February's&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;Winter Olympics will be held without overseas spectators and athletes must be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus or face 21 days' quarantine, the International Olympic Committee said.

The measures, which do allow spectators who are living in mainland China, were revealed with the Games just four months away and after the Tokyo 2020 Olympics similarly juggled with how to go ahead safely during the pandemic.&nbsp;

The Tokyo Games, which were postponed by a year because of the health crisis, mostly took place without any spectators to prevent infections.

Another difference from Tokyo will be that all participants must be vaccinated or will need to do a 21-day quarantine on arrival in the Chinese capital. Athletes who can provide a "justified medical exemption" will have their cases considered.

All attendees will enter a strict "bubble" as soon as they land that covers Games-related areas and stadiums as well as accommodation, transport, catering and the opening and closing ceremonies.

The decisions, announced by the IOC but taken by Chinese organisers, are a foretaste of a package of measures to be released in October designed to prevent the Games from turning into a source of contamination.

All domestic and international Games participants and workforce in the bubble, known as the "closed-loop management system", will be tested daily.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vladimir-putin-to-attend-2022-beijing-olympics-as-russia-remains-under-penalties-for-doping-413602">Also read |&nbsp;Vladimir Putin to attend 2022 Beijing Olympics as Russia remains under penalties for doping</a>

The 2022&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;Olympics, which is facing calls for a boycott from rights groups, is scheduled for February 4-20.

The IOC said that allowing domestic fans "will facilitate the growth of winter sports in China by giving those spectators a first-hand Olympic and Paralympic experience of elite winter sports, as well as bringing a favourable atmosphere to the venues".

Speaking at&nbsp;Beijing's Olympic Park on Thursday, locals said that safety must come first, even if that means foreign fans missing out.

"I think it's the right thing to do because foreign spectators can watch it broadcast live," said Zhang Xinyu, 29.

"But if there are a lot of people travelling, it won't be safe for either the athletes or the foreign guests."

China, where the coronavirus emerged towards the end of 2019, has wrestled down the number of local infections to a trickle by deploying aggressive, mass testing and keeping its borders extremely tight.

February's Beijing Winter Olympics will be held without overseas spectators and athletes must be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus or face 21 days' quarantine, the International Olympic Committee said.

February's Beijing Winter Olympics will be held without overseas spectators and athletes must be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus or face 21 days' quarantine, the International Olympic Committee said. The measures, which do allow spectators who are living in mainland China, were revealed with the Games just four months away and after the Tokyo 2020 Olympics similarly juggled with how to go ahead safely during the pandemic. The Tokyo Games, which were postponed by a year because of the health crisis, mostly took place without any spectators to prevent infections. Another difference from Tokyo will be that all participants must be vaccinated or will need to do a 21-day quarantine on arrival in the Chinese capital. Athletes who can provide a "justified medical exemption" will have their cases considered. All attendees will enter a strict "bubble" as soon as they land that covers Games-related areas and stadiums as well as accommodation, transport, catering and the opening and closing ceremonies. The decisions, announced by the IOC but taken by Chinese organisers, are a foretaste of a package of measures to be released in October designed to prevent the Games from turning into a source of contamination. All domestic and international Games participants and workforce in the bubble, known as the "closed-loop management system", will be tested daily. Also read | Vladimir Putin to attend 2022 Beijing Olympics as Russia remains under penalties for doping The 2022 Beijing Olympics, which is facing calls for a boycott from rights groups, is scheduled for February 4-20. The IOC said that allowing domestic fans "will facilitate the growth of winter sports in China by giving those spectators a first-hand Olympic and Paralympic experience of elite winter sports, as well as bringing a favourable atmosphere to the venues". Speaking at Beijing's Olympic Park on Thursday, locals said that safety must come first, even if that means foreign fans missing out. "I think it's the right thing to do because foreign spectators can watch it broadcast live," said Zhang Xinyu, 29. "But if there are a lot of people travelling, it won't be safe for either the athletes or the foreign guests." China, where the coronavirus emerged towards the end of 2019, has wrestled down the number of local infections to a trickle by deploying aggressive, mass testing and keeping its borders extremely tight.

Beijing Olympics rules out overseas fans over virus threat

Taiwan's main opposition party elected former leader Eric Chu as its chairman on Saturday with a pledge to renew stalled talks with China, which has ramped up military and political pressure against the island Beijing claims as its own territory.

Chu, 60, a former mayor of New Taipei City, beat Kuomintang (KMT) incumbent Johnny Chiang and two other contenders in the chairmanship election, though he will not take over immediately.

The KMT was trounced in presidential and parliamentary elections last year, having failed to cast off the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) accusations a vote for them was no more than a vote for China.

Speaking after his victory, Chu said when it came to policy in relation to China his party would not become a "little" version of the DPP, which Beijing refuses to deal with believing they are separatists.

"We will re-build cross-Taiwan Strait exchange platforms and communication channels," he said.

The KMT ruled China until fleeing to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to the Communists. It traditionally favours close ties with Beijing, which has increasingly set it at odds with many Taiwanese.

High-level KMT contact with China's Communist Party stalled during Chiang's 17-month tenure amid increased pressure by China against Taiwan and suspicion in Beijing that the party was not sufficiently committed to accepting the island as part of "one China".

