In an attempt to incentivise young people to get married and have kids, a county in eastern China is offering couples a “reward” of 1,000 yuan ($137) if the bride is aged 25 or younger. China is currently battling a declining birthrate crisis and the government is rolling out lucrative schemes to encourage young people to have more kids.&nbsp;

The recent scheme has been launched in&nbsp;Changshan county where the authorities made the announcement on the official WeChat account last week. According to a Reuters report, the reward is to promote “age-appropriate marriage and childbearing” for first marriages. Apart from the monetary benefit, the scheme includes childcare, fertility and education subsidies for couples who have children.

<h2>Why is China launching such programmes?</h2>

According to the Ministry of Civil Affairs, only 6.83 million couples completed their marriage registrations in 2022, down about 800,000 from the previous year. The number of marriages last year was nearly half the peak of 13.47 million in 2013.

Official numbers released by the National Bureau of Statistics earlier this year stated that China's population declined by 850,000 between the end of 2021 and 2022. Even for a country as big as China, the number is slightly concerning - for it suggests that there is a slow but steady demographic shift happening.&nbsp;

A Pew Research report has stated that China has 14 per cent population above the age of 65. By 2035, a third of China's population (400 million people) is expected to be above the age of 60. With an ageing population, it will become increasingly difficult for the 'world's factory' to keep churning out goods at the same rate.&nbsp;

Watch | Chinese city launches state-sponsored dating app

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China’s fertility rate, already one of the world’s lowest, is estimated to have dropped to a record low of 1.09 in 2022, state media reported. Consequently, the Politburo has swiftly dialled down its 'One-Child policy' which perhaps started the decline in population in the first place.&nbsp;

The second reason for the decline in marriages is the changing attitudes towards the institution, especially among young women who are becoming more educated and financially independent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-marriages-drop-to-historic-low-as-nation-deals-with-declining-birth-rate-603304">Also read |&nbsp;China: Marriages drop to historic low as nation deals with declining birth rate</a>

While China ages, rival India and its population under 65 will remain less than 30 per cent till the year 2100, according to UN’s medium variant projections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an attempt to incentivise young people to get married and have kids, a county in eastern China is offering couples a “reward” of 1,000 yuan ($137) if the bride is aged 25 or younger.

In an attempt to incentivise young people to get married and have kids, a county in eastern China is offering couples a “reward” of 1,000 yuan ($137) if the bride is aged 25 or younger. China is currently battling a declining birthrate crisis and the government is rolling out lucrative schemes to encourage young people to have more kids. The recent scheme has been launched in Changshan county where the authorities made the announcement on the official WeChat account last week. According to a Reuters report, the reward is to promote “age-appropriate marriage and childbearing” for first marriages. Apart from the monetary benefit, the scheme includes childcare, fertility and education subsidies for couples who have children. Why is China launching such programmes? According to the Ministry of Civil Affairs, only 6.83 million couples completed their marriage registrations in 2022, down about 800,000 from the previous year. The number of marriages last year was nearly half the peak of 13.47 million in 2013. Official numbers released by the National Bureau of Statistics earlier this year stated that China's population declined by 850,000 between the end of 2021 and 2022. Even for a country as big as China, the number is slightly concerning - for it suggests that there is a slow but steady demographic shift happening. A Pew Research report has stated that China has 14 per cent population above the age of 65. By 2035, a third of China's population (400 million people) is expected to be above the age of 60. With an ageing population, it will become increasingly difficult for the 'world's factory' to keep churning out goods at the same rate. Watch | Chinese city launches state-sponsored dating app China’s fertility rate, already one of the world’s lowest, is estimated to have dropped to a record low of 1.09 in 2022, state media reported. Consequently, the Politburo has swiftly dialled down its 'One-Child policy' which perhaps started the decline in population in the first place. The second reason for the decline in marriages is the changing attitudes towards the institution, especially among young women who are becoming more educated and financially independent. Also read | China: Marriages drop to historic low as nation deals with declining birth rate While China ages, rival India and its population under 65 will remain less than 30 per cent till the year 2100, according to UN’s medium variant projections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China population crisis: Newlyweds to receive cash reward if bride is under 25

Later this month, US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo will travel to China to meet with top Chinese officials. On Tuesday, the US Department of Commerce revealed that Raimondo would visit Beijing and Shanghai from August 27 to 30.

Raimondo's four-day visit to Shanghai and Beijing to begin on Sunday

In response to a claim made by the spokesperson for China's foreign ministry that Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India had requested that President Xi Jinping of that nation speak with him, Indian official sources have clarified that it was China that had made the request.

Beijing: Border issue not all of India-China bilateral relations | India-China Border Talks

Friction between Washington and Beijing continues after limiting the operations of Chinese businesses like TikTok in the United States. The White House is now cracking down on Chinese land ownership.

Restrictions on Chinese land ownership in US, 14 state bills enacted into law since 2021

Mango shipments from Taiwan were prohibited by China starting on Monday, the latest blow to the island's agricultural industry amid deteriorating political ties in the wake of recent US visits by Taiwan's vice president and leading presidential candidate William Lai Ching-te.

Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes

Despite Chinese threats, the Philippines on Tuesday (August 22) said its resupply mission to troops on a remote outpost in the disputed South China Sea was a success.

Despite Chinese threats, the Philippines on Tuesday (August 22) said its resupply mission to troops on a remote outpost in the disputed South China Sea was a success. Manila said Chinese vessels attempted to block the boats carrying the fresh provisions but the Filipino side persevered. "The routine follow-on Rotation and Resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre was successfully conducted today," the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said in a statement. The supplies were intended for troops stationed on a rusty, World War-2 era warship that Manila intentionally grounded in 1999 as part of its sovereignty claim to the Second Thomas Shoal, located in the Spratly Islands, which lies within its 200-mile exclusive economic zone. The tiny garrison depends on regular deliveries of provisions for their survival. China fires water cannons The mission comes just over two weeks after the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) fired water cannons at Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels carrying the ration. A video released by the PCG at the time showed the CCG conducting dangerous manoeuvres in the open sea without any provocation from the Filipino side. Also read | China fires water cannons at Filipino boats in South China Sea Since the incident, both sides have traded verbal blows, with Manila vowing to never abandon the shoal, despite Beijing's incessant pressure tactics. "For the record, we will never abandon Ayungin Shoal. We are committed to Ayungin Shoal," said Jonathan Malaya, spokesman for the National Security Council, using the Filipino name for Second Thomas Shoal. Support pours in for the Philippines Even the US got involved as the State Department released a statement, condemning the Chinese actions, saying they were carried out by the coast guard and "maritime militia" which threatened peace and stability in the region. "The US stands with our Philippine allies in the face of dangerous actions by the Coast Guard and maritime militia of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to obstruct an August 5 PH resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea," read the statement. Watch | Tensions rise over Chinese vessels in South-China sea According to an Asia Nikkei report, South Korea and India also joined the US, Japan and other European nations in supporting the Philippines as China continued its belligerent activities in the region. Notably, Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored a 2016 international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Despite Chinese threats, Philippines conducts successful resupply mission to remote outpost in South China Sea

For the first time since North Korea shut its borders in early 2020 as a preventative step against the COVID-19 epidemic, China stated on Monday that it has approved the restart of commercial flights between Beijing and Pyongyang.

China permits the restart of commercial flights between Beijing and Pyongyang

China announced on Monday that it has granted approval for the resumption of commercial flights between Beijing and the North Korean capital, Pyongyang. This marks a significant development as it is the first time such flights have been allowed since North Korea closed its borders in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During a regular press briefing, Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for China's foreign ministry, said, "During the summer and autumn flight season... the Chinese side approved flight plans for passengers such as the Pyongyang-Beijing and Beijing-Pyongyang routes of Air Koryo."&nbsp;

But as Air Koryo was set to return to the Chinese skies, there was an abrupt cancellation of flights. North Korea's national airline, Air Koryo, was poised to launch its first commercial flight in over three years on Monday, August 21.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecowas-rejects-niger-coup-leaders-pitch-to-restore-civilian-rule-in-three-years-627364">ECOWAS rejects Niger coup leader's pledge to restore civilian rule in three years</a>

This flight, designated as JS151, was expected to arrive at Beijing's Capital International Airport at 9:50 am. However, in a major disappointment, the flight was unexpectedly cancelled at the last moment.

<h2>North Korea's seclusion since 2020</h2>

North Korea has remained secluded from the global community since early 2020 when it took the decision to seal its borders in response to the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus.&nbsp;The sudden cancellation of Air Koryo's flight raised numerous questions.

Representatives from the airline offered no specific reason for the abrupt change in plans, media reports said.

China's foreign ministry, when queried about the cancellation, reportedly reiterated its approval for restarting commercial flights between the two capitals.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-president-ramaphosa-calls-for-unsc-reform-sets-pitch-for-brics-expansion-ahead-of-summit-627366">South Africa's President Ramaphosa calls for UNSC reform, sets pitch for BRICS expansion ahead of summit</a>

After three years of isolation prompted by the pandemic, there are indications that Pyongyang may be gradually loosening its grip on border restrictions. The anticipated resumption of Air Koryo's commercial flights was seen as a potential step towards re-engaging with the international community.

Watch | Pakistan: President Arif Alvi denies signing of key laws

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AFP reporters attempting to seek clarification from Air Koryo's Beijing office were met with uncertainty. A man present in the dark office was sleeping. Another man was not able to provide concrete answers, repeatedly stating "We don't know." He directed journalists to seek information from North Korea's state newspaper, the Rodong Sinmun.

