<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/house-speaker-pelosi-says-trump-cannot-give-state-of-union-speech-until-he-ends-govt-shutdown-192338">US President Donald Trump</a> said Wednesday that Washington is doing "very well" in trade talks with China and that Beijing is keen to strike a deal ending their trade war.

China "wants to make a deal," he said at the White House. "We're doing very well in the negotiations."

Data showing China's economy grew at its weakest pace in three decades have fuelled fears it is heading for a rocky patch, exacerbated by the pressure from US tariffs.&nbsp;

Trump argues that China has skewed the trading rules for decades and must agree to substantial reductions in import barriers, while boosting protection for US intellectual property.

However, the tit-for-tat tariffs between the world's two main economic powers have also hurt US economic confidence and markets are waiting anxiously for a deal.

On Wednesday, Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan told an audience at the World Economic Forum in Davos that "the Chinese and US economies are mutually indispensable, so their relations must be mutually beneficial and win-win."&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Washington is doing "very well" in trade talks with China and that Beijing is keen to strike a deal ending their trade war.

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Washington is doing "very well" in trade talks with China and that Beijing is keen to strike a deal ending their trade war. China "wants to make a deal," he said at the White House. "We're doing very well in the negotiations." Data showing China's economy grew at its weakest pace in three decades have fuelled fears it is heading for a rocky patch, exacerbated by the pressure from US tariffs. Trump argues that China has skewed the trading rules for decades and must agree to substantial reductions in import barriers, while boosting protection for US intellectual property. However, the tit-for-tat tariffs between the world's two main economic powers have also hurt US economic confidence and markets are waiting anxiously for a deal. On Wednesday, Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan told an audience at the World Economic Forum in Davos that "the Chinese and US economies are mutually indispensable, so their relations must be mutually beneficial and win-win."

US doing 'very well' in China trade talks: Trump

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde on Thursday reiterated that the major risk facing the global economy was the trade tension between China and the United States, reported Reuters.

She said it could precipitate the slowdown of the Chinese economy.

"A slowdown of China is fine. It's legitimate," Lagarde told delegates at the World Economic Forum in Davos. "But if the slowdown was fast, it would constitute a real issue," she said.

Lagarde said this at the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde on Thursday reiterated that the major risk facing the global economy was the trade tension between China and the United States, reported Reuters.

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde on Thursday reiterated that the major risk facing the global economy was the trade tension between China and the United States, reported Reuters. She said it could precipitate the slowdown of the Chinese economy. "A slowdown of China is fine. It's legitimate," Lagarde told delegates at the World Economic Forum in Davos. "But if the slowdown was fast, it would constitute a real issue," she said. Lagarde said this at the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland. (With inputs from Reuters)

China-US trade tension a major risk to global growth: IMF chief

Microsoft Corp's Bing search engine has been blocked in China, the company said on Wednesday, making it the latest foreign technology service to be shut down behind the country's Great Firewall.

"We've confirmed that Bing is currently inaccessible in China and are engaged to determine next steps," the company said in a statement.

It is the US&nbsp;technology giant's second setback in China since November 2017 when its Skype internet phone call and messaging service was pulled from Apple and Android app stores.

A search performed on Bing's China website - cn.bing.com - from within mainland China directs the user to a page that says the server cannot be reached.

The Financial Times, citing a source, reported on Wednesday that China Unicom, a major state-owned telecommunication company, had confirmed the government order to block the search engine.

Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), a government watchdog, did not respond to faxed questions about Bing's blocked website.

Bing was the only major foreign search engine accessible from within China's so-called Great Firewall. Microsoft censored search results on sensitive topics, in accordance with government policy.

Microsoft also has a partnership with Chinese data center provider 21Vianet to offer its products Azure and Office 365 to clients in the country.

Alphabet's Google search platform has been blocked in China since 2010. Google CEO Sundar Pichai said in December it has "no plans" to relaunch a search engine in China though it is continuing to study the idea amid increased scrutiny of big tech firms.

President Xi Jinping has accelerated control of the internet in China since 2016, as the ruling Communist Party seeks to crack down on dissent in the social media landscape.