Chu met President Xi Jinping in Beijing in 2015, where he acknowledged that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are part of "one China" but they have different interpretations what this means.

The urbane, U.S.-educated Chu previously led the KMT until resigning in 2016 after he was defeated in Taiwan's presidential election by current President Tsai Ing-wen.

Deep disagreements remain in the KMT about its direction following its electoral defeat last year, and Chu pledged "unprecedented unity" under his leadership.

Taiwan will hold mayoral elections next year which, while mostly focusing on local issues, will be an important measure of support ahead of the 2024 presidential vote.

Taiwan's main opposition party elected former leader Eric Chu as its chairman on Saturday with a pledge to renew stalled talks with China, which has ramped up military and political pressure against the island Beijing claims as its own territory.

Taiwan's main opposition party elected former leader Eric Chu as its chairman on Saturday with a pledge to renew stalled talks with China, which has ramped up military and political pressure against the island Beijing claims as its own territory. Chu, 60, a former mayor of New Taipei City, beat Kuomintang (KMT) incumbent Johnny Chiang and two other contenders in the chairmanship election, though he will not take over immediately. The KMT was trounced in presidential and parliamentary elections last year, having failed to cast off the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) accusations a vote for them was no more than a vote for China. Speaking after his victory, Chu said when it came to policy in relation to China his party would not become a "little" version of the DPP, which Beijing refuses to deal with believing they are separatists. "We will re-build cross-Taiwan Strait exchange platforms and communication channels," he said. The KMT ruled China until fleeing to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to the Communists. It traditionally favours close ties with Beijing, which has increasingly set it at odds with many Taiwanese. High-level KMT contact with China's Communist Party stalled during Chiang's 17-month tenure amid increased pressure by China against Taiwan and suspicion in Beijing that the party was not sufficiently committed to accepting the island as part of "one China". Chu met President Xi Jinping in Beijing in 2015, where he acknowledged that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are part of "one China" but they have different interpretations what this means. The urbane, U.S.-educated Chu previously led the KMT until resigning in 2016 after he was defeated in Taiwan's presidential election by current President Tsai Ing-wen. Deep disagreements remain in the KMT about its direction following its electoral defeat last year, and Chu pledged "unprecedented unity" under his leadership. Taiwan will hold mayoral elections next year which, while mostly focusing on local issues, will be an important measure of support ahead of the 2024 presidential vote.

Taiwan opposition party's new leader pledges renewed talks with China

Patrick M. Cronin, security chair, Hudson institute in exclusive conversation with WION sheds light on the significance that United States attaches to this grouping when comes to dealing with China and threats from Beijing.

Security top focus for Quad, Nations push for Indo-pacific and Chinese threat | WION-USA Direct

Global investors are in guessing mode as a crucial date for a key interest payment passed without a comment from indebted property company Evergrande. There are fears that China will let bondholders abroad swallow large losses. The liquidity crisis at the world's most indebted company is deepening.

Evergrande owes $305 billion, has run short of cash and investors are worried a collapse could pose systemic risks to China's financial system and reverberate around the world.

Deadline for payment of interest of USD 305 billion was Thursday (September 24). Bondholders have not been paid or heard from the company, reported Reuters quoting two people familiar with the situation.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/evergrande-chairman-reassures-investors-shares-surge-415070">Evergrande chairman reassures investors, shares surge</a>

The firm has a 30-day grace period and will default if that passes without payment.

Evergrande's silence on the dollar bond interest payment and another $47.5 million payment due next week contrasts with its treatment of its domestic investors. The company this week resolved one coupon payment on a domestic bond.

"This is part of the tactics of any sovereign driven restructuring process - keeping people in the dark or guessing," said Karl Clowry, a partner at Addleshaw Goddard in London.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-crisis-hit-evergrande-says-deal-has-been-reached-to-avoid-default-414778">China's crisis-hit Evergrande says deal has been reached to avoid default</a>

"The view from Beijing is offshore bondholders are largely Western institutions and so can justifiably be given different treatment. I think people think it's still a falling knife."

China's central bank again injected cash into the banking system on Friday, seen as a signal of support for markets. But authorities have been silent on Evergrande's predicament and China's state media has offered no clues on a rescue package.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinas-evergrande-crisis-a-global-financial-crisis-in-the-making-414669">China's Evergrande crisis: A global financial crisis in the making</a>

"These are periods of eerie silence as no-one wants to take massive risks at this stage," said Howe Chung Wan, head of Asia fixed income at Principal Global Investors in Singapore.

"There's no precedent to this at the size of Evergrande ... we have to see in the next ten days or so, before China goes into holiday, how this is going to play out."

Evergrande appointed financial advisers and warned of default last week and world markets fell heavily on Monday amid fears of contagion, though they have since stabilised.

(With inputs from agencies)

Global investors are in guessing mode as a crucial date for a key interest payment passed without a comment from indebted property company Evergrande. There are fears that China will let bondholders abroad swallow large losses.

