<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on Saturday, Chinese state media said, in her first visit to the country since she took office nearly two years ago.</p>

<p>During the five-day trip she is due to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, with boosting bilateral trade and ending the war in Ukraine topping the agenda.</p>

<p>"Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on the afternoon of 27 July for an official visit," state broadcaster CGTN said in a post on the Weibo social network.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj1qLjbi8eHAxVSs1YBHWpzAr4QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-slams-eu-centrists-for-excluding-her-from-top-job-talks-rejects-pre-packaged-deal-733015" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-slams-eu-centrists-for-excluding-her-from-top-job-talks-rejects-pre-packaged-deal-733015&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj1qLjbi8eHAxVSs1YBHWpzAr4QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Giorgia Meloni slams EU centrists for excluding her from top job talks; rejects `pre-packaged` deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Meloni will be looking to "relaunch bilateral relations in sectors of common interest", an Italian official told AFP on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>Talks will focus on "the main issues on the international agenda, starting with the war in Ukraine", the official added.</p>

<p>Meloni's administration withdrew from China's vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) last year, having been the only G7 nation to sign up.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China: Italian PM Giorgia Meloni to visit country for five days</strong></p>

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<p>Before taking office, Meloni said joining the initiative -- a central pillar of Xi's bid to expand China's clout overseas -- had been a "mistake".</p>

<p>Italy's non-binding memorandum of understanding with China had contained broad undertakings for cooperation in logistics, infrastructure, financial and environmental sectors.</p>

<p>But details were scarce and the lack of transparency fuelled distrust among Italy's allies.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on Saturday, Chinese state media said, in her first visit to the country since she took office nearly two years ago.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on Saturday, Chinese state media said, in her first visit to the country since she took office nearly two years ago. During the five-day trip she is due to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, with boosting bilateral trade and ending the war in Ukraine topping the agenda. "Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on the afternoon of 27 July for an official visit," state broadcaster CGTN said in a post on the Weibo social network. Also read: Giorgia Meloni slams EU centrists for excluding her from top job talks; rejects `pre-packaged` deal Meloni will be looking to "relaunch bilateral relations in sectors of common interest", an Italian official told AFP on condition of anonymity. Talks will focus on "the main issues on the international agenda, starting with the war in Ukraine", the official added. Meloni's administration withdrew from China's vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) last year, having been the only G7 nation to sign up. Watch: China: Italian PM Giorgia Meloni to visit country for five days × Before taking office, Meloni said joining the initiative -- a central pillar of Xi's bid to expand China's clout overseas -- had been a "mistake". Italy's non-binding memorandum of understanding with China had contained broad undertakings for cooperation in logistics, infrastructure, financial and environmental sectors. But details were scarce and the lack of transparency fuelled distrust among Italy's allies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni arrives in China after withdrawing from BRI last year

During an event in Islamabad, China's Minister of the International Department, Liu Jianchao, said "Business environment cannot improve without security.' Recently, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also returned nearly empty-handed from a trip to China where he had hoped to secure major investments for Pakistan, especially through a revival of CPEC. But with the flagship project of the BRI suffering in Pakistan due to internal turmoil, is China growing tired of Pakistan? What else does this message from the Chinese Minister want to convey to Pakistan?

Gravitas: CPEC in danger? China sets conditions on Pakistan for new BRI investments

<p>Taliban regime on Wednesday (May 8) strongly refuted claims made by Pakistan that Afghanistan was involved in a March suicide attack on Chinese nationals working in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Taliban said the claims were&nbsp;“irresponsible and far from the reality.”</p>

<p>The March 26 suicide attack killed five Chinese nationals on the site of a hydropower project in the Dasu region. Pakistan military on Tuesday (May 7) claimed that&nbsp;the attack was planned&nbsp;in neighbouring Afghanistan.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the Pakistan Army told reporters that his nation had&nbsp;"solid evidence"&nbsp; that militants used Afghan soil to plan the attack. He also accused the Taliban of not addressing&nbsp;Pakistan's&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;as more than 60 security personnel have been killed so far in 2024 in Pakistani regions bordering Afghanistan.</p>

<h2><strong>Taliban hits back</strong></h2>

<p>Taliban’s&nbsp;Ministry of Defence hit back on Wednesday.&nbsp;“Blaming Afghanistan for such incidents is a failed attempt to divert attention from the truth, and we strongly reject it,”&nbsp;Enayatullah Khwarazmi, the&nbsp;ministry’s&nbsp;spokesperson, said&nbsp;in a statement.</p>

<p>Taliban also said that the attack on the Chinese workers showed how weak are Pakistani security agencies.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Taliban is trying to woo tourists to Afghanistan</strong></p>

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<p>“The killing of Chinese citizens in an area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa which is under tight security cover of the Pakistani army shows the weakness of the Pakistani security agencies or cooperation with the attackers,”&nbsp;the spokesperson said.</p>

<h2><strong>Chinese projects under attack</strong></h2>

<p>The March suicide attack in the Dasu region came after two more attacks targeted&nbsp;China's&nbsp; Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in the&nbsp;region&nbsp;where China has invested over $65 billion.</p>

<p>Earlier, militants targeted a naval air base in Turbat in&nbsp;Pakistan’s&nbsp;Balochistan province on March 25. On March 20, militants stormed a government compound in nearby Gwadar district, which is home to a Chinese-operated port.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjGzc7Jqv6FAxXp9DgGHYvTCsUQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-foreign-minister-calls-for-constructive-engagement-with-international-community-684915" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-foreign-minister-calls-for-constructive-engagement-with-international-community-684915&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGzc7Jqv6FAxXp9DgGHYvTCsUQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Afghanistan: India participates in first international meeting hosted by Taliban regime</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan is marred by militancy and ethnic clashes in the Northwest and&nbsp;South,&nbsp;owing to two&nbsp;major&nbsp;insurgencies. Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan — the Pakistani Taliban is majorly held responsible by Islamabad for attacks in the Northwestern regions bordering Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the attacks in Balochistan are claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army — the most prominent of several separatist groups in the province.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taliban regime on Wednesday (May 8) strongly refuted claims made by Pakistan that Afghanistan was involved in a March suicide attack on Chinese nationals working in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Taliban regime on Wednesday (May 8) strongly refuted claims made by Pakistan that Afghanistan was involved in a March suicide attack on Chinese nationals working in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Taliban said the claims were “irresponsible and far from the reality.” The March 26 suicide attack killed five Chinese nationals on the site of a hydropower project in the Dasu region. Pakistan military on Tuesday (May 7) claimed that the attack was planned in neighbouring Afghanistan. A spokesperson for the Pakistan Army told reporters that his nation had "solid evidence" that militants used Afghan soil to plan the attack. He also accused the Taliban of not addressing Pakistan's concerns as more than 60 security personnel have been killed so far in 2024 in Pakistani regions bordering Afghanistan. Taliban hits back Taliban’s Ministry of Defence hit back on Wednesday. “Blaming Afghanistan for such incidents is a failed attempt to divert attention from the truth, and we strongly reject it,” Enayatullah Khwarazmi, the ministry’s spokesperson, said in a statement. Taliban also said that the attack on the Chinese workers showed how weak are Pakistani security agencies. Watch: Taliban is trying to woo tourists to Afghanistan × “The killing of Chinese citizens in an area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa which is under tight security cover of the Pakistani army shows the weakness of the Pakistani security agencies or cooperation with the attackers,” the spokesperson said. Chinese projects under attack The March suicide attack in the Dasu region came after two more attacks targeted China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in the region where China has invested over $65 billion. Earlier, militants targeted a naval air base in Turbat in Pakistan’s Balochistan province on March 25. On March 20, militants stormed a government compound in nearby Gwadar district, which is home to a Chinese-operated port. Also read: Afghanistan: India participates in first international meeting hosted by Taliban regime Pakistan is marred by militancy and ethnic clashes in the Northwest and South, owing to two major insurgencies. Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan — the Pakistani Taliban is majorly held responsible by Islamabad for attacks in the Northwestern regions bordering Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the attacks in Balochistan are claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army — the most prominent of several separatist groups in the province. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban reject blame on Kabul for deadly attack on Chinese nationals, mock ‘weak Pak military’ 

