Did China fudge coronavirus numbers? If a study published by scientists at Hong Kong University is anything to go by, China did fudge.

The research projects as many as 75,000 people in Wuhan may have been infected with the coronavirus.&nbsp;

According to the study, published in the journal The Lancet, given the lack of robust and detailed records of suspected, probable, and confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection (2019-nCoV), the true size of the epidemic, and its pandemic potential remain unclear.

"Not everyone who is infected with 2019-nCoV would require or seek medical attention. During the urgent demands of a rapidly expanding epidemic of a completely new virus, especially when system capacity is getting overwhelmed, some of those infected may be undercounted in the official register," explained study senior author Gabriel Leung from the University of Hong Kong.

Wuhan, the city of 11 million people, &nbsp;has been on virtual lockdown for weeks as China seeks to stem the spread of the deadly virus.&nbsp;

The death toll from the coronavirus in China has risen to 304 with nearly 14, 300-hundred confirmed cases globally.

The virus has spread to nearly 25 countries.

The city of Huanggang in China's Hubei province has reported 726 confirmed novel coronavirus cases. Wuhan- the epicentre of the virus is also in the same city

Meanwhile, China continues to race against time to build two hospitals for coronavirus patients in Wuhan.

One of the hospitals is scheduled to open on February 3 while the other is expected to be ready by February 5.

Did China fudge coronavirus numbers? If a study published by scientists at Hong Kong University is anything to go by, China did fudge. The research projects as many as 75,000 people in Wuhan may have been infected with the coronavirus.

Did China fudge coronavirus numbers? If a study published by scientists at Hong Kong University is anything to go by, China did fudge. The research projects as many as 75,000 people in Wuhan may have been infected with the coronavirus. According to the study, published in the journal The Lancet, given the lack of robust and detailed records of suspected, probable, and confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection (2019-nCoV), the true size of the epidemic, and its pandemic potential remain unclear. "Not everyone who is infected with 2019-nCoV would require or seek medical attention. During the urgent demands of a rapidly expanding epidemic of a completely new virus, especially when system capacity is getting overwhelmed, some of those infected may be undercounted in the official register," explained study senior author Gabriel Leung from the University of Hong Kong. Wuhan, the city of 11 million people, has been on virtual lockdown for weeks as China seeks to stem the spread of the deadly virus. The death toll from the coronavirus in China has risen to 304 with nearly 14, 300-hundred confirmed cases globally. The virus has spread to nearly 25 countries. The city of Huanggang in China's Hubei province has reported 726 confirmed novel coronavirus cases. Wuhan- the epicentre of the virus is also in the same city Meanwhile, China continues to race against time to build two hospitals for coronavirus patients in Wuhan. One of the hospitals is scheduled to open on February 3 while the other is expected to be ready by February 5.

Hong Kong University study says China fudged coronavirus numbers 

A series of recent measures in Saudi Arabia and Iran that violate the rights, if not endanger religious and ethnic minorities call into question their moral claims of adhering to core faith-based values of mercy and compassion.

If anything, the two arch-rivals compete in violating the rights of minorities like Uighurs threatened with deportation to China where they run the risk of being incarcerated in re-education camps in the troubled, north-western province of Xinjiang; Rohingyas who have been the victims of ethnic cleansing in Myanmar; and persecuted Bahais and other religious minorities in Iran.

Saudi and Iranian policies seem more in line with those of authoritarian and autocratic leaders who often seek their legitimacy in civilisationalism that emphasises the supremacy of a distinct civilization at the expense of others rather than principles of humanitarianism.

The plight of threatened Muslim majorities alongside potential different Muslim responses to US President Donald Trump’s controversial Israeli-Palestinian peace plan that favours Israel is likely to sharpen a struggle for leadership of the Islamic world between a Saudi-UAE-led alliance and countries like Turkey, Iran and Malaysia.

Backed by Turkey and Iran, Malaysia last month organised an Islamic summit in Kuala Lumpur that failed to live up to its billing of defending the rights of endangered Muslim minorities. Nonetheless, the summit sparked ripples in various Muslim nations in the Middle East as well as Asia.

Beyond Iran and Saudi Arabia’s overall abuse of universal human rights, recent reports highlight their failure to ensure the safety and rights of persecuted minorities – a principle that was left, right and centre in this week’s commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the German extermination camp in Poland.

“Auschwitz did not fall from the sky,” said 93-year-old historian and Auschwitz survivor Marian Turski.. He argued that Auschwitz was the result of thousands of small steps that stripped minorities of their dignity and humanity. “The 11th commandment is thou shalt not be indifferent. Do not be indifferent when any minority is discriminated against,” Turski said.

The Saudi deportation of Uighurs who are caught in a no-man’s land given the blanket refusal by Chinese diplomatic missions to extend their passports as part of its brutal crackdown on Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang, casts a shadow over a visit this month to Auschwitz by Mohammed Al-Issa, the first by a senior Saudi cleric.

Al-Issa’s visit was designed to project the kingdom under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has defended the crackdown, as a religiously tolerant country that has broken with the intolerant aspects of ultra-conservative Islam, not only in its discrimination against women but also in its attitudes towards other faiths and minority groups.

Al-Issa heads the Muslim World League that for decades was one of the prime Saudi vehicles for the global promotion and funding of Sunni Muslim ultra-conservatism.

The world must ensure that “these kinds of horrible crimes” will never “happen again,” Al-Issa said in Auschwitz, echoing statements by multiple Auschwitz survivors who insisted that ‘never again’ was a principle applicable to all persecuted minorities, not just Jews.

Al-Issa’s statement may well have been genuine. “His face reflected feelings of shock and sadness as he looked at piles of used canisters of Zyklon-B, the gas used to suffocate victims, along with mounds of eyeglasses, shoes, prayer shawls, and human hair that the Nazis collected from incoming prisoners,” The Times of Israel reported.

“Unfortunately, humanity is still suffering from these kinds of crimes on a large scale today, different human beings against each other. I believe there is a huge responsibility on the international community to do something to deal with these kinds of horrible crimes and to make sure none of this will happen again. Our world will not be able to achieve peace unless we have a strong will together to fight evil,” Al-Issa said in Auschwitz.

Fighting evil would mean that arrangements are found for Uighurs rendered without valid documents as a result of Chinese policy, if not in the kingdom itself in cooperation with other countries rather than exposing them to the risk of indefinite incarceration.

It would also mean adopting a compassionate attitude towards the approximately 250,000 Rohingya who have sought refuge in the kingdom from ethnic and religious persecution in Myanmar where they are denied basic rights.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) last week ordered Myanmar to adopt provisional measures to prevent further attempts at genocide against the roughly 600,000 members of the Rohingya Muslim minority remaining in Myanmar. Some 750,000 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh in recent years to escape what the United Nations called ethnic cleansing.

Rohingya began migrating to Saudi Arabia in the 1950s and were granted residency by King Feisal in 1973, allowing them to live, work and travel within the kingdom and abroad.

Thousands of Rohingya have, however, been expelled in recent years as illegal immigrants or because they entered the kingdom on false documents, the only papers available to them, as part of Prince Mohammed’s efforts to reduce dependence on foreign labour and increase employment opportunities for Saudi nationals.

By the same token, Iran this week ruled that national identity cards would only be issued to adherents of the three minority religions recognized by the country’s constitution, Christianity, Judaism and Zoroastrianism.

The ruling eliminated the category ‘other’ on the application forms for the card that is needed to access government and banking services as well as numerous other transactions.

The ruling targets Baha’is, members of a sect viewed as a heretic by mainstream Islam, and other sects, forcing them to lie to obtain the identity card.

Baha’i leaders have been imprisoned and those who openly follow the faith are routinely denied university education and employment, while members of the community have seen their businesses shut down and land confiscated by the state.

Iran’s National Organisation For Civil Registration, responding to a complaint about the omission of the ‘other’ option, advised the Baha’i complainant to in effect disavow his faith and fill out the form with incorrect information.

“Dear citizen, we wish you health. The law neither recognises your religion nor offers a solution. You may submit your application under existing options,” the authority said. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

A series of recent measures in Saudi Arabia and Iran that violate the rights, if not endanger religious and ethnic minorities call into question their moral claims of adhering to core faith-based values of mercy and compassion.

A series of recent measures in Saudi Arabia and Iran that violate the rights, if not endanger religious and ethnic minorities call into question their moral claims of adhering to core faith-based values of mercy and compassion. If anything, the two arch-rivals compete in violating the rights of minorities like Uighurs threatened with deportation to China where they run the risk of being incarcerated in re-education camps in the troubled, north-western province of Xinjiang; Rohingyas who have been the victims of ethnic cleansing in Myanmar; and persecuted Bahais and other religious minorities in Iran. Saudi and Iranian policies seem more in line with those of authoritarian and autocratic leaders who often seek their legitimacy in civilisationalism that emphasises the supremacy of a distinct civilization at the expense of others rather than principles of humanitarianism. The plight of threatened Muslim majorities alongside potential different Muslim responses to US President Donald Trump’s controversial Israeli-Palestinian peace plan that favours Israel is likely to sharpen a struggle for leadership of the Islamic world between a Saudi-UAE-led alliance and countries like Turkey, Iran and Malaysia. Backed by Turkey and Iran, Malaysia last month organised an Islamic summit in Kuala Lumpur that failed to live up to its billing of defending the rights of endangered Muslim minorities. Nonetheless, the summit sparked ripples in various Muslim nations in the Middle East as well as Asia. Beyond Iran and Saudi Arabia’s overall abuse of universal human rights, recent reports highlight their failure to ensure the safety and rights of persecuted minorities – a principle that was left, right and centre in this week’s commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the German extermination camp in Poland. “Auschwitz did not fall from the sky,” said 93-year-old historian and Auschwitz survivor Marian Turski.. He argued that Auschwitz was the result of thousands of small steps that stripped minorities of their dignity and humanity. “The 11th commandment is thou shalt not be indifferent. Do not be indifferent when any minority is discriminated against,” Turski said. The Saudi deportation of Uighurs who are caught in a no-man’s land given the blanket refusal by Chinese diplomatic missions to extend their passports as part of its brutal crackdown on Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang, casts a shadow over a visit this month to Auschwitz by Mohammed Al-Issa, the first by a senior Saudi cleric. Al-Issa’s visit was designed to project the kingdom under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has defended the crackdown, as a religiously tolerant country that has broken with the intolerant aspects of ultra-conservative Islam, not only in its discrimination against women but also in its attitudes towards other faiths and minority groups. Al-Issa heads the Muslim World League that for decades was one of the prime Saudi vehicles for the global promotion and funding of Sunni Muslim ultra-conservatism. The world must ensure that “these kinds of horrible crimes” will never “happen again,” Al-Issa said in Auschwitz, echoing statements by multiple Auschwitz survivors who insisted that ‘never again’ was a principle applicable to all persecuted minorities, not just Jews. Al-Issa’s statement may well have been genuine. “His face reflected feelings of shock and sadness as he looked at piles of used canisters of Zyklon-B, the gas used to suffocate victims, along with mounds of eyeglasses, shoes, prayer shawls, and human hair that the Nazis collected from incoming prisoners,” The Times of Israel reported. “Unfortunately, humanity is still suffering from these kinds of crimes on a large scale today, different human beings against each other. I believe there is a huge responsibility on the international community to do something to deal with these kinds of horrible crimes and to make sure none of this will happen again. Our world will not be able to achieve peace unless we have a strong will together to fight evil,” Al-Issa said in Auschwitz. Fighting evil would mean that arrangements are found for Uighurs rendered without valid documents as a result of Chinese policy, if not in the kingdom itself in cooperation with other countries rather than exposing them to the risk of indefinite incarceration. It would also mean adopting a compassionate attitude towards the approximately 250,000 Rohingya who have sought refuge in the kingdom from ethnic and religious persecution in Myanmar where they are denied basic rights. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) last week ordered Myanmar to adopt provisional measures to prevent further attempts at genocide against the roughly 600,000 members of the Rohingya Muslim minority remaining in Myanmar. Some 750,000 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh in recent years to escape what the United Nations called ethnic cleansing. Rohingya began migrating to Saudi Arabia in the 1950s and were granted residency by King Feisal in 1973, allowing them to live, work and travel within the kingdom and abroad. Thousands of Rohingya have, however, been expelled in recent years as illegal immigrants or because they entered the kingdom on false documents, the only papers available to them, as part of Prince Mohammed’s efforts to reduce dependence on foreign labour and increase employment opportunities for Saudi nationals. By the same token, Iran this week ruled that national identity cards would only be issued to adherents of the three minority religions recognized by the country’s constitution, Christianity, Judaism and Zoroastrianism. The ruling eliminated the category ‘other’ on the application forms for the card that is needed to access government and banking services as well as numerous other transactions. The ruling targets Baha’is, members of a sect viewed as a heretic by mainstream Islam, and other sects, forcing them to lie to obtain the identity card. Baha’i leaders have been imprisoned and those who openly follow the faith are routinely denied university education and employment, while members of the community have seen their businesses shut down and land confiscated by the state. Iran’s National Organisation For Civil Registration, responding to a complaint about the omission of the ‘other’ option, advised the Baha’i complainant to in effect disavow his faith and fill out the form with incorrect information. “Dear citizen, we wish you health. The law neither recognises your religion nor offers a solution. You may submit your application under existing options,” the authority said. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Saudi Arabia and Iran: No place for persecuted minorities

Global <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/equities-and-oil-tank-plunge-as-deadly-coronavirus-triggers-panic-276900">equity markets</a> rebounded in a broad rally on Tuesday and some safe-haven assets eased as investors took a less pessimistic view of the potential economic fallout from China's coronavirus outbreak.

Gold fell and the Japanese yen dipped against the dollar, but risk aversion in currency markets persisted, with the Australian dollar leading losers and the greenback strengthening to an eight-week high against a basket of six rivals.

In a possible warning of a future weak economy, strong gains in US Treasuries this week led key parts of the US yield curve to reinvert, a trend that in the past has indicated that a recession in the United States will follow in a year or two.

Gains in technology and financial shares helped Wall Street recoup some losses from Monday's selloff, which was sparked by worries about the possible economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak.

Major European and US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-stocks-slide-to-two-week-low-on-china-virus-fears-safe-havens-gain-277082">stock indexes</a> rebounded around 1 per cent as President Xi Jinping said China was sure of defeating a "devil" coronavirus that has killed 106 people.

The World Health Organization's director-general said he is confident China can control the spread of the coronavirus, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.