Global investors are in guessing mode as a crucial date for a key interest payment passed without a comment from indebted property company Evergrande. There are fears that China will let bondholders abroad swallow large losses. The liquidity crisis at the world's most indebted company is deepening. Evergrande owes $305 billion, has run short of cash and investors are worried a collapse could pose systemic risks to China's financial system and reverberate around the world. Deadline for payment of interest of USD 305 billion was Thursday (September 24). Bondholders have not been paid or heard from the company, reported Reuters quoting two people familiar with the situation. Also Read | Evergrande chairman reassures investors, shares surge The firm has a 30-day grace period and will default if that passes without payment. Evergrande's silence on the dollar bond interest payment and another $47.5 million payment due next week contrasts with its treatment of its domestic investors. The company this week resolved one coupon payment on a domestic bond. "This is part of the tactics of any sovereign driven restructuring process - keeping people in the dark or guessing," said Karl Clowry, a partner at Addleshaw Goddard in London. Also Read | China's crisis-hit Evergrande says deal has been reached to avoid default "The view from Beijing is offshore bondholders are largely Western institutions and so can justifiably be given different treatment. I think people think it's still a falling knife." China's central bank again injected cash into the banking system on Friday, seen as a signal of support for markets. But authorities have been silent on Evergrande's predicament and China's state media has offered no clues on a rescue package. Also Read | China's Evergrande crisis: A global financial crisis in the making "These are periods of eerie silence as no-one wants to take massive risks at this stage," said Howe Chung Wan, head of Asia fixed income at Principal Global Investors in Singapore. "There's no precedent to this at the size of Evergrande ... we have to see in the next ten days or so, before China goes into holiday, how this is going to play out." Evergrande appointed financial advisers and warned of default last week and world markets fell heavily on Monday amid fears of contagion, though they have since stabilised. (With inputs from agencies)

Evergrande investors in dark as no news on interest payment emerges

An independent investigation has accused IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva of boosting China's economic data during her tenure at the World Bank. Why are global agencies doing Beijing's bidding? What explains China's desperate lobbying? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: IMF chief boosted China's economic data

Strategic oil reserves are used to smoothen supply disruptions during emergencies. But China is using it to bring down oil prices. What explains Beijing's new policy? How did the markets react? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China announces sale of strategic oil reserves

Beijing city is considering taking&nbsp;Didi&nbsp;Global under state control and has proposed that government-run firms invest in the Chinese ride-hailing company, Bloomberg News reported.

The central thrust of the city government's proposal is to regain control over one of its largest corporations, and particularly the data it holds, Friday's Bloomberg report said.

Chinese authorities have stepped up their regulation of technology firms in the past year to improve market competition, data handling and their treatment of employees.

Under the preliminary proposal, some Beijing-based companies including Shouqi Group, part of the state-owned Beijing Tourism Group, would acquire a stake in&nbsp;Didi, Bloomberg reported, citing unidentified people familiar with the matter.

Other scenarios being considered include the consortium taking a nominal share, accompanied by a so-called "golden share" with veto power and a board seat, it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-lashes-out-at-us-supreme-court-for-texas-abortion-law-410322">Also read |&nbsp;Joe Biden lashes out at US supreme court for Texas abortion law</a>

Didi, Beijing's city government, Beijing Tourism Group and Shouqi Group did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Shares in&nbsp;Didi&nbsp;rose 1.7% to $8.96 in New York in early-afternoon trading. Some investors welcomed the news, arguing it could remove the overhang of further regulatory uncertainty on&nbsp;Didi's stock.

"A better outcome than going bust like private education," Dave Wang, a portfolio strategist at Nuvest Capital in Singapore, said.

In July, China barred for-profit tutoring in core school subjects, stepping up regulatory oversight of a $120 billion industry that investors had bet billions of dollars on in recent years.

Some investors, however, raised questions over how&nbsp;Didi&nbsp;could pull off such a move while remaining a U.S.-listed company, abiding by the rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

The SEC declined to comment. NYSE has not responded to a request for comment.

"We were expecting some action but not to this level of magnitude. The big question is what will happen to&nbsp;Didi's investors?" said Justin Tang, head of Asian research at investment advisor United First Partners in Singapore.

Legal experts said Beijing had never taken control of a U.S.-listed company. One option would be to assume control of an entity in China that holds&nbsp;Didi's operations but not the holding company of&nbsp;Didi, which is based in the Cayman Islands.

It is unclear whether such a move would require&nbsp;Didi&nbsp;shareholder approval. If it did, its founders could push it through because they own dual-class shares with 51.9% voting control.

"It would depend on which jurisdiction controls that entity. I'm unaware of another situation where a government would take a stake in a publicly listed company in the United States," said William Rosenstadt, a capital markets and securities lawyer at Ortoli Rosenstadt LLP.

The "golden share" arrangement considered for&nbsp;Didi&nbsp;would be similar to an investment the Chinese government has made in TikTok-owner ByteDance's key Chinese entity, Bloomberg said. Unlike&nbsp;Didi, however, ByteDance is not publicly listed.

Shouqi Group owns ride hailing service Shouqi Yueche, and Bloomberg said it would play a role in helping operate its larger rival under the proposal.

Didi&nbsp;faces a cybersecurity investigation by Chinese authorities after its New York initial public offering in June.