In a statement on Wednesday, CAC said it had deleted more than 7 million pieces of online information and 9,382 mobile apps. It also criticized technology company Tencent's news app for spreading "vulgar information."

Microsoft Corp's Bing search engine has been blocked in China, the company said on Wednesday, making it the latest foreign technology service to be shut down behind the country's Great Firewall.

Microsoft Corp's Bing search engine has been blocked in China, the company said on Wednesday, making it the latest foreign technology service to be shut down behind the country's Great Firewall. "We've confirmed that Bing is currently inaccessible in China and are engaged to determine next steps," the company said in a statement. It is the US technology giant's second setback in China since November 2017 when its Skype internet phone call and messaging service was pulled from Apple and Android app stores. A search performed on Bing's China website - cn.bing.com - from within mainland China directs the user to a page that says the server cannot be reached. The Financial Times, citing a source, reported on Wednesday that China Unicom, a major state-owned telecommunication company, had confirmed the government order to block the search engine. Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), a government watchdog, did not respond to faxed questions about Bing's blocked website. Bing was the only major foreign search engine accessible from within China's so-called Great Firewall. Microsoft censored search results on sensitive topics, in accordance with government policy. Microsoft also has a partnership with Chinese data center provider 21Vianet to offer its products Azure and Office 365 to clients in the country. Alphabet's Google search platform has been blocked in China since 2010. Google CEO Sundar Pichai said in December it has "no plans" to relaunch a search engine in China though it is continuing to study the idea amid increased scrutiny of big tech firms. President Xi Jinping has accelerated control of the internet in China since 2016, as the ruling Communist Party seeks to crack down on dissent in the social media landscape. In a statement on Wednesday, CAC said it had deleted more than 7 million pieces of online information and 9,382 mobile apps. It also criticized technology company Tencent's news app for spreading "vulgar information."

Microsoft says Bing search engine blocked in China

Australia is investigating the whereabouts of a Chinese-Australian man, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said on Wednesday, after a newspaper report raised fears that the dissident former diplomat has been detained in China.

The Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reported on Wednesday that friends feared Yang Hengjun, an author and former Chinese diplomat who is now an Australian citizen, had been detained because he had not been reachable for several days.

His disappearance comes at a time of high tension between China and some parts of the West after two Canadians, a diplomat on unpaid leave and a consultant, were arrested in China on suspicion of endangering state security.

Those arrests were widely seen in the West as retaliation by Beijing for the arrest of Meng Wanzhou, a senior Huawei Technologies executive, in Canada on December 1. She is accused of violating US&nbsp;sanctions on Iran.

Two friends contacted by Reuters said they had reported Yang as missing to DFAT. They said he had been missing since he flew from New York to Guangzhou in southern China on Friday.

One of those friends, Feng Chongyi, an academic at the University of Technology in Sydney, said Yang had been scheduled to fly on to Shanghai but never arrived.

"I believe he is in custody of the Ministry of State Security in Beijing," Feng said.

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Public Security did not respond immediately to requests for comment.

A DFAT spokeswoman confirmed the department was investigating but did not identify Yang by name.

"The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is seeking information about an Australian citizen who has been reported missing in China," the spokeswoman said.

A source familiar with the investigation said Australia made contact with Chinese officials overnight to ask about Yang's whereabouts.

Australia joined international condemnation of the arrest of the two Canadians but Yang has long been in the sights of Chinese authorities. He has criticised what he described as Chinese interference in Australia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has presided over a sweeping crackdown on dissent since coming to power in 2012, with hundreds of rights lawyers and activists detained. Dozens have been jailed.

Australia is investigating the whereabouts of a Chinese-Australian man, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said on Wednesday, after a newspaper report raised fears that the dissident former diplomat has been detained in China.