China has been forced to investigate corruption in BRI projects. Some dams constructed under Chinese Belt and Road initiatives have structural cracks; roads and airports have bare minimum footfall. Who approved these projects? Why were they constructed at all?

Gravitas | Big Embarrassment for Xi: China forced to probe BRI corruption

<p>The victory of Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr in the May 2022 Philippine presidential elections came as a rude shock for the West and a bonanza for China.</p>

<p>The son and namesake of the late Philippine dictator had long been projected as pro-China and anti-US by the Western media.</p>

<p>“Why the Philippines election could be a win for China,” opined CNN in a lengthy editorial.</p>

<p>But the year 2023 turned the tables upside down.</p>

<p>Marcos turned out to be Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s biggest and boldest nemesis, especially about his nation’s righteous claim over parts of the South China Sea that China has increasingly and aggressively disputed over the past 10 months.</p>

<p>Let’s have a look at key events of 2023 that largely shaped the ties between China and the Philippines.</p>

<h2><strong>January 2023: Marcos visits Beijing</strong></h2>

<p>The year started on a positive note for the bilateral ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his first foreign visit outside Southeast Asia, Macros arrived in Beijing in January to reaffirm Manila’s commitment towards continuing his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte’s pro-China policy.</p>

<p>The visit was hailed as successful by the Bongbong administration, with Manila having struck three major following deals with Beijing:</p>

<p>1) Investment pledges worth $22 billion&nbsp;</p>

<p>2) Compromise over “South China Sea disputes”</p>

<p>3) A new emergency hotline between maritime officers of the two countries</p>

<h2><strong>February 2023: Xi’s stab in the back</strong></h2>

<p>In an awful surprise within weeks of his trip to Beijing, Marcos on February 6 received the news of China shining a “military grade” laser at a Filipino coast guard boat.</p>

<p>The vessel was on a resupply mission to a marooned navy vessel that Manila has used for years to claim the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.</p>

<p>The laser was so powerful that not only it temporarily blinded the crew of the boat but it also led Marcos to open his eyes to China’s dangerous designs in the Philippines waters.</p>

<p>The incident infuriated the Philippine president like never before.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the first time in over a decade, a Chinese ambassador was summoned by Manila and given a strongly worded public complaint.</p>

<p>“I thought … the Philippines was the friend of China,” was all Chinese envoy Huang Xilian could say to the Philippine president.</p>

<h2><strong>August 2023: When China ‘snapped’ the hotline</strong></h2>

<p>After months of tense encounters, a major Chinese incursion took place in one morning of August. A Chinese coast guard ship bore down on a Philippine coast guard vessel and fired at it with water cannons.</p>

<p>When the Philippine officials tried to contact their Chinese counterparts through the newly established emergency hotline, they found themselves completely ghosted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Their calls were answered only after a long wait of six hours.</p>

<h2><strong>September 2023: Manila fires back</strong></h2>

<p>After months of Chinese harassment, Manila chose to return the favour in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China had installed a floating, 300-metre-long barrier in the West Philippine Sea, much to Marcos’s chagrin.</p>

<p>He ordered the coast guard to cut the barrier, bring its anchor back to Manila and then went on to publicly humiliate China by displaying it at a news conference, calling it a “souvenir”.</p>

<p>The move left Beijing red-faced and observers stunned.</p>

<h2><strong>November 2022: BRI bulldozed</strong></h2>

<p>In November, the Philippines became the latest country to bid adieu to China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative.</p>

<p>And Marcos’s move couldn’t be more well-timed.</p>

<p>It came just days after Xi Jinping hosted leaders of 23 countries for the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing to breathe fresh life into the ambitious infrastructure plan, which has begun to fall apart already.</p>

<h2><strong>December 2022: When China crossed the red line</strong></h2>

<p>Marcos declared in December that the ties with China were heading in a ‘poor direction’ after its coast guard blasted a boat carrying the Philippine military chief with a water cannon.</p>

<p>The standoff continued for two consecutive days.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Philippines installs Japan-made air radars amid tensions with China</strong></p>

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<p>Manila even considered expelling the Chinese ambassador after the military chief was harassed.</p>

<p>Foreign ministry spokesperson Teresita Daza said in a press conference on Dec 11 that declaring China’s ambassador Huang Xilian as “persona non grata” in the Philippines was also “something that has to be seriously considered.” &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The Philippines turns to democratic allies</strong></h2>

<p>The country is now stepping up efforts to bolster its ties with democratic partners like the US, the EU, Japan, India and South Korea.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“We have to come up with a paradigm shift,” Marcos declared in Tokyo during a Japan-ASEAN summit earlier this month.</p>

<p>There is also an indication that the Marcos Jr. administration might look to sign the reciprocal access agreement (RAA) with Japan as soon as next year.</p>

<p>Filipino National Security Council (NSC) Director General Jonathan Malaya said both Manila and Tokyo wish to sign the agreement as soon as possible since it will significantly increase their marine cooperation.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-slams-china-over-incidents-in-south-china-sea-against-philippines-668718"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;UK slams China over incidents in South China Sea against Philippines</strong></a></p>

<p>The US and UK have also condemned recent Chinese aggression, with Washington DC categorically asserting its ironclad commitment to the Southeast Asian country and pledging to defend it against potential Chinese invasion.</p>

<p>The year 2023 will go down in history as a major turning point for the China-Philippines ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Xi’s handling of China’s ties with its neighbours is increasingly laying bare the desperation of his regime to score geopolitical points overseas, amidst a gloomy outlook at home.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The victory of Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr in the May 2022 Philippine presidential elections came as a rude shock for the West and a bonanza for China. The son and namesake of the late Philippine dictator had long been projected as pro-China and anti-US by the Western media.