Reuters reported in August, citing people familiar with the matter, that&nbsp;Didi&nbsp;is in talks with state-owned information security firm Westone to handle its data management and monitoring activities.

Didi&nbsp;is controlled by the management team of co-founder Will Cheng and President Jean Liu. SoftBank Group Corp, Uber Technologies Inc and Alibaba are among other investors in the company.

Beijing city is considering taking Didi Global under state control and has proposed that government-run firms invest in the Chinese ride-hailing company, Bloomberg News reported.

Beijing city is considering taking Didi Global under state control and has proposed that government-run firms invest in the Chinese ride-hailing company, Bloomberg News reported. The central thrust of the city government's proposal is to regain control over one of its largest corporations, and particularly the data it holds, Friday's Bloomberg report said. Chinese authorities have stepped up their regulation of technology firms in the past year to improve market competition, data handling and their treatment of employees. Under the preliminary proposal, some Beijing-based companies including Shouqi Group, part of the state-owned Beijing Tourism Group, would acquire a stake in Didi, Bloomberg reported, citing unidentified people familiar with the matter. Other scenarios being considered include the consortium taking a nominal share, accompanied by a so-called "golden share" with veto power and a board seat, it added. Also read | Joe Biden lashes out at US supreme court for Texas abortion law Didi, Beijing's city government, Beijing Tourism Group and Shouqi Group did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Shares in Didi rose 1.7% to $8.96 in New York in early-afternoon trading. Some investors welcomed the news, arguing it could remove the overhang of further regulatory uncertainty on Didi's stock. "A better outcome than going bust like private education," Dave Wang, a portfolio strategist at Nuvest Capital in Singapore, said. In July, China barred for-profit tutoring in core school subjects, stepping up regulatory oversight of a $120 billion industry that investors had bet billions of dollars on in recent years. Some investors, however, raised questions over how Didi could pull off such a move while remaining a U.S.-listed company, abiding by the rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The SEC declined to comment. NYSE has not responded to a request for comment. "We were expecting some action but not to this level of magnitude. The big question is what will happen to Didi's investors?" said Justin Tang, head of Asian research at investment advisor United First Partners in Singapore. Legal experts said Beijing had never taken control of a U.S.-listed company. One option would be to assume control of an entity in China that holds Didi's operations but not the holding company of Didi, which is based in the Cayman Islands. It is unclear whether such a move would require Didi shareholder approval. If it did, its founders could push it through because they own dual-class shares with 51.9% voting control. "It would depend on which jurisdiction controls that entity. I'm unaware of another situation where a government would take a stake in a publicly listed company in the United States," said William Rosenstadt, a capital markets and securities lawyer at Ortoli Rosenstadt LLP. The "golden share" arrangement considered for Didi would be similar to an investment the Chinese government has made in TikTok-owner ByteDance's key Chinese entity, Bloomberg said. Unlike Didi, however, ByteDance is not publicly listed. Shouqi Group owns ride hailing service Shouqi Yueche, and Bloomberg said it would play a role in helping operate its larger rival under the proposal. Didi faces a cybersecurity investigation by Chinese authorities after its New York initial public offering in June. Reuters reported in August, citing people familiar with the matter, that Didi is in talks with state-owned information security firm Westone to handle its data management and monitoring activities. Didi is controlled by the management team of co-founder Will Cheng and President Jean Liu. SoftBank Group Corp, Uber Technologies Inc and Alibaba are among other investors in the company.

Beijing city looks to take Didi under state control

As the world focuses on Afghanistan, China is pushing with its world domination plans. Beijing has opened a road-rail link to the Indian Ocean via Myanmar. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: China opens road-rail transport link to Indian Ocean

Vietnam will not enter an alliance to confront China, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has told Beijing before he met US Vice President Kamala Harris on Wednesday. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, the Vietnam’s prime minister met Chinese envoy to Hanoi Xiong Bo and said, Vietnam has always maintained an independent foreign policy that prioritised self-reliance, multilateralism and diversification of ties, said a report by Vietnam News Agency.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia, China, US ready to serve as mediators in Afghanistan says Sergey Lavrov

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“Vietnam would not ally with one country to fight another, and wished to enhance political trust with China, promote exchange and uphold cooperation,” Pham said.&nbsp;

US Vice President Kamala Harris met Vietnam's top leaders on Wednesday. She offered support in several key areas, including the enhancement of the country's maritime security in an effort to counter Beijing's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-add-xi-jinping-thought-to-national-curriculum-408158" hreflang="en">China to add 'Xi Jinping Thought' to national curriculum</a>

Harris also offered more visits by US warships during her talks with Vietnam's President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.&nbsp;

During a meeting with the Vietnamese president in Hanoi, Harris said there was a need to increase pressure on Beijing over its maritime claims.&nbsp;

During the talks, Harris offered Vietnam vaccines and aid to tackle COVID-19. She also announced the launch of several programmes to help combat climate change, a White House official said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Vietnam will not enter an alliance to confront China, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has told Beijing before he met US Vice President Kamala Harris on Wednesday.