Australia is investigating the whereabouts of a Chinese-Australian man, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said on Wednesday, after a newspaper report raised fears that the dissident former diplomat has been detained in China. The Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reported on Wednesday that friends feared Yang Hengjun, an author and former Chinese diplomat who is now an Australian citizen, had been detained because he had not been reachable for several days. His disappearance comes at a time of high tension between China and some parts of the West after two Canadians, a diplomat on unpaid leave and a consultant, were arrested in China on suspicion of endangering state security. Those arrests were widely seen in the West as retaliation by Beijing for the arrest of Meng Wanzhou, a senior Huawei Technologies executive, in Canada on December 1. She is accused of violating US sanctions on Iran. Two friends contacted by Reuters said they had reported Yang as missing to DFAT. They said he had been missing since he flew from New York to Guangzhou in southern China on Friday. One of those friends, Feng Chongyi, an academic at the University of Technology in Sydney, said Yang had been scheduled to fly on to Shanghai but never arrived. "I believe he is in custody of the Ministry of State Security in Beijing," Feng said. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Public Security did not respond immediately to requests for comment. A DFAT spokeswoman confirmed the department was investigating but did not identify Yang by name. "The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is seeking information about an Australian citizen who has been reported missing in China," the spokeswoman said. A source familiar with the investigation said Australia made contact with Chinese officials overnight to ask about Yang's whereabouts. Australia joined international condemnation of the arrest of the two Canadians but Yang has long been in the sights of Chinese authorities. He has criticised what he described as Chinese interference in Australia. Chinese President Xi Jinping has presided over a sweeping crackdown on dissent since coming to power in 2012, with hundreds of rights lawyers and activists detained. Dozens have been jailed.

Australia investigates reports Chinese-Australian writer detained in China

China's trade with North Korea fell 51.2 per cent to $2.43 billion in 2018, customs data showed on Wednesday.

Imports from North Korea fell 87.7 per cent to $213.15 million, while exports to North Korea dropped 31.7 per cent to $2.22 billion.

China's total trade with North Korea was valued at $228.89 million in December, down from $247.75 million the previous month.

Exports to North Korea in December were $207.43 million, down from $227.70 million the preceding month.

China's trade with North Korea fell 51.2 per cent to $2.43 billion in 2018, customs data showed on Wednesday. Imports from North Korea fell 87.7 per cent to $213.

China's trade with North Korea fell 51.2 per cent to $2.43 billion in 2018, customs data showed on Wednesday. Imports from North Korea fell 87.7 per cent to $213.15 million, while exports to North Korea dropped 31.7 per cent to $2.22 billion. China's total trade with North Korea was valued at $228.89 million in December, down from $247.75 million the previous month. Exports to North Korea in December were $207.43 million, down from $227.70 million the preceding month.

China's trade with North Korea falls 51% in 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/america-has-no-plan-as-it-pulls-out-of-syria-ex-us-envoy-191681">America has 'no plan' as it pulls out of Syria: Ex-US envoy</a>

The United States has no plan for Syria as it proceeds with President Donald Trump's order to pull American troops out of the country, a top official who quit in protest at the policy said on Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-uk-pm-may-to-unveil-plan-b-today-191683">Brexit: UK PM May to unveil 'Plan B' today</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May unveils her Brexit "Plan B" to parliament on Monday after MPs shredded her EU divorce deal, deepening the political gridlock 10 weeks from departure day.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-economy-grew-at-slowest-pace-in-28-years-in-2018-191687">China economy grew at </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-economy-grew-at-slowest-pace-in-28-years-in-2018-191687">slowest</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-economy-grew-at-slowest-pace-in-28-years-in-2018-191687"> pace in 28 years in 2018</a>

China's economy grew at its slowest pace in almost three decades in 2018, losing more steam in the last quarter as it battles to quell massive debt and a US trade war, official data showed Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-26-richest-people-own-as-much-wealth-as-poorer-50-of-humanity-oxfam-191680">World's 26 richest people own as much wealth as poorer 50% of humanity: Oxfam</a>

The world's 26 richest people own the same wealth as the poorest half of humanity, Oxfam said Monday, urging governments to hike taxes on the wealthy to fight soaring inequality.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-it-has-again-hit-iranian-targets-in-syria-191685">Israel says it has again hit Iranian targets in Syria</a>

Israel's military said it carried out strikes on Iranian targets in Syria early Monday after it intercepted a rocket fired from Syrian territory hours before. It said in a statement it was "currently striking" the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force in Syria and warned Syria's military against "attempting to harm Israeli territory or forces".