The victory of Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr in the May 2022 Philippine presidential elections came as a rude shock for the West and a bonanza for China. The son and namesake of the late Philippine dictator had long been projected as pro-China and anti-US by the Western media. “Why the Philippines election could be a win for China,” opined CNN in a lengthy editorial. But the year 2023 turned the tables upside down. Marcos turned out to be Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s biggest and boldest nemesis, especially about his nation’s righteous claim over parts of the South China Sea that China has increasingly and aggressively disputed over the past 10 months. Let’s have a look at key events of 2023 that largely shaped the ties between China and the Philippines. January 2023: Marcos visits Beijing The year started on a positive note for the bilateral ties. In his first foreign visit outside Southeast Asia, Macros arrived in Beijing in January to reaffirm Manila’s commitment towards continuing his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte’s pro-China policy. The visit was hailed as successful by the Bongbong administration, with Manila having struck three major following deals with Beijing: 1) Investment pledges worth $22 billion 2) Compromise over “South China Sea disputes” 3) A new emergency hotline between maritime officers of the two countries February 2023: Xi’s stab in the back In an awful surprise within weeks of his trip to Beijing, Marcos on February 6 received the news of China shining a “military grade” laser at a Filipino coast guard boat. The vessel was on a resupply mission to a marooned navy vessel that Manila has used for years to claim the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. The laser was so powerful that not only it temporarily blinded the crew of the boat but it also led Marcos to open his eyes to China’s dangerous designs in the Philippines waters. The incident infuriated the Philippine president like never before. For the first time in over a decade, a Chinese ambassador was summoned by Manila and given a strongly worded public complaint. “I thought … the Philippines was the friend of China,” was all Chinese envoy Huang Xilian could say to the Philippine president. August 2023: When China ‘snapped’ the hotline After months of tense encounters, a major Chinese incursion took place in one morning of August. A Chinese coast guard ship bore down on a Philippine coast guard vessel and fired at it with water cannons. When the Philippine officials tried to contact their Chinese counterparts through the newly established emergency hotline, they found themselves completely ghosted. Their calls were answered only after a long wait of six hours. September 2023: Manila fires back After months of Chinese harassment, Manila chose to return the favour in September. China had installed a floating, 300-metre-long barrier in the West Philippine Sea, much to Marcos’s chagrin. He ordered the coast guard to cut the barrier, bring its anchor back to Manila and then went on to publicly humiliate China by displaying it at a news conference, calling it a “souvenir”. The move left Beijing red-faced and observers stunned. November 2022: BRI bulldozed In November, the Philippines became the latest country to bid adieu to China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative. And Marcos’s move couldn’t be more well-timed. It came just days after Xi Jinping hosted leaders of 23 countries for the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing to breathe fresh life into the ambitious infrastructure plan, which has begun to fall apart already. December 2022: When China crossed the red line Marcos declared in December that the ties with China were heading in a ‘poor direction’ after its coast guard blasted a boat carrying the Philippine military chief with a water cannon. The standoff continued for two consecutive days. Watch: Philippines installs Japan-made air radars amid tensions with China × Manila even considered expelling the Chinese ambassador after the military chief was harassed. Foreign ministry spokesperson Teresita Daza said in a press conference on Dec 11 that declaring China’s ambassador Huang Xilian as “persona non grata” in the Philippines was also “something that has to be seriously considered.” The Philippines turns to democratic allies The country is now stepping up efforts to bolster its ties with democratic partners like the US, the EU, Japan, India and South Korea. “We have to come up with a paradigm shift,” Marcos declared in Tokyo during a Japan-ASEAN summit earlier this month. There is also an indication that the Marcos Jr. administration might look to sign the reciprocal access agreement (RAA) with Japan as soon as next year. Filipino National Security Council (NSC) Director General Jonathan Malaya said both Manila and Tokyo wish to sign the agreement as soon as possible since it will significantly increase their marine cooperation. Also read: UK slams China over incidents in South China Sea against Philippines The US and UK have also condemned recent Chinese aggression, with Washington DC categorically asserting its ironclad commitment to the Southeast Asian country and pledging to defend it against potential Chinese invasion. The year 2023 will go down in history as a major turning point for the China-Philippines ties. Xi’s handling of China’s ties with its neighbours is increasingly laying bare the desperation of his regime to score geopolitical points overseas, amidst a gloomy outlook at home. (With inputs from agencies)

Friend-turned-foe: How 2023 saw the emergence of Xi’s biggest nemesis - Bongbong Marcos

Italy, the only G7 member of China's Belt and Road Initiative, is dumping it. It has officially withdrawn from BRI. Is this a humiliation for Chinese President Xi Jinping?

Gravitas: Italy's snub an embarrassment for Xi?

Italy has officially left China's Belt and Road Initiative and Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has stressed that the withdrawal happened because the agreement did not yield the expected results.

Italy leaves BRI, China calls act 'smearing'

Italy has withdrawn from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), more than four years after becoming the only Group of Seven (G7) nation to sign up.

Italy withdraws from BRI, China calls act 'smearing'

<p>China reacted sharply on Thursday (Dec 7) after Italy said that it would withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin slammed what he termed was the 'smearing' of the ambitious infrastructure project. Italy has withdrawn from BRI just four years after it became the only G7 country to join the China-led global initiative.</p>

<p>"China firmly opposes smearing and undermining of cooperation on the joint construction of the Belt and Road," said Wang.</p>

<p>China also opposes "confrontation and division among camps that causes separation", he added. The foreign ministry however, did not comment directly on Italy's exit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | EU-China Summit: Top European Union officials meet with Xi in China Summit</strong></p>

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<p>The Belt and Road Initiative is Beijing's ambitious global project through which it wishes to establish land and sea-based trade routes from China to the West, undertaking mega projects to create an infrastructure towards the end goal.</p>

<p>However, critics of BRI say that the project is a cover for China's intention to greatly expand its influence around the world. China has repeatedly drawn flak for the 'debt trap' strategy it uses to gain political and strategic assets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wang however, said that participation from more that 150 countries was an evidence that BRI was the "most popular international public product and the largest international cooperation platform in the world today".</p>

<p>He also underlined that Italy had sent representatives to BRI forum held in Beijing in October this year.</p>

<p>"This embodies the huge appeal and global influence of jointly constructing the Belt and Road," he said.</p>

<p>AFP cited an Italian government source who confirmed that Rome had exited the BRI.</p>

<h2><strong>The IMEEC</strong></h2>

<p>The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), the MoU for which was signed during the New Delhi G20 Summit in September, is widely perceived as an initiative launched to counter BRI.</p>

<p>On September 10, the governments of India, Saudi Arabia, UAE, France, Germany, Italy, the European Union and the United States signed the MoU.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-jinping-hold-talks-with-eus-von-der-leyen-and-charles-michel-in-beijing-667036">China's Xi Jinping holds talks with EU's von der Leyen and Charles Michel in Beijing</a></strong></p>

<p>The IMEEC seeks to bolster communication as well as transport links between Asia and the West. This would see the establishment of rail and shipping networks and more. In this respect, the IMEEC resembles the BRI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/blow-for-china-apple-prefers-india-to-manufacture-batteries-for-next-gen-iphone-16-report-666875">Blow for China: Apple prefers India to manufacture batteries for next-gen iPhone 16 - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The announcement of the IMEEC corridor came at a time when critics have been pointing at opaque pricing of the infrastructure projects undertaken by Chinese companies under BRI. Countries like Malaysia and Myanmar are renegotiating the deals to bring down prices.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China reacted sharply on Thursday (Dec 7) after Italy said that it would withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin slammed what he termed was the 'smearing' of the ambitious infrastructure project.