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China announced on Monday that it has granted approval for the resumption of commercial flights between Beijing and the North Korean capital, Pyongyang. This marks a significant development as it is the first time such flights have been allowed since North Korea closed its borders in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

China announced on Monday that it has granted approval for the resumption of commercial flights between Beijing and the North Korean capital, Pyongyang. This marks a significant development as it is the first time such flights have been allowed since North Korea closed its borders in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During a regular press briefing, Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for China's foreign ministry, said, "During the summer and autumn flight season... the Chinese side approved flight plans for passengers such as the Pyongyang-Beijing and Beijing-Pyongyang routes of Air Koryo." But as Air Koryo was set to return to the Chinese skies, there was an abrupt cancellation of flights. North Korea's national airline, Air Koryo, was poised to launch its first commercial flight in over three years on Monday, August 21. Also Read | ECOWAS rejects Niger coup leader's pledge to restore civilian rule in three years This flight, designated as JS151, was expected to arrive at Beijing's Capital International Airport at 9:50 am. However, in a major disappointment, the flight was unexpectedly cancelled at the last moment. North Korea's seclusion since 2020 North Korea has remained secluded from the global community since early 2020 when it took the decision to seal its borders in response to the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus. The sudden cancellation of Air Koryo's flight raised numerous questions. Representatives from the airline offered no specific reason for the abrupt change in plans, media reports said. China's foreign ministry, when queried about the cancellation, reportedly reiterated its approval for restarting commercial flights between the two capitals. Also Read | South Africa's President Ramaphosa calls for UNSC reform, sets pitch for BRICS expansion ahead of summit After three years of isolation prompted by the pandemic, there are indications that Pyongyang may be gradually loosening its grip on border restrictions. The anticipated resumption of Air Koryo's commercial flights was seen as a potential step towards re-engaging with the international community. Watch | Pakistan: President Arif Alvi denies signing of key laws × AFP reporters attempting to seek clarification from Air Koryo's Beijing office were met with uncertainty. A man present in the dark office was sleeping. Another man was not able to provide concrete answers, repeatedly stating "We don't know." He directed journalists to seek information from North Korea's state newspaper, the Rodong Sinmun. 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. ×

China gives green light to Beijing-Pyongyang commercial flights

#ThisWorld | China's GDP growth rate has slowed down. The national debt is nearing the IMF red line & now property giant Evergrande has filed for bankruptcy. Has Beijing's growth story hit a roadblock?

China cuts key rates as weak batch of July data darkens economic outlook

The relationship between China and Sri Lanka has been going strong as Beijing seeks to increase its footprint in the Indian Ocean region in Sri Lanka.

China pledges help for Sri Lanka's debt crisis

Russian and Chinese navy ships have been jointly conducting maritime patrols in the Pacific Ocean involving naval exercises in order to counter air strikes, Russia's defence ministry said on Friday (August 18).

"A detachment of ships of the Russian Navy and the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy is currently operating in the waters of the East China Sea and has travelled more than 6,400 nautical miles since the start of patrolling," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.

Russian state news agency TASS released a video that showed nine large vessels sailing in a diamond formation as crew members stood to attention on deck.

The defence ministry further said that the drills also included practicing the "replenishment of fuel reserves by ships and the transfer of cargo on the go", adding that the joint detachment of ships had covered more than 6,400 nautical miles since the start of the exercises.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-destroyed-ukrainian-drone-that-smashed-into-building-in-moscow-626609">Russia claims it destroyed Ukrainian drone that later smashed into a building in Moscow</a>

"During this period, the sailors of the two countries conducted anti-submarine exercises, repulsed an air strike by a mock enemy, conducted rescue training at sea, and perfected the skills of taking off and landing helicopters on the decks of warships," the ministry statement read.

<h2>Moscow-Beijing ties</h2>

In recent years, the ties between Russia and China have strengthened, as the war with Ukraine has ravaged Russia's relationship with Western governments.

On Monday (August 14), a Chinese defence ministry spokesperson said that naval fleets were conducting maritime patrols in the western and northern regions of the Pacific Ocean.

"These actions are not aimed at a third party and are not related to the current international and regional situation," the spokesperson added.

Earlier this week, Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu visited Russia where he attended the 11th Moscow Conference on International Security and called for closer military cooperation.

Recently, Moscow and Beijing have increased their bilateral defence collaboration as they carried out a joint air patrol over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea in the month of July.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian and Chinese navy ships have been jointly conducting maritime patrols in the Pacific Ocean involving naval exercises in order to counter air strikes, Russia's defence ministry said on Friday (August 18).

Russian and Chinese navy ships have been jointly conducting maritime patrols in the Pacific Ocean involving naval exercises in order to counter air strikes, Russia's defence ministry said on Friday (August 18). "A detachment of ships of the Russian Navy and the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy is currently operating in the waters of the East China Sea and has travelled more than 6,400 nautical miles since the start of patrolling," the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. Russian state news agency TASS released a video that showed nine large vessels sailing in a diamond formation as crew members stood to attention on deck. The defence ministry further said that the drills also included practicing the "replenishment of fuel reserves by ships and the transfer of cargo on the go", adding that the joint detachment of ships had covered more than 6,400 nautical miles since the start of the exercises. Also read: Russia claims it destroyed Ukrainian drone that later smashed into a building in Moscow "During this period, the sailors of the two countries conducted anti-submarine exercises, repulsed an air strike by a mock enemy, conducted rescue training at sea, and perfected the skills of taking off and landing helicopters on the decks of warships," the ministry statement read. Moscow-Beijing ties In recent years, the ties between Russia and China have strengthened, as the war with Ukraine has ravaged Russia's relationship with Western governments. On Monday (August 14), a Chinese defence ministry spokesperson said that naval fleets were conducting maritime patrols in the western and northern regions of the Pacific Ocean. "These actions are not aimed at a third party and are not related to the current international and regional situation," the spokesperson added. Earlier this week, Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu visited Russia where he attended the 11th Moscow Conference on International Security and called for closer military cooperation. Recently, Moscow and Beijing have increased their bilateral defence collaboration as they carried out a joint air patrol over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea in the month of July. (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.

Russia, China conduct joint maritime patrols in Pacific Ocean

Amid the ongoing worldwide plastic crisis, the findings of a recent study might just make your heart skip a beat. In a number of recent studies, it was found that microplastics are detected virtually everywhere, from rain, and snow to even human blood.&nbsp;

According to the latest study published by the American Chemical Society (ACS), a team of scientists in Beijing Anzhen Hospital, China found microplastics in the human heart for the first time.&nbsp;

<h2>What are microplastics?</h2>

Microplastics have&nbsp;been defined as tiny chunks of less than five millimetres long pieces of plastic and microfibres from clothes that get caught in the Earth’s atmosphere.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-study-finds-its-raining-microplastics-should-we-be-concerned-about-our-health-543789">Explained: Study finds it’s raining microplastics, should we be concerned about our health?</a>

Previous studies have also confirmed the worst fears that microplastics are being carried all around the world including remote areas such as Antarctica where, last year, microplastics were found in the fresh snowfall.&nbsp;

Studies have also found that they can enter the human body through mouth, nose&nbsp;and other body cavities. However, scientists have yet to find out the potential exposure to, and effects from, microplastics, on the human body.&nbsp;

<h2>How was the study conducted?</h2>

The pilot experiment conducted by Doctors Kun Hua, Xiubin Yang and their team sought to investigate whether these particles can enter people’s cardiovascular systems through indirect and direct exposures.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/credit-card-equivalent-study-finds-how-much-plastic-humans-inhale-every-week-but-where-does-it-go-606194">‘Credit card-equivalent’: Study finds how much plastic humans inhale every week. But where does it go?</a>

Therefore, researchers collected heart tissue samples from 15 people during cardiac surgeries, as well as pre-and post-operation blood specimens from half of the participants, said the statement about the study. The samples were then analysed with laser direct infrared imaging.&nbsp;

<h2>What did they find?</h2>

Researchers, using the previously mentioned method, found 20 to 500 micrometre-wide particles made from eight types of plastic, as per the study. They also found “tens to thousands of individual microplastic pieces in most of the tissue samples collected”, but the amounts and materials varied between participants.

Among the eight types of plastics found was Polyethylene terephthalate, which is used in clothing and food containers as well as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is widespread in window frames, drainage pipes, paint and more.&nbsp;

The study also noted that while all the blood samples collected contained plastic particles, the average size after the surgery decreased but the particles came from more diverse types of plastics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/microplastics-detected-in-human-breastmilk-for-first-time-scientists-startled-523920">Microplastics detected in human breast milk for first time, scientists startled</a>

This suggests that some microplastics were inadvertently introduced to the subjects during the surgeries. While the study was conducted with a small number of participants, researchers said that they have provided preliminary evidence of how “various microplastics can accumulate and persist in the heart and its innermost tissues.”&nbsp;

They added that the “findings show how invasive medical procedures are an overlooked route of microplastics exposure, providing direct access to the bloodstream and internal tissues.”&nbsp;

“The detection of in vivo MPs (microplastics) is alarming, and more studies are necessary to investigate how the MPs enter the cardiac tissues and the potential effects of MPs on long-term prognosis after cardiac surgery,” said the research team, in a statement. 
 
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Amid the ongoing worldwide plastic crisis, the findings of a recent study might just make your heart skip a beat. In a number of recent studies, it was found that microplastics are detected virtually everywhere, from rain, and snow to even human blood.