Chinese markets will remain closed until next week, but a 0.5 per cent overnight drop in Tokyo's Nikkei was more modest than Monday's thumping. Other Asian markets that were openly rallied.

<img alt="New York Stock Exchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d117fb1e-7aa3-41a8-a846-ccc1863d6016" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_65.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Traders Anthony Rinaldi (L) and Federico DeMarco (R) work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

"History shows us as we look back at several different examples that these viral outbreaks tend to be short-lived," said Candice Bangsund, a global asset allocation portfolio manager at Fiera Capital in Montreal. 
While markets should gyrate for a while, the global economy will resume the improving growth it started to exhibit late last year, Bangsund said.

"The economy could be ripe for a sharp snapback or a V-shaped recovery once we find out when this is contained and when the outbreak is indeed brought under control," she said. "We maintain the global economy will come back to life."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/barclays-sees-2-per-barrel-impact-to-oil-prices-as-virus-fears-threaten-demand-277075">Barclays sees $2 per barrel impact to oil prices as virus fears threaten demand</a>

MSCI's gauge of stocks across the globe gained 0.65 per cent, while its emerging market index lost 0.05 per cent.

Shares on Wall Street also surged. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 187.05 points, or 0.66 per cent, to 28,722.85. The S&amp;P 500 gained 32.61 points, or 1.01 per cent, to 3,276.24 and the Nasdaq Composite added 130.37 points, or 1.43 per cent, to 9,269.68.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-rout-extends-to-sixth-day-as-china-virus-death-toll-rises-277073">Oil futures </a>edged up after falling for five days, following the recovery in equities and talk that Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies might tighten the market amid fears the coronavirus could weigh on oil demand. 
Brent futures settled up 19 cents at $59.51 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled up 34 cents at $53.48. [O/R]

The yield on the benchmark 10-year US Treasury note bounced off three-month lows after a key part of the yield curve briefly inverted for the first time since October.

The yield fell as low as 1.57 per cent overnight, the lowest since October 10, before the 10-year note pared some losses to fall 13/32 in price and lift its yield to 1.6493 per cent.

An inverted curve, when longer-dated yields fall below shorter-maturity ones, has often been a percussor of a US recession. Eurozone government bond yields bounced off three-month lows to rise for the first time in over a week after US consumer confidence exceeded expectations to hit its highest level since August.

Traders awaited the outcome of a two-day meeting of Federal Reserve policymakers, which started on Tuesday. The market consensus is that the central bank will keep interest rates unchanged at between 1.5 per cent and 1.75 per cent.

The dollar index rose 0.02 per cent, with the euro up 0.03 per cent to $1.1019. The yen weakened 0.24 per cent versus the greenback at 109.15 per dollar. The US gold futures settled down 0.5 per cent at $1,569.8 an ounce.

Global equity markets rebounded in a broad rally on Tuesday and some safe-haven assets eased as investors took a less pessimistic view of the potential economic fallout from China's coronavirus outbreak.

Global equity markets rebounded in a broad rally on Tuesday and some safe-haven assets eased as investors took a less pessimistic view of the potential economic fallout from China's coronavirus outbreak. Gold fell and the Japanese yen dipped against the dollar, but risk aversion in currency markets persisted, with the Australian dollar leading losers and the greenback strengthening to an eight-week high against a basket of six rivals. In a possible warning of a future weak economy, strong gains in US Treasuries this week led key parts of the US yield curve to reinvert, a trend that in the past has indicated that a recession in the United States will follow in a year or two. Gains in technology and financial shares helped Wall Street recoup some losses from Monday's selloff, which was sparked by worries about the possible economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak. Major European and US stock indexes rebounded around 1 per cent as President Xi Jinping said China was sure of defeating a "devil" coronavirus that has killed 106 people. The World Health Organization's director-general said he is confident China can control the spread of the coronavirus, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said. Chinese markets will remain closed until next week, but a 0.5 per cent overnight drop in Tokyo's Nikkei was more modest than Monday's thumping. Other Asian markets that were openly rallied. [ Traders Anthony Rinaldi (L) and Federico DeMarco (R) work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (Courtesy: Reuters) ] "History shows us as we look back at several different examples that these viral outbreaks tend to be short-lived," said Candice Bangsund, a global asset allocation portfolio manager at Fiera Capital in Montreal. While markets should gyrate for a while, the global economy will resume the improving growth it started to exhibit late last year, Bangsund said. "The economy could be ripe for a sharp snapback or a V-shaped recovery once we find out when this is contained and when the outbreak is indeed brought under control," she said. "We maintain the global economy will come back to life." Also Read: Barclays sees $2 per barrel impact to oil prices as virus fears threaten demand MSCI's gauge of stocks across the globe gained 0.65 per cent, while its emerging market index lost 0.05 per cent. Shares on Wall Street also surged. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 187.05 points, or 0.66 per cent, to 28,722.85. The S&P 500 gained 32.61 points, or 1.01 per cent, to 3,276.24 and the Nasdaq Composite added 130.37 points, or 1.43 per cent, to 9,269.68. Oil futures edged up after falling for five days, following the recovery in equities and talk that Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies might tighten the market amid fears the coronavirus could weigh on oil demand. Brent futures settled up 19 cents at $59.51 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled up 34 cents at $53.48. [O/R] The yield on the benchmark 10-year US Treasury note bounced off three-month lows after a key part of the yield curve briefly inverted for the first time since October. The yield fell as low as 1.57 per cent overnight, the lowest since October 10, before the 10-year note pared some losses to fall 13/32 in price and lift its yield to 1.6493 per cent. An inverted curve, when longer-dated yields fall below shorter-maturity ones, has often been a percussor of a US recession. Eurozone government bond yields bounced off three-month lows to rise for the first time in over a week after US consumer confidence exceeded expectations to hit its highest level since August. Traders awaited the outcome of a two-day meeting of Federal Reserve policymakers, which started on Tuesday. The market consensus is that the central bank will keep interest rates unchanged at between 1.5 per cent and 1.75 per cent. The dollar index rose 0.02 per cent, with the euro up 0.03 per cent to $1.1019. The yen weakened 0.24 per cent versus the greenback at 109.15 per dollar. The US gold futures settled down 0.5 per cent at $1,569.8 an ounce.

Demand for safe havens decreases as global stocks rally in a big rebound

On Saturday, people in Taiwan will cast their vote in the much-anticipated presidential elections. The incumbent president Tsai Ing-wen will seek re-election and his main challenger will be China-friendly&nbsp;Han Kuo-yu.&nbsp;

More than 19.3 million people will be eligible for the polls, out of which 3.1 million are below 30 years old, and 1.81 million will cast their first vote on Saturday, as per official figures.&nbsp;

<img alt="Tsai Ing-wen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="679cb7a0-9e1c-4d1e-9e23-8f12cb1efd39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/zpMkyfHS.jpg" />

[Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen (Photo Credit: AFP)]

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-china-friendly-presidential-hopeful-faces-backlash-in-divided-south-273096">Taiwan's China-friendly presidential hopeful faces backlash in divided south</a>

China considers Taiwan as part of its territory which can be taken by force if required.&nbsp;

Tsai is seen as the frontrunner in the upcoming elections and youngsters are likely to back him due to her progressive leanings and suspicion to Chinese activities.&nbsp;

<img alt="Han Kyo-yu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8c9da667-a0a1-4e97-911a-b7a9343110f7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/UrrzVadY.jpg" />

[Presidential candidate&nbsp;Han Kuo-yu&nbsp;(Photo Credit: AFP)]

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-vote-in-shadow-of-china-pressure-hong-kong-protests-272816">Taiwan to vote in shadow of China pressure, Hong Kong protests</a>

Taiwan became the first country in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019 after Tsai's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) gave a green signal to it. &nbsp;

DPP views itself as a party that protects democratic values against Beijing's authoritarianism.&nbsp;

Han is the leader of Kuomintang Party who is in favour of closer ties with China. He also made a high-profile visit to China and Hong Kong in March last year and reitarated his commitment to "one China". &nbsp;

"Every Taiwan leader needs to find a balance between the US and China, but with Han, he has completely shifted towards China," said Aaron Yin, one of the leaders of a protest movement that held a massive rally against presidential contender.

The 62-year-old has become a divisive figure in Taiwanese politics since his reappearance from 2017 and his skills to electrify crowds helped him win mayorship of Kaohsiung in late 2018.

Han accuses DPP of imperilling Taiwan's long-term future by provoking Beijing. Han has portrayed the image of a common man in order to connect to grassroots voters and endorsed nicknames such as "bald guy".

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

On Saturday, people in Taiwan will cast their vote in the much-anticipated presidential elections. The incumbent president Tsai Ing-wen will seek re-election and his main challenger will be China-friendly Han Kuo-yu.

On Saturday, people in Taiwan will cast their vote in the much-anticipated presidential elections. The incumbent president Tsai Ing-wen will seek re-election and his main challenger will be China-friendly Han Kuo-yu. More than 19.3 million people will be eligible for the polls, out of which 3.1 million are below 30 years old, and 1.81 million will cast their first vote on Saturday, as per official figures. [Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen (Photo Credit: AFP)] Also read: Taiwan's China-friendly presidential hopeful faces backlash in divided south China considers Taiwan as part of its territory which can be taken by force if required. Tsai is seen as the frontrunner in the upcoming elections and youngsters are likely to back him due to her progressive leanings and suspicion to Chinese activities. [Presidential candidate Han Kuo-yu (Photo Credit: AFP)] Also read: Taiwan to vote in shadow of China pressure, Hong Kong protests Taiwan became the first country in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019 after Tsai's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) gave a green signal to it. DPP views itself as a party that protects democratic values against Beijing's authoritarianism. Han is the leader of Kuomintang Party who is in favour of closer ties with China. He also made a high-profile visit to China and Hong Kong in March last year and reitarated his commitment to "one China". "Every Taiwan leader needs to find a balance between the US and China, but with Han, he has completely shifted towards China," said Aaron Yin, one of the leaders of a protest movement that held a massive rally against presidential contender. The 62-year-old has become a divisive figure in Taiwanese politics since his reappearance from 2017 and his skills to electrify crowds helped him win mayorship of Kaohsiung in late 2018. Han accuses DPP of imperilling Taiwan's long-term future by provoking Beijing. Han has portrayed the image of a common man in order to connect to grassroots voters and endorsed nicknames such as "bald guy". (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Taiwan election 2020: China-friendly Han Kuo-yu challenges President Tsai Ing-wen

China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../fifa-votes-for-new-club-world-cup-euro-clubs- confirm-boycott-203684">&nbsp;FIFA Club World Cup</a>&nbsp;to begin on June 17 and the final to take place&nbsp;on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

FIFA president Gianni Infantino had announced in October last year&nbsp;that China will hold the inaugural expanded version of the 2021 Club World Cup.

The new Club World Cup will be held every four years featuring 24 league teams across the globe replacing&nbsp;the current seven-team annual format.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Also Read:&nbsp;Liverpool end sensational year as Roberto Firmino's extra-time goal seals Club World Cup</a>

The finals and the opening match is supposed to be held in Shanghai. Guangzhou, Tianjin, Wuhan, Shenyang, Jinan, Hangzhou and Dalian are among the other cities selected to host the&nbsp;Club World Cup match.&nbsp;

China's state-run media Xinhua quoting China football Association source said the proposals have not yet been approved by FIFA.

China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of FIFA Club World Cup to begin on June 17 and the final to take place on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of FIFA Club World Cup to begin on June 17 and the final to take place on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA). FIFA president Gianni Infantino had announced in October last year that China will hold the inaugural expanded version of the 2021 Club World Cup. The new Club World Cup will be held every four years featuring 24 league teams across the globe replacing the current seven-team annual format. Also Read: Liverpool end sensational year as Roberto Firmino's extra-time goal seals Club World Cup The finals and the opening match is supposed to be held in Shanghai. Guangzhou, Tianjin, Wuhan, Shenyang, Jinan, Hangzhou and Dalian are among the other cities selected to host the Club World Cup match. China's state-run media Xinhua quoting China football Association source said the proposals have not yet been approved by FIFA.

China proposes Club World Cup to be held in June 17  next year; FIFA to decide

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-uses-terrorism-as-tool-of-state-policy-army-chief-naravane-271301">new Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane</a> on Wednesday said that the priority of the Indian Army will be to be operationally prepared at all times and "pay special attention to respect human rights," news agency ANI reported.

Naravane added that all three services are ready to defend the country.&nbsp;Naravane received Guard of Honour today morning as the Army chief and paid tribute at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.

The Army chief emphasised the need to pay more attention to India's border along China and said that the force is capable of dealing with any security challenge.

"We have been giving attention to our western front in the past. The northern front now also requires an equal amount of attention... The Army is capable of tackling any dangers to the country," General Naravane told reporters.

"In that context, we are now going in for capability development and enhancement of our capacities even in our northern borders which includes the northeastern part of our country," he said.

On the border dispute with China, the Army chief said that continuing peace along the border will pave the way for a solution.

"We have been able to maintain peace and tranquillity along borders and I'm sure that situation will prevail. By maintaining this, we will be able to set the stage for the eventual solution," he said.

On Tuesday, Naravane said that the "neighbouring country" (Pakistan) uses terrorism as a tool of state policy.

In an exclusive interview to ANI hours after taking the charge as the new Army Chief, General Naravane asserted that terrorism is a worldwide problem.

"Terrorism is a worldwide problem, India has been at the receiving end of terrorism for a long time. It is only now that the entire world and many countries affected with terrorism are coming to realise what a threat it is," he said.

"As far as our neighbour is concerned they are trying to use terrorism as a tool of state policy, as a way of carrying out a proxy war against us...while maintaining deniability. However, this state can't last long, as they say, you can't fool all the people, all the time," General Naravane added.

General Naravane took over as the 28th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on Tuesday, succeeding General Bipin Rawat who has become India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). He previously served as the Vice Chief of Army Staff.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The new Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Wednesday said that the priority of the Indian Army will be to be operationally prepared at all times and "pay special attention to respect human rights," news agency ANI reported.