China reacted sharply on Thursday (Dec 7) after Italy said that it would withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin slammed what he termed was the 'smearing' of the ambitious infrastructure project. Italy has withdrawn from BRI just four years after it became the only G7 country to join the China-led global initiative. "China firmly opposes smearing and undermining of cooperation on the joint construction of the Belt and Road," said Wang. China also opposes "confrontation and division among camps that causes separation", he added. The foreign ministry however, did not comment directly on Italy's exit. Watch | EU-China Summit: Top European Union officials meet with Xi in China Summit × The Belt and Road Initiative is Beijing's ambitious global project through which it wishes to establish land and sea-based trade routes from China to the West, undertaking mega projects to create an infrastructure towards the end goal. However, critics of BRI say that the project is a cover for China's intention to greatly expand its influence around the world. China has repeatedly drawn flak for the 'debt trap' strategy it uses to gain political and strategic assets. Wang however, said that participation from more that 150 countries was an evidence that BRI was the "most popular international public product and the largest international cooperation platform in the world today". He also underlined that Italy had sent representatives to BRI forum held in Beijing in October this year. "This embodies the huge appeal and global influence of jointly constructing the Belt and Road," he said. AFP cited an Italian government source who confirmed that Rome had exited the BRI. The IMEEC The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), the MoU for which was signed during the New Delhi G20 Summit in September, is widely perceived as an initiative launched to counter BRI. On September 10, the governments of India, Saudi Arabia, UAE, France, Germany, Italy, the European Union and the United States signed the MoU. Also Read | China's Xi Jinping holds talks with EU's von der Leyen and Charles Michel in Beijing The IMEEC seeks to bolster communication as well as transport links between Asia and the West. This would see the establishment of rail and shipping networks and more. In this respect, the IMEEC resembles the BRI. Also Read | Blow for China: Apple prefers India to manufacture batteries for next-gen iPhone 16 - Report The announcement of the IMEEC corridor came at a time when critics have been pointing at opaque pricing of the infrastructure projects undertaken by Chinese companies under BRI. Countries like Malaysia and Myanmar are renegotiating the deals to bring down prices. (With inputs from agencies)

As Italy leaves BRI, China warns against 'smearing' of the mega-initiative

A sharp decline in exports and China's poor economy led to a contraction in the manufacturing sector. Now, the mood is grim in Beijing's corridor and there is a new headache. Watch the video to know more.

Italy: Giorgia Meloni's government exits Belt and Road Initiative by China, BRI criticised | WION

<p>In a sharp dig at China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) debt trap, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that "connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries." The Indian foreign minister made these remarks&nbsp;at the SCO Head of Government meeting in Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday (Oct 26).</p>

<p>EAM Jaishankar said, "India is keen to partner with Member States for sustainable, mutually beneficial and financially viable solutions. As we strive to improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. India has accorded utmost priority to these domains in its own developmental journey, at the same time connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-to-install-lord-ram-idol-at-ayodhya-temple-in-historic-ceremony-on-jan-22-651242">India: PM Modi to attend installation of Lord Ram's idol at Ayodhya temple in historic ceremony on Jan 22</a></p>

<p>The minister also exuded confidence about the recently launched landmark&nbsp;India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).</p>

<p>IMEC was launched on the sidelines of the G20 summit hosted by New Delhi and is touted to be a rival of China's BRI.&nbsp;China's white elephant projects in lesser economically advanced nations are often seen as expansionistic ambitions of Beijing and are&nbsp;widely condemned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar said, "We should bear in mind that the Global South should not be saddled with unviable debt arising from opaque initiatives. I am confident that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and the International North–South Transport Corridor could become enablers in bringing economic prosperity to the region."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-decides-to-resume-some-visa-services-for-canadians-651228">India decides to resume some visa services for Canadians</a></p>

<p>The minister also highlighted the issue of a "broken supply chain" at the SCO meeting in Kyrgyzstan.</p>

<p>"Today when the world is facing challenges, looming economic recession, broken supply chains, food and energy insecurity this calls for closer cooperation with the SCO. In this context, the centrality of the interests of Central Asian States plays a key role,"&nbsp;said Jaishankar.</p>

<p>He&nbsp;called for greater economic growth as the war rages on in West Asia.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/police-hunt-for-man-linked-to-mass-shootings-in-lewiston-maine-651436">Police hunt for man linked to mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine</a></strong></p>

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<p>The Indian foreign minister at the meet said that India, during its&nbsp;G20 presidency, kept the aspirations of the Global South.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India’s GDP growth forecast for FY 2023-24 is 6.3 per cent… Our total trade with SCO Members has shown massive growth, especially with Russia. It has grown in the last year, with all SCO Members, by 20 per cent…This has the potential to grow manifold,” the external affairs minister added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>EAM Jaishankar also wished success to Pakistan for taking over the chair of SCO Heads of Government for 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a sharp dig at China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) debt trap, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that "connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

In a sharp dig at China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) debt trap, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that "connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries." The Indian foreign minister made these remarks at the SCO Head of Government meeting in Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday (Oct 26). EAM Jaishankar said, "India is keen to partner with Member States for sustainable, mutually beneficial and financially viable solutions. As we strive to improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. India has accorded utmost priority to these domains in its own developmental journey, at the same time connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries." Also Read | India: PM Modi to attend installation of Lord Ram's idol at Ayodhya temple in historic ceremony on Jan 22 The minister also exuded confidence about the recently launched landmark India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). IMEC was launched on the sidelines of the G20 summit hosted by New Delhi and is touted to be a rival of China's BRI. China's white elephant projects in lesser economically advanced nations are often seen as expansionistic ambitions of Beijing and are widely condemned. Jaishankar said, "We should bear in mind that the Global South should not be saddled with unviable debt arising from opaque initiatives. I am confident that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and the International North–South Transport Corridor could become enablers in bringing economic prosperity to the region." Also Read | India decides to resume some visa services for Canadians The minister also highlighted the issue of a "broken supply chain" at the SCO meeting in Kyrgyzstan. "Today when the world is facing challenges, looming economic recession, broken supply chains, food and energy insecurity this calls for closer cooperation with the SCO. In this context, the centrality of the interests of Central Asian States plays a key role," said Jaishankar. He called for greater economic growth as the war rages on in West Asia. Watch | Police hunt for man linked to mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine × The Indian foreign minister at the meet said that India, during its G20 presidency, kept the aspirations of the Global South. “India’s GDP growth forecast for FY 2023-24 is 6.3 per cent… Our total trade with SCO Members has shown massive growth, especially with Russia. It has grown in the last year, with all SCO Members, by 20 per cent…This has the potential to grow manifold,” the external affairs minister added. EAM Jaishankar also wished success to Pakistan for taking over the chair of SCO Heads of Government for 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

SCO meet: Jaishankar takes veiled dig at China's BRI debt trap, exudes confidence in IMEC corridor

India has once again expressed its Opposition to China's Belt and Road Initiative. Further emphasising the impact of this infrastructure program on participating countries.