America has 'no plan' as it pulls out of Syria: Ex-US envoy The United States has no plan for Syria as it proceeds with President Donald Trump's order to pull American troops out of the country, a top official who quit in protest at the policy said on Sunday.

America has 'no plan' as it pulls out of Syria: Ex-US envoy The United States has no plan for Syria as it proceeds with President Donald Trump's order to pull American troops out of the country, a top official who quit in protest at the policy said on Sunday. Brexit: UK PM May to unveil 'Plan B' today British Prime Minister Theresa May unveils her Brexit "Plan B" to parliament on Monday after MPs shredded her EU divorce deal, deepening the political gridlock 10 weeks from departure day. China economy grew at slowest pace in 28 years in 2018 China's economy grew at its slowest pace in almost three decades in 2018, losing more steam in the last quarter as it battles to quell massive debt and a US trade war, official data showed Monday. World's 26 richest people own as much wealth as poorer 50% of humanity: Oxfam The world's 26 richest people own the same wealth as the poorest half of humanity, Oxfam said Monday, urging governments to hike taxes on the wealthy to fight soaring inequality. Israel says it has again hit Iranian targets in Syria Israel's military said it carried out strikes on Iranian targets in Syria early Monday after it intercepted a rocket fired from Syrian territory hours before. It said in a statement it was "currently striking" the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force in Syria and warned Syria's military against "attempting to harm Israeli territory or forces".

News brief: Big stories of the day

India has said that its partnership with Africa is based on the "principles of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit."&nbsp;

While speaking on the occasion of Africa Day at Vibrant Gujarat 2019 in Gandhinagar, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs."

Swaraj further said India views its "substantive engagement" with the African countries through "the prism of our own experience."

"When we became independent, we found that external assistance came with conditionality, both overt and covert, with prescriptions that would have constricted our sovereignty and independence," Swaraj added.&nbsp;

China's debt practices have come under criticism around the world including in Africa. Bejing has been involved in large scale infrastructure in Africa, putting many countries in massive debt which they are unable to repay.&nbsp;

India is focusing on its historical ties with Africa to promote ties. Speaking at the event, the external affairs minister said, "India has always shared a special bond with the people of Africa and supported their liberation from colonialism and from apartheid."&nbsp;

India will be opening 18 new embassies and High Commissions in Africa in the next few years which will take the number of Indian missions in Africa to 47. Last year, India opened its mission in Rwanda.

The development comes days before India's Republic Day wherein South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has been invited as the chief guest.&nbsp;

India is the fifth largest investor in Africa with cumulative investments of $54 billion. Indian Lines of Credit are being used to develop 189 projects in 42 African countries for nearly $ 11.4 billion. In 2015, the third India-Africa summit took place in New Delhi and was one of the biggest diplomatic events under the Modi government in the last four years.

&nbsp;

India has said that its partnership with Africa is based on the "principles of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit." While speaking on the occasion of Africa Day at Vibrant Gujarat 2019 in Gandhinagar, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs.

India has said that its partnership with Africa is based on the "principles of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit." While speaking on the occasion of Africa Day at Vibrant Gujarat 2019 in Gandhinagar, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs." Swaraj further said India views its "substantive engagement" with the African countries through "the prism of our own experience." "When we became independent, we found that external assistance came with conditionality, both overt and covert, with prescriptions that would have constricted our sovereignty and independence," Swaraj added. China's debt practices have come under criticism around the world including in Africa. Bejing has been involved in large scale infrastructure in Africa, putting many countries in massive debt which they are unable to repay. India is focusing on its historical ties with Africa to promote ties. Speaking at the event, the external affairs minister said, "India has always shared a special bond with the people of Africa and supported their liberation from colonialism and from apartheid." India will be opening 18 new embassies and High Commissions in Africa in the next few years which will take the number of Indian missions in Africa to 47. Last year, India opened its mission in Rwanda. The development comes days before India's Republic Day wherein South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has been invited as the chief guest. India is the fifth largest investor in Africa with cumulative investments of $54 billion. Indian Lines of Credit are being used to develop 189 projects in 42 African countries for nearly $ 11.4 billion. In 2015, the third India-Africa summit took place in New Delhi and was one of the biggest diplomatic events under the Modi government in the last four years.