The new Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Wednesday said that the priority of the Indian Army will be to be operationally prepared at all times and "pay special attention to respect human rights," news agency ANI reported. Naravane added that all three services are ready to defend the country. Naravane received Guard of Honour today morning as the Army chief and paid tribute at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. The Army chief emphasised the need to pay more attention to India's border along China and said that the force is capable of dealing with any security challenge. "We have been giving attention to our western front in the past. The northern front now also requires an equal amount of attention... The Army is capable of tackling any dangers to the country," General Naravane told reporters. "In that context, we are now going in for capability development and enhancement of our capacities even in our northern borders which includes the northeastern part of our country," he said. On the border dispute with China, the Army chief said that continuing peace along the border will pave the way for a solution. "We have been able to maintain peace and tranquillity along borders and I'm sure that situation will prevail. By maintaining this, we will be able to set the stage for the eventual solution," he said. On Tuesday, Naravane said that the "neighbouring country" (Pakistan) uses terrorism as a tool of state policy. In an exclusive interview to ANI hours after taking the charge as the new Army Chief, General Naravane asserted that terrorism is a worldwide problem. "Terrorism is a worldwide problem, India has been at the receiving end of terrorism for a long time. It is only now that the entire world and many countries affected with terrorism are coming to realise what a threat it is," he said. "As far as our neighbour is concerned they are trying to use terrorism as a tool of state policy, as a way of carrying out a proxy war against us...while maintaining deniability. However, this state can't last long, as they say, you can't fool all the people, all the time," General Naravane added. General Naravane took over as the 28th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on Tuesday, succeeding General Bipin Rawat who has become India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). He previously served as the Vice Chief of Army Staff. (With inputs from ANI)

Need to pay more attention to India's border along China: Army Chief MM Naravane

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Saturday slammed China for alleged ill-treatment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang and people in Tibet Autonomous Region, saying that Beijing is attempting to erase its own citizens` faiths and cultures through repressive campaigns.

"From #Tibet to #Xinjiang, the Chinese Communist Party`s repressive campaigns are not about combating terrorism. The #CCP is attempting to erase its own citizens` faiths and cultures. All societies must respect and protect religious freedom," he tweeted.

Pompeo`s statement came even as some Chinese Communist Party documents that were leaked over the high-security prison camps in Xinjiang which confirmed China`s human rights violations of Uighur Muslims.

The China Cables, which were obtained by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists - a global network of investigative journalists based in Washington - show how Uighurs are locked up, indoctrinated and punished inside the detention camps.

The investigation found new evidence that undermines Beijing`s claims that the detention camps, which have been built across Xinjiang in the last three years to detain at least a million Uighur Muslims, provide voluntary re-education purposes to counter extremism to the inmates who are detained without trial.

China has consistently claimed that the detention centres in Xinjiang offer voluntary education and training.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Saturday slammed China for alleged ill-treatment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang and people in Tibet Autonomous Region, saying that Beijing is attempting to erase its own citizens` faiths and cultures through repressive campaigns.

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Saturday slammed China for alleged ill-treatment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang and people in Tibet Autonomous Region, saying that Beijing is attempting to erase its own citizens` faiths and cultures through repressive campaigns. "From #Tibet to #Xinjiang, the Chinese Communist Party`s repressive campaigns are not about combating terrorism. The #CCP is attempting to erase its own citizens` faiths and cultures. All societies must respect and protect religious freedom," he tweeted. Pompeo`s statement came even as some Chinese Communist Party documents that were leaked over the high-security prison camps in Xinjiang which confirmed China`s human rights violations of Uighur Muslims. The China Cables, which were obtained by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists - a global network of investigative journalists based in Washington - show how Uighurs are locked up, indoctrinated and punished inside the detention camps. The investigation found new evidence that undermines Beijing`s claims that the detention camps, which have been built across Xinjiang in the last three years to detain at least a million Uighur Muslims, provide voluntary re-education purposes to counter extremism to the inmates who are detained without trial. China has consistently claimed that the detention centres in Xinjiang offer voluntary education and training. (With inputs from ANI)

China attempting to erase its own citizens' faiths, cultures through repressive campaigns: Pompeo

India leads the world in pollution-linked deaths followed by China and Nigeria, according to a report published Wednesday that estimated the global impact of contaminants in the air, water and workplace.

India leads the world in pollution-linked deaths followed by China and Nigeria, according to a report published Wednesday that estimated the global impact of contaminants in the air, water and workplace. The report by the Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP) found pollution to be the largest environmental cause of premature death on the planet, causing 15 per cent of all deaths -- some 8.3 million people. Among the ten countries with the most pollution deaths in 2017, the latest year for which data was available, were some of the world's largest and wealthiest nations, along with some poorer ones. India and China led in the number of pollution deaths, with about 2.3 million and 1.8 million deaths respectively, followed by Nigeria, Indonesia and Pakistan. The United States, with 325 million people, came in at number seven with almost 200,000 deaths. "The report reminds us all that pollution is a global crisis," said Rachael Kupka, acting Executive Director of GAHP. "It does not matter where you live. Pollution will find you." Pollution-linked deaths rates were highest in some of the world's most impoverished countries where poor water sanitation and contaminated indoor air are major killers. Chad, Central African Republic and North Korea saw the highest number of deaths per 100,000 people (287, 251 and 202 respectively), with India entering the per capita list at number 10 with 174 deaths per 100,000 people. "India has seen increasing industrial and vehicular pollution from urban growth while poor sanitation and contaminated indoor air persist in low-income communities," the report said. On the other end of the scale, five nations in the Arabian Peninsula rank among the 10 countries in the world with the lowest death rates from pollution, with Qatar reporting the lowest. Drawing its data from the Institute of Health Metrics Evaluation, which is based in Seattle and was founded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the report broke risk factors into four categories: air, water, occupational, and lead. Air pollution represents a combination of household and outdoor contaminants as well as ozone, while water pollution included unsafe water and poor sanitation. Occupational risk encompassed deaths from carcinogens, second-hand smoke, particulates, gases, and fumes, while lead pollution deaths were those associated with exposure to legacy emissions from leaded gasoline. This refers to the lead that was deposited, and still remains, in the soil from car exhausts. The report also named ambient air pollution responsible for 40 per cent of all pollution-related deaths, led by China, India and Pakistan (1.2 million, 1.2 million and 130,000 respectively). And the number of global deaths linked to pollution just exceeded those from tobacco use, which is around 8 million, but greatly eclipsed deaths from alcohol and drugs, high sodium diets, HIV, malaria, TB, and war, it said.

India suffers most pollution-linked deaths in world, study finds

Arsenal's star Mesut Ozil, a German footballer of Turkish origin, on Friday expressed support for Uighurs in Xinjiang and criticised Muslim countries for their failure to speak up for them.

Arsenal's star Mesut Ozil, a German footballer of Turkish origin, on Friday expressed support for Uighurs in Xinjiang and criticised Muslim countries for their failure to speak up for them. "Korans are being burnt... Mosques are being shut down ... Muslim schools are being banned ... Religious scholars are being killed one by one ... Brothers are forcefully being sent to camps," Ozil wrote in Turkish on his Twitter account. "The Muslims are silent. Their voice is not heard," he wrote on a background of a blue field with a white crescent moon, the flag of what Uighur separatists call East Turkestan. Meanwhile, Arsenal have distanced themselves from comments made by Mesut Özil. Arsenal, which has numerous commercial interests including a chain of restaurants, tried to limit the damage by releasing a statement on Weibo – a leading Chinese social media site – as well as other platforms stressing it is apolitical and does not associate itself with Özil’s views. Around 10 million live in Xinjiang and there are claims that more than a million have been held in detention camps over recent years. Özil’s post had listed a range of the issues facing Uighurs in China, accusing other Muslims of staying silent on the subject. In his tweet, Ozil said Western states and media had kept the Uighurs issue on their agenda and added: "what will be remembered years later would not be the torture by the tyrants but the silence of their Muslim brothers."

Arsenal star Mesut Ozil condemns Muslim silence over Uighurs

Desperate for cash, Tajikistan is about to sell yet another vital asset to China at a time that countries like Sri Lanka and the Maldives are demanding renegotiation of debt settlements that either forced them to surrender control of critical infrastructure or left them with unsustainable repayments.

The pending Chinese acquisition of &nbsp;a stake in Tajikistan’s aluminium smelter, coupled with earlier tax concessions to Chinese companies that would substantially reduce the trickle-down effect of investments for the troubled Tajik economy, suggest that China has yet to fully take account of frequent criticism of its commercial approach to Belt and Road-related projects.

The Washington-based Center for Global Development warned last year that “23 of 68 countries benefiting from Belt and Road (BRI) investments were “significantly or highly vulnerable to debt distress.”

The centre said eight countries — Tajikistan, the Maldives, Pakistan, Djibouti, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, and Montenegro — were particularly at risk.

“There is…concern that debt problems will create an unfavourable degree of dependency on China as a creditor. Increasing debt, and China’s role in managing bilateral debt problems has already exacerbated internal and bilateral tensions in some BRI countries,” the report said.

Progress on the construction of a road in Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor, a narrow strip in the east of the country that touches the Chinese border and separates Tajikistan from Pakistan and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, may explain China’s seeming insensitivity to the concerns of beneficiaries of the People’s Republic’s largesse.

The road would link the corridor to Central Asia in the north and Pakistan’s Chinese-built Arabian Sea port of Gwadar in the south, a crown jewel in China’s infrastructure- and energy driven Belt and Road initiative.

To be sure, the road has local rather than geopolitical significance for workers building the road and the region’s shepherds as documented by anthropologists Tobias Marschall and Till Mostowlansky.

The road creates temporary employment for labourers. For shepherds, it facilitates access to mountain pastures.

For China, the stakes are geopolitical and economic.

The road would not only facilitate commerce with Central Asia as well as traffic from Gwadar but also construction of shorter pipelines as well as a fibre optic cable.

Perhaps more importantly, it would together with a military base in Tajikistan and Chinese cross border operations in the corridor itself, facilitate the movement of troops in China’s gradual projection of military power beyond its borders, particularly in regions adjacent to its troubled north-western province of Xinjiang.

The road’s potential military significance raises questions about the sustainability of a presumed division of labour between Russia and China under which Russia shoulders responsibility for security in Central Asia while China concentrates on economic development.

Ironically, if the examples of Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Pakistan and Malaysia coupled with anti-Chinese sentiment in Central Asia, fuelled in part by the brutal crackdown on Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang, are anything to go by, China’s approach to Belt and Road-related development could turn out to be a threat to its broader geopolitical ambitions and regional security policy.

Sri Lanka recently demanded that China return control of Hambantota port.

Sri Lanka became the poster child of allegations that China was pursuing debt trap diplomacy when it two years ago surrendered to China control of the port as part of a deal to reduce the country’s debt payments.

China lent Sri Lanka US$5 billion between 2010 and 2015 for infrastructure projects that included development of Hambantota at interest rates of up to 6.3 percent.

By comparison, World Bank and Asian Development Bank rates on soft loans range from 0.25 to three percent.

“The perfect circumstance is a return to the norm. We pay back the loan in due course in the way that we had originally agreed without any disturbance at all,” said newly appointed Sri Lankan prime minister Ajith Nivard Cabraal.

Similarly, the foreign ministry of the Maldives said earlier this month that it was seeking to restructure its Chinese debt.

“Borrowings by the previous government were unreasonable and put us in difficulty. But we can solve this mess through diplomatic means,” said foreign minister Abdulla Shahid.

Last month, former president Abdulla Yameen was jailed for five years and fined US$5 million for corruption during his term that ended late last year. Mr. Shahid’s government has accused China of land grabs during Mr. Yameen’s reign.

In a rare success, Malaysia earlier this year negotiated a one-third reduction in the cost of a $15.7 billion Belt and Road-related rail project. &nbsp;In a further concession, China agreed that 70 per cent of the workforce would be Malaysian and that Malaysian contractors would get 40 per cent&nbsp;of the civil works.

China has repeatedly been accused of employing Chinese rather than local labour for Chinese-funded projects along the Belt and Road and importing materials from China rather than sourcing them locally.

The government of Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan has been less successful than its Malaysian counterpart.

It recently bowed to Chinese pressure to revive hundreds of projects initially suspended after it came to office in 2018.

The appointment of a retired lieutenant general as head of a new authority overseeing the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that groups Belt and Road-related projects reflected China’s wariness towards messy Pakistani politics and preference for dealing with the country’s military.

With Sri Lanka as the anti-thesis, analysts suggest that China is determined to make Pakistan a success story.

“The big battle at the moment is about CPEC’s reputation, and Beijing cares about salvaging that. They need to show BRI has been a success, that it hasn’t put Pakistan’s economy in trouble and that there isn’t a backlash. If they can’t do it in a context like this, it suggests that there is something flawed in the model,” said Pakistan and China scholar Andrew Small. 
 
(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Desperate for cash, Tajikistan is about to sell yet another vital asset to China at a time that countries like Sri Lanka and the Maldives are demanding renegotiation of debt settlements that either forced them to surrender control of critical infrastructure or left them with unsustainable repayments.