Amid the ongoing worldwide plastic crisis, the findings of a recent study might just make your heart skip a beat. In a number of recent studies, it was found that microplastics are detected virtually everywhere, from rain, and snow to even human blood. According to the latest study published by the American Chemical Society (ACS), a team of scientists in Beijing Anzhen Hospital, China found microplastics in the human heart for the first time. What are microplastics? Microplastics have been defined as tiny chunks of less than five millimetres long pieces of plastic and microfibres from clothes that get caught in the Earth’s atmosphere. ALSO READ | Explained: Study finds it’s raining microplastics, should we be concerned about our health? Previous studies have also confirmed the worst fears that microplastics are being carried all around the world including remote areas such as Antarctica where, last year, microplastics were found in the fresh snowfall. Studies have also found that they can enter the human body through mouth, nose and other body cavities. However, scientists have yet to find out the potential exposure to, and effects from, microplastics, on the human body. How was the study conducted? The pilot experiment conducted by Doctors Kun Hua, Xiubin Yang and their team sought to investigate whether these particles can enter people’s cardiovascular systems through indirect and direct exposures. ALSO READ | ‘Credit card-equivalent’: Study finds how much plastic humans inhale every week. But where does it go? Therefore, researchers collected heart tissue samples from 15 people during cardiac surgeries, as well as pre-and post-operation blood specimens from half of the participants, said the statement about the study. The samples were then analysed with laser direct infrared imaging. What did they find? Researchers, using the previously mentioned method, found 20 to 500 micrometre-wide particles made from eight types of plastic, as per the study. They also found “tens to thousands of individual microplastic pieces in most of the tissue samples collected”, but the amounts and materials varied between participants. Among the eight types of plastics found was Polyethylene terephthalate, which is used in clothing and food containers as well as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is widespread in window frames, drainage pipes, paint and more. The study also noted that while all the blood samples collected contained plastic particles, the average size after the surgery decreased but the particles came from more diverse types of plastics. ALSO READ | Microplastics detected in human breast milk for first time, scientists startled This suggests that some microplastics were inadvertently introduced to the subjects during the surgeries. While the study was conducted with a small number of participants, researchers said that they have provided preliminary evidence of how “various microplastics can accumulate and persist in the heart and its innermost tissues.” They added that the “findings show how invasive medical procedures are an overlooked route of microplastics exposure, providing direct access to the bloodstream and internal tissues.” “The detection of in vivo MPs (microplastics) is alarming, and more studies are necessary to investigate how the MPs enter the cardiac tissues and the potential effects of MPs on long-term prognosis after cardiac surgery,” said the research team, in a statement. 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.

In a worrisome first, scientists detect microplastics in human hearts: Study

At Nanchengxiang restaurants in Beijing, diners can treat themselves to a large breakfast buffet with three types of rice porridge, sour and spicy soup and milk at just 3 yuan ($0.40).

"Many good, cheap choices popped up during the pandemic," Gao Yi, aged 71, told Reuters while he ate breakfast with his grandson in one of the chain's 160 locations in the Chinese capital.

"Not all of them last. But there are new good deals all the time; you just have to go out to find them."

Deflation in China appears like that.

A price war among lower-end restaurant chains in China is fueled by a lack of consumer demand, which analysts warn might hurt smaller firms already trying to compete with the discounts provided by larger players.

Deflation can hinder economic growth, as seen in Japan in the 1990s.

"Good deals are needed to get consumers through the door, so there is a lot of pressure on these businesses to find margins," Ben Cavender, the managing director at China Market Research Group in Shanghai, told Reuters.

People in China were mostly left to fend for themselves financially throughout the pandemic, unlike residents of Western nations, with government assistance focused primarily on the industrial industry. As some economists had feared, there was no immediate consumer splurge after the restrictions were lifted.

Spending appetites remain less, and confidence is low in an economy that has not been expanding. This is because earnings and pensions have stayed the same while employment remains unpredictable.

"Discount strategies, offering consumers a more value-for-money choice, match the current economic situation," Reuters quoted Zhu Danpeng, a food and beverage analyst and deputy head of the Guangdong Provincial Food Safety Promotion Alliance.

Staff reported that the central Nanchengxiang outlet was crowded on Thursday, as it has been each morning since the 3 yuan discount was introduced in May. Reuters questioned the company about its profit margins and business plan, but they did not receive a response.

The staff of the Beijing-based burger chain Xishaoye has similarly advertised decreased prices, claiming that some menu items will cost as little as 10 yuan. Burgers, snacks, and drinks are available on the menu at KFC operator Yum China for 19.9 yuan.

"Traffic is back, but spending per person has dropped," Joey Wat, Yum's chief executive officer, told Reuters.

"In our minds, the pandemic seems like it happened a long time ago. It actually hasn't. People need time to adjust," Reuters quotes another source.

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At Nanchengxiang restaurants in Beijing, diners can treat themselves to a large breakfast buffet with three types of rice porridge, sour and spicy soup and milk at just 3 yuan ($0.

At Nanchengxiang restaurants in Beijing, diners can treat themselves to a large breakfast buffet with three types of rice porridge, sour and spicy soup and milk at just 3 yuan ($0.40). "Many good, cheap choices popped up during the pandemic," Gao Yi, aged 71, told Reuters while he ate breakfast with his grandson in one of the chain's 160 locations in the Chinese capital. "Not all of them last. But there are new good deals all the time; you just have to go out to find them." Deflation in China appears like that. A price war among lower-end restaurant chains in China is fueled by a lack of consumer demand, which analysts warn might hurt smaller firms already trying to compete with the discounts provided by larger players. Deflation can hinder economic growth, as seen in Japan in the 1990s. "Good deals are needed to get consumers through the door, so there is a lot of pressure on these businesses to find margins," Ben Cavender, the managing director at China Market Research Group in Shanghai, told Reuters. People in China were mostly left to fend for themselves financially throughout the pandemic, unlike residents of Western nations, with government assistance focused primarily on the industrial industry. As some economists had feared, there was no immediate consumer splurge after the restrictions were lifted. Spending appetites remain less, and confidence is low in an economy that has not been expanding. This is because earnings and pensions have stayed the same while employment remains unpredictable. "Discount strategies, offering consumers a more value-for-money choice, match the current economic situation," Reuters quoted Zhu Danpeng, a food and beverage analyst and deputy head of the Guangdong Provincial Food Safety Promotion Alliance. Staff reported that the central Nanchengxiang outlet was crowded on Thursday, as it has been each morning since the 3 yuan discount was introduced in May. Reuters questioned the company about its profit margins and business plan, but they did not receive a response. The staff of the Beijing-based burger chain Xishaoye has similarly advertised decreased prices, claiming that some menu items will cost as little as 10 yuan. Burgers, snacks, and drinks are available on the menu at KFC operator Yum China for 19.9 yuan. "Traffic is back, but spending per person has dropped," Joey Wat, Yum's chief executive officer, told Reuters. "In our minds, the pandemic seems like it happened a long time ago. It actually hasn't. People need time to adjust," Reuters quotes another source. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China slides towards deflation, with breakfast buffets costing just 40 cents

For the first time since 2021, both&nbsp;consumer and producer prices have contracted in China, a telltale sign of deflation as demand weakens in the world's second-largest economy.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the consumer price index dropped 0.3 per cent in July, compared to the same period last year. Analysts argue that slowing domestic spending continues to weigh on the country's post-Covid economic recovery, even as Bloomberg had anticipated a 0.4 per cent decline.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Producer Price Index, which gauges the change in selling prices received by the domestic producers for their output, fell by 4.4 per cent in July, more than the 4.1 per cent expected by economists.&nbsp;

After the release of the reports, the Shanghai Composite was down 0.29 per cent and the&nbsp;Shenzhen Component 0.21 per cent&nbsp;lower. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index shed 0.42 per cent.&nbsp;

The data by NBS comes a day after it was revealed that Beijing's exports fell last month at their fastest pace in more than three years, setting up warning bells. Additionally, imports also dropped for a ninth&nbsp;consecutive month as consumers refuse to spend on goods.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-economic-vulnerabilities-rising-local-government-debt-623293">Watch |&nbsp;China's economic vulnerabilities: Rising local government debt</a>

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Deflation can have a multiplying effect. Although some might see a dip in prices as a good indicator of increased&nbsp;purchasing, consumers often tend to postpone purchases in the hopes of further reductions.&nbsp;

The dip in demand then forced the companies to slash their production, put a freeze on hiring or even lay off some of the workers. They are forced to agree to new discounts to sell off their stocks, in order to maintain some profitability even as costs remain the same.&nbsp;

Despite the weak economic signs, there appears to be no indication from the Politburo that a big-bang stimulus will be provided. Last week, brokerage firm Morgan Stanley also downgraded China's rating to 'equal weight' while its arch-rival India's was updated to 'overweight'.&nbsp;

In simple words, an 'overweight' rating indicates that the brokerage firm anticipates India to do better in the future.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/morgan-stanley-upgrades-indias-rating-to-overweight-downgrades-china-621878">Also read |&nbsp;Morgan Stanley upgrades India’s rating to ‘overweight’, downgrades China</a>

"We think returning India to an 'overweight' rating and downgrading China to 'equal weight'&nbsp;is warranted," analysts said, referring to&nbsp;Indian markets' outperformance over China as a sign of a structural breakout in favour of New Delhi.

(With inputs from agencies)

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For the first time since 2021, both consumer and producer prices have contracted in China, a telltale sign of deflation as demand weakens in the world's second-largest economy.