Vietnam will not enter an alliance to confront China, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has told Beijing before he met US Vice President Kamala Harris on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the Vietnam’s prime minister met Chinese envoy to Hanoi Xiong Bo and said, Vietnam has always maintained an independent foreign policy that prioritised self-reliance, multilateralism and diversification of ties, said a report by Vietnam News Agency. Watch | Russia, China, US ready to serve as mediators in Afghanistan says Sergey Lavrov × “Vietnam would not ally with one country to fight another, and wished to enhance political trust with China, promote exchange and uphold cooperation,” Pham said. US Vice President Kamala Harris met Vietnam's top leaders on Wednesday. She offered support in several key areas, including the enhancement of the country's maritime security in an effort to counter Beijing's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea. Also Read: China to add 'Xi Jinping Thought' to national curriculum Harris also offered more visits by US warships during her talks with Vietnam's President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. During a meeting with the Vietnamese president in Hanoi, Harris said there was a need to increase pressure on Beijing over its maritime claims. During the talks, Harris offered Vietnam vaccines and aid to tackle COVID-19. She also announced the launch of several programmes to help combat climate change, a White House official said. (With inputs from agencies)

Will not enter an alliance to confront China, Vietnamese PM tells Beijing 

A new axis of evil is emerging. It runs from Taliban's strong base in Kandahar to the offices of PTI in Islamabad all the way to Beijing. Palki Sharma tells you how this 'troika of tyranny & terror' could make India its first target.

Gravitas: Pak, Taliban & China: A new Axis of evil

Even after an year into the Coronavirus pandemic, we still have many questions about its origins. Beijing rejected WHO's calls for an investigation into the origins of COVID saying it is a political move.

Beijing rejects WHO's calls for investigation into origins of COVID

After holding talks with the Taliban, China is now conducting anti-terror drills with Russia to counter possible security threats by the terror outfit. Is Beijing confused about its approach or is it playing both sides? Palki Sharma has this to say.

Gravitas: What is China's game plan in Afghanistan?

China is playing a very risky game in Afghanistan. It has been trying to strike a deal with the Taliban but now the Afghan Government has warned Beijing against trusting the terror group. Watch this report to know more.

Afghan Envoy Javid Ahmad Qaem warns China on Taliban

As the US and Indonesian military personnel began joint drills as part of Garuda Shield exercises, China announced it will hold military exercises from Friday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-china-tussle-continues-in-south-china-sea-399171">South China Sea</a>.

China's state-run Global Times said the Chinese military has set up vast navigation restriction zone with the exclusion zone stretching from waters off the southeast of Hainan Island to Xisha Islands.

Watch:

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Global times quoting other media agencies said PLA launched anti-ship ballistic missiles in the South China Sea similar to last year.

Meanwhile, US and Indonesian military have been conducting drills in Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi amid the coronavirus pandemic sweeping Indonesia.

The training being conducted includes live fire drills. It is reportedly the largest military exercise between&nbsp;the two countries. Earlier this week Germany had dispatched its frigate&nbsp;"Bayern" sailed from Wilhelmshaven harbour to the Indo-Pacific and will cruise&nbsp;through Singapore, South Korea&nbsp;and Australia.&nbsp;

The German ship will also reportedly take part in EU's Atalanta anti-piracy mission in east Africa.

China claims the majority of the islands in the South China Sea even as the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam also stake equal claim to the resource-rich islands.

UK had earlier sent its flotilla led by the new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth and other vessels to the South China Sea as the state-run Global Times criticised the move.

However, Britain said the carrier strike group is lawfully navigating the South China Sea.

"It is taking the most direct route through international waters to conduct exercises with allies and partners in the Philippine Sea," UK's defence ministry said.

According to the UK, HMS Spey and HMS Tamar will start a permanent deployment to the Asia-Pacific region next month.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

As the US and Indonesian military personnel began joint drills as part of Garuda Shield exercises, China announced it will hold military exercises from Friday in the South China Sea.

As the US and Indonesian military personnel began joint drills as part of Garuda Shield exercises, China announced it will hold military exercises from Friday in the South China Sea. China's state-run Global Times said the Chinese military has set up vast navigation restriction zone with the exclusion zone stretching from waters off the southeast of Hainan Island to Xisha Islands. Watch: Global times quoting other media agencies said PLA launched anti-ship ballistic missiles in the South China Sea similar to last year. Meanwhile, US and Indonesian military have been conducting drills in Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi amid the coronavirus pandemic sweeping Indonesia. The training being conducted includes live fire drills. It is reportedly the largest military exercise between the two countries. Earlier this week Germany had dispatched its frigate "Bayern" sailed from Wilhelmshaven harbour to the Indo-Pacific and will cruise through Singapore, South Korea and Australia. The German ship will also reportedly take part in EU's Atalanta anti-piracy mission in east Africa. China claims the majority of the islands in the South China Sea even as the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam also stake equal claim to the resource-rich islands. UK had earlier sent its flotilla led by the new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth and other vessels to the South China Sea as the state-run Global Times criticised the move. However, Britain said the carrier strike group is lawfully navigating the South China Sea. "It is taking the most direct route through international waters to conduct exercises with allies and partners in the Philippine Sea," UK's defence ministry said. According to the UK, HMS Spey and HMS Tamar will start a permanent deployment to the Asia-Pacific region next month. (With inputs from Agencies)

China to hold military exercises in South China Sea

Germany on Monday sent a&nbsp;warship&nbsp;to the&nbsp;South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea&nbsp;for the first time in almost two decades, joining other Western nations in expanding its military presence in the region&nbsp;amid&nbsp;growing alarm over&nbsp;China's territorial ambitions.