Desperate for cash, Tajikistan is about to sell yet another vital asset to China at a time that countries like Sri Lanka and the Maldives are demanding renegotiation of debt settlements that either forced them to surrender control of critical infrastructure or left them with unsustainable repayments. The pending Chinese acquisition of a stake in Tajikistan’s aluminium smelter, coupled with earlier tax concessions to Chinese companies that would substantially reduce the trickle-down effect of investments for the troubled Tajik economy, suggest that China has yet to fully take account of frequent criticism of its commercial approach to Belt and Road-related projects. The Washington-based Center for Global Development warned last year that “23 of 68 countries benefiting from Belt and Road (BRI) investments were “significantly or highly vulnerable to debt distress.” The centre said eight countries — Tajikistan, the Maldives, Pakistan, Djibouti, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, and Montenegro — were particularly at risk. “There is…concern that debt problems will create an unfavourable degree of dependency on China as a creditor. Increasing debt, and China’s role in managing bilateral debt problems has already exacerbated internal and bilateral tensions in some BRI countries,” the report said. Progress on the construction of a road in Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor, a narrow strip in the east of the country that touches the Chinese border and separates Tajikistan from Pakistan and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, may explain China’s seeming insensitivity to the concerns of beneficiaries of the People’s Republic’s largesse. The road would link the corridor to Central Asia in the north and Pakistan’s Chinese-built Arabian Sea port of Gwadar in the south, a crown jewel in China’s infrastructure- and energy driven Belt and Road initiative. To be sure, the road has local rather than geopolitical significance for workers building the road and the region’s shepherds as documented by anthropologists Tobias Marschall and Till Mostowlansky. The road creates temporary employment for labourers. For shepherds, it facilitates access to mountain pastures. For China, the stakes are geopolitical and economic. The road would not only facilitate commerce with Central Asia as well as traffic from Gwadar but also construction of shorter pipelines as well as a fibre optic cable. Perhaps more importantly, it would together with a military base in Tajikistan and Chinese cross border operations in the corridor itself, facilitate the movement of troops in China’s gradual projection of military power beyond its borders, particularly in regions adjacent to its troubled north-western province of Xinjiang. The road’s potential military significance raises questions about the sustainability of a presumed division of labour between Russia and China under which Russia shoulders responsibility for security in Central Asia while China concentrates on economic development. Ironically, if the examples of Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Pakistan and Malaysia coupled with anti-Chinese sentiment in Central Asia, fuelled in part by the brutal crackdown on Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang, are anything to go by, China’s approach to Belt and Road-related development could turn out to be a threat to its broader geopolitical ambitions and regional security policy. Sri Lanka recently demanded that China return control of Hambantota port. Sri Lanka became the poster child of allegations that China was pursuing debt trap diplomacy when it two years ago surrendered to China control of the port as part of a deal to reduce the country’s debt payments. China lent Sri Lanka US$5 billion between 2010 and 2015 for infrastructure projects that included development of Hambantota at interest rates of up to 6.3 percent. By comparison, World Bank and Asian Development Bank rates on soft loans range from 0.25 to three percent. “The perfect circumstance is a return to the norm. We pay back the loan in due course in the way that we had originally agreed without any disturbance at all,” said newly appointed Sri Lankan prime minister Ajith Nivard Cabraal. Similarly, the foreign ministry of the Maldives said earlier this month that it was seeking to restructure its Chinese debt. “Borrowings by the previous government were unreasonable and put us in difficulty. But we can solve this mess through diplomatic means,” said foreign minister Abdulla Shahid. Last month, former president Abdulla Yameen was jailed for five years and fined US$5 million for corruption during his term that ended late last year. Mr. Shahid’s government has accused China of land grabs during Mr. Yameen’s reign. In a rare success, Malaysia earlier this year negotiated a one-third reduction in the cost of a $15.7 billion Belt and Road-related rail project. In a further concession, China agreed that 70 per cent of the workforce would be Malaysian and that Malaysian contractors would get 40 per cent of the civil works. China has repeatedly been accused of employing Chinese rather than local labour for Chinese-funded projects along the Belt and Road and importing materials from China rather than sourcing them locally. The government of Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan has been less successful than its Malaysian counterpart. It recently bowed to Chinese pressure to revive hundreds of projects initially suspended after it came to office in 2018. The appointment of a retired lieutenant general as head of a new authority overseeing the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that groups Belt and Road-related projects reflected China’s wariness towards messy Pakistani politics and preference for dealing with the country’s military. With Sri Lanka as the anti-thesis, analysts suggest that China is determined to make Pakistan a success story. “The big battle at the moment is about CPEC’s reputation, and Beijing cares about salvaging that. They need to show BRI has been a success, that it hasn’t put Pakistan’s economy in trouble and that there isn’t a backlash. If they can’t do it in a context like this, it suggests that there is something flawed in the model,” said Pakistan and China scholar Andrew Small. (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

China struggles to fend off allegations of debt trap diplomacy

Hundreds of office workers in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-to-disperse-anti-government-protesters-265558">Hong Kong's business district</a> gathered on Monday for the first in a week of lunchtime protests backing the pro-democracy movement after its resounding victory in district polls held last week in the Chinese-ruled city.

A day earlier police again resorted to firing tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, after first going to the US&nbsp;consulate on Hong Kong island to show gratitude for Washington's support.

There was no such confrontation at the two-hour rally in the central business district on Monday, as some people went back to their offices after their demonstration of solidarity. Others said they would be striking for the full five days.

The gathering in Chater Garden probably drew Hong Kong's best-dressed protesters, and organisers have called on them to come out every day this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-new-rallies-to-take-place-today-after-weekend-of-unrest-265688">Protests over the last six months</a> have drawn a wide swathe of Hong Kong society,&nbsp;from students to pensioners. Even white-collar professionals, like those in Chater park, have sometimes blocked roads in recent weeks, leading to face-offs with police.

Monday's rally appeared aimed specifically at bringing in more workers from advertising agencies to help build publicity.

Fred, a 24-year-old advertising professional said he and his colleagues had helped create promotional materials in their own time for the so-called "yellow economy", the businesses seen as supporting the pro-democracy movement.

Many pro-democracy protesters have adopted the colour yellow and yellow balloons have been seen at rallies.

"From the advertising perspective, we can help promote the brands that speak out for Hong Kong," said Fred.

Another protester in the park said his advertising agency had closed for the week in solidarity and hoped other agencies would do likewise.

"We are trying to come out and be the first industry to come out and stop working for five days," said 28-year-old Ryan.

"We are just stopping work for companies. But the advertising talent will keep advertising for the movement, designing posters and leaflets."

Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protesters-march-for-five-demands-265555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tear gas

During Sunday's protest, police fired tear gas to disperse thousands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pensioners-and-students-gather-for-hong-kong-protest-265423">anti-government protesters</a>, some of whom chanted "revolution of our time" and "liberate Hong Kong". That followed a period of relative calm after November 24 district elections delivered an overwhelming victory to pro-democracy candidates.

The protest in the busy shopping district of Tsim Sha Tsui followed a "thanksgiving" march by hundreds to the US&nbsp;consulate.

Shops and businesses in Tsim Sha Tsui closed early as police sprayed volleys of tear gas at demonstrators, arresting some and forcing hundreds to flee towards the harbour.

The protesters' demands include an end to Beijing's alleged meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, universal suffrage and an inquiry into police use of force.

The unrest since June has at times forced the closure of government offices, businesses, schools and the international airport, helping drive the city into recession for the first time in a decade in the third quarter.

Hundreds of office workers in Hong Kong's business district gathered on Monday for the first in a week of lunchtime protests backing the pro-democracy movement after its resounding victory in district polls held last week in the Chinese-ruled city.

Hundreds of office workers in Hong Kong's business district gathered on Monday for the first in a week of lunchtime protests backing the pro-democracy movement after its resounding victory in district polls held last week in the Chinese-ruled city. A day earlier police again resorted to firing tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, after first going to the US consulate on Hong Kong island to show gratitude for Washington's support. There was no such confrontation at the two-hour rally in the central business district on Monday, as some people went back to their offices after their demonstration of solidarity. Others said they would be striking for the full five days. The gathering in Chater Garden probably drew Hong Kong's best-dressed protesters, and organisers have called on them to come out every day this week. Protests over the last six months have drawn a wide swathe of Hong Kong society, from students to pensioners. Even white-collar professionals, like those in Chater park, have sometimes blocked roads in recent weeks, leading to face-offs with police. Monday's rally appeared aimed specifically at bringing in more workers from advertising agencies to help build publicity. Fred, a 24-year-old advertising professional said he and his colleagues had helped create promotional materials in their own time for the so-called "yellow economy", the businesses seen as supporting the pro-democracy movement. Many pro-democracy protesters have adopted the colour yellow and yellow balloons have been seen at rallies. "From the advertising perspective, we can help promote the brands that speak out for Hong Kong," said Fred. Another protester in the park said his advertising agency had closed for the week in solidarity and hoped other agencies would do likewise. "We are trying to come out and be the first industry to come out and stop working for five days," said 28-year-old Ryan. "We are just stopping work for companies. But the advertising talent will keep advertising for the movement, designing posters and leaflets." Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands' Tear gas During Sunday's protest, police fired tear gas to disperse thousands of anti-government protesters, some of whom chanted "revolution of our time" and "liberate Hong Kong". That followed a period of relative calm after November 24 district elections delivered an overwhelming victory to pro-democracy candidates. The protest in the busy shopping district of Tsim Sha Tsui followed a "thanksgiving" march by hundreds to the US consulate. Shops and businesses in Tsim Sha Tsui closed early as police sprayed volleys of tear gas at demonstrators, arresting some and forcing hundreds to flee towards the harbour. The protesters' demands include an end to Beijing's alleged meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, universal suffrage and an inquiry into police use of force. The unrest since June has at times forced the closure of government offices, businesses, schools and the international airport, helping drive the city into recession for the first time in a decade in the third quarter.

Hong Kong: Series of week-long lunchtime protests begin

China will require telecom operators to collect face scans when registering new phone users at offline outlets starting Sunday, according to the country's information technology authority, as Beijing continues to tighten cyberspace controls.

China will require telecom operators to collect face scans when registering new phone users at offline outlets starting Sunday, according to the country's information technology authority, as Beijing continues to tighten cyberspace controls. In September, China's industry and information technology ministry issued a notice on "safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of citizens online", which laid out rules for enforcing real-name registration. The notice said telecom operators should use "artificial intelligence and other technical means" to verify people's identities when they take a new phone number. A China Unicom customer service representative told AFP that the December 1 "portrait matching" requirement means customers registering for a new phone number may have to record themselves turning their head and blinking. "In next steps, our ministry will continue to...increase supervision and inspection...and strictly promote the management of real-name registration for phone users," said the September notice. Though the Chinese government has pushed for real-name registration for phone users since at least 2013 -- meaning ID cards are linked to new phone numbers -- the move to leverage AI comes as facial recognition technology gains traction across China where the tech is used for everything from supermarket checkouts to surveillance. Online, Chinese social media users reacted with a mix of support and worry over the December 1 facial verification notice, with some voicing concerns their biometric data could be leaked or sold. "This is a bit too much," wrote one user on Twitter-like Weibo, commenting under an article about the new rules. "Control, and then more control," posted another. While researchers have warned of the privacy risks associated with gathering facial recognition data, consumers have widely embraced the technology -- though China saw one of its first lawsuits on facial recognition last month. In early November, a Chinese professor filed a claim against a safari park in Hangzhou, eastern Zhejiang province for requiring face scans for entry, according to the local court. In addition to mobile users, Chinese social media site Weibo was forced to roll out real-name registration in 2012. Oversight of social media has ramped up in recent years as part of the Chinese government's push to "promote the healthy, orderly development of the Internet, protect state security and public interest".

China introduces mandatory face scans for phone users from today

China has issued new rules banning online video and audio providers from using artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality technologies to produce "fake news.

China has issued new rules banning online video and audio providers from using artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality technologies to produce "fake news." The regulation published Friday by China's cyberspace authority said that both providers and users of online video news and audio services are "not allowed" to use new technologies such as deep learning and virtual reality to create, distribute and broadcast "fake news." "Fake news" has been generalised to mean anything from a mistake to a parody or a deliberate misinterpretation of facts. The rules come into effect on January 1, 2020. Failure to follow them could be considered a criminal offence, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) said, without offering details on punishments. The rules require videos and audio tracks produced using AI or virtual reality technologies to carry clear labels warning users. The regulations particularly stressed the dangers of "deepfakes," or technology that manipulates videos to appear genuine but which depict events or speech that never happened. Deepfake technologies could "disrupt social order and violate people’s interests, creating political risks and bringing a negative impact to national security and social stability," the cyberspace authority warned. Concerns over deepfakes have grown since the 2016 US election campaign which saw wide use of online disinformation, according to US investigations. China's top legislative body said earlier this year it was considering making deepfake technology illegal. A Chinese face-swapping app Zao, which allows users to convincingly superimpose their own likeness over characters in movies or TV shows, led to a heated debate on the abuses of deepfake technologies in September.

China bans 'fake news' created with artificial intelligence, bots

NATO foreign ministers are set on Wednesday to make space a domain of warfare and agree to closely monitor China’s growing military might in decisions that many allies say shows the alliance is not dying, as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-says-nato-experiencing-brain-death-260582">France</a> has suggested.

Two weeks before the Western alliance meets for a summit in London to mark 70 years since its foundation, ministers aim to show they are rising to challenges despite tensions over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-attend-nato-summit-in-london-days-before-uk-vote-262476">US President Donald Trump’s </a>leadership, alarm at Turkey’s ties with Russia and French doubts about NATO’s viability.

“Reports of NATO’s death are greatly exaggerated,” Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius told Reuters, referring to French President Emmanuel Macron’s November 7 comments about “the brain death of NATO”.

Envoys hope two major policies - on space as a new frontier in defense and on China - will show that NATO is not a Cold War relic but a shield against threats including Russia’s decision to develop missiles capable of hitting Europe at short notice.

First reported by Reuters in June, the space policy, which has been months in negotiation, will mean that battles can be waged not only on land, in the air, at sea and on computer networks, but also in space.

NATO will not deploy weapons to space. It will begin work on protecting satellites crucial for modern communications.

NATO diplomats deny the alliance would be on a war footing in space, but say declaring it a domain would begin a debate over whether NATO should eventually use space weapons that can shut down enemy missiles and air defenses or destroy satellites.

China and Russia are also active in space.

BRAIN DEAD?

A new policy to be agreed on China will also lay the ground for NATO to focus closely on Beijing’s military ambitions and to ensure allied communications networks and infrastructure are safe from any possible foreign interference.

China had the second-largest defense budget after the United States in 2018 and has added 80 ships and submarines to its navy, the equivalent of the entire British navy, in the past five years, NATO says.

“When there is a military build-up, you have to see what you need to defend against,” U.S. Ambassador to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison told reporters. “We are not provocative in any way.”

NATO diplomats say Macron has prompted soul-searching after expressing doubt in his interview with The Economist about US-led NATO’s security maxim. NATO allies promise that an attack on one is an attack on all. That has underpinned transatlantic ties since the alliance’s 1949 foundation.

Still, diplomats concede the Western military alliance needs to be more consistent. Macron’s comments, Trump’s confusing policy in Syria and Turkey’s decision to defy allies and invade northern Syria last month have strained the mood.

Foreign ministers, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, are expected to reaffirm their commitment to the NATO security guarantee at the Brussels meeting.

NATO foreign ministers are set on Wednesday to make space a domain of warfare and agree to closely monitor China’s growing military might in decisions that many allies say shows the alliance is not dying, as France has suggested.