India plans to open 18 new missions in Africa: Sushma Swaraj

A Chinese state-owned company marked on Wednesday the completion of an ambitious land reclamation adjacent to Sri Lanka's capital Colombo, part of Beijing's "Belt and Road" infrastructure initiative that has alarmed India and the West.

"Colombo Port City is an important project of the One Belt, One Road initiative in Sri Lanka, which is one of the key countries along the maritime silk route," China's ambassador Cheng Xueyuan said at a ceremony.

"No matter how the international situation changes, China always facilitates great importance to Sino-Sri Lanka relations and actively implements the consensus of the leaders of the two countries," he added.

The $1.4 billion Colombo Port City was agreed between China and Sri Lanka's former president Mahinda Rajapakse, one of several projects to raise fears that the strategically important location was falling into Beijing's orbit.

On another, the $1.4-billion Hambantota deep-sea port also built by the Chinese, China in December 2017 was given a 99-year lease after Colombo said it was unable to keep up with servicing loans made by Beijing to pay for it.

The nearby Hambantota airport also funded by China and built in Rajapaske's constituency in the middle of two wildlife sanctuaries has turned into a white elephant, with no scheduled flights.

Two-thirds of the new 269 hectares (664 acres) reclamation project which is envisaged as the site of a new financial district and has worried environmentalists, goes to China on a 99-year lease.

Patali Champika, the minister in charge of the project, said however that the reclaimed area would not be a threat to Sri Lanka's sovereignty or undermine the security of regional power India.

The port of Colombo is a key hub for Indian import-export cargo and the new real estate is situated at the entrance.

China has also emerged a key political and financial backer of Sri Lanka, dislodging Japan which used to be the biggest funder of infrastructure such as ports in the island nation.

Finance ministry officials said the Bank of China had offered Colombo a $1.0 billion loan to shore up its foreign reserves amid an exodus of foreign capital from Sri Lanka's bond and equity markets.

The Chinese funding becomes crucial at a time when three international credit rating agencies downgraded Sri Lanka after a political crisis in late 2018.

A Chinese state-owned company marked on Wednesday the completion of an ambitious land reclamation adjacent to Sri Lanka's capital Colombo, part of Beijing's "Belt and Road" infrastructure initiative that has alarmed India and the West.

A Chinese state-owned company marked on Wednesday the completion of an ambitious land reclamation adjacent to Sri Lanka's capital Colombo, part of Beijing's "Belt and Road" infrastructure initiative that has alarmed India and the West. "Colombo Port City is an important project of the One Belt, One Road initiative in Sri Lanka, which is one of the key countries along the maritime silk route," China's ambassador Cheng Xueyuan said at a ceremony. "No matter how the international situation changes, China always facilitates great importance to Sino-Sri Lanka relations and actively implements the consensus of the leaders of the two countries," he added. The $1.4 billion Colombo Port City was agreed between China and Sri Lanka's former president Mahinda Rajapakse, one of several projects to raise fears that the strategically important location was falling into Beijing's orbit. On another, the $1.4-billion Hambantota deep-sea port also built by the Chinese, China in December 2017 was given a 99-year lease after Colombo said it was unable to keep up with servicing loans made by Beijing to pay for it. The nearby Hambantota airport also funded by China and built in Rajapaske's constituency in the middle of two wildlife sanctuaries has turned into a white elephant, with no scheduled flights. Two-thirds of the new 269 hectares (664 acres) reclamation project which is envisaged as the site of a new financial district and has worried environmentalists, goes to China on a 99-year lease. Patali Champika, the minister in charge of the project, said however that the reclaimed area would not be a threat to Sri Lanka's sovereignty or undermine the security of regional power India. The port of Colombo is a key hub for Indian import-export cargo and the new real estate is situated at the entrance. China has also emerged a key political and financial backer of Sri Lanka, dislodging Japan which used to be the biggest funder of infrastructure such as ports in the island nation. Finance ministry officials said the Bank of China had offered Colombo a $1.0 billion loan to shore up its foreign reserves amid an exodus of foreign capital from Sri Lanka's bond and equity markets. The Chinese funding becomes crucial at a time when three international credit rating agencies downgraded Sri Lanka after a political crisis in late 2018.