China&nbsp;claims swathes of the&nbsp;South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea&nbsp;and has established military outposts on artificial islands in the waters that contain gas fields and rich fishing.

The US Navy, in a show of force against the Chinese territorial claims, regularly conducts so-called "freedom of navigation" operations in which their vessels pass close by some of the contested islands.&nbsp;China&nbsp;in turn objects to the US missions, saying they do not help promote peace or stability.

Washington has put countering&nbsp;China&nbsp;at the heart of its national security policy and seeks to rally partners against what it says are&nbsp;Beijing's increasingly coercive economic and foreign policies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-years-after-south-china-sea-ruling-chinas-presence-around-philippines-only-growing-397029">Also read |&nbsp;Five years after South China Sea ruling, China's presence around Philippines only growing</a>

Officials in Berlin have said the&nbsp;German&nbsp;navy will stick to common trade routes. The frigate is not expected to sail through the Taiwan Strait either, another regular US&nbsp;activity condemned by&nbsp;Beijing.

Nevertheless, Berlin has made it clear the mission serves to stress the fact&nbsp;Germany does not accept&nbsp;China's territorial claims.

Germany is walking a tightrope between its security and economic interests as&nbsp;China&nbsp;has become Berlin's most important trading partner.&nbsp;German&nbsp;exports there have helped mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Europe’s biggest economy.

German&nbsp;Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer travelled to the port of Wilhelmshaven to see the frigate Bayern off on its seven-month voyage that will take it to Australia, Japan,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea and Vietnam.

The vessel is expected to cross the&nbsp;South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea&nbsp;in mid-December, making it the first&nbsp;German&nbsp;warship&nbsp;to pass through the region since 2002.

"We want existing law to be respected,&nbsp;sea&nbsp;routes to be freely navigable, open societies to be protected and trade to follow fair rules," Kramp-Karrenbauer said.

Countries including Britain, France, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, have also been expanding their activity in the Pacific to counter&nbsp;China's influence.

Germany on Monday sent a warship to the South China Sea for the first time in almost two decades, joining other Western nations in expanding its military presence in the region amid growing alarm over China's territorial ambitions.

Germany on Monday sent a warship to the South China Sea for the first time in almost two decades, joining other Western nations in expanding its military presence in the region amid growing alarm over China's territorial ambitions. China claims swathes of the South China Sea and has established military outposts on artificial islands in the waters that contain gas fields and rich fishing. The US Navy, in a show of force against the Chinese territorial claims, regularly conducts so-called "freedom of navigation" operations in which their vessels pass close by some of the contested islands. China in turn objects to the US missions, saying they do not help promote peace or stability. Washington has put countering China at the heart of its national security policy and seeks to rally partners against what it says are Beijing's increasingly coercive economic and foreign policies. Also read | Five years after South China Sea ruling, China's presence around Philippines only growing Officials in Berlin have said the German navy will stick to common trade routes. The frigate is not expected to sail through the Taiwan Strait either, another regular US activity condemned by Beijing. Nevertheless, Berlin has made it clear the mission serves to stress the fact Germany does not accept China's territorial claims. Germany is walking a tightrope between its security and economic interests as China has become Berlin's most important trading partner. German exports there have helped mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Europe’s biggest economy. German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer travelled to the port of Wilhelmshaven to see the frigate Bayern off on its seven-month voyage that will take it to Australia, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam. The vessel is expected to cross the South China Sea in mid-December, making it the first German warship to pass through the region since 2002. "We want existing law to be respected, sea routes to be freely navigable, open societies to be protected and trade to follow fair rules," Kramp-Karrenbauer said. Countries including Britain, France, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, have also been expanding their activity in the Pacific to counter China's influence.

German warship heads for South China Sea amid tension with Beijing

Chinese state media has threatened to make an example of the British warship in the South China Sea. But with the alliance of democracies growing stronger, is Beijing punching above its weight? Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: China warns UK warship in South China Sea

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi welcomed a nine-member Taliban delegation which also included chief negotiator and top political leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. Watch this report to know more.

Beijing welcomes Taliban's political leaders and delegates

Is the Chinese military planning to enter Afghanistan? Beijing says it wants to 'drive out terrorists'and conduct joint operations with Islamabad. Is this another recipe for disaster? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Is the Chinese military planning to enter Afghanistan?

Following a statement by&nbsp;American climate tsar John Kerry urging China to curb emissions,&nbsp;Beijing has warned the US that&nbsp;climate cooperation with Washington will be governed by overall Sino-US relations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This comes amid the recent soaring tensions between the United States and China.&nbsp;

The Sino-US relationship has been strained in recent months as both sides traded barbs over Beijing's human rights record and the initial handling of the coronavirus outbreak.