NATO foreign ministers are set on Wednesday to make space a domain of warfare and agree to closely monitor China’s growing military might in decisions that many allies say shows the alliance is not dying, as France has suggested. Two weeks before the Western alliance meets for a summit in London to mark 70 years since its foundation, ministers aim to show they are rising to challenges despite tensions over US President Donald Trump’s leadership, alarm at Turkey’s ties with Russia and French doubts about NATO’s viability. “Reports of NATO’s death are greatly exaggerated,” Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius told Reuters, referring to French President Emmanuel Macron’s November 7 comments about “the brain death of NATO”. Envoys hope two major policies - on space as a new frontier in defense and on China - will show that NATO is not a Cold War relic but a shield against threats including Russia’s decision to develop missiles capable of hitting Europe at short notice. First reported by Reuters in June, the space policy, which has been months in negotiation, will mean that battles can be waged not only on land, in the air, at sea and on computer networks, but also in space. NATO will not deploy weapons to space. It will begin work on protecting satellites crucial for modern communications. NATO diplomats deny the alliance would be on a war footing in space, but say declaring it a domain would begin a debate over whether NATO should eventually use space weapons that can shut down enemy missiles and air defenses or destroy satellites. China and Russia are also active in space. BRAIN DEAD? A new policy to be agreed on China will also lay the ground for NATO to focus closely on Beijing’s military ambitions and to ensure allied communications networks and infrastructure are safe from any possible foreign interference. China had the second-largest defense budget after the United States in 2018 and has added 80 ships and submarines to its navy, the equivalent of the entire British navy, in the past five years, NATO says. “When there is a military build-up, you have to see what you need to defend against,” U.S. Ambassador to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison told reporters. “We are not provocative in any way.” NATO diplomats say Macron has prompted soul-searching after expressing doubt in his interview with The Economist about US-led NATO’s security maxim. NATO allies promise that an attack on one is an attack on all. That has underpinned transatlantic ties since the alliance’s 1949 foundation. Still, diplomats concede the Western military alliance needs to be more consistent. Macron’s comments, Trump’s confusing policy in Syria and Turkey’s decision to defy allies and invade northern Syria last month have strained the mood. Foreign ministers, including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, are expected to reaffirm their commitment to the NATO security guarantee at the Brussels meeting.

NATO says death 'greatly exaggerated'; to adopt new strategies on space, China

Hong Kong police fired tear gas in the heart of the Central financial district and at two university campuses to break up pro-democracy protests as violence was bringing the Chinese-ruled city to what they said was the "brink of total breakdown".

The clashes came a day after police shot a protester at close range and a man was doused with petrol and set on fire in some of the worst violence in the former British colony in decades.

A flash mob of more than 1,000 protesters, many wearing office clothes and face masks, rallied in Central for a second day during lunch hour, blocking roads below some of the city's tallest skyscrapers and most expensive real estate.

After they had dispersed, police fired tear gas at the remaining protesters on old, narrow Pedder Street. Police made more than a dozen arrests, many pinned up on the pavement against the wall of luxury jeweller Tiffany &amp; Co.

Police vans surged into the area, and officers took up positions in a standoff with protesters just an hour or so before office workers were due to start leaving for home.

"Our society has been pushed to the brink of a total breakdown," a police spokesman told a briefing, referring to the last two days of violence.

He said the man set on fire on Monday was still in critical condition and appealed for information on who was responsible.

Police on Monday fired volley after volley of tear gas in Central, where some protesters blocked streets lined with banks and jewellery shops. Most had pulled down their shutters on Tuesday.

Tension eased as the lunch hour ended, but some protesters used a double-decker airport bus to block a key road running alongside the newly reclaimed area of the harbour close to downtown Central.

Police also fired tear gas at City University in Kowloon Tong, beneath the Lion Rock, and at Chinese University on the other side of the mountain, where protesters threw petrol bombs and bricks at police.

Protesters at City University have stockpiled bricks and petrol bombs on the bridges and other approaches and were making small devices with nails, apparently to puncture tyres.

Streets inside and outside the Chinese University campus entrance were littered with bricks, other debris and small street fires as police tackled some protesters to the ground.

A van used as part of a street barricade was set ablaze.

"It's our school"

The university said some people had broken into a storeroom and taken bows, arrows and javelins. All were later retrieved, it said.

"It’s crazy that police have been firing tear gas for more than 20 minutes. If they didn't come in, we wouldn't clash with them. It's our school. We need to protect our home,” Candy, 20, a student, told Reuters.

There was chaos earlier as people thronged metro stations only to stream out again after some train services were suspended.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-carrie-lam-says-violence-exceeded-calls-for-democracy-police-defend-officers-who-shot-at-protesters-261394">Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said</a> protesters were being extremely selfish and hoped that universities and schools would urge students not to take part in the demonstrations.

More than 260 people were arrested on Monday, police said, bringing the total number to more than 3,000 since the protests escalated in June.

Protesters are angry about what they see as police brutality and meddling by Beijing in the freedoms guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" formula put in place when the territory returned to China in 1997.

China denies interfering and has blamed Western countries, including Britain and the United States, for stirring up trouble.

The United States on Monday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watching-situation-in-hong-kong-with-grave-concern-us-261489">condemned "unjustified use of deadly force</a>" in Hong Kong and urged police and civilians alike to de-escalate the situation.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang urged Britain and the United States not to interfere in what was China's affair.

"The central government firmly supports the (special administrative region) government in implementing policies according to law, supporting the Hong Kong police in law enforcement, maintaining social order and protecting the safety of citizens," he told a briefing in Beijing.

"Hong Kong affairs are purely China’s internal affairs that allow no foreign interference. We urge the United States, United Kingdom and other countries to earnestly respect China’s sovereignty..."

China has a garrison of up to 12,000 troops in Hong Kong who have kept to barracks throughout the unrest, but it has vowed to crush any attempts at independence, a demand for a very small minority of protesters.

Hong Kong police fired tear gas in the heart of the Central financial district and at two university campuses to break up pro-democracy protests as violence was bringing the Chinese-ruled city to what they said was the "brink of total breakdown".

Hong Kong police fired tear gas in the heart of the Central financial district and at two university campuses to break up pro-democracy protests as violence was bringing the Chinese-ruled city to what they said was the "brink of total breakdown". The clashes came a day after police shot a protester at close range and a man was doused with petrol and set on fire in some of the worst violence in the former British colony in decades. A flash mob of more than 1,000 protesters, many wearing office clothes and face masks, rallied in Central for a second day during lunch hour, blocking roads below some of the city's tallest skyscrapers and most expensive real estate. After they had dispersed, police fired tear gas at the remaining protesters on old, narrow Pedder Street. Police made more than a dozen arrests, many pinned up on the pavement against the wall of luxury jeweller Tiffany & Co. Police vans surged into the area, and officers took up positions in a standoff with protesters just an hour or so before office workers were due to start leaving for home. "Our society has been pushed to the brink of a total breakdown," a police spokesman told a briefing, referring to the last two days of violence. He said the man set on fire on Monday was still in critical condition and appealed for information on who was responsible. Police on Monday fired volley after volley of tear gas in Central, where some protesters blocked streets lined with banks and jewellery shops. Most had pulled down their shutters on Tuesday. Tension eased as the lunch hour ended, but some protesters used a double-decker airport bus to block a key road running alongside the newly reclaimed area of the harbour close to downtown Central. Police also fired tear gas at City University in Kowloon Tong, beneath the Lion Rock, and at Chinese University on the other side of the mountain, where protesters threw petrol bombs and bricks at police. Protesters at City University have stockpiled bricks and petrol bombs on the bridges and other approaches and were making small devices with nails, apparently to puncture tyres. Streets inside and outside the Chinese University campus entrance were littered with bricks, other debris and small street fires as police tackled some protesters to the ground. A van used as part of a street barricade was set ablaze. "It's our school" The university said some people had broken into a storeroom and taken bows, arrows and javelins. All were later retrieved, it said. "It’s crazy that police have been firing tear gas for more than 20 minutes. If they didn't come in, we wouldn't clash with them. It's our school. We need to protect our home,” Candy, 20, a student, told Reuters. There was chaos earlier as people thronged metro stations only to stream out again after some train services were suspended. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said protesters were being extremely selfish and hoped that universities and schools would urge students not to take part in the demonstrations. More than 260 people were arrested on Monday, police said, bringing the total number to more than 3,000 since the protests escalated in June. Protesters are angry about what they see as police brutality and meddling by Beijing in the freedoms guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" formula put in place when the territory returned to China in 1997. China denies interfering and has blamed Western countries, including Britain and the United States, for stirring up trouble. The United States on Monday condemned "unjustified use of deadly force" in Hong Kong and urged police and civilians alike to de-escalate the situation. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang urged Britain and the United States not to interfere in what was China's affair. "The central government firmly supports the (special administrative region) government in implementing policies according to law, supporting the Hong Kong police in law enforcement, maintaining social order and protecting the safety of citizens," he told a briefing in Beijing. "Hong Kong affairs are purely China’s internal affairs that allow no foreign interference. We urge the United States, United Kingdom and other countries to earnestly respect China’s sovereignty..." China has a garrison of up to 12,000 troops in Hong Kong who have kept to barracks throughout the unrest, but it has vowed to crush any attempts at independence, a demand for a very small minority of protesters.

Violence brings Hong Kong to 'brink of total breakdown', metro suspends operations

China's economy expanded at its slowest rate in nearly three decades in the third quarter, hit by cooling domestic demand and a protracted US trade war, official data showed Friday.

The Chinese economy grew 6.0 per cent in July-September, compared with 6.2 per cent in the second quarter, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The reading -- in line with an AFP survey of 13 analysts -- is the worst quarterly figure since 1992 but within the government's target range of 6.0-6.5 per cent for the whole year.

The economy grew at 6.6 per cent in 2018.

"The national economy maintained overall stability in the first three quarters," said NBS spokesman Mao Shengyong.

"However, we must be aware that given the complicated and severe economic conditions both at home and abroad, the slowing global economic growth, and increasing external instabilities and uncertainties, the economy is under mounting downward pressure."

Services and high-tech manufacturing were the key areas of growth, while employment was "generally stable", he added.

Propping up economy

Beijing has stepped up support for the economy with major tax and rate cuts and has scrapped foreign investment restrictions in its stock market.

In its latest measure to shore up growth, the central bank said Wednesday it was pumping 200 billion yuan ($28 billion) into the financial system through its medium-term lending facility to banks, which is designed to maintain liquidity in the market.

But the efforts have not been enough to offset the blow from softening demand at home.

The trade conflict and weak domestic demand prompted the International Monetary Fund to lower its 2019 growth forecast for China from 6.2 per cent to 6.1 per cent on Tuesday.

The long-running trade war with the US has also chipped away at the Chinese economy.

This week, China reported weaker-than-expected import and export figures for September after Washington imposed new tariffs that month, triggering a tit-for-tat response from Beijing.

There were mixed signals for the economy in September.

Industrial output rose 5.8 per cent, from 4.4 per cent in August, led by a surge in demand for solar panels and electric vehicles, according to the NBS.

But fixed-asset investment slid to 5.4 per cent on-year in January-September, from 5.5 per cent in January-August, as the government warned against risky borrowing to build roads and bridges that could artificially pump up GDP in the short run.

China's army of consumers were slowly starting to open their wallets again, with retail sales edging up 7.8 per cent on-year in September, compared with 7.5 per cent in August.

"Despite a stronger September, pressure on the economic activity should intensify in the coming months," said Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics in a note.

He said he expects infrastructure spending to decline as China tries to rein in toxic debt and says the recent boom in property development "looks set to unwind".

"We expect monetary policy to be loosened before long in response, but it will take time for this to put a floor beneath economic growth," he added.

Let's make a deal

A "phase one" deal announced by US President Donald Trump last Friday after he met China's top negotiator Liu He in Washington offered a temporary reprieve from further tariff hikes.

But it did not roll back any of the stinging tariffs already imposed on hundreds of billions of dollars in trade between the economic powers, nor did it address another round of import taxes planned for December.

"A limited agreement will not resolve the underlying areas of disagreement between the two sides as long-term divergence in US and China national interest remains across trade, technology, investment and geopolitics," said Michael Taylor, a managing director for Moody's Investors Service.

"We expect further rounds of negotiation to remain challenging, with further potential for financial markets volatility."

China's commerce ministry spokesman Gao Feng said Thursday that its negotiators have "accelerated efforts" to hammer out the details of this mini-deal, and the two sides were aiming for an "early agreement".

Trump had said Wednesday that he hopes to sign the deal with his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping at the APEC summit in Chile next month.

But Gao declined to offer details on whether the text of the partial deal, or a full agreement, would be ready before the mid-November deadline.

China's economy expanded at its slowest rate in nearly three decades in the third quarter, hit by cooling domestic demand and a protracted US trade war, official data showed Friday.

China's economy expanded at its slowest rate in nearly three decades in the third quarter, hit by cooling domestic demand and a protracted US trade war, official data showed Friday. The Chinese economy grew 6.0 per cent in July-September, compared with 6.2 per cent in the second quarter, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The reading -- in line with an AFP survey of 13 analysts -- is the worst quarterly figure since 1992 but within the government's target range of 6.0-6.5 per cent for the whole year. The economy grew at 6.6 per cent in 2018. "The national economy maintained overall stability in the first three quarters," said NBS spokesman Mao Shengyong. "However, we must be aware that given the complicated and severe economic conditions both at home and abroad, the slowing global economic growth, and increasing external instabilities and uncertainties, the economy is under mounting downward pressure." Services and high-tech manufacturing were the key areas of growth, while employment was "generally stable", he added. Propping up economy Beijing has stepped up support for the economy with major tax and rate cuts and has scrapped foreign investment restrictions in its stock market. In its latest measure to shore up growth, the central bank said Wednesday it was pumping 200 billion yuan ($28 billion) into the financial system through its medium-term lending facility to banks, which is designed to maintain liquidity in the market. But the efforts have not been enough to offset the blow from softening demand at home. The trade conflict and weak domestic demand prompted the International Monetary Fund to lower its 2019 growth forecast for China from 6.2 per cent to 6.1 per cent on Tuesday. The long-running trade war with the US has also chipped away at the Chinese economy. This week, China reported weaker-than-expected import and export figures for September after Washington imposed new tariffs that month, triggering a tit-for-tat response from Beijing. There were mixed signals for the economy in September. Industrial output rose 5.8 per cent, from 4.4 per cent in August, led by a surge in demand for solar panels and electric vehicles, according to the NBS. But fixed-asset investment slid to 5.4 per cent on-year in January-September, from 5.5 per cent in January-August, as the government warned against risky borrowing to build roads and bridges that could artificially pump up GDP in the short run. China's army of consumers were slowly starting to open their wallets again, with retail sales edging up 7.8 per cent on-year in September, compared with 7.5 per cent in August. "Despite a stronger September, pressure on the economic activity should intensify in the coming months," said Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics in a note. He said he expects infrastructure spending to decline as China tries to rein in toxic debt and says the recent boom in property development "looks set to unwind". "We expect monetary policy to be loosened before long in response, but it will take time for this to put a floor beneath economic growth," he added. Let's make a deal A "phase one" deal announced by US President Donald Trump last Friday after he met China's top negotiator Liu He in Washington offered a temporary reprieve from further tariff hikes. But it did not roll back any of the stinging tariffs already imposed on hundreds of billions of dollars in trade between the economic powers, nor did it address another round of import taxes planned for December. "A limited agreement will not resolve the underlying areas of disagreement between the two sides as long-term divergence in US and China national interest remains across trade, technology, investment and geopolitics," said Michael Taylor, a managing director for Moody's Investors Service. "We expect further rounds of negotiation to remain challenging, with further potential for financial markets volatility." China's commerce ministry spokesman Gao Feng said Thursday that its negotiators have "accelerated efforts" to hammer out the details of this mini-deal, and the two sides were aiming for an "early agreement". Trump had said Wednesday that he hopes to sign the deal with his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping at the APEC summit in Chile next month. But Gao declined to offer details on whether the text of the partial deal, or a full agreement, would be ready before the mid-November deadline.