India expresses concern over BRI's expansionist intentions

India supports Maldives despite representative endorsing Belt and Road Initiative | WION

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in China to meet his "No Limits" partner President Xi Jinping since the war broke out in Ukraine and this is the first time he's travelled to the capital of another P5 member country. Chinese President Xi Jinping greeted his dear friend Putin as China welcomes representatives from 130 countries for the Belt and Road Initiative Forum.

BRI Forum: Chinese president greets Russian counterpart in Beijing

BRI Forum: Russian President Putin arrives in China to meet Xi Jinping

<p>The two-day Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum that began on October 17, commemorates the 10 years of the infrastructure development strategy initiated by Xi Jinping to encourage worldwide connectivity through two main trade routes to link China.</p>

<p>The initiative covers infrastructure and heeds importance to connecting markets, fostering relations with other countries as well as promoting technology. The forum, which is the largest gathering outside of the UN, witnessed the participation of 150 countries and 30 international organisations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the BRI aims at global connectivity and growth through the different economic corridors, it also focuses on promoting growth within its borders, particularly the northeast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Northeast China has long been Beijing’s traditional industrial base and has seen more economic development than any other area.</p>

<p>Northeast China covers the provinces of Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang which saw heavy industries such as steel plants, oil refineries, ship manufacturing factories and metal mines.</p>

<p>According to Cheng Li from the China Leadership Monitor, many of the firms in these industries started failing due to the burden of pensions, poor performance, and overstaffing.</p>

<p>“In the early 1900s, China promised the revitalisation of the area, focusing on structural adjustments, in terms of ownership reform, industrial redistribution, and state-owned enterprise reconstruction," says Li.</p>

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping has previously toured and emphasised the importance of northeast in 2018, promoting “self-reliance amid rising unilateralism and protectionism”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-filmed-with-nuclear-briefcase-carried-by-russian-officers-in-china-648464">Putin filmed with 'nuclear briefcase' carried by Russian officers in China</a></p>

<p>In fact, in his speech at the opening of the 19th Party Congress, he said the focus would be to develop “old revolutionary base areas”, and areas with large minorities areas with poverty.</p>

<p>Moreover, he mentioned that he would support the region with “optimal development through innovation,” and urbanise the area to encourage development of cities and towns. He emphasized the importance of the northeast again in 2020, while talking about China’s 14th five-year plan. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-praises-dear-friend-xi-in-beijing-summit-invites-world-to-invest-in-northern-sea-route-648185">Putin praises 'dear friend' Xi in Beijing summit, discusses Middle East and Ukraine</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;The issue of revitalisation was picked up again by Xi, as last month Global Times reported that the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council (SASAC) had a meeting, wherein they resolved to support and advise on centrally administered state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to deepen comprehensive cooperation with the northeastern region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;Local Chinese commentators believe that the CCP’s northeast revitalising plans are in order to turn it into a world industrial complex for the coming hundred years. The connectivity would come through Eastern Europe and Asia railways and connect the northeast industrial complex to the economic corridors.</p>

<p>Ahead of the BRI, meetings such as the BRICs and SCO also add to the narrative as they perhaps help solidify agreements and further enhance cooperation to ensure the same this year. &nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the failure of many projects, such as the one in Malaysia, Kenya and other African countries, the debt traps that countries have seem to befallen, coupled with China’s own failing economy, can only leave China-watchers imagining the success of such a possible industrial hub. &nbsp;</p>

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The two-day Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum that began on October 17, commemorates the 10 years of the infrastructure development strategy initiated by Xi Jinping to encourage worldwide connectivity through two main trade routes to link China.

The two-day Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum that began on October 17, commemorates the 10 years of the infrastructure development strategy initiated by Xi Jinping to encourage worldwide connectivity through two main trade routes to link China. The initiative covers infrastructure and heeds importance to connecting markets, fostering relations with other countries as well as promoting technology. The forum, which is the largest gathering outside of the UN, witnessed the participation of 150 countries and 30 international organisations. While the BRI aims at global connectivity and growth through the different economic corridors, it also focuses on promoting growth within its borders, particularly the northeast. Northeast China has long been Beijing’s traditional industrial base and has seen more economic development than any other area. Northeast China covers the provinces of Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang which saw heavy industries such as steel plants, oil refineries, ship manufacturing factories and metal mines. According to Cheng Li from the China Leadership Monitor, many of the firms in these industries started failing due to the burden of pensions, poor performance, and overstaffing. “In the early 1900s, China promised the revitalisation of the area, focusing on structural adjustments, in terms of ownership reform, industrial redistribution, and state-owned enterprise reconstruction," says Li. Chinese President Xi Jinping has previously toured and emphasised the importance of northeast in 2018, promoting “self-reliance amid rising unilateralism and protectionism”. Also read | Putin filmed with 'nuclear briefcase' carried by Russian officers in China In fact, in his speech at the opening of the 19th Party Congress, he said the focus would be to develop “old revolutionary base areas”, and areas with large minorities areas with poverty. Moreover, he mentioned that he would support the region with “optimal development through innovation,” and urbanise the area to encourage development of cities and towns. He emphasized the importance of the northeast again in 2020, while talking about China’s 14th five-year plan. Also read | Putin praises 'dear friend' Xi in Beijing summit, discusses Middle East and Ukraine The issue of revitalisation was picked up again by Xi, as last month Global Times reported that the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council (SASAC) had a meeting, wherein they resolved to support and advise on centrally administered state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to deepen comprehensive cooperation with the northeastern region. Local Chinese commentators believe that the CCP’s northeast revitalising plans are in order to turn it into a world industrial complex for the coming hundred years. The connectivity would come through Eastern Europe and Asia railways and connect the northeast industrial complex to the economic corridors. Ahead of the BRI, meetings such as the BRICs and SCO also add to the narrative as they perhaps help solidify agreements and further enhance cooperation to ensure the same this year. However, the failure of many projects, such as the one in Malaysia, Kenya and other African countries, the debt traps that countries have seem to befallen, coupled with China’s own failing economy, can only leave China-watchers imagining the success of such a possible industrial hub. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Here’s why China is betting big on Belt and Road Initiative

<p>President Vladimir Putin of Russia heaped praise&nbsp;on Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit being held in Beijing.</p>

<p>On his second visit&nbsp;outside the former Soviet Union since the Ukraine war, Putin took the opportunity to market Russia's much-touted Northern Sea Route (NSR)&nbsp;and invited global investments in the project he claims would deepen trade ties between East and West.</p>