For the first time since 2021, both consumer and producer prices have contracted in China, a telltale sign of deflation as demand weakens in the world's second-largest economy. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the consumer price index dropped 0.3 per cent in July, compared to the same period last year. Analysts argue that slowing domestic spending continues to weigh on the country's post-Covid economic recovery, even as Bloomberg had anticipated a 0.4 per cent decline. Meanwhile, the Producer Price Index, which gauges the change in selling prices received by the domestic producers for their output, fell by 4.4 per cent in July, more than the 4.1 per cent expected by economists. After the release of the reports, the Shanghai Composite was down 0.29 per cent and the Shenzhen Component 0.21 per cent lower. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index shed 0.42 per cent. The data by NBS comes a day after it was revealed that Beijing's exports fell last month at their fastest pace in more than three years, setting up warning bells. Additionally, imports also dropped for a ninth consecutive month as consumers refuse to spend on goods. Watch | China's economic vulnerabilities: Rising local government debt × Deflation can have a multiplying effect. Although some might see a dip in prices as a good indicator of increased purchasing, consumers often tend to postpone purchases in the hopes of further reductions. The dip in demand then forced the companies to slash their production, put a freeze on hiring or even lay off some of the workers. They are forced to agree to new discounts to sell off their stocks, in order to maintain some profitability even as costs remain the same. Despite the weak economic signs, there appears to be no indication from the Politburo that a big-bang stimulus will be provided. Last week, brokerage firm Morgan Stanley also downgraded China's rating to 'equal weight' while its arch-rival India's was updated to 'overweight'. In simple words, an 'overweight' rating indicates that the brokerage firm anticipates India to do better in the future. Also read | Morgan Stanley upgrades India’s rating to ‘overweight’, downgrades China "We think returning India to an 'overweight' rating and downgrading China to 'equal weight' is warranted," analysts said, referring to Indian markets' outperformance over China as a sign of a structural breakout in favour of New Delhi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China slips into deflation as demand weakens across country

Record rainfall and floods in Beijing have so far claimed the lives of 33 people, whereas 18 are still missing, the officials confirmed on Wednesday.

The Chinese capital has been hit by record rainfall in recent weeks, causing damage to the infrastructure, also ravaging farms and cities.

On Wednesday (9 Aug), officials said that the floods in Beijing had killed 33 people which was almost thrice the numbers shared by authorities last Tuesday.

"I would like to express my deep condolences to those who died in the line of duty and the unfortunate victims," Xia Linmao, Beijing's vice-mayor, told a press conference, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

Hebei province, which neighbours Beijing, had reported 15 deaths with 22 still missing.

Whereas, in northeastern Jilin, 14 people had lost their lives and one person was reported missing on Sunday.

Further north in Heilongjiang, state media reported dozens of rivers saw water levels rise above "warning markers" in recent days.

"I still feel scared when I recall the recent flooding," Zheng Xiaokang, a police officer from the province's Jiangxi village, told the state-run Xinhua News Agency.

"In the face of the persistent downpour and rising river water, the consequences would have been devastating had we not managed to timely evacuate the villagers," Zheng said.

<h2>Floods kill 7 in Sichuan province</h2>

Seven people lost their lives in flash floods in southwestern China on Wednesday.

As per reports, the victims who died were taking pictures when the torrent struck, were tourists visiting a popular site.&nbsp;

<h2>147 deaths, disappearances caused by natural disasters</h2>

Last week, China released a statement saying that natural disasters had claimed the lives of at least 147 people, with several missing in the month of July after record rainfall hit the country's capital.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-shipwreck-in-central-mediterranean-claims-lives-of-41-623866">Migrant shipwreck in central Mediterranean claims lives of 41</a>

China's Ministry of Emergency Management said that 142 of the deaths or disappearances recorded in the month of July were caused by flooding or geological disasters. &nbsp;

The remaining five deaths or disappearances were due to other natural disasters such as drought.&nbsp;

<h2>China to ramp up restoration efforts</h2>

China will ramp up restoration efforts in the country's north and northeast regions which were severely impacted by storm Doksuri. As per state media reports, Beijing will reconstruct the houses that were destroyed due to the recent record flooding in order to make sure that the ones affected can go back to their homes by winter.

The floods, which ravaged farms and cities in the northern Hebei province and enclosing areas, led to more than 1.5 million evacuations.

China's Cabinet said authorities would accelerate the efforts to restore power and telecom connections destroyed by the floods, state broadcaster CCTV reported, citing a cabinet meeting chaired by Premier Li Qiang.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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Record rainfall and floods in Beijing have so far claimed the lives of 33 people, whereas 18 are still missing, the officials confirmed on Wednesday. The Chinese capital has been hit by record rainfall in recent weeks, causing damage to the infrastructure, also ravaging farms and cities.

Record rainfall and floods in Beijing have so far claimed the lives of 33 people, whereas 18 are still missing, the officials confirmed on Wednesday. The Chinese capital has been hit by record rainfall in recent weeks, causing damage to the infrastructure, also ravaging farms and cities. On Wednesday (9 Aug), officials said that the floods in Beijing had killed 33 people which was almost thrice the numbers shared by authorities last Tuesday. "I would like to express my deep condolences to those who died in the line of duty and the unfortunate victims," Xia Linmao, Beijing's vice-mayor, told a press conference, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Hebei province, which neighbours Beijing, had reported 15 deaths with 22 still missing. Whereas, in northeastern Jilin, 14 people had lost their lives and one person was reported missing on Sunday. Further north in Heilongjiang, state media reported dozens of rivers saw water levels rise above "warning markers" in recent days. "I still feel scared when I recall the recent flooding," Zheng Xiaokang, a police officer from the province's Jiangxi village, told the state-run Xinhua News Agency. "In the face of the persistent downpour and rising river water, the consequences would have been devastating had we not managed to timely evacuate the villagers," Zheng said. Floods kill 7 in Sichuan province Seven people lost their lives in flash floods in southwestern China on Wednesday. As per reports, the victims who died were taking pictures when the torrent struck, were tourists visiting a popular site. 147 deaths, disappearances caused by natural disasters Last week, China released a statement saying that natural disasters had claimed the lives of at least 147 people, with several missing in the month of July after record rainfall hit the country's capital. Also read: Migrant shipwreck in central Mediterranean claims lives of 41 China's Ministry of Emergency Management said that 142 of the deaths or disappearances recorded in the month of July were caused by flooding or geological disasters. The remaining five deaths or disappearances were due to other natural disasters such as drought. China to ramp up restoration efforts China will ramp up restoration efforts in the country's north and northeast regions which were severely impacted by storm Doksuri. As per state media reports, Beijing will reconstruct the houses that were destroyed due to the recent record flooding in order to make sure that the ones affected can go back to their homes by winter. The floods, which ravaged farms and cities in the northern Hebei province and enclosing areas, led to more than 1.5 million evacuations. China's Cabinet said authorities would accelerate the efforts to restore power and telecom connections destroyed by the floods, state broadcaster CCTV reported, citing a cabinet meeting chaired by Premier Li Qiang. (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.

Record rainfall, floods in China kill 33 in Beijing, 18 others still missing

At least 14 people are dead after torrential rains battered China's north-eastern Jilin province, state media CCTV reported, citing local authorities, adding to the growing list of fatalities.&nbsp;

The mainland has been inundated with record heavy rains in recent weeks, with the government saying last week that the weather conditions had caused 147 deaths or disappearances.&nbsp;

Additionally, 142 of the deaths or disappearances recorded in July were caused by flooding or geological disasters. The remaining five deaths or disappearances were due to other natural disasters such as drought, it added.&nbsp;

A report by&nbsp;China’s Ministry of Emergency Management noted that the collapse and destruction of more than 2,300 houses had&nbsp;caused direct economic losses amounting&nbsp;to $2.2 billion (15.8 billion yuan).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-caused-record-rainfall-in-beijing-north-china-621993">Watch |&nbsp;What caused record rainfall in Beijing &amp; North China?</a>

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<h2>Rain pummels mainland</h2>

The torrential rains have pummeled various parts of China, including the capital city of Beijing in the aftermath of storm Doksuri, a former super typhoon. According to&nbsp;Beijing Meteorological Service (BMS), the capital received the "heaviest rainfall in 140 years" since record-keeping began.&nbsp;

"The maximum value of rainfall recorded during this storm, which was 744.8 millimetres, occurred at the Wangjiayuan Reservoir in Changping," said BMS.&nbsp;

More than 52,000 have been evacuated from Beijing alone since the start of the rain, exacerbated by Doksuri.&nbsp;In the Fangshan district, power to some 60,000 homes was knocked out.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-30-as-northern-china-reels-from-storm-doksuri-622720">Also read |&nbsp;Death toll rises to 30 as northern China continues to face storm Doksuri's wrath</a>

Notably, it was in 1998 that China witnessed the deadliest and most destructive floods when over 4,000 people died,&nbsp;most of them along the Yangtze River.

Around 300 died in 2021 when the central province of Henan was flooded. Record rainfall that year also inundated the provincial capital of Zhengzhou, turning streets into rushing rivers and flooding at least part of a subway line.

Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast this week. While Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency upgraded Khanun to a typhoon from its earlier tropical storm status.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 14 people are dead after torrential rains battered China's north-eastern Jilin province, state media CCTV reported, citing local authorities, adding to the growing list of fatalities.

At least 14 people are dead after torrential rains battered China's north-eastern Jilin province, state media CCTV reported, citing local authorities, adding to the growing list of fatalities. The mainland has been inundated with record heavy rains in recent weeks, with the government saying last week that the weather conditions had caused 147 deaths or disappearances. Additionally, 142 of the deaths or disappearances recorded in July were caused by flooding or geological disasters. The remaining five deaths or disappearances were due to other natural disasters such as drought, it added. A report by China’s Ministry of Emergency Management noted that the collapse and destruction of more than 2,300 houses had caused direct economic losses amounting to $2.2 billion (15.8 billion yuan). Watch | What caused record rainfall in Beijing & North China? × Rain pummels mainland The torrential rains have pummeled various parts of China, including the capital city of Beijing in the aftermath of storm Doksuri, a former super typhoon. According to Beijing Meteorological Service (BMS), the capital received the "heaviest rainfall in 140 years" since record-keeping began. "The maximum value of rainfall recorded during this storm, which was 744.8 millimetres, occurred at the Wangjiayuan Reservoir in Changping," said BMS. More than 52,000 have been evacuated from Beijing alone since the start of the rain, exacerbated by Doksuri. In the Fangshan district, power to some 60,000 homes was knocked out. Also read | Death toll rises to 30 as northern China continues to face storm Doksuri's wrath Notably, it was in 1998 that China witnessed the deadliest and most destructive floods when over 4,000 people died, most of them along the Yangtze River. Around 300 died in 2021 when the central province of Henan was flooded. Record rainfall that year also inundated the provincial capital of Zhengzhou, turning streets into rushing rivers and flooding at least part of a subway line. Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast this week. While Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency upgraded Khanun to a typhoon from its earlier tropical storm status. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China: At least 14 dead after torrential rain pummels north-east

China's ballooning local government debt is a problem that cannot be brushed aside. Given how important local governments are to China's economy, Xi Jinping's administration is on an overdrive to fix the crisis before it is too late. Among the 'basket of measures' that Beijing has promised are special bond issuance, debt swaps, & loan rollovers. The basket of measures are a big development in the context of Chinese economic planning.