The two sides have already agreed to work together on several issues, including climate change.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-find-common-ground-over-need-for-stronger-climate-commitments-378330">US, China find common ground over need for stronger climate commitments</a>&nbsp;

However, China's foreign ministry spokeswoman Zhao Lijian warned that deteriorating Sino-US relations could affect cooperation on environmental issues after Kerry called for Beijing to act more rapidly on climate challenges.

"I want to emphasise that the cooperation between China and the United States in specific fields is closely related to the overall health of Sino-US relations," said&nbsp; Zhao. He also added that the&nbsp;US should not "wantonly" jeopardise Chinese interests by meddling in China's internal affairs, while at the same time seeking China's understanding and support in bilateral and global relations.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lavrov-kerry-meet-leaders-say-they-will-cooperate-on-climate-crisis-397738/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As a way to break free from the world's current mutual suicide pact, Kerry called on Chinese officials to ensure that emissions peak before the 2020 deadline.

During a policy speech in London, he said that limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius was "essentially impossible" without "sufficient reduction by China".

Recently, after the US Senate voted to ban products made in the politically sensitive region of Xinjiang over claims of forced labour, Washington has irked Beijing by warning of business risks in Hong Kong due to Beijing's clampdown on freedoms.

(With inputs from agencies)

Following a statement by American climate tsar John Kerry urging China to curb emissions, Beijing has warned the US that climate cooperation with Washington will be governed by overall Sino-US relations.

Following a statement by American climate tsar John Kerry urging China to curb emissions, Beijing has warned the US that climate cooperation with Washington will be governed by overall Sino-US relations. This comes amid the recent soaring tensions between the United States and China. The Sino-US relationship has been strained in recent months as both sides traded barbs over Beijing's human rights record and the initial handling of the coronavirus outbreak. The two sides have already agreed to work together on several issues, including climate change. Also read | US, China find common ground over need for stronger climate commitments However, China's foreign ministry spokeswoman Zhao Lijian warned that deteriorating Sino-US relations could affect cooperation on environmental issues after Kerry called for Beijing to act more rapidly on climate challenges. "I want to emphasise that the cooperation between China and the United States in specific fields is closely related to the overall health of Sino-US relations," said Zhao. He also added that the US should not "wantonly" jeopardise Chinese interests by meddling in China's internal affairs, while at the same time seeking China's understanding and support in bilateral and global relations. As a way to break free from the world's current mutual suicide pact, Kerry called on Chinese officials to ensure that emissions peak before the 2020 deadline. During a policy speech in London, he said that limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius was "essentially impossible" without "sufficient reduction by China". Recently, after the US Senate voted to ban products made in the politically sensitive region of Xinjiang over claims of forced labour, Washington has irked Beijing by warning of business risks in Hong Kong due to Beijing's clampdown on freedoms. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing warns US against meddling in internal affairs and links climate cooperation to relations

Four Chinese nationals have been charged for targeting dozens of companies, universities and government agencies in the United States and abroad. This action comes right in the heels of the United States and its allies publicly accusing China of a global cyber espionage campaign.

4 Chinese nationals charged for hacking US companies

The Biden administration and Western allies blamed China for a massive hack of Microsoft Exchange email server software and accused Beijing of working with criminal hackers in ransomware attacks and other cyber operations.

US & allies condemn China for malicious cyber activity

South Korean defender Kim Min-jae has been forced to withdraw from his country's squad for the men's Olympic football tournament after Chinese Super League side Beijing Guoan refused to agree to his release. 
 
Kim had been included in coach Kim Hak-bum's line-up as one of three permitted overage members, but clubs are not obligated to allow players to join their Olympic teams as the tournament is not held during an official FIFA window. 
 
The Korean Football Association announced the 24-year-old central defender has been replaced by Park Ji-soo, who currently plays for South Korean army club Gimcheon Sangmu. 
 
The Koreans, who are one of only two Asian nations to have won a medal in the men's Olympic tournament, have been drawn in Group B of the 16-team competition alongside New Zealand, Honduras and Romania, with games set to kick off on July 22.

South Korean defender Kim Min-jae has been forced to withdraw from his country's squad for the men's Olympic football tournament after Chinese Super League side Beijing Guoan refused to agree to his release.

South Korean defender Kim Min-jae has been forced to withdraw from his country's squad for the men's Olympic football tournament after Chinese Super League side Beijing Guoan refused to agree to his release. Kim had been included in coach Kim Hak-bum's line-up as one of three permitted overage members, but clubs are not obligated to allow players to join their Olympic teams as the tournament is not held during an official FIFA window. The Korean Football Association announced the 24-year-old central defender has been replaced by Park Ji-soo, who currently plays for South Korean army club Gimcheon Sangmu. The Koreans, who are one of only two Asian nations to have won a medal in the men's Olympic tournament, have been drawn in Group B of the 16-team competition alongside New Zealand, Honduras and Romania, with games set to kick off on July 22.

Soccer: Defender Kim ruled out for Korea in Olympics as Beijing block release

The Chinese Communist Party puts up a great extravaganza as it celebrates its 100th founding anniversary which comes as Hong Kong marks 24 years of its handover.