China's Q3 GDP growth slumps to 6%, slowest in two decades

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-president-xi-one-on-one-talks-lunch-to-sum-up-mamallapuram-second-india-china-informal-summit-today-255371">Chinese President Xi Jinping</a>.

Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles.

The two-day stop-over visit of the Chinese President is set to begin from October 12.&nbsp;

As per the schedule, Chinese President Jinping will be landing in capital Kathmandu at around 4:30pm.

Xi is set to hold meetings with Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari at Sheetal Niwas on Saturday evening followed by a dinner hosted by her. He will also hold talks with Nepal's Former Prime Minister and Opposition Party Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Chinese President Xi will be meeting Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" on Sunday morning which will be followed by the signing of agreements.

President Xi is scheduled to depart for China at 1pm on Sunday.

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping. Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles.

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping. Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles. The two-day stop-over visit of the Chinese President is set to begin from October 12. As per the schedule, Chinese President Jinping will be landing in capital Kathmandu at around 4:30pm. Xi is set to hold meetings with Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari at Sheetal Niwas on Saturday evening followed by a dinner hosted by her. He will also hold talks with Nepal's Former Prime Minister and Opposition Party Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba. Chinese President Xi will be meeting Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" on Sunday morning which will be followed by the signing of agreements. President Xi is scheduled to depart for China at 1pm on Sunday.

Nepal prepares to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping

Apple chief Tim Cook on Thursday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-removes-police-tracking-app-used-in-hong-kong-protests-from-its-app-store-254882">defended the decision to pull an app</a> used by protesters in Hong Kong to track police, according to a leaked email to employees obtained by a tech news site.

Apple removed the HKmap.live mobile application from the App Store after criticism by Beijing, which is stepping up pressure on foreign companies deemed to be providing support to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-shopping-malls-metro-close-early-as-more-protests-planned-254952">pro-democracy movement</a>.

Critics blasted the tech giant's move as putting its business interests in China above human rights.

The app allowed for crowd-sourced reporting and mapping of police checkpoints, protest hotspots, and other information which, on its own, is "benign" information, Cook said in a copy of an email to Apple employees shared online at Pastebin and posted at tech news website The Verge.

"Over the past several days we received credible information, from the Hong Kong Cybersecurity and Technology Crime Bureau, as well as from users in Hong Kong, that the app was being used maliciously to target individual officers for violence and to victimise individuals and property where no police are present," the email read.

Gravitas: Hong Kong Protests: Biggest Political Crisis In Xi Jinping's Career

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-protests-biggest-political-crisis-in-xi-jinpings-career-254353/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"This use put the app in violation of Hong Kong law. Similarly, widespread abuse clearly violates our App Store guidelines barring personal harm."

Apple did not respond to a request for comment from AFP.

The makers of HKmap.live have countered that the app gathers information from users, social networks and news outlets to show where police have gathered, not where they aren't.

They have denied their app encouraged criminal activity, and lashed out at Apple's removal as "censorship" and "clearly a political decision to suppress freedom."

Chinese state media this week tore into the app, charging that it was helping "rioters."

Communist Party mouthpiece The People's Daily said by stocking the app, Apple was "mixing business with politics, and even illegal acts."

On Thursday the app was no longer available on Apple's Hong Kong App Store.

Hong Kong has been rocked by four months of increasingly violent protests, initially against a now-shelved extradition law, but whose focus has now shifted to broader pro-democracy aims.

Apple chief Tim Cook on Thursday defended the decision to pull an app used by protesters in Hong Kong to track police, according to a leaked email to employees obtained by a tech news site.

Apple chief Tim Cook on Thursday defended the decision to pull an app used by protesters in Hong Kong to track police, according to a leaked email to employees obtained by a tech news site. Apple removed the HKmap.live mobile application from the App Store after criticism by Beijing, which is stepping up pressure on foreign companies deemed to be providing support to the pro-democracy movement. Critics blasted the tech giant's move as putting its business interests in China above human rights. The app allowed for crowd-sourced reporting and mapping of police checkpoints, protest hotspots, and other information which, on its own, is "benign" information, Cook said in a copy of an email to Apple employees shared online at Pastebin and posted at tech news website The Verge. "Over the past several days we received credible information, from the Hong Kong Cybersecurity and Technology Crime Bureau, as well as from users in Hong Kong, that the app was being used maliciously to target individual officers for violence and to victimise individuals and property where no police are present," the email read. Gravitas: Hong Kong Protests: Biggest Political Crisis In Xi Jinping's Career "This use put the app in violation of Hong Kong law. Similarly, widespread abuse clearly violates our App Store guidelines barring personal harm." Apple did not respond to a request for comment from AFP. The makers of HKmap.live have countered that the app gathers information from users, social networks and news outlets to show where police have gathered, not where they aren't. They have denied their app encouraged criminal activity, and lashed out at Apple's removal as "censorship" and "clearly a political decision to suppress freedom." Chinese state media this week tore into the app, charging that it was helping "rioters." Communist Party mouthpiece The People's Daily said by stocking the app, Apple was "mixing business with politics, and even illegal acts." On Thursday the app was no longer available on Apple's Hong Kong App Store. Hong Kong has been rocked by four months of increasingly violent protests, initially against a now-shelved extradition law, but whose focus has now shifted to broader pro-democracy aims.

Apple chief Tim Cook defends pulling app used by Hong Kong protesters

Apple on Wednesday removed an app that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-stage-peaceful-rallies-calling-for-liberation-254834">protestors in Hong Kong</a> have used to track police movements, saying the app violated its rules because it was used to ambush police and by criminals who used it to victimise residents in areas with no law enforcement.

Apple rejected the crowdsourcing app, HKmap.live, earlier this month but then reversed course last week, allowing the app to appear on its App Store.

The approval drew a sharply worded commentary from the Chinese Communist Party's official newspaper, the People's Daily, on Tuesday with Apple criticised for allowing a "poisonous" app.

Apple said in a statement that "many concerned customers in Hong Kong" contacted the company about the mapping app. Apple said it immediately began investigating the app's use and found it "has been used in ways that endanger law enforcement and residents in Hong Kong."

"The app displays police locations and we have verified with the Hong Kong Cybersecurity and Technology Crime Bureau that the app has been used to target and ambush police, threaten public safety, and criminals have used it to victimize residents in areas where they know there is no law enforcement," the statement said.

Gravitas: Hong Kong Protests: Biggest Political Crisis In Xi Jinping's Career

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-protests-biggest-political-crisis-in-xi-jinpings-career-254353/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Apple did not comment beyond its statement, and the app's developer did not immediately have a comment on the removal.

Under Apple's rules and policies, apps that meet its standards to appear in the App Store have sometimes been removed after their release if they were found to facilitate illegal activity or threaten public safety.

In 2011, Apple modified its app store to remove apps that listed locations for drunken driving checkpoints not previously published by law enforcement officials.

Asked for comment after the People's Daily piece was published, HKmap.live's developer, who has not revealed his or her identity, said the app merely consolidated information that was available in the public domain, such as groups on Telegram, another service protestors were using to communicate.

"Protest is part of our freedom of speech (sic) and I don't think the application is illegal in HK," the developer told Reuters in a direct message on Tuesday.

Apple on Wednesday removed an app that protestors in Hong Kong have used to track police movements, saying the app violated its rules because it was used to ambush police and by criminals who used it to victimise residents in areas with no law enforcement.

Apple on Wednesday removed an app that protestors in Hong Kong have used to track police movements, saying the app violated its rules because it was used to ambush police and by criminals who used it to victimise residents in areas with no law enforcement. Apple rejected the crowdsourcing app, HKmap.live, earlier this month but then reversed course last week, allowing the app to appear on its App Store. The approval drew a sharply worded commentary from the Chinese Communist Party's official newspaper, the People's Daily, on Tuesday with Apple criticised for allowing a "poisonous" app. Apple said in a statement that "many concerned customers in Hong Kong" contacted the company about the mapping app. Apple said it immediately began investigating the app's use and found it "has been used in ways that endanger law enforcement and residents in Hong Kong." "The app displays police locations and we have verified with the Hong Kong Cybersecurity and Technology Crime Bureau that the app has been used to target and ambush police, threaten public safety, and criminals have used it to victimize residents in areas where they know there is no law enforcement," the statement said. Gravitas: Hong Kong Protests: Biggest Political Crisis In Xi Jinping's Career Apple did not comment beyond its statement, and the app's developer did not immediately have a comment on the removal. Under Apple's rules and policies, apps that meet its standards to appear in the App Store have sometimes been removed after their release if they were found to facilitate illegal activity or threaten public safety. In 2011, Apple modified its app store to remove apps that listed locations for drunken driving checkpoints not previously published by law enforcement officials. Asked for comment after the People's Daily piece was published, HKmap.live's developer, who has not revealed his or her identity, said the app merely consolidated information that was available in the public domain, such as groups on Telegram, another service protestors were using to communicate. "Protest is part of our freedom of speech (sic) and I don't think the application is illegal in HK," the developer told Reuters in a direct message on Tuesday.

Apple removes police-tracking app used in Hong Kong protests from its app store

US President Donald Trump said on Friday he would not tie a much-anticipated trade deal with China to his publicly stated desire for Beijing to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden, a potential rival in the 2020 presidential election.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday he would not tie a much-anticipated trade deal with China to his publicly stated desire for Beijing to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden, a potential rival in the 2020 presidential election. Speaking to reporters before departing the White House, Trump said negotiations to end the US trade war with China were separate from any investigation into Biden, who Trump has accused of foreign corruption. "One thing has nothing to do with the other," the Republican president said when asked whether he would be more likely to make a deal with China if it investigated Biden. "I want to do a trade deal with China, but only if it's good for our country." On Thursday Trump publicly urged Beijing to investigate Biden, a Democrat, again raising concerns that he has invited foreign interference in the US presidential election. Last week Trump released a transcript of a call where he asked Ukraine's president to also look into Biden, a request that has triggered a congressional inquiry into whether he should be impeached. Trump confirmed on Friday he would send a letter to House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi requesting that the chamber hold a full vote to formally approve the inquiry, a move that could slow the process down.

US President Trump says he won't tie Biden concerns to trade deal with China

President Donald Trump on Thursday said China, as well as Ukraine, should investigate his current main 2020 election rival Joe Biden. Trump, who faces an impeachment inquiry over allegations that he pressured Ukraine to interfere in the election by attacking his opponent, told reporters he would "certainly" think about asking China to do the same.

President Donald Trump on Thursday said China, as well as Ukraine, should investigate his current main 2020 election rival Joe Biden. Trump, who faces an impeachment inquiry over allegations that he pressured Ukraine to interfere in the election by attacking his opponent, told reporters he would "certainly" think about asking China to do the same. "It's certainly something we can start thinking about," the president said of asking China to get involved. Trump also doubled down on his earlier, hugely controversial request that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky investigate Democratic frontrunner Joe Biden and his son Hunter. "If they were honest about it, they'd start a major investigation into the Bidens. It's a very simple answer. They should investigate the Bidens," he said at the White House. "Likewise, China should start an investigation into the Bidens because what happened in China is just about as bad as what happened with Ukraine." According to Trump, the Bidens were involved in corrupt deals both in Ukraine and China. However, charges have never been filed and there appears to be little in the way of evidence for the allegations. It is illegal to ask for foreign help in a US election.

US President Trump calls on China and Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden

President Xi Jinping declared Tuesday that "no force" can shake the Chinese nation as he oversaw a massive military celebration of 70 years of Communist Party rule, shadowed by a day of protest in seething Hong Kong that threatened to steal the spotlight.

Standing on the Tiananmen Rostrum where Chairman Mao Zedong proclaimed the People's Republic of China on October 1, 1949, Xi extolled the "Chinese dream" of national rejuvenation -- his grand vision of restoring the country to perceived past glory.

"There is no force that can shake the foundation of this great nation," Xi said, wearing a "Mao suit" as he stood alongside party leaders in Tiananmen Square.

"No force that can stop the Chinese people and the Chinese nation forging ahead," the country's most powerful leader since Mao said before riding in an open-roof car to review troops.

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China's President Xi Jinping (centre L) watches a military parade in Tiananmen Square in Beijing on October 1, 2019, during celebrations to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. (AFP Photo)

Around 15,000 soldiers, tanks and high-tech weapons were ready to file past Tiananmen Square for an event celebrating China's journey from a country broken by war and poverty to being the world's second-largest economy.

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A Chinese national flag is raised during a military parade at Tiananmen Square in Beijing on October 1, 2019, to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. (AFP Photo)

A symbolic 70-gun salute was fired at the square and the red national flag was raised to begin festivities held under tight security, with road closures and even a ban on flying kites.

New weapons -- including a hypersonic drone and an intercontinental ballistic missile whose range encompasses the United States -- are expected to make their public debut among hundreds of pieces of military equipment and aircraft, according to Paris-based analysts.

But behind the festivities, a clutch of challenges tests Xi's ability to maintain economic and political stability.

"The party hopes that this occasion will add to its legitimacy and rally support at a time of internal and external challenges," Adam Ni, China researcher at Macquarie University in Sydney, said.

US trade war negotiations have dragged on, and African swine fever has raced through the country's pig supply, sending pork prices soaring.

But the major headache is Hong Kong, where pro-democracy protesters hit the streets early in a bid to grab the spotlight from Beijing, with a series of rallies against what they see as the erosion of their special freedoms.

Hong Kong police said they were expecting violence across the city, warning it could be "very, very dangerous", while masked protesters said that "in the face of tyranny, we can only fight as if our last battle".