Debt crisis: Beijing comes to local government's rescue

For the first time in six years, Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu there. The publication said that the two countries have recently spoken about the upcoming trip, citing unnamed sources in Israel. The purpose of the visit, according to the people, would be to let Washington know that Israel has other policy options.

Netanyahu to visit China in October, can Beijing broker an Israel-Saudi tie?

At least 21 people were injured while 126 buildings collapsed after an earthquake measuring 5.5 rattled parts of eastern China early on Sunday morning. The quake occurred near the city of Dezhou, about 300 km (185 miles) south of Beijing, the Chinese capital, at 2.

At least 21 people were injured while 126 buildings collapsed after an earthquake measuring 5.5 rattled parts of eastern China early on Sunday morning. The quake occurred near the city of Dezhou, about 300 km (185 miles) south of Beijing, the Chinese capital, at 2.33 am (1833 GMT). According to China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC), a second earthquake struck around 3:02 am, with a magnitude of 3.0, having a depth of 9 kilometres. According to state media agency China Central Television (CCTV), a level four response was launched by China's Ministry of Emergency Management. The earthquake also forced China Railway Group to suspend some train operations on routes including the Beijing-Shanghai Railway and Beijing-Kowloon Railway. Pingyuan, located in the central part of Dezhou, has a population of 420,000. Local authorities immediately launched an emergency plan and deployed seven rescue stations and 16 fire engines. They also dispatched 93 firefighters to the epicentre for rescue and relief efforts. WATCH | China: 6.8 earthquake hit Sichuan province, kills 74 and injures around 259 × “The tremor was so strong… during the earthquake, my head was shaking on the pillow, I thought I was having a nightmare," a Chinese netizen posted on Weibo from Shandong’s neighbouring Hebei province. According to multiple reports, the quake was felt as far away as the cities of Beijing and Tianjin as well as in Shanghai, some 800 kilometres from the epicentre. Watch | Giant oarfish, believed to be a 'harbinger of earthquakes', spotted in Taiwan Despite the strong quake and aftershocks, the water and communications infrastructure were functioning normally. Earthquakes are a regular phenomenon in China but it is rare for them to hit the eastern part of the country where the majority of the population resides. Add the closeness of the quake to the ground and it becomes even more rare. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China rattled by 5.5 magnitude earthquake, several injured, multiple buildings collapse

China is currently battling with record rainfall with the capital city Beijing and northern parts of the country drowning in floods. Typhoon Doksuri, which tore through the Pacific last week, still continues to wreak havoc triggering thousands of evacuations.&nbsp;

As the flood situation in the country turned fatal, the authorities took the decision to divert the water triggering outrage among the people.

On Tuesday, when the intense rainfall eventually halted, most parts of the Chinese capital were spared, but the water was directed elsewhere.

The officials in the Hebei Province, which borders Beijing, had unfurled flood gates in seven low-lying flood control zones so as to contain the rivers from flooding the Chinese capital and the region’s other metropolis, Tianjin, as per the state media.

The Communist Party leader of Hebei, Ni Yuefeng, said he ordered the “activation of flood storage and diversion areas in an orderly manner, so as to reduce the pressure on Beijing’s flood control and resolutely build a ‘moat’ for the capital,” according to the New York Times reports.

This move by the government further flooded the neighbouring city of Zhuozhou in Hebei, which had been making extensive efforts to fight its own intense flood situation after a levee broke and a local river overflowed.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-airstrike-targeted-at-terrorists-killed-at-least-25-children-including-infants-622420">Myanmar junta airstrike targeted at 'terrorists' killed at least 25 children, including infants</a>

The streets and neighbourhoods of this town got converted into an island with water levels ascending up to 23 feet causing damage to homes and businesses.

In some of the areas, the flooding disrupted power supplies as well as internet and mobile connections.

<h2>Natural disasters kill 147 in China</h2>

On Friday (August 4), China released a statement saying that natural disasters had claimed the lives of at least 147 people, with several missing in the month of July after record rainfall hit the country's capital.

China's Ministry of Emergency Management said that 142 of the deaths or disappearances recorded in the month of July were caused by flooding or geological disasters. &nbsp;

The remaining five deaths or disappearances were due to other natural disasters such as drought.&nbsp;

<h2>Extreme rainfall&nbsp;</h2>

According to reports, since Saturday, the amount of rainfall that has been pouring has breached many local meteorological records.

A precipitation reading of 744.8mm (29.3 inches) was recorded by a reservoir in Beijing's Changping district between Saturday and Wednesday, which is the most to be logged in the city in over 140 years.

The previous record of 609mm was set in the year 1891.

In Hebei, 1,003mm of rain was recorded by a local weather station for a three-day period, i.e. from Saturday to Monday. Such an amount is usually witnessed over a year and a half.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China is currently battling with record rainfall with the capital city Beijing and northern parts of the country drowning in floods. Typhoon Doksuri, which tore through the Pacific last week, still continues to wreak havoc triggering thousands of evacuations.

China is currently battling with record rainfall with the capital city Beijing and northern parts of the country drowning in floods. Typhoon Doksuri, which tore through the Pacific last week, still continues to wreak havoc triggering thousands of evacuations. As the flood situation in the country turned fatal, the authorities took the decision to divert the water triggering outrage among the people. On Tuesday, when the intense rainfall eventually halted, most parts of the Chinese capital were spared, but the water was directed elsewhere. The officials in the Hebei Province, which borders Beijing, had unfurled flood gates in seven low-lying flood control zones so as to contain the rivers from flooding the Chinese capital and the region’s other metropolis, Tianjin, as per the state media. The Communist Party leader of Hebei, Ni Yuefeng, said he ordered the “activation of flood storage and diversion areas in an orderly manner, so as to reduce the pressure on Beijing’s flood control and resolutely build a ‘moat’ for the capital,” according to the New York Times reports. This move by the government further flooded the neighbouring city of Zhuozhou in Hebei, which had been making extensive efforts to fight its own intense flood situation after a levee broke and a local river overflowed. Also read: Myanmar junta airstrike targeted at 'terrorists' killed at least 25 children, including infants The streets and neighbourhoods of this town got converted into an island with water levels ascending up to 23 feet causing damage to homes and businesses. In some of the areas, the flooding disrupted power supplies as well as internet and mobile connections. Natural disasters kill 147 in China On Friday (August 4), China released a statement saying that natural disasters had claimed the lives of at least 147 people, with several missing in the month of July after record rainfall hit the country's capital. China's Ministry of Emergency Management said that 142 of the deaths or disappearances recorded in the month of July were caused by flooding or geological disasters. The remaining five deaths or disappearances were due to other natural disasters such as drought. Extreme rainfall According to reports, since Saturday, the amount of rainfall that has been pouring has breached many local meteorological records. A precipitation reading of 744.8mm (29.3 inches) was recorded by a reservoir in Beijing's Changping district between Saturday and Wednesday, which is the most to be logged in the city in over 140 years. The previous record of 609mm was set in the year 1891. In Hebei, 1,003mm of rain was recorded by a local weather station for a three-day period, i.e. from Saturday to Monday. Such an amount is usually witnessed over a year and a half. (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.

China releases flood water in neighbouring towns to save capital city Beijing

China’s Ministry of Commerce said on Friday (August 4) that it will start dropping import restrictions on Australian barley from Saturday.&nbsp;

Anti-dumping and anti-subsidy tariffs on Australian barley were in place for the last three years, reported Reuters. The restrictions affected bilateral trade worth billions of dollars.

Earlier in April, both nations agreed to resolve their bilateral trade disputes, under which Canberra dropped a WTO case against Beijing while China agreed to review its import restrictions on Australian goods.&nbsp;

Apart from barley, there are a few remaining Australian goods, including wine, which still face heavy import duties in China.

"We have been clear that we expect a similar process to be followed to remove the duties on Australian wine," three Australian ministers said in a joint statement.

<h2>Experts also raise concerns</h2>

Experts say the decision by China would yield exciting results for the Australian barley market, as farmers expected more revenue but warn that farmers with malt-quality barley were likely to attract a premium over the risks involved.

"Market players who are going to be shipping barley to China may ask for a premium due to risks involved as there are going to be some concerns, if for example, China goes back on its decision," Rabobank senior grains analyst Dennis Voznesenski was quoted as saying by Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-meet-australia-us-india-and-japan-take-veiled-swipe-at-china-594624">Also read:&nbsp;Quad Meet: Australia, US, India and Japan take veiled swipe at China</a>

Grain Producers Australia CEO Colin Bettles appreciated the move, calling it a win for Chinese consumers and industry as well as local exporters.

<h2>Recent timeline of the Australia-China ties</h2>

The relationship between Australia and its largest trade partner China took a turn for the worse in 2020. It started with Australia's decision to initiate an inquiry into the origins of the COVID-19 virus, a move that Beijing perceived as provocative.