China firm completes $1.4 billion Sri Lanka land reclamation

Australia will allow imports of the intoxicating drink kava, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said as he sought to forge closer ties with its Pacific neighbours amid growing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/chinas-huawei-blasts-australian-security-concerns-amid-sino-canberra-tensions-145129">Chinese interest in the region</a>.

"Kava is an important product and has a successful market around the world and we have done a lot of work with Vanuatu to ensure some of those markets are opened up and that can include now to a greater extent, than has currently existed in Australia, for that to be realised as well," PM Morrison said.

Australia and China have been vying for influence<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-australian-navy-involved-in-encounter-in-south-china-sea-131633"> in sparsely populated Pacific island countries</a> that control vast swathes of resource-rich ocean. Vanuatu last year had signed up to China's Belt and Road initiative(BRI), just a few months after Australia promised to bolster its cyber-security capability.

"We're here because we believe in the region and always have. We've always been here. We will always be here supporting our friends and family and partners in the Pacific. We have done it for decades. In fact, we have been here for 40 years," the Australian prime minister said, adding,"we will continue to be here because we believe in the peace and prosperity and stability and independence and sovereignty of our region."&nbsp;

To improve cultural ties, Morrison said Australia would remove restrictions on kava, a mildly intoxicating brew that is deeply embedded in the social fabric of Pacific islanders.

Morrison will next travel to Fiji on Thursday as part of a Pacific tour. Australia last year offered Pacific countries up to $2.16 billion in grants and cheap loans to build infrastructure.

Australia will allow imports of the intoxicating drink kava, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said as he sought to forge closer ties with its Pacific neighbours amid growing Chinese interest in the region.

Australia will allow imports of the intoxicating drink kava, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said as he sought to forge closer ties with its Pacific neighbours amid growing Chinese interest in the region. "Kava is an important product and has a successful market around the world and we have done a lot of work with Vanuatu to ensure some of those markets are opened up and that can include now to a greater extent, than has currently existed in Australia, for that to be realised as well," PM Morrison said. Australia and China have been vying for influence in sparsely populated Pacific island countries that control vast swathes of resource-rich ocean. Vanuatu last year had signed up to China's Belt and Road initiative(BRI), just a few months after Australia promised to bolster its cyber-security capability. "We're here because we believe in the region and always have. We've always been here. We will always be here supporting our friends and family and partners in the Pacific. We have done it for decades. In fact, we have been here for 40 years," the Australian prime minister said, adding,"we will continue to be here because we believe in the peace and prosperity and stability and independence and sovereignty of our region." To improve cultural ties, Morrison said Australia would remove restrictions on kava, a mildly intoxicating brew that is deeply embedded in the social fabric of Pacific islanders. Morrison will next travel to Fiji on Thursday as part of a Pacific tour. Australia last year offered Pacific countries up to $2.16 billion in grants and cheap loans to build infrastructure.

Watch: Amid competition with China, Australia to allow kava import to boost Pacific ties

The Army has managed the situation well along the borders with China and Pakistan and there should be no cause for concern, Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat said Thursday.

Speaking at his annual <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-becoming-new-form-of-warfare-says-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189157">press conference</a>, Rawat also said the situation in Jammu and Kashmir needs to be improved further.

"We are only facilitators for peace in J&amp;K," he said.

"We have managed the situation well along the northern and western borders and there no cause of concern on the western and northern border," Gen Rawat said.

He also said that it was not possible to take decisions on 100 per cent consensus and that the Army has helped to improve the situations in northeastern states.

The Army has managed the situation well along the borders with China and Pakistan and there should be no cause for concern, Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat said Thursday.

The Army has managed the situation well along the borders with China and Pakistan and there should be no cause for concern, Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat said Thursday. Speaking at his annual press conference, Rawat also said the situation in Jammu and Kashmir needs to be improved further. "We are only facilitators for peace in J&K," he said. "We have managed the situation well along the northern and western borders and there no cause of concern on the western and northern border," Gen Rawat said. He also said that it was not possible to take decisions on 100 per cent consensus and that the Army has helped to improve the situations in northeastern states.