<p>“As for the Northern Sea Route, Russia does not just offer its partners to actively use its transit potential, I will say more: we invite interested states to participate directly in its development, and we are ready to provide reliable ice breaker navigation, communication and supply,” Putin said.</p>

<p>The NSR runs from Murmansk near Russia’s border with Norway eastwards to the Bering Strait near Alaska.</p>

<p>“Starting next year, navigation for ice-class cargo ships along the entire length of the Northern Sea Route will become year-round,” Putin announced.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin arrives in China to meet Xi Jinping</strong></p>

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<p>Putin referred to Xi as his "dear friend" and thanked him for bringing the world together and reviving the ancient Silk Road through the BRI project.</p>

<p>“Russia and China, like most countries of the world, share the desire for equal, mutually beneficial cooperation in order to achieve universal sustainable and long-term economic progress and social well-being, while respecting the diversity of civilisation and the right of each State to its own development model,” Putin said.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden-Xi meet</strong></h2>

<p>The two leaders earlier met on Tuesday (Oct 17) to kick off the BRI meeting.</p>

<p>Both leaders reportedly discussed the Middle East and Ukraine in the meeting, with Putin emphasising that common threats were pushing the two nations even closer.</p>

<p>Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p>As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-xi-meeting-whats-on-agenda-and-why-no-high-publicity-deals-are-expected-647769"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Putin-Xi meeting: What’s on agenda and why no high-publicity deals are expected</strong></a></p>

<p>Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Message from China</strong></h2>

<p>The BRI meeting comes at the height of the persistent tensions between US and China. Xi Jinping took the opportunity to warn the West against its decoupling efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We stand against unilateral sanctions, economic coercion, decoupling and supply chain disruption," Xi told more than 1,000 delegates gathered in an ornate conference room in the Great Hall of the People west of Tiananmen Square.</p>

<p>Jinping also lauded China's BRI programme, claiming it was acting as a bridge between continents and helping build infrastructure around the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's warning to US</strong></h2>

<p>Putin on&nbsp;Wednesday said in a press conference that US deliveries of long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine were a "mistake" that would create additional threats to Russian forces but would not significantly change the situation on the front.</p>

<p>"Firstly, this of course causes harm and creates an additional threat. Secondly, we will of course be able to repel these attacks. War is war," Putin said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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President Vladimir Putin of Russia heaped praise on Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit being held in Beijing.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia heaped praise on Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit being held in Beijing. On his second visit outside the former Soviet Union since the Ukraine war, Putin took the opportunity to market Russia's much-touted Northern Sea Route (NSR) and invited global investments in the project he claims would deepen trade ties between East and West. “As for the Northern Sea Route, Russia does not just offer its partners to actively use its transit potential, I will say more: we invite interested states to participate directly in its development, and we are ready to provide reliable ice breaker navigation, communication and supply,” Putin said. The NSR runs from Murmansk near Russia’s border with Norway eastwards to the Bering Strait near Alaska. “Starting next year, navigation for ice-class cargo ships along the entire length of the Northern Sea Route will become year-round,” Putin announced. Watch: Russian President Putin arrives in China to meet Xi Jinping × Putin referred to Xi as his "dear friend" and thanked him for bringing the world together and reviving the ancient Silk Road through the BRI project. “Russia and China, like most countries of the world, share the desire for equal, mutually beneficial cooperation in order to achieve universal sustainable and long-term economic progress and social well-being, while respecting the diversity of civilisation and the right of each State to its own development model,” Putin said. Biden-Xi meet The two leaders earlier met on Tuesday (Oct 17) to kick off the BRI meeting. Both leaders reportedly discussed the Middle East and Ukraine in the meeting, with Putin emphasising that common threats were pushing the two nations even closer. Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin. Also read: Putin-Xi meeting: What’s on agenda and why no high-publicity deals are expected Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP. Message from China The BRI meeting comes at the height of the persistent tensions between US and China. Xi Jinping took the opportunity to warn the West against its decoupling efforts. "We stand against unilateral sanctions, economic coercion, decoupling and supply chain disruption," Xi told more than 1,000 delegates gathered in an ornate conference room in the Great Hall of the People west of Tiananmen Square. Jinping also lauded China's BRI programme, claiming it was acting as a bridge between continents and helping build infrastructure around the world. Putin's warning to US Putin on Wednesday said in a press conference that US deliveries of long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine were a "mistake" that would create additional threats to Russian forces but would not significantly change the situation on the front. "Firstly, this of course causes harm and creates an additional threat. Secondly, we will of course be able to repel these attacks. War is war," Putin said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Putin praises 'dear friend' Xi in Beijing summit, discusses Middle East and Ukraine

The third Belt and Road Forum for international cooperation officially kicked off in Beijing today. Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony in an opening address. Xi warned against decoupling from China while he criticized Western efforts to reduce dependence on the Chinese economy.

BRI Forum: Xi criticises Western efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese economy

China is hosting representatives of 130 Nations for a forum that marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. The Forum that started on Monday focused on Beijing's International infrastructure plan something that is considered to be an important part of Chinese President Xi Jinping's effort to expand the nation's global reach.

BRI Forum meet: Belt and Road Initiative a move to extend China's global reach

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday&nbsp;ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi&nbsp;in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<h2><strong>Focus of the talks</strong></h2>

<p>As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin.</p>

<p>Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Can regional players negotiate ceasefire as Russia, China want a stake</strong></p>

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<p>For China, Russia continues to be one of its few allies acting as a bulwark against the West. Meanwhile, for Moscow, Beijing has increasingly become a reliable trading and geopolitical partner, especially after its invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Since Moscow embarked on its all-out invasion of Ukraine, it has been put in a position where it is unprecedentedly dependent on China," Bjorn Alexander Duben of China's Jilin University was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Lavrov- Wang meeting</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Monday, the top diplomats of China and Russia met in Beijing and discussed their bilateral ties "in their entirety". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov thanked his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi for inviting Putin as “Chief Guest” to the BRI summit.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fukushima-nuclear-plant-like-china-russia-suspends-all-japanese-seafood-imports-647527"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Fukushima plant water release: Russia follows China, suspends all Japanese seafood imports</strong></a></p>

<p>Wang, in turn, said China "appreciates" Russia's support for the Belt and Road Initiative.</p>

<p>"Both sides should plan commemorative activities, deepen strategic mutual trust, consolidate traditional friendship, and promote friendship from generation to generation," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>On Israel-Hamas war</strong></h2>

<p>As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the topic is expected to come up in talks between the top leaders of Russia and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both nations have failed to condemn Hamas for its deadly terror attacks on Israel and share extremely amicable ties with Iran, a major backer of the terrorist outfit.</p>

<p>Russia has expressed its willingness to help both warring parties reach a peaceful settlement. The Kremlin on Monday (Oct 16) said it was willing to work towards "ending the Palestinian-Israeli confrontation and achieving a peaceful settlement through political and diplomatic means".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum.