Officers fanned out across the territory and small pockets of demonstrators marched through the streets for what they dubbed a "Day of Grief", while local officials watched a flag-raising ceremony behind closed doors.

The semi-autonomous city has been embroiled for months in the worst unrest since Britain returned it to China in 1997, with police and hardcore protesters trading tear gas and petrol bombs.

Xi vowed Monday to continue to "fully and faithfully implement" the one country, two systems policy under which Hong Kongers enjoy freedoms unseen on the mainland.

'Protect its interests'

Access to the Beijing parade was restricted with police turning away crowds lining up with flags in the hope of seeing a glimpse of the military procession.&nbsp;

Movie theatres organised screenings of the celebrations.

The military show of force will be followed by a pageant involving 100,000 civilians and 70 floats depicting China's greatest achievements. Organisers will release 70,000 doves and 70,000 balloons before an evening performance and fireworks in Tiananmen.

"Beijing wants to highlight its military modernisation, political unity, and determination to protect its interests," Ni said.

Authorities usually close factories to ensure blue skies during major events, but unhealthy smog covered the Chinese capital on Tuesday.

Party adapts

The Communist Party has repeatedly defied the odds to remain in power for seven decades.

Under Mao, tens of millions of people died during the disastrous Great Leap Forward, and the country was plunged into violent chaos during the decade-long Cultural Revolution.

After Mao's death in 1976, the party launched the reform and opening-up policy under paramount leader Deng Xiaoping, starting decades of breakneck growth and development.

But the party retained a stranglehold on power, sending troops to end the biggest challenge to its rule in 1989 when pro-democracy protesters occupied Tiananmen Square.

Xi has made clear that he believes only the Communist Party can make the country realise its dream -- with him at the helm.

"The Communist Party will continue to ensure that it remains the sole political authority in China," said Drew Thompson, visiting senior research fellow at Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy.

"It will continue to adapt to do that and it will continue to seek to provide social goods and economic goods for its people, and as long as it continues to deliver those public goods, then it will likely stay in power, but the manner by which it does I think will change over time."

President Xi Jinping declared Tuesday that "no force" can shake the Chinese nation as he oversaw a massive military celebration of 70 years of Communist Party rule, shadowed by a day of protest in seething Hong Kong that threatened to steal the spotlight.

President Xi Jinping declared Tuesday that "no force" can shake the Chinese nation as he oversaw a massive military celebration of 70 years of Communist Party rule, shadowed by a day of protest in seething Hong Kong that threatened to steal the spotlight. Standing on the Tiananmen Rostrum where Chairman Mao Zedong proclaimed the People's Republic of China on October 1, 1949, Xi extolled the "Chinese dream" of national rejuvenation -- his grand vision of restoring the country to perceived past glory. "There is no force that can shake the foundation of this great nation," Xi said, wearing a "Mao suit" as he stood alongside party leaders in Tiananmen Square. "No force that can stop the Chinese people and the Chinese nation forging ahead," the country's most powerful leader since Mao said before riding in an open-roof car to review troops. China's President Xi Jinping (centre L) watches a military parade in Tiananmen Square in Beijing on October 1, 2019, during celebrations to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. (AFP Photo) Around 15,000 soldiers, tanks and high-tech weapons were ready to file past Tiananmen Square for an event celebrating China's journey from a country broken by war and poverty to being the world's second-largest economy. A Chinese national flag is raised during a military parade at Tiananmen Square in Beijing on October 1, 2019, to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. (AFP Photo) A symbolic 70-gun salute was fired at the square and the red national flag was raised to begin festivities held under tight security, with road closures and even a ban on flying kites. New weapons -- including a hypersonic drone and an intercontinental ballistic missile whose range encompasses the United States -- are expected to make their public debut among hundreds of pieces of military equipment and aircraft, according to Paris-based analysts. But behind the festivities, a clutch of challenges tests Xi's ability to maintain economic and political stability. "The party hopes that this occasion will add to its legitimacy and rally support at a time of internal and external challenges," Adam Ni, China researcher at Macquarie University in Sydney, said. US trade war negotiations have dragged on, and African swine fever has raced through the country's pig supply, sending pork prices soaring. But the major headache is Hong Kong, where pro-democracy protesters hit the streets early in a bid to grab the spotlight from Beijing, with a series of rallies against what they see as the erosion of their special freedoms. Hong Kong police said they were expecting violence across the city, warning it could be "very, very dangerous", while masked protesters said that "in the face of tyranny, we can only fight as if our last battle". Officers fanned out across the territory and small pockets of demonstrators marched through the streets for what they dubbed a "Day of Grief", while local officials watched a flag-raising ceremony behind closed doors. The semi-autonomous city has been embroiled for months in the worst unrest since Britain returned it to China in 1997, with police and hardcore protesters trading tear gas and petrol bombs. Xi vowed Monday to continue to "fully and faithfully implement" the one country, two systems policy under which Hong Kongers enjoy freedoms unseen on the mainland. 'Protect its interests' Access to the Beijing parade was restricted with police turning away crowds lining up with flags in the hope of seeing a glimpse of the military procession. Movie theatres organised screenings of the celebrations. The military show of force will be followed by a pageant involving 100,000 civilians and 70 floats depicting China's greatest achievements. Organisers will release 70,000 doves and 70,000 balloons before an evening performance and fireworks in Tiananmen. "Beijing wants to highlight its military modernisation, political unity, and determination to protect its interests," Ni said. Authorities usually close factories to ensure blue skies during major events, but unhealthy smog covered the Chinese capital on Tuesday. Party adapts The Communist Party has repeatedly defied the odds to remain in power for seven decades. Under Mao, tens of millions of people died during the disastrous Great Leap Forward, and the country was plunged into violent chaos during the decade-long Cultural Revolution. After Mao's death in 1976, the party launched the reform and opening-up policy under paramount leader Deng Xiaoping, starting decades of breakneck growth and development. But the party retained a stranglehold on power, sending troops to end the biggest challenge to its rule in 1989 when pro-democracy protesters occupied Tiananmen Square. Xi has made clear that he believes only the Communist Party can make the country realise its dream -- with him at the helm. "The Communist Party will continue to ensure that it remains the sole political authority in China," said Drew Thompson, visiting senior research fellow at Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. "It will continue to adapt to do that and it will continue to seek to provide social goods and economic goods for its people, and as long as it continues to deliver those public goods, then it will likely stay in power, but the manner by which it does I think will change over time."

'No force' can shake the Chinese nation, says President Xi Jinping as Beijing celebrates 70 years of Communist rule

Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt starrer `Once Upon a Time in Hollywood` will hit the silver screens in China on October 25. 
The film is Quentin Tarantino`s first movie to get a proper release in the country.&nbsp; 
 
Released worldwide on July 26, the movie managed to rake in a colossal sum of USD 344.6 million at the worldwide box office and is still counting.It is also set to open in South Korea, considered the world`s fourth-largest theatrical market, on September 26. 
 
The film also starred Margot Robbie, late actor Luke Perry, Al Pacino, Dakota Fanning, Timothy Olyphant, Emile Hirsch, Damian Lewis, Michael Madsen, Lena Dunham and Kurt Russell. 
 
It is produced by Shannon McIntosh and David Heyman. Tarantino`s directorial will also be the second high-profile US film to land in China after National Day 2019, following Ang Lee`s Will Smith starrer `Gemini Man` on October 18.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt starrer `Once Upon a Time in Hollywood` will hit the silver screens in China on October 25. The film is Quentin Tarantino`s first movie to get a proper release in the country.

Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt starrer `Once Upon a Time in Hollywood` will hit the silver screens in China on October 25. The film is Quentin Tarantino`s first movie to get a proper release in the country. Released worldwide on July 26, the movie managed to rake in a colossal sum of USD 344.6 million at the worldwide box office and is still counting.It is also set to open in South Korea, considered the world`s fourth-largest theatrical market, on September 26. The film also starred Margot Robbie, late actor Luke Perry, Al Pacino, Dakota Fanning, Timothy Olyphant, Emile Hirsch, Damian Lewis, Michael Madsen, Lena Dunham and Kurt Russell. It is produced by Shannon McIntosh and David Heyman. Tarantino`s directorial will also be the second high-profile US film to land in China after National Day 2019, following Ang Lee`s Will Smith starrer `Gemini Man` on October 18.

'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' to hit big screens in China

China's top technology hub Hangzhou plans to assign government officials to work with 100 private companies including e-commerce giant Alibaba, according to state media reports, in a move likely to raise concerns over the growing role of the state.

China's top technology hub Hangzhou plans to assign government officials to work with 100 private companies including e-commerce giant Alibaba, according to state media reports, in a move likely to raise concerns over the growing role of the state. The step underscores how Chinese government and party authorities are growing more deeply integrated into the private sector, as its economy sputters amid an intensifying trade war with the United States. The city of Hangzhou, home to Alibaba Group Holding Ltd, will designate government officials to work with 100 local companies in the eastern province of Zhejiang, the local government said on its website. The directives, presented as a means to boost the local manufacturing industry, did not name the 100 companies subject to the policy, but state media reports said Alibaba and auto maker Zhejiang Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd would be among the companies. Alibaba said the plan would not interfere with its operations. "We understand this initiative... aims to foster a better business environment in support of Hangzhou-based enterprises. The government representative will function as a bridge to the private sector, and will not interfere with the company's operations," Alibaba said in a statement. Geely did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Chinese law has long required private companies, including foreign entities, to establish formal party organizations. Such groups were once seen as largely symbolic. However, in recent years, foreign executives have said they have come under increasing pressure to allow party representatives more sway over business operations. Domestic companies have strengthened party committees as well. In 2018, dozens of Chinese banks announced changes to their articles of association, granting more power to party committees.

China to send state officials to 100 private firms including Alibaba

China's Foreign Ministry said on Monday it was irresponsible to blame anyone for the attack on Saudi Arabia's oil facilities without conclusive facts. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, speaking at a daily news briefing in Beijing, added that China hoped all parties would exercise self-restraint.

China's Foreign Ministry said on Monday it was irresponsible to blame anyone for the attack on Saudi Arabia's oil facilities without conclusive facts. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, speaking at a daily news briefing in Beijing, added that China hoped all parties would exercise self-restraint. Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said there was no evidence the attack came from Yemen. A senior US official told reporters that evidence from the attack, which hit the world's biggest oil-processing facility, indicated Iran was behind it. Iran has denied this.

China says can't apportion blame for Saudi attack without facts

Calling China as Pakistan's "best friend", Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday said he doesn't know much about the situation of persecuted Uighurs Muslims in China.&nbsp;

Many western governments have asserted that Uighurs are been systemically targeted by China and being sent to reeducation camps.&nbsp;

In an interview to Al Jazeera, as part of global media outreach about the prevailing situation on Kashmir, Khan said "frankly we have been facing so many of our internal problems right now that I don't know much about the problem"

Adding, "I would like to say but I will say one thing about China, for us China has been the best friend "

Imran Khan who has been generally speaking about problems facing the Muslim all over the world, has been silent on the issue in China's north-western Xinjiang were most of the Uighurs are present.

The comments come amidst a rally in Pakistani occupied Kashmir on Friday were he said Muslims are been persecuted in Kashmir by India and called on the world to speak on the issue.

This is the second time Imran Khan has claimed no knowledge of the situation of Uighur Muslims in China.&nbsp;

In an interview to Financial Times earlier this year, he said, "Frankly, I don't know much about that..if I had enough knowledge I would speak about it, it is not so much in the newspapers".

Interestingly, in July this year, many Islamic countries including Pakistan wrote a letter praising China's policies in Xinjiang.

Calling China as Pakistan's "best friend", Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday said he doesn't know much about the situation of persecuted Uighurs Muslims in China.

Calling China as Pakistan's "best friend", Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday said he doesn't know much about the situation of persecuted Uighurs Muslims in China. Many western governments have asserted that Uighurs are been systemically targeted by China and being sent to reeducation camps. In an interview to Al Jazeera, as part of global media outreach about the prevailing situation on Kashmir, Khan said "frankly we have been facing so many of our internal problems right now that I don't know much about the problem" Adding, "I would like to say but I will say one thing about China, for us China has been the best friend " Imran Khan who has been generally speaking about problems facing the Muslim all over the world, has been silent on the issue in China's north-western Xinjiang were most of the Uighurs are present. The comments come amidst a rally in Pakistani occupied Kashmir on Friday were he said Muslims are been persecuted in Kashmir by India and called on the world to speak on the issue. This is the second time Imran Khan has claimed no knowledge of the situation of Uighur Muslims in China. In an interview to Financial Times earlier this year, he said, "Frankly, I don't know much about that..if I had enough knowledge I would speak about it, it is not so much in the newspapers". Interestingly, in July this year, many Islamic countries including Pakistan wrote a letter praising China's policies in Xinjiang.

'Don't know much about': Imran Khan on situation of Uighurs Muslims in China

Huawei Technologies' device business, comprising mainly smartphones, made $1.55 billion profit in the first half of this year - as much as it earned in all of 2018 - a rare regulatory filing showed.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-says-to-decide-on-huawei-soon-but-china-must-play-by-rules-249046">Chinese tech giant was put on a trade blacklist</a> by the United States in May, which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-denies-us-allegations-of-technology-theft-247310">cut off its access to essential US components</a> and technology. The ban stops US&nbsp;companies such as Alphabet's Google from doing business with Huawei.

Analysts have said that the consumer business is the most vulnerable to Washington's sanctions, with the main impact likely to be felt in the second half of the year.

Huawei said last month that, while the impact of the curbs was weaker than previously expected, it would still push the smartphone unit's revenue lower by about $10 billion this year.

The company had so far disclosed annual profit figures for the entire company and the filing provide a rare window into the growing profit contribution from Huawei's consumer business.

Huawei previously said smartphone shipments in the first half of the year jumped 24 per cent jump to 118 million units, as demand surged from patriotic Chinese buyers amid rising rhetoric in local media that Huawei was being treated unfairly by the United States.

Its market share rose more than 10 percentage points to 38 per cent&nbsp;in the June quarter in China, the world's biggest smartphone market, according to market research firm Canalys showed.

The new profit numbers were disclosed in a bonds prospectus published on September 11 from Huawei's parent Huawei Investment &amp; Holding Co Ltd, looking to raise up to 20 billion yuan in its first attempt to tap the onshore yuan bond market.

Profit at Huawei Device (Shenzhen) Ltd, a wholly-owned unit of the parent and a proxy for the behemoth's smartphone business, was 11.2 billion yuan in the first half of 2019, while revenue was 211 billion yuan.