Army has managed situation well along China, Pakistan borders: Bipin Rawat

China plans to introduce policies to boost domestic spending on items such as autos and home appliances this year, state television CCTV quoted a senior state planning official as saying on Tuesday.

Ning Jizhe, vice chairman of National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), said in an interview with CCTV that the policies will be part of wider efforts to strengthen domestic consumption in China, the world's second-largest economy.

The state planner will also introduce policies in house leasing and services, as well as elderly and child care, with plans to also lower investment barriers in other sectors such as culture and sports.

He also said that the NDRC planned to move ahead with the second batch of major foreign-invested projects in the first quarter of 2019, which could include new energy ventures, according to an interview transcript published by state news agency Xinhua.

Investment in each of those projects could be worth billions of U.S. dollars, he said, adding that the first batch launched in 2018's fourth quarter comprised seven projects including US&nbsp;carmaker Tesla's&nbsp;factory in Shanghai and German chemical giant BASF's agreement with Sinopec Corp to build a steam cracker in China.

Ning's comments helped to lift shares in Europe's automakers on Tuesday, traders said, with the autos sector index&nbsp;rising 2.7 per cent.

China, the world's biggest car market, expects to sell 28 million vehicles in 2019, roughly level with 2018, the Association of Automobile Manufacturers said in December.

Last year, China imported about 1.03 million cars, down 6.8 per cent from 2017, the latest figures from the association showed.

China plans to introduce policies to boost domestic spending on items such as autos and home appliances this year, state television CCTV quoted a senior state planning official as saying on Tuesday.

China plans to introduce policies to boost domestic spending on items such as autos and home appliances this year, state television CCTV quoted a senior state planning official as saying on Tuesday. Ning Jizhe, vice chairman of National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), said in an interview with CCTV that the policies will be part of wider efforts to strengthen domestic consumption in China, the world's second-largest economy. The state planner will also introduce policies in house leasing and services, as well as elderly and child care, with plans to also lower investment barriers in other sectors such as culture and sports. He also said that the NDRC planned to move ahead with the second batch of major foreign-invested projects in the first quarter of 2019, which could include new energy ventures, according to an interview transcript published by state news agency Xinhua. Investment in each of those projects could be worth billions of U.S. dollars, he said, adding that the first batch launched in 2018's fourth quarter comprised seven projects including US carmaker Tesla's factory in Shanghai and German chemical giant BASF's agreement with Sinopec Corp to build a steam cracker in China. Ning's comments helped to lift shares in Europe's automakers on Tuesday, traders said, with the autos sector index rising 2.7 per cent. China, the world's biggest car market, expects to sell 28 million vehicles in 2019, roughly level with 2018, the Association of Automobile Manufacturers said in December. Last year, China imported about 1.03 million cars, down 6.8 per cent from 2017, the latest figures from the association showed.

China to introduce policies to strengthen domestic consumption: Report

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility".

Speaking at the 4th Raisina dialogue, Swaraj said, "our commitment to upholding territorial integrity and sovereignty remains unwavering. Our consistent message is that unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, when approached in the right spirit and, in an atmosphere free from violence and hostility."

The comments come even as India and China have bilaterally engaged with each other last year to improve the relationship that suffered in 2017 due to the Doklam crisis when Chinese forces tried to enter Bhutanese territory.&nbsp;

The Doklam crisis led to a two-month-long standoff between India and China. But India Pakistan relationship remains without engagement due to Pakistan's continued support to cross border terror.&nbsp;

On terror, Sushma Swaraj said, "today, no country, big or small, is immune from this existential threat, particularly, terrorism actively supported and sponsored by states. In this digital age, the challenge is even greater, with a greater vulnerability to radicalization."

"Ensuring zero-tolerance towards terrorism, and those who use it as an instrument of convenience is the need of the hour," she said.

India has been vocal about cross bother terror and has been calling for a common definition of terrorism. India in 1996 had proposed a draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN but it remains a draft due to lack of consensus.&nbsp;

She also talked about India building "sustainable development partnerships" stretching from the Indian Ocean and Pacific Islands to the Caribbean, and from the continent of Africa to the Americas.

These initiatives, she explained, are "refer to these as partnerships, and not assistance."