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum. Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Focus of the talks As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin. Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Can regional players negotiate ceasefire as Russia, China want a stake × For China, Russia continues to be one of its few allies acting as a bulwark against the West. Meanwhile, for Moscow, Beijing has increasingly become a reliable trading and geopolitical partner, especially after its invasion of Ukraine. "Since Moscow embarked on its all-out invasion of Ukraine, it has been put in a position where it is unprecedentedly dependent on China," Bjorn Alexander Duben of China's Jilin University was quoted as saying by AFP. Lavrov- Wang meeting Earlier on Monday, the top diplomats of China and Russia met in Beijing and discussed their bilateral ties "in their entirety". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov thanked his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi for inviting Putin as “Chief Guest” to the BRI summit. Also read: Fukushima plant water release: Russia follows China, suspends all Japanese seafood imports Wang, in turn, said China "appreciates" Russia's support for the Belt and Road Initiative. "Both sides should plan commemorative activities, deepen strategic mutual trust, consolidate traditional friendship, and promote friendship from generation to generation," he said. On Israel-Hamas war As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the topic is expected to come up in talks between the top leaders of Russia and China. Both nations have failed to condemn Hamas for its deadly terror attacks on Israel and share extremely amicable ties with Iran, a major backer of the terrorist outfit. Russia has expressed its willingness to help both warring parties reach a peaceful settlement. The Kremlin on Monday (Oct 16) said it was willing to work towards "ending the Palestinian-Israeli confrontation and achieving a peaceful settlement through political and diplomatic means". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Putin-Xi meeting: What’s on agenda and why no high-publicity deals are expected

Leaders gather in Beijing for smaller, greener Belt and Road Forum

China is hosting representatives of 130 Nations for a forum that marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. Watch our report for more.

Russian President Putin's first visit to China amidst war

BRI Forum meet: Russian leader Vladimir Putin arrives in China to meet Xi Jinping

Russia's top diplomat Sergey Lavrov is on a trip to Beijing ahead of an expected visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Beijing is hosting representatives of 130 countries to mark a decade of its Belt and Road Initiative. The Belt and Road Initiative is a key geopolitical project of Chinese president Xi Jinping.

Lavrov in Beijing | Belt and Road Initiative: Xi Jinping's key geopolitical project

Beijing to host 3rd Belt and Road Forum Oct. 17-18. Rep. from developing countries, incl. Latin America and Africa, to attend.

China to host Belt and Road forum in Beijing Oct 17-18

Nepal's prime minister pushback has said that Nepal will continue to actively participate in China's Belt and Road Initiative.

China bets on Nepal to expand its influence

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday vowed to help Nepal transform itself from a landlocked country to a land-linked nation by facilitating infrastructure connectivity and transit transportation cooperation as he met Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ here.</p>

<p>Xi met Prachanda on the sidelines of the Hangzhou Asian Games here in eastern China.</p>

<p>Prachanda, who politically distanced from the pro-China Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) headed by KP Oli after becoming Prime Minister in December last year made his maiden visit to China after visiting India and the US.</p>

<p>In his meeting with Prachanda, Xi who made a high-profile visit to Nepal in 2019 and announced several high-profile projects said the two countries sharing borders through Tibet made progress with the ‘Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network’ and other ‘Belt and Road’ projects that have “taken shape”.</p>

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<p>He urged efforts from both sides to promote infrastructure connectivity and expand transit transportation cooperation to help Nepal transform itself from a landlocked country to a land-linked country at an early date, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted him as saying.</p>

<p>The trans-Himalayan connectivity projects include road and rail connectivity being laid through the rugged Himalayan mountains connecting Nepal with Tibet.</p>

<p>As a landlocked country, much of its imports go through India. China wants to weigh in to reduce Nepal’s dependence on India as part of efforts to expand its own influence.</p>

<p>Critics however say that most of the Chinese projects in Nepal were stuck, including the border infrastructure as Beijing closed its borders during the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

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<p>“Nepal signed a transport-transit agreement to access seven ports in China; nine BRI projects were selected, and the “Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network” umbrella concept was presented, enhancing cross-border cooperation” according to Pragya Ghimire of the Institute of Foreign Affairs, Nepal.</p>

<p>“When Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Nepal in 2019, the two countries signed seven bilateral agreements, but most were not implemented”, she wrote in an article published in the Nepalese daily, the Kathmandu Post ahead of Dahal’s eight-day visit during which he is scheduled to visit Tibet.</p>

<p>In his meeting with Prachanda, Xi said “The two sides should always understand and support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, and constantly consolidate the political foundation of bilateral relations”.</p>

<p>For his part Prachanda said Xi is a visionary global leader and a good friend of all Nepalese people, Xinhua reported.</p>

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<p>Hailing Nepal and China as friends and partners who can understand, rely on and support each other, Prachanda reiterated Nepal’s firm adherence to the one-China policy.</p>

<p>Under the one-China policy, Nepal cracks down on Tibetan visits to India through the land borders to meet the Dalai Lama.</p>

<p>Both Taiwan and Tibet are inalienable parts of China’s territory, and Nepal will not allow any force to use its territory to undermine China’s sovereignty and security, Dahal told Xi adding that this position is firm and unshakable.</p>

<p>He noted that Nepal highly appreciates the Belt and Road Initiative and will actively participate in Belt and Road cooperation and that it will also promote the construction of the Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network.</p>

<p>Both countries were expected to sign several agreements to boost Chinese investments in Nepal, according to Nepalese media reports.</p>

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday vowed to help Nepal transform itself from a landlocked country to a land-linked nation by facilitating infrastructure connectivity and transit transportation cooperation as he met Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ here.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday vowed to help Nepal transform itself from a landlocked country to a land-linked nation by facilitating infrastructure connectivity and transit transportation cooperation as he met Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ here. Xi met Prachanda on the sidelines of the Hangzhou Asian Games here in eastern China. Prachanda, who politically distanced from the pro-China Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) headed by KP Oli after becoming Prime Minister in December last year made his maiden visit to China after visiting India and the US. In his meeting with Prachanda, Xi who made a high-profile visit to Nepal in 2019 and announced several high-profile projects said the two countries sharing borders through Tibet made progress with the ‘Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network’ and other ‘Belt and Road’ projects that have “taken shape”. Also Read | At least 35 dead in Benin after massive fire erupts at illegal fuel depot He urged efforts from both sides to promote infrastructure connectivity and expand transit transportation cooperation to help Nepal transform itself from a landlocked country to a land-linked country at an early date, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted him as saying. The trans-Himalayan connectivity projects include road and rail connectivity being laid through the rugged Himalayan mountains connecting Nepal with Tibet. As a landlocked country, much of its imports go through India. China wants to weigh in to reduce Nepal’s dependence on India as part of efforts to expand its own influence. Critics however say that most of the Chinese projects in Nepal were stuck, including the border infrastructure as Beijing closed its borders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also Read | Kim Jong Un's letter to Xi Jinping expresses hope for cooperation “Nepal signed a transport-transit agreement to access seven ports in China; nine BRI projects were selected, and the “Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network” umbrella concept was presented, enhancing cross-border cooperation” according to Pragya Ghimire of the Institute of Foreign Affairs, Nepal. “When Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Nepal in 2019, the two countries signed seven bilateral agreements, but most were not implemented”, she wrote in an article published in the Nepalese daily, the Kathmandu Post ahead of Dahal’s eight-day visit during which he is scheduled to visit Tibet. In his meeting with Prachanda, Xi said “The two sides should always understand and support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, and constantly consolidate the political foundation of bilateral relations”. For his part Prachanda said Xi is a visionary global leader and a good friend of all Nepalese people, Xinhua reported. Watch | UK: Jet maker CFM claims AOG falsified documents massively × Hailing Nepal and China as friends and partners who can understand, rely on and support each other, Prachanda reiterated Nepal’s firm adherence to the one-China policy. Under the one-China policy, Nepal cracks down on Tibetan visits to India through the land borders to meet the Dalai Lama. Both Taiwan and Tibet are inalienable parts of China’s territory, and Nepal will not allow any force to use its territory to undermine China’s sovereignty and security, Dahal told Xi adding that this position is firm and unshakable. He noted that Nepal highly appreciates the Belt and Road Initiative and will actively participate in Belt and Road cooperation and that it will also promote the construction of the Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network. Both countries were expected to sign several agreements to boost Chinese investments in Nepal, according to Nepalese media reports. 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. ×