Watch:&nbsp;Australia PM says breakdown in US-China relations would be devastating

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In response to Australia's call for an investigation, China enacted a series of retaliatory actions, including the imposition of anti-dumping duties on Australian wine and barley.

One of the notable measures taken by Beijing was the implementation of substantial tariffs, amounting to a staggering 80.5 per cent on Australian barley in May 2020.&nbsp;

In the face of these developments, Australia responded by formally lodging a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) in December of the same year.&nbsp;

The landscape changed when Australia's centre-left Labor party secured victory and assumed power last year. Since then, the tensions between the two nations have eased.

For instance, after a hiatus of nearly three years, China resumed its purchases of Australian coal in January 2023. Additionally, China's announcement in May to resume the import of Australian timber also came as a major sign of the ongoing rapprochement.

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China’s Ministry of Commerce said on Friday (August 4) that it will start dropping import restrictions on Australian barley from Saturday. Anti-dumping and anti-subsidy tariffs on Australian barley were in place for the last three years, reported Reuters.

China’s Ministry of Commerce said on Friday (August 4) that it will start dropping import restrictions on Australian barley from Saturday. Anti-dumping and anti-subsidy tariffs on Australian barley were in place for the last three years, reported Reuters. The restrictions affected bilateral trade worth billions of dollars. Earlier in April, both nations agreed to resolve their bilateral trade disputes, under which Canberra dropped a WTO case against Beijing while China agreed to review its import restrictions on Australian goods. Apart from barley, there are a few remaining Australian goods, including wine, which still face heavy import duties in China. "We have been clear that we expect a similar process to be followed to remove the duties on Australian wine," three Australian ministers said in a joint statement. Experts also raise concerns Experts say the decision by China would yield exciting results for the Australian barley market, as farmers expected more revenue but warn that farmers with malt-quality barley were likely to attract a premium over the risks involved. "Market players who are going to be shipping barley to China may ask for a premium due to risks involved as there are going to be some concerns, if for example, China goes back on its decision," Rabobank senior grains analyst Dennis Voznesenski was quoted as saying by Reuters. Also read: Quad Meet: Australia, US, India and Japan take veiled swipe at China Grain Producers Australia CEO Colin Bettles appreciated the move, calling it a win for Chinese consumers and industry as well as local exporters. Recent timeline of the Australia-China ties The relationship between Australia and its largest trade partner China took a turn for the worse in 2020. It started with Australia's decision to initiate an inquiry into the origins of the COVID-19 virus, a move that Beijing perceived as provocative. Watch: Australia PM says breakdown in US-China relations would be devastating × In response to Australia's call for an investigation, China enacted a series of retaliatory actions, including the imposition of anti-dumping duties on Australian wine and barley. One of the notable measures taken by Beijing was the implementation of substantial tariffs, amounting to a staggering 80.5 per cent on Australian barley in May 2020. In the face of these developments, Australia responded by formally lodging a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) in December of the same year. The landscape changed when Australia's centre-left Labor party secured victory and assumed power last year. Since then, the tensions between the two nations have eased. For instance, after a hiatus of nearly three years, China resumed its purchases of Australian coal in January 2023. Additionally, China's announcement in May to resume the import of Australian timber also came as a major sign of the ongoing rapprochement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China erases tariffs on Australian barley amid easing of trade tensions

Beijing is experiencing the heaviest rainfall it has seen in 140 years one of the worst storms to have hit Northern China in over a decade has now claimed at least 20 lives and the nightmare is not over. The country is now on alert due to Typhoon Khanun the sixth storm of this year which is inching closer to China's eastern coast.

At least 20 dead in Northern China rainstorms

China continues to be battered by the torrential rains as capital Beijing drowns in water. On Tuesday, the weather service informed that the city's had received the "heaviest rainfall in 140 years" since record-keeping began.&nbsp;

"The maximum value of rainfall recorded during this storm, which was 744.8 millimetres, occurred at the Wangjiayuan Reservoir in Changping," the Beijing Meteorological Service said.&nbsp;

Up until Tuesday (August 1), at least 20 people had died while 27&nbsp;remained missing as heavy rainfall made the job difficult for rescue authorities.

More than 52,000 have been evacuated from Beijing alone since the start of the rain, exacerbated by Doksuri, one of the strongest typhoons to hit the mainland in years.

In the Fangshan district, power to some 60,000 homes was knocked out.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rain-soaks-northern-china-as-typhoon-doksuri-makes-its-way-to-beijing-620672">Watch |&nbsp;Rain soaks Northern China as Typhoon Doksuri makes its way to Beijing</a>

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<h2>Battered Beijing&nbsp;</h2>

The rivers in the country have swollen to record levels, forcing the authorities to use a flood storage reservoir in Beijing for the first time since it was first built, over 25 years ago.

A military unit comprising 26 soldiers and four helicopters was pressed into service on Tuesday to deliver hundreds of food packages and ponchos to people stranded in and around a train station in Beijing's hard-hit Mentougou district.&nbsp;

According to state media reports, some 125,000 people from high-risk areas in&nbsp;Zhuozhou, southwest of Beijing, have been moved to shelters as well.

Taking stock of the situation, President Xi Jinping issued an order to the local governments, urging them to go "all out" to rescue those trapped and minimise loss of life and property damage.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-11-dead-dozens-missing-as-beijing-gets-battered-by-rainstorms-621252">Also read |&nbsp;Doksuri storm in China: At least 20 dead, 19 missing as Beijing gets battered by rainstorms</a>

Notably, it was in 1998 that China witnessed the deadliest and most destructive floods when over 4,000 people died,&nbsp;most of them along the Yangtze River.

Around 300 died in 2021 when the central province of Henan was flooded. Record rainfall that year also inundated the provincial capital of Zhengzhou, turning streets into rushing rivers and flooding at least part of a subway line.

Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast next week. While Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency upgraded Khanun to typhoon from tropical storm status on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China continues to be battered by the torrential rains as capital Beijing drowns in water. On Tuesday, the weather service informed that the city's had received the "heaviest rainfall in 140 years" since record-keeping began.

China continues to be battered by the torrential rains as capital Beijing drowns in water. On Tuesday, the weather service informed that the city's had received the "heaviest rainfall in 140 years" since record-keeping began. "The maximum value of rainfall recorded during this storm, which was 744.8 millimetres, occurred at the Wangjiayuan Reservoir in Changping," the Beijing Meteorological Service said. Up until Tuesday (August 1), at least 20 people had died while 27 remained missing as heavy rainfall made the job difficult for rescue authorities. More than 52,000 have been evacuated from Beijing alone since the start of the rain, exacerbated by Doksuri, one of the strongest typhoons to hit the mainland in years. In the Fangshan district, power to some 60,000 homes was knocked out. Watch | Rain soaks Northern China as Typhoon Doksuri makes its way to Beijing × Battered Beijing The rivers in the country have swollen to record levels, forcing the authorities to use a flood storage reservoir in Beijing for the first time since it was first built, over 25 years ago. A military unit comprising 26 soldiers and four helicopters was pressed into service on Tuesday to deliver hundreds of food packages and ponchos to people stranded in and around a train station in Beijing's hard-hit Mentougou district. According to state media reports, some 125,000 people from high-risk areas in Zhuozhou, southwest of Beijing, have been moved to shelters as well. Taking stock of the situation, President Xi Jinping issued an order to the local governments, urging them to go "all out" to rescue those trapped and minimise loss of life and property damage. Also read | Doksuri storm in China: At least 20 dead, 19 missing as Beijing gets battered by rainstorms Notably, it was in 1998 that China witnessed the deadliest and most destructive floods when over 4,000 people died, most of them along the Yangtze River. Around 300 died in 2021 when the central province of Henan was flooded. Record rainfall that year also inundated the provincial capital of Zhengzhou, turning streets into rushing rivers and flooding at least part of a subway line. Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast next week. While Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency upgraded Khanun to typhoon from tropical storm status on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Beijing receives heaviest rainfall since records began 140 years ago

At least 20&nbsp;people have died while 19 remained missing as heavy rainfall continued to batter Beijing for a fourth consecutive day, Chinese state media CCTV reported on Tuesday (August 1). Doksuri,&nbsp;one of the strongest typhoons to hit the mainland in years, has forced authorities to evacuate more than 52,000&nbsp;from the capital city while over 100 mountain roads were sealed as a precautionary move.&nbsp;

The rivers in the country have swollen to record levels, forcing the authorities to use a flood storage reservoir in Beijing for the first time since it was first built, over 25 years ago. A military unit comprising 26 soldiers and four helicopters was pressed into service on Tuesday to deliver hundreds of food packages and ponchos to people stranded in and around a train station in Beijing's hard-hit Mentougou district.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rain-soaks-northern-china-as-typhoon-doksuri-makes-its-way-to-beijing-620672">Watch |&nbsp;Rain soaks Northern China as Typhoon Doksuri makes its way to Beijing</a>

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"On July 31, areas in Beijing including Fangshan and Mentougou suffered serious damage from water, causing three trains to get trapped on their routes, and road traffic in some areas was completely cut off," CCTV reported.

The average rainfall in Beijing reached 176.9 mm between Saturday night and Monday afternoon with the maximum recorded rainfall in Mentougou hitting 580.9 mm, according to the state media. Around 150,000 households in&nbsp;Mentougou have no running water, according to the newspaper Beijing Daily. Authorities had dispatched 45 water tankers to offer emergency supplies to the affected population.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-at-least-two-killed-amid-torrential-rains-and-floods-in-beijing-thousands-evacuated-621085">Also read |&nbsp;Roads turn into rivers as torrential rains and floods slam Beijing</a>

Beijing residents have been instructed&nbsp;not to go outside unless necessary, leaving the usually buzzing streets mostly deserted over the weekend.&nbsp;

Both airports in the Chinese capital cancelled more than 200 flights on Monday afternoon, with close to 600 delayed, said a report by Reuters citing data from flight tracking app Flight Master.&nbsp;

<h2>Upcoming storm in China</h2>

Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast next week. While Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency upgraded Khanun to typhoon from tropical storm status on Sunday.

