and China. Biden last met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2022. Additionally, US trade representative Katherine Tai held a meeting with the Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao a week prior to the Sullivan-Wang Yi meeting. Canceled Blinken trip The spy balloon controversy led to the cancellation of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing. Since then, the canceled trip has yet not been rescheduled. Prior to becoming CIA director, Burns has handled other missions as well for President Joe Biden. In an interview, Burns said US is confident that the Chinese leadership is considering the provision of lethal equipment to help Russia in the war on Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

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