Xi meets Prachanda; says China to boost border infrastructure to end Nepal’s landlocked status

During the 10-year anniversary of China's ambitious Border Road Initiative, China will host an international forum in Beijing next month.

China's Border Road Initiative: Beijing to host international forum next month

India, US, EU and Saudi Arabia announced India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor on the sidelines of the G20 leaders' summit in New Delhi. The Megaproject is being seen as the rival of China's Belt and Road initiative. The IMEC will enhance global trade in West Asia and also improve Israel’s position as a hub for transporting goods. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is at the focus of an unprecedented international project that will link infrastructure from Asia to Europe. What will happen to China's Bri now? WION'S Bhairavi Singh gets you the ground report.

India-led IMEC to counter China's BRI | Inside South Asia

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor announced on the sidelines of the recently concluded G20 leaders' summit in New Delhi is being seen as the rival of China's Belt and Road initiative. Can this project halt Beijing's extensive BRI footprint across at least three continents? WION'S Bhairavi Singh gets you the ground report

New trade route: IMEC to enhance economic integration | Inside South Asia

<p>India’s foreign minister S Jaishankar asserted that the new multinational rail and shipping route connecting India and the Middle East&nbsp;to Europe does not pose any threat to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and dissuaded efforts to portray the US-backed project as a counter to Beijing’s multibillion dollar infrastructure project.</p>

<p>Speaking exclusively to WION, Jaishankar termed the connectivity project “a very significant initiative”, which is “rooted deeply in tradition”.</p>

<p>“I would urge you to see things positively rather than see everything negatively in terms of countering other people,” the minister said in response to a question about the initiative being seen as a counter to China’s BRI.</p>

<p>“I think this is an initiative of very important countries, who are also good in it for themselves. They are not doing it because they are against somebody and something. They're doing it because they are&nbsp;for&nbsp;something,” he added.</p>

<p>Talking about the prospects of the corridor project, Jaishankar said, “I think it's a very, very significant initiative because at one level it is rooted very deeply in tradition, for hundreds of thousands of years, people have been traversing this route from India to Europe and back through the gulf, through the Arabian Peninsula.”</p>

<h2><strong>EAM Jaishankar Exclusive Interview: 'We consciously decided to invite the global south'</strong></h2>

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<p>“So, there's a long tradition, but it stopped for a variety of historical reasons. It has been reduced. Today, I think we have the circumstances, the fact that all the countries involved which you mentioned, they all are interested in reviving this tradition, but reviving it in a modern way so we are really looking at an economic corridor, partly maritime, partly railway, there will be other aspects for it, not just logistics, different aspects of economic activity. So, I think it's an enormously promising initiative. Obviously, we'll have to work very hard and see how to take it forward,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-wion-g20-summit-marks-an-inflection-point-for-a-rising-india-635759">EAM Jaishankar to WION: G20 Summit marks an 'inflection point' for a rising India</a></p>

<p>When asked when will the project begin, the minister responded, “I think you had an agreement, in principle right now, you have to be a little bit patient.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-eam-s-jaishankar-reveals-how-india-pulled-off-g20-joint-statement-diplomatic-success-635774">India's EAM S Jaishankar reveals how India pulled off G20 joint statement diplomatic success</a></p>

<p>The connectivity project was announced at the Group of 20 (G20) Summit in India.</p>

<p>It is comprised of two separate routes – an east corridor linking India to the Gulf Arab states and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf states to Europe.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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India’s foreign minister S Jaishankar asserted that the new multinational rail and shipping route connecting India and the Middle East to Europe does not pose any threat to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and dissuaded efforts to portray the US-backed project as a counter to Beijing’s multibillion dollar infrastructure project.

India’s foreign minister S Jaishankar asserted that the new multinational rail and shipping route connecting India and the Middle East to Europe does not pose any threat to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and dissuaded efforts to portray the US-backed project as a counter to Beijing’s multibillion dollar infrastructure project. Speaking exclusively to WION, Jaishankar termed the connectivity project “a very significant initiative”, which is “rooted deeply in tradition”. “I would urge you to see things positively rather than see everything negatively in terms of countering other people,” the minister said in response to a question about the initiative being seen as a counter to China’s BRI. “I think this is an initiative of very important countries, who are also good in it for themselves. They are not doing it because they are against somebody and something. They're doing it because they are for something,” he added. Talking about the prospects of the corridor project, Jaishankar said, “I think it's a very, very significant initiative because at one level it is rooted very deeply in tradition, for hundreds of thousands of years, people have been traversing this route from India to Europe and back through the gulf, through the Arabian Peninsula.” EAM Jaishankar Exclusive Interview: 'We consciously decided to invite the global south' “So, there's a long tradition, but it stopped for a variety of historical reasons. It has been reduced. Today, I think we have the circumstances, the fact that all the countries involved which you mentioned, they all are interested in reviving this tradition, but reviving it in a modern way so we are really looking at an economic corridor, partly maritime, partly railway, there will be other aspects for it, not just logistics, different aspects of economic activity. So, I think it's an enormously promising initiative. Obviously, we'll have to work very hard and see how to take it forward,” he added. Also read | EAM Jaishankar to WION: G20 Summit marks an 'inflection point' for a rising India When asked when will the project begin, the minister responded, “I think you had an agreement, in principle right now, you have to be a little bit patient.” Also read | India's EAM S Jaishankar reveals how India pulled off G20 joint statement diplomatic success The connectivity project was announced at the Group of 20 (G20) Summit in India. It is comprised of two separate routes – an east corridor linking India to the Gulf Arab states and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf states to Europe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India-Middle East-Europe corridor not a counter to China’s BRI: Jaishankar

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