According to scientists, China is experiencing&nbsp;these extreme weather phenomena due to climate change. While summers are recording extremely high temperatures, the subsequent months experience heavy rainfall.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 20 people have died while 19 remained missing as heavy rainfall continued to batter Beijing for a fourth consecutive day, Chinese state media CCTV reported on Tuesday (August 1).

At least 20 people have died while 19 remained missing as heavy rainfall continued to batter Beijing for a fourth consecutive day, Chinese state media CCTV reported on Tuesday (August 1). Doksuri, one of the strongest typhoons to hit the mainland in years, has forced authorities to evacuate more than 52,000 from the capital city while over 100 mountain roads were sealed as a precautionary move. The rivers in the country have swollen to record levels, forcing the authorities to use a flood storage reservoir in Beijing for the first time since it was first built, over 25 years ago. A military unit comprising 26 soldiers and four helicopters was pressed into service on Tuesday to deliver hundreds of food packages and ponchos to people stranded in and around a train station in Beijing's hard-hit Mentougou district. Watch | Rain soaks Northern China as Typhoon Doksuri makes its way to Beijing × "On July 31, areas in Beijing including Fangshan and Mentougou suffered serious damage from water, causing three trains to get trapped on their routes, and road traffic in some areas was completely cut off," CCTV reported. The average rainfall in Beijing reached 176.9 mm between Saturday night and Monday afternoon with the maximum recorded rainfall in Mentougou hitting 580.9 mm, according to the state media. Around 150,000 households in Mentougou have no running water, according to the newspaper Beijing Daily. Authorities had dispatched 45 water tankers to offer emergency supplies to the affected population. Also read | Roads turn into rivers as torrential rains and floods slam Beijing Beijing residents have been instructed not to go outside unless necessary, leaving the usually buzzing streets mostly deserted over the weekend. Both airports in the Chinese capital cancelled more than 200 flights on Monday afternoon, with close to 600 delayed, said a report by Reuters citing data from flight tracking app Flight Master. Upcoming storm in China Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast next week. While Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency upgraded Khanun to typhoon from tropical storm status on Sunday. According to scientists, China is experiencing these extreme weather phenomena due to climate change. While summers are recording extremely high temperatures, the subsequent months experience heavy rainfall. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Doksuri storm in China: At least 20 dead, 19 missing as Beijing gets battered by rainstorms

Doksuri's aftermath and Typhoon Khanun's threat ravage China's provinces

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-doksuri-lashes-philippines-as-china-and-taiwan-stay-alert-619883">Doksuri</a>, the storm that tore through the Pacific last week and continued to wreak havoc in parts of China, was downgraded from a typhoon on Sunday, reported Reuters. This was a&nbsp;day after the Chinese weather agency issued a red alert for torrential rain in the capital city of Beijing.&nbsp;The warnings have since prompted the evacuations of over 31,000 people, reported the state media on Monday (July 31).&nbsp;

<h2>Northern China braces for floods, torrential rains</h2>

Tens of thousands of people were evacuated from the potential flood areas while heavy rain also lashed Beijing where residents were urged to stay indoors. Officials have warned about floods, swelling rivers, mudslides and landslides, over the weekend.&nbsp;

According to the Chinese state media report, on Monday,&nbsp;more than 31,000 people in high-risk areas of Beijing have been evacuated.&nbsp;Over 20,500 were relocated from parts of the surrounding province, Hebei’s capital Shijiazhuang.&nbsp;

Beijing residents have been asked not to go outside unless necessary, leaving&nbsp;the usually buzzing streets&nbsp;mostly deserted, as per AFP. Furthermore, the National Centre for the Performing Arts, located near Tiananmen Square, cancelled opera and musical performances scheduled for Sunday.&nbsp;

The warnings have also prompted authorities in the Chinese capital to close several tourist spots, including the Forbidden City, libraries, museums and parks as well as suspend sporting events, according to media reports.&nbsp;

Hundreds of millions of people in Beijing and surrounding provinces remained under red alert – the highest level – for heavy rains, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-doksuri-china-issues-red-alert-for-torrential-rain-in-beijing-thousands-evacuated-620620">issued</a> on Saturday. &nbsp;

“Authorities should closely monitor the weather, update forecasts for rainfall and water levels, and strengthen consultation, research and information transmission,” said China’s Ministry of Water Resources, on its social media WeChat account.

The ministry also lifted emergency warnings about the potential for floods to the second-highest level for Beijing, Tianjin and the surrounding Hebei province. However, it did warn that several rivers in the region were expected to flood, reported Reuters.

<h2>China issues warning for third typhoon in three weeks</h2>

Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast, next week, reported Reuters. But while Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency updated Khanun to typhoon from tropical storm status on Sunday.&nbsp;

Hong Kong Airlines, on Sunday, also cancelled two flights from Japan’s Okinawa on Monday due to Khanun. The upcoming typhoon is also expected to inflict further damage to corn and other crops that have already been hit by Doksuri, said the Chinese agriculture ministry.

The storms come as China has been facing multiple extreme weather events and recently recorded the highest temperature of 52.2 degree&nbsp;Celsius.&nbsp;

Doksuri was the most powerful typhoon to hit China this year and the second-strongest to hit the southeastern province of Fujian since 2016, where it affected as many as 880,000 people with more than 354,400 people evacuated and resettled.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Doksuri, the storm that tore through the Pacific last week and continued to wreak havoc in parts of China, was downgraded from a typhoon on Sunday, reported Reuters.

Doksuri, the storm that tore through the Pacific last week and continued to wreak havoc in parts of China, was downgraded from a typhoon on Sunday, reported Reuters. This was a day after the Chinese weather agency issued a red alert for torrential rain in the capital city of Beijing. The warnings have since prompted the evacuations of over 31,000 people, reported the state media on Monday (July 31). Northern China braces for floods, torrential rains Tens of thousands of people were evacuated from the potential flood areas while heavy rain also lashed Beijing where residents were urged to stay indoors. Officials have warned about floods, swelling rivers, mudslides and landslides, over the weekend. According to the Chinese state media report, on Monday, more than 31,000 people in high-risk areas of Beijing have been evacuated. Over 20,500 were relocated from parts of the surrounding province, Hebei’s capital Shijiazhuang. Beijing residents have been asked not to go outside unless necessary, leaving the usually buzzing streets mostly deserted, as per AFP. Furthermore, the National Centre for the Performing Arts, located near Tiananmen Square, cancelled opera and musical performances scheduled for Sunday. The warnings have also prompted authorities in the Chinese capital to close several tourist spots, including the Forbidden City, libraries, museums and parks as well as suspend sporting events, according to media reports. Hundreds of millions of people in Beijing and surrounding provinces remained under red alert – the highest level – for heavy rains, issued on Saturday. “Authorities should closely monitor the weather, update forecasts for rainfall and water levels, and strengthen consultation, research and information transmission,” said China’s Ministry of Water Resources, on its social media WeChat account. The ministry also lifted emergency warnings about the potential for floods to the second-highest level for Beijing, Tianjin and the surrounding Hebei province. However, it did warn that several rivers in the region were expected to flood, reported Reuters. China issues warning for third typhoon in three weeks Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast, next week, reported Reuters. But while Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency updated Khanun to typhoon from tropical storm status on Sunday. Hong Kong Airlines, on Sunday, also cancelled two flights from Japan’s Okinawa on Monday due to Khanun. The upcoming typhoon is also expected to inflict further damage to corn and other crops that have already been hit by Doksuri, said the Chinese agriculture ministry. The storms come as China has been facing multiple extreme weather events and recently recorded the highest temperature of 52.2 degree Celsius. Doksuri was the most powerful typhoon to hit China this year and the second-strongest to hit the southeastern province of Fujian since 2016, where it affected as many as 880,000 people with more than 354,400 people evacuated and resettled. (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.

China: Doksuri downgraded from typhoon, over 30,000 evacuated from Beijing

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng arrived in the Pakistan capital, Islamabad on Sunday (July 30), as the countries mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a cornerstone of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).&nbsp;

<h2>Chinese official’s visit to Pakistan</h2>

During his three-day visit from July 30 to August 1, Vice Premier He, who is also a member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi.

He was received by the Pakistan Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah at the airport, as well as the officials from the Chinese embassy and Islamabad’s ministry of foreign affairs, according to local media reports.&nbsp;

In a statement released ahead of the Chinese vice premier’s arrival on Saturday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) said that his visit to Islamabad at the federal government’s invitation played a “prominent role” in China’s international economic relations and implementation of the BRI.&nbsp; 
 
It added that as the chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission from 2017 to 2023, he was “instrumental in the planning and execution of multiple CPEC projects in Pakistan”. He’s visit also reflects the importance attached by Pakistan and China to further deepen their “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” said the Pakistan FO.&nbsp;

<h2>Bomb blast in Pakistan kills at least 44</h2>

The Chinese official’s visit&nbsp; began on the day that saw a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosion-in-pakistan-claims-the-lives-of-at-least-43-620814">deadly bomb blast</a> at a Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) convention in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district which has led to the death of at least 44 people and wounded over 200 others.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the deadly bomb blast, but as per local media reports, the local chapter of the Islamic State (IS) group has carried out attacks against JUI-F in the recent past.