Beijing celebrates 100th founding anniversary of Chinese Communist Party

President Xi Jinping has called for some comprehensive implementation of China's governance in Hong Kong as the Chinese Communist Party is celebrating its 100th founding anniversary which comes as Hong Kong for its part is marking 24 years since its handover.

Chinese Communist Party celebrates centenary of founding

Clocking in the centenary celebrations of the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from the balcony of Tiananmen Gate in Beijing, Xi Jinping highlighted the work that the party had done to transform China into a 'superpower' since its establishment in 1921 under Mao Zedong.

Xi Jinping says era of China being bullied is gone

There is a rise in eating disorder hospitalisations in China and Beijing is blaming the world for it. Experts in China say the eating disorder is a 'foreign phenomenon' that only arrived in China recently. Palki Sharma tells you why this is not true.

Gravitas: China blames the World for eating disorders

As demands for transparency from China grow, Beijing is blaming everyone else for the pandemic. A Chinese scientist suggested that the virus could be a bioweapon from US. While the Chinese press is painting Europe as the original epicentre. Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: China blames everyone but itself for the pandemic

China has launched three astronauts to build its own space station. This is just the first step in Beijing's space domination plans. China has plans to mine the moon and build colonies on Mars. Palki Sharma tells you about China's plans to colonise space.

Gravitas: China's plans to conquer the Moon, Mars and beyond

China appeared to tread cautiously after sharp rebukes from the G7 & NATO, accusing the alliances of exaggerating the China threat. Has the anti-China alliance already rattled Beijing? How will it respond? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China rattled after takedown by NATO & G7?

The main representative of the Chinese government in Hong Kong said on Saturday people trying to turn the city into a 'pawn in geopolitics' were the 'real enemies' and Beijing was the true defender of the city's special status. 
 
Luo Huining, director of China's Hong Kong Liaison Office, told a forum that the financial hub, a former British colony handed over to China in 1997, remained one of the world's most competitive economies, the South China Morning Post reported. 
 
"Those trying to turn Hong Kong into a pawn in geopolitics, a tool in curbing China, as well as a bridgehead for infiltrating the mainland, are destroying the foundation of one country, two systems," Luo said, referring to the formula agreed when Britain handed the city back aimed at preserving its freedoms and role as a financial hub. 
 
"They are the real enemies of Hong Kong's prosperity and stability," he said, without identifying any people or groups. 
 
Luo said the ruling Communist Party was 'the creator, leader, implementer and defender of one country, two systems'. 
 
Despite such assurances, many Hong Kong residents have over recent years become worried about what they see as attempts by Beijing to curtail its freedoms. 
 
China denies that. 
 
The Liaison Office did not answer calls outside normal business hours to confirm the contents of the speech and it did not immediately respond to faxed questions. 
 
Unease among many Hong Kong residents grew in 2014 when pro-democracy protesters took to the streets to demand universal suffrage. Demonstrations snowballed again in 2019, sparked by opposition to judicial reform that many people saw as a threat to their way of life. 
 
Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law on the city in last June stifling the pro-democracy movement and raising new concerns about the city's prospects. 
 
The law's supporters say it has restored order and improved prospects for the city's economy, which Luo said was among the world's most competitive despite fears it would deteriorate under Chinese rule. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The main representative of the Chinese government in Hong Kong said on Saturday people trying to turn the city into a 'pawn in geopolitics' were the 'real enemies' and Beijing was the true defender of the city's special status.

The main representative of the Chinese government in Hong Kong said on Saturday people trying to turn the city into a 'pawn in geopolitics' were the 'real enemies' and Beijing was the true defender of the city's special status. Luo Huining, director of China's Hong Kong Liaison Office, told a forum that the financial hub, a former British colony handed over to China in 1997, remained one of the world's most competitive economies, the South China Morning Post reported. "Those trying to turn Hong Kong into a pawn in geopolitics, a tool in curbing China, as well as a bridgehead for infiltrating the mainland, are destroying the foundation of one country, two systems," Luo said, referring to the formula agreed when Britain handed the city back aimed at preserving its freedoms and role as a financial hub. "They are the real enemies of Hong Kong's prosperity and stability," he said, without identifying any people or groups. Luo said the ruling Communist Party was 'the creator, leader, implementer and defender of one country, two systems'. Despite such assurances, many Hong Kong residents have over recent years become worried about what they see as attempts by Beijing to curtail its freedoms. China denies that. The Liaison Office did not answer calls outside normal business hours to confirm the contents of the speech and it did not immediately respond to faxed questions. Unease among many Hong Kong residents grew in 2014 when pro-democracy protesters took to the streets to demand universal suffrage. Demonstrations snowballed again in 2019, sparked by opposition to judicial reform that many people saw as a threat to their way of life. Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law on the city in last June stifling the pro-democracy movement and raising new concerns about the city's prospects. The law's supporters say it has restored order and improved prospects for the city's economy, which Luo said was among the world's most competitive despite fears it would deteriorate under Chinese rule. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing official says 'real enemies' want Hong Kong to be 'pawn in geopolitics'

India called on China to issue visas to Indian nationals who meet all requirements laid down by Beijing for travel, including getting vaccinated with Chinese-made jabs.

India slams China for not letting Indian nationals return

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