The unit earned the same amount of money in all of 2018 on revenue of 329 billion yuan, according to the prospectus that did not provide numbers for just the first half.

The filing also showed Huawei Technologies Limited, Huawei's main business entity, made a net profit of 30.27 billion yuan and revenue of 353 billion yuan in the first half of 2019.

The group recorded increases in gross margins across all three businesses of carrier network, consumer and enterprise business in the period. Revenue contribution from China rose to 58.12% in the first half, up from 52.02% for the full year of 2018.

Huawei Technologies' device business, comprising mainly smartphones, made $1.55 billion profit in the first half of this year - as much as it earned in all of 2018 - a rare regulatory filing showed.

Huawei Technologies' device business, comprising mainly smartphones, made $1.55 billion profit in the first half of this year - as much as it earned in all of 2018 - a rare regulatory filing showed. The Chinese tech giant was put on a trade blacklist by the United States in May, which cut off its access to essential US components and technology. The ban stops US companies such as Alphabet's Google from doing business with Huawei. Analysts have said that the consumer business is the most vulnerable to Washington's sanctions, with the main impact likely to be felt in the second half of the year. Huawei said last month that, while the impact of the curbs was weaker than previously expected, it would still push the smartphone unit's revenue lower by about $10 billion this year. The company had so far disclosed annual profit figures for the entire company and the filing provide a rare window into the growing profit contribution from Huawei's consumer business. Huawei previously said smartphone shipments in the first half of the year jumped 24 per cent jump to 118 million units, as demand surged from patriotic Chinese buyers amid rising rhetoric in local media that Huawei was being treated unfairly by the United States. Its market share rose more than 10 percentage points to 38 per cent in the June quarter in China, the world's biggest smartphone market, according to market research firm Canalys showed. The new profit numbers were disclosed in a bonds prospectus published on September 11 from Huawei's parent Huawei Investment & Holding Co Ltd, looking to raise up to 20 billion yuan in its first attempt to tap the onshore yuan bond market. Profit at Huawei Device (Shenzhen) Ltd, a wholly-owned unit of the parent and a proxy for the behemoth's smartphone business, was 11.2 billion yuan in the first half of 2019, while revenue was 211 billion yuan. The unit earned the same amount of money in all of 2018 on revenue of 329 billion yuan, according to the prospectus that did not provide numbers for just the first half. The filing also showed Huawei Technologies Limited, Huawei's main business entity, made a net profit of 30.27 billion yuan and revenue of 353 billion yuan in the first half of 2019. The group recorded increases in gross margins across all three businesses of carrier network, consumer and enterprise business in the period. Revenue contribution from China rose to 58.12% in the first half, up from 52.02% for the full year of 2018.

Despite US blacklist, Huawei smartphones made $1.55 billion profit in first half of 2019, records show

India will be taking part with armies from Pakistan, China amongst others in the exercises being held by Russia set to be kicked off from September 9. "This year, invitations for participation have been extended to nine other countries.

India will be taking part with armies from Pakistan, China amongst others in the exercises being held by Russia set to be kicked off from September 9. "This year, invitations for participation have been extended to nine other countries. This year`s Exercise TSENTR 2019 will be conducted by the Central Military Commission of Russia. Apart from host Russia, military contingents from China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan will also take part in this mega event," an official release from PRO Army said. The exercise, scheduled to take place between September 9 to 23 at Donguz training ranges in Russia`s Orenburg, aims at evolving drills of the participating armies and practising them in the fight against the scourge of international terrorism thereby ensuring military security in the strategic Central Asian region. "The TSENTR-2019 strategic measures will focus on evaluating the level of troop preparedness, the acquisition of the required skills and raising the level of inter-operability and demonstrate the readiness of the participating armies," read the release. The 2019 edition of the exercise will comprise two modules. The first module will include counter-terror operations, repelling airstrikes, reconnaissance operations and defensive measures, while the second will focus on offensive operations.

India to participate in multi-national war games with Pakistan, China

China reasserted its backing for North Korea on Tuesday as its foreign minister visited Pyongyang, vowing to maintain "close communication" with its longstanding ally in the face of deadlocked nuclear talks with Washington.

Beijing has long been North Korea's key diplomatic backer and main provider of trade and aid, and while ties deteriorated over Pyongyang's nuclear provocations and China's subsequent backing of UN sanctions, the two have since worked to repair their relationship.

Since March 2018, Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have met five times, with Xi seeking to weigh in on Pyongyang's diplomacy with Washington.

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi arrived in Pyongyang on a three-day trip on Monday, just two months after Xi became the first Chinese leader to visit the North in 14 years.

Wang told his North Korean counterpart Ri Yong Ho that Beijing was ready "to promote... close communication and cooperation on the international stage", China's foreign ministry said Tuesday.

Reflecting on their 70 years of alliance, Wang noted that Beijing and Pyongyang have "always been in the same boat and moving forward side by side", it said in a statement.

Ri said that North Korea is willing to work with China to "promote greater development" of their relations in the "new era", according to the document.

Pyongyang and Washington are engaged in a long-running diplomatic process over the North's nuclear programmes although little progress has been made.

Those talks have been deadlocked after a second summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump collapsed in Hanoi in February with the two unable to reach a deal on sanctions relief and what the North might give up in return.

They agree to restart talks at an impromptu meeting in the Demilitarized Zone in June, but that working-level dialogue has yet to begin.

China always prefers stability in its neighbourhood and officially supports talks between the North and the US.

But Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, said Wang's visit "will raise concerns about their coordinating economic cooperation despite UN sanctions".

"Beijing and Pyongyang may also strategise how to exploit widening divisions between Seoul and Tokyo and how to play the US election cycle," he added, but stressed that North Korea wanted to avoid over-reliance on China.

"Despite signs of camaraderie, Kim isn't choosing sides, he's playing everyone off each other," he said.

Beijing sent millions of troops known as "Chinese People's Volunteers" to save the North from defeat during the Korean War, and Mao Zedong described their relations as "close as lips and teeth".

Nowadays Beijing sees the North as a strategic buffer, preventing the possibility of US troops on its borders -- 28,500 are stationed in South Korea.

China reasserted its backing for North Korea on Tuesday as its foreign minister visited Pyongyang, vowing to maintain "close communication" with its longstanding ally in the face of deadlocked nuclear talks with Washington.

China reasserted its backing for North Korea on Tuesday as its foreign minister visited Pyongyang, vowing to maintain "close communication" with its longstanding ally in the face of deadlocked nuclear talks with Washington. Beijing has long been North Korea's key diplomatic backer and main provider of trade and aid, and while ties deteriorated over Pyongyang's nuclear provocations and China's subsequent backing of UN sanctions, the two have since worked to repair their relationship. Since March 2018, Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have met five times, with Xi seeking to weigh in on Pyongyang's diplomacy with Washington. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi arrived in Pyongyang on a three-day trip on Monday, just two months after Xi became the first Chinese leader to visit the North in 14 years. Wang told his North Korean counterpart Ri Yong Ho that Beijing was ready "to promote... close communication and cooperation on the international stage", China's foreign ministry said Tuesday. Reflecting on their 70 years of alliance, Wang noted that Beijing and Pyongyang have "always been in the same boat and moving forward side by side", it said in a statement. Ri said that North Korea is willing to work with China to "promote greater development" of their relations in the "new era", according to the document. Pyongyang and Washington are engaged in a long-running diplomatic process over the North's nuclear programmes although little progress has been made. Those talks have been deadlocked after a second summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump collapsed in Hanoi in February with the two unable to reach a deal on sanctions relief and what the North might give up in return. They agree to restart talks at an impromptu meeting in the Demilitarized Zone in June, but that working-level dialogue has yet to begin. China always prefers stability in its neighbourhood and officially supports talks between the North and the US. But Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, said Wang's visit "will raise concerns about their coordinating economic cooperation despite UN sanctions". "Beijing and Pyongyang may also strategise how to exploit widening divisions between Seoul and Tokyo and how to play the US election cycle," he added, but stressed that North Korea wanted to avoid over-reliance on China. "Despite signs of camaraderie, Kim isn't choosing sides, he's playing everyone off each other," he said. Beijing sent millions of troops known as "Chinese People's Volunteers" to save the North from defeat during the Korean War, and Mao Zedong described their relations as "close as lips and teeth". Nowadays Beijing sees the North as a strategic buffer, preventing the possibility of US troops on its borders -- 28,500 are stationed in South Korea.

China backs North Korea amid deadlocked nuclear talks

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-drop-troop-level-but-permanent-presence-to-remain-in-afghanistan-trump-246453">Donald Trump</a> established on Thursday the United States Space Command, a program that was first established during the height of the Cold War.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-chinas-plans-to-disrupt-gps-through-asat-in-2020-beyond-206321">In pics: How China plans to disrupt GPS through ASAT in 2020 &amp; beyond</a> 
&nbsp;

Trump announced in the Rose Garden, flanked by US Vice President Mike Pence, Defense Secretary Mike Esper and the newly appointed head of Space Command, US Air Force General John Raymond.

Trump said Space Command would "defend America's vital interests in space, the next war-fighting domain."

Watch: Trump inches closer to a 'space force'

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"Our adversaries are weaponizing Earth's orbits with new technology targeting American satellites that are critical to both battlefield operations and our way of life at home. Our freedom to operate in space is also essential to detecting and destroying any missile launched against the United States," said Trump.

Space Command was originally established in 1985 by the Air Force to coordinate defense efforts amid the Cold War. In 2002, Space Command was merged into the unified Strategic Command to focus on the US-led invasion of Afghanistan.

Trump added that Space Command would be followed by the establishment of the Space Force, " the sixth branch of the United States Armed Forces," he said.&nbsp;

Creating a new military branch requires congressional approval and the House and Senate are expected to take up the issue when they return from their August recess.

US President Donald Trump established on Thursday the United States Space Command, a program that was first established during the height of the Cold War. In pics: How China plans to disrupt GPS through ASAT in 2020 & beyond Trump announced in the Rose Garden, flanked by US Vice President Mike Pence, Defense Secretary Mike Esper and the newly appointed head of Space Command, US Air Force General John Raymond.

US President Donald Trump established on Thursday the United States Space Command, a program that was first established during the height of the Cold War. In pics: How China plans to disrupt GPS through ASAT in 2020 & beyond Trump announced in the Rose Garden, flanked by US Vice President Mike Pence, Defense Secretary Mike Esper and the newly appointed head of Space Command, US Air Force General John Raymond. Trump said Space Command would "defend America's vital interests in space, the next war-fighting domain." Watch: Trump inches closer to a 'space force' × "Our adversaries are weaponizing Earth's orbits with new technology targeting American satellites that are critical to both battlefield operations and our way of life at home. Our freedom to operate in space is also essential to detecting and destroying any missile launched against the United States," said Trump. Space Command was originally established in 1985 by the Air Force to coordinate defense efforts amid the Cold War. In 2002, Space Command was merged into the unified Strategic Command to focus on the US-led invasion of Afghanistan. Trump added that Space Command would be followed by the establishment of the Space Force, " the sixth branch of the United States Armed Forces," he said. Creating a new military branch requires congressional approval and the House and Senate are expected to take up the issue when they return from their August recess.

Donald Trump establishes US Space Command, says space to be 'next war-fighting domain'

Beijing said on Tuesday that Canberra should not "intervene" in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-yang-hengjun-arrested-in-china-over-spying-charges-245874">China's judicial processes</a> after confirming Australian national Yang Jun had been arrested for alleged espionage.

"I would like to emphasize that China is a country ruled by law and the Australian side should earnestly respect China's judicial sovereignty and must not intervene in any cases handled in China," said foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang.

China's statement comes after an Australian pro-democracy academic held for seven months in China was formally arrested for spying.

Australian Foreign minister Marise Payne had said Tuesday she demanded Beijing uphold "basic standards" of justice.

Payne said she was "very concerned" that Chinese-born Yang Hengjun &nbsp;- a former official turned author - had been arrested on "suspicion of espionage".

Payne said she was "very concerned" that Chinese-born Yang Hengjun - a former official turned author - had been arrested on "suspicion of espionage".

Yang had been detained after returning to China from the United States in January.

Now in his 50s, he had used popular blog and social media posts to criticise Beijing's authoritarian government. He has a following of more than 125,000 on Twitter alone.

After months without access to his lawyer or family, Yang now faces trial on charges that could bring a lengthy prison sentence.

China's near-silence about Yang's fate has been a point of friction in relations with Australia that have markedly deteriorated in recent months.

In a sharply worded statement, Payne said she had raised the case five times with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, in person and via letters.

"Dr Yang has been held in Beijing in harsh conditions without charge for more than seven months," Payne said, referencing international rules prohibiting torture.

"Since that time, China has not explained the reasons for Dr Yang's detention, nor has it allowed him access to his lawyers or family visits."

Beijing said on Tuesday that Canberra should not "intervene" in China's judicial processes after confirming Australian national Yang Jun had been arrested for alleged espionage.

Beijing said on Tuesday that Canberra should not "intervene" in China's judicial processes after confirming Australian national Yang Jun had been arrested for alleged espionage. "I would like to emphasize that China is a country ruled by law and the Australian side should earnestly respect China's judicial sovereignty and must not intervene in any cases handled in China," said foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang. China's statement comes after an Australian pro-democracy academic held for seven months in China was formally arrested for spying. Australian Foreign minister Marise Payne had said Tuesday she demanded Beijing uphold "basic standards" of justice. Payne said she was "very concerned" that Chinese-born Yang Hengjun - a former official turned author - had been arrested on "suspicion of espionage". Payne said she was "very concerned" that Chinese-born Yang Hengjun - a former official turned author - had been arrested on "suspicion of espionage". Yang had been detained after returning to China from the United States in January. Now in his 50s, he had used popular blog and social media posts to criticise Beijing's authoritarian government. He has a following of more than 125,000 on Twitter alone. After months without access to his lawyer or family, Yang now faces trial on charges that could bring a lengthy prison sentence. China's near-silence about Yang's fate has been a point of friction in relations with Australia that have markedly deteriorated in recent months. In a sharply worded statement, Payne said she had raised the case five times with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, in person and via letters. "Dr Yang has been held in Beijing in harsh conditions without charge for more than seven months," Payne said, referencing international rules prohibiting torture. "Since that time, China has not explained the reasons for Dr Yang's detention, nor has it allowed him access to his lawyers or family visits."

Australia shouldn't intervene: China on detained citizen case

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