<h2>About CPEC</h2>

Since its initiation in 2013, CPEC has seen $25.4 billion invested into massive transport, energy and infrastructure projects across Pakistan, as per media reports.&nbsp;

However, the countries that share a 596-kilometre border near the Siachen Glacier, have recently witnessed some strain due to the numerous hurdles in recent years which also include disruption of CPEC projects.&nbsp;

<h2>Security concerns</h2>

CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Pakistan’s Balochistan with China’s Xinjiang province, is opposed by India as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Additionally, it has also been opposed by the locals who have reportedly claimed that the influx of investment does not benefit them. &nbsp;

Over the years, Baloch separatists have claimed multiple attacks on CPEC projects which has prompted Pakistan to deploy thousands of security personnel to counter threats against Chinese interests.&nbsp;

“Security stands out as the core problem that hinders the realisation of Chinese goals,” Azeem Khalid, assistant professor of international relations at COMSATS University Islamabad told AFP.

He added, “This factor is the primary reason why CPEC has not reached its full functional potential yet.”

Previous attacks on Chinese workers and officials have prompted Pakistan to ramp up security measures this time around. Islamabad also ordered a two-day public holiday to keep people off the streets. Ahead of He’s visit, banners celebrating the anniversary and flags of both countries were put up across Pakistan’s capital.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng arrived in the Pakistan capital, Islamabad on Sunday (July 30), as the countries mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a cornerstone of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng arrived in the Pakistan capital, Islamabad on Sunday (July 30), as the countries mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a cornerstone of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Chinese official’s visit to Pakistan During his three-day visit from July 30 to August 1, Vice Premier He, who is also a member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, will hold meetings with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi. He was received by the Pakistan Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah at the airport, as well as the officials from the Chinese embassy and Islamabad’s ministry of foreign affairs, according to local media reports. In a statement released ahead of the Chinese vice premier’s arrival on Saturday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) said that his visit to Islamabad at the federal government’s invitation played a “prominent role” in China’s international economic relations and implementation of the BRI. It added that as the chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission from 2017 to 2023, he was “instrumental in the planning and execution of multiple CPEC projects in Pakistan”. He’s visit also reflects the importance attached by Pakistan and China to further deepen their “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” said the Pakistan FO. Bomb blast in Pakistan kills at least 44 The Chinese official’s visit began on the day that saw a deadly bomb blast at a Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) convention in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district which has led to the death of at least 44 people and wounded over 200 others. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the deadly bomb blast, but as per local media reports, the local chapter of the Islamic State (IS) group has carried out attacks against JUI-F in the recent past. About CPEC Since its initiation in 2013, CPEC has seen $25.4 billion invested into massive transport, energy and infrastructure projects across Pakistan, as per media reports. However, the countries that share a 596-kilometre border near the Siachen Glacier, have recently witnessed some strain due to the numerous hurdles in recent years which also include disruption of CPEC projects. Security concerns CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Pakistan’s Balochistan with China’s Xinjiang province, is opposed by India as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Additionally, it has also been opposed by the locals who have reportedly claimed that the influx of investment does not benefit them. Over the years, Baloch separatists have claimed multiple attacks on CPEC projects which has prompted Pakistan to deploy thousands of security personnel to counter threats against Chinese interests. “Security stands out as the core problem that hinders the realisation of Chinese goals,” Azeem Khalid, assistant professor of international relations at COMSATS University Islamabad told AFP. He added, “This factor is the primary reason why CPEC has not reached its full functional potential yet.” Previous attacks on Chinese workers and officials have prompted Pakistan to ramp up security measures this time around. Islamabad also ordered a two-day public holiday to keep people off the streets. Ahead of He’s visit, banners celebrating the anniversary and flags of both countries were put up across Pakistan’s capital. (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.

Pakistan: Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng arrives in Islamabad to celebrate 10 years of CPEC

After subjugating the Uyghur population in its backyard to torture, China is now pressuring Uyghurs living abroad to spy on human rights campaigners, according to a BBC report.&nbsp;

The publication claims that Beijing is using intimidating tactics by threatening families back home to get the foreign-living Uyghurs to do its surveillance job.&nbsp;

“Research suggests this particular kind - controlling access to family members in the home country through video calls, in exchange for compliance overseas - is commonly used by Chinese police,” the report claimed.

Citing the example of an Uyghur refugee named Alim (name changed), it was revealed that authorities in Beijing were using her mother as bait to force him to attend meetings of Uyghur human rights activists, gather intelligence and pass it back to the Chinese state.

"Whenever there was an anti-China protest in London, they would call me and ask who would be attending," Alim was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

He added that Beijing offered him money as well so that he could attempt to befriend the leaders of various campaign groups with UK citizens in them.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-bars-uyghur-muslims-from-praying-in-mosques-trending-on-wion-587586">Watch |&nbsp;China bars Uyghur Muslims from praying in mosques | Trending on WION</a>

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The constant, implied threats, that his family might be physically harmed, has left Alim in a vicious cycle where he is forced to do the bidding of CCP.&nbsp;

"They are using my family as hostages," Alim says. "I am living in a dark moment."

Dr David Tobin at the University of Sheffield, who has worked extensively on the issue said all Uyghurs living outside China are victims of transnational repression.

“Family separation is the central tactic” that China uses, said the expert, adding, “Even where phone calls are technically possible, relatives still living in China won't pick up as there is an assumption that calls will be monitored, and a fear that communicating freely will put them at risk."

Even in Turkey, regarded&nbsp;as a safe haven for Uyghurs, the Chinese government is using its might to pressure the refugees. Almost 80 per cent of the 148 respondents reported similar threats from Chinese authorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-faces-heat-at-unga-over-the-xinjiang-report-518292">Also read |&nbsp;China faces heat at UNGA over report of atrocities on Uyghurs in Xinjiang</a>

<h2>China's treatment of Uyghurs</h2>

For a long time, China has been accused by the Western world, especially the US, of undertaking a genocide of the Uyghur Muslim populace in the Xinjiang province. In a report released by the UN last year, China's actions in Xinjiang were dubbed as 'crimes against humanity'.&nbsp;

The report had been in the works for years and was released despite Chinese efforts to delay or block it.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping on multiple occasions has made it clear that Islam can only exist in China if it is reformed according to Chinese orientation. The country has admitted that it runs concentration camps, which it dubs 'vocational training camps'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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After subjugating the Uyghur population in its backyard to torture, China is now pressuring Uyghurs living abroad to spy on human rights campaigners, according to a BBC report.

After subjugating the Uyghur population in its backyard to torture, China is now pressuring Uyghurs living abroad to spy on human rights campaigners, according to a BBC report. The publication claims that Beijing is using intimidating tactics by threatening families back home to get the foreign-living Uyghurs to do its surveillance job. “Research suggests this particular kind - controlling access to family members in the home country through video calls, in exchange for compliance overseas - is commonly used by Chinese police,” the report claimed. Citing the example of an Uyghur refugee named Alim (name changed), it was revealed that authorities in Beijing were using her mother as bait to force him to attend meetings of Uyghur human rights activists, gather intelligence and pass it back to the Chinese state. "Whenever there was an anti-China protest in London, they would call me and ask who would be attending," Alim was quoted as saying. He added that Beijing offered him money as well so that he could attempt to befriend the leaders of various campaign groups with UK citizens in them. Watch | China bars Uyghur Muslims from praying in mosques | Trending on WION × The constant, implied threats, that his family might be physically harmed, has left Alim in a vicious cycle where he is forced to do the bidding of CCP. "They are using my family as hostages," Alim says. "I am living in a dark moment." Dr David Tobin at the University of Sheffield, who has worked extensively on the issue said all Uyghurs living outside China are victims of transnational repression. “Family separation is the central tactic” that China uses, said the expert, adding, “Even where phone calls are technically possible, relatives still living in China won't pick up as there is an assumption that calls will be monitored, and a fear that communicating freely will put them at risk." Even in Turkey, regarded as a safe haven for Uyghurs, the Chinese government is using its might to pressure the refugees. Almost 80 per cent of the 148 respondents reported similar threats from Chinese authorities. Also read | China faces heat at UNGA over report of atrocities on Uyghurs in Xinjiang China's treatment of Uyghurs For a long time, China has been accused by the Western world, especially the US, of undertaking a genocide of the Uyghur Muslim populace in the Xinjiang province. In a report released by the UN last year, China's actions in Xinjiang were dubbed as 'crimes against humanity'. The report had been in the works for years and was released despite Chinese efforts to delay or block it. Chinese President Xi Jinping on multiple occasions has made it clear that Islam can only exist in China if it is reformed according to Chinese orientation. The country has admitted that it runs concentration camps, which it dubs 'vocational training camps'. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China blackmailing Uyghur refugees living abroad to spy for it, claims report

Road into China bringing in heavy downpours and triggering landslides in several parts of China. Red Alert has now been issued for torrential rain in Beijing and also in the neighbouring regions. Typhoon Doksuri which is one of the strongest typhoons to hit China this year has already forged. At least about 800,000 people are to be evacuated from their homes.

Rain soaks Northern China as Typhoon Doksuri makes its way to Beijing

On Saturday, rain started to fall throughout northern China as Doksuri, one of the fiercest storms to slam the nation in recent memory, rumbled into Beijing after battering Taiwan and the Philippines and lashing China's shoreline.

Rains soak Northern China as Doksuri makes its way to Beijing

On Thursday, China said it opposed malicious hype concerning this week's removal of foreign minister Qin Gang. Beijing continues to avoid questions about the senior diplomat's disappearance. The mystery is deepening, and some articles removed from the foreign ministry website have reappeared. 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 and confidant of president Xi Jinping had fallen out of favour.

Qin Gang out of favour with Chinese President Xi Jinping? | World News | WION

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