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility".

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility". Speaking at the 4th Raisina dialogue, Swaraj said, "our commitment to upholding territorial integrity and sovereignty remains unwavering. Our consistent message is that unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, when approached in the right spirit and, in an atmosphere free from violence and hostility." The comments come even as India and China have bilaterally engaged with each other last year to improve the relationship that suffered in 2017 due to the Doklam crisis when Chinese forces tried to enter Bhutanese territory. The Doklam crisis led to a two-month-long standoff between India and China. But India Pakistan relationship remains without engagement due to Pakistan's continued support to cross border terror. On terror, Sushma Swaraj said, "today, no country, big or small, is immune from this existential threat, particularly, terrorism actively supported and sponsored by states. In this digital age, the challenge is even greater, with a greater vulnerability to radicalization." "Ensuring zero-tolerance towards terrorism, and those who use it as an instrument of convenience is the need of the hour," she said. India has been vocal about cross bother terror and has been calling for a common definition of terrorism. India in 1996 had proposed a draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN but it remains a draft due to lack of consensus. She also talked about India building "sustainable development partnerships" stretching from the Indian Ocean and Pacific Islands to the Caribbean, and from the continent of Africa to the Americas. These initiatives, she explained, are "refer to these as partnerships, and not assistance."

Unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, says Sushma Swaraj

China factor &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

With the advent of US-China trade war and reset of China-India relations with their informal summit at Wuhan, at the relations between the two countries seem to be getting better than the previous years when bitterness between both countries over Doklam crisis had touched a new height.&nbsp;

At this point, China needs good relations with India to ensure the latter does not get into the US club and peace and tranquillity prevails on the borders.

Meanwhile, there is going to be no change in India’s stance on the border issue or BRI/CPEC. However, some agreements on delimitation leading to the demarcation of LAC, to prevent a repeat of Doklam like incident is doable, if the political will exists on both sides.

China is expected to control its adventurism during the ongoing trade war. We can thus expect a relatively quiet period on Chinese borders, with some positive steps for better border management.

Pakistan factor

In 2019, I do not visualise any dramatic change in Pakistan’s behaviour. The terror industry and proxy war will continue, notwithstanding the perceived economic difficulties the country is facing. Whenever Pakistan is on the verge of sinking, some country will it out to foster its own interest through it.

Their terror industry is mainly sustained by parallel economy involving drug trafficking and assistance from ISI, with material and operational support from Pakistan Army. &nbsp;As the security situation unfolds in AfPak Region, I will not be surprised if Taliban would be in driving seat of power in Afghanistan (much against Indian interest), and the US may have no option but to silently end their pursuit against them.

Pakistan is well used to international isolation, hence, UN-declared terrorists will continue to move freely and plan terror operations against India in 2019. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sino-Pak nexus&nbsp;

The progress on CPEC will continue despite India's opposition, although BRI will face many roadblocks in 2019 as well. According to experts, CPEC will force Pakistan to enter into a patron-client relationship, wherein strategic choices of Pakistan will be hostage to China. This brings out a long-term threat to India in terms of "two-front war" which India has to prepare for.

What should India do

Over the last few decades, financial allocations and attention towards military have been marred by bureaucratic denials. Chanakya, Clausewitz, and Sun Tzu have said, and rightly so, that no nation will be&nbsp;secure unless it has a powerful military which can deter a potential adversary.&nbsp;

The military is trained and equipped to launch operations across the IB/LC/LAC. We should realise that defence capabilities take a long time to build up, more-so, if India does not have a strong manufacturing base. The defence budget allocation made in 2018 should be increased in 2019. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

China factor With the advent of US-China trade war and reset of China-India relations with their informal summit at Wuhan, at the relations between the two countries seem to be getting better than the previous years when bitterness between both countries over Doklam crisis had touched a new height.

China factor With the advent of US-China trade war and reset of China-India relations with their informal summit at Wuhan, at the relations between the two countries seem to be getting better than the previous years when bitterness between both countries over Doklam crisis had touched a new height. At this point, China needs good relations with India to ensure the latter does not get into the US club and peace and tranquillity prevails on the borders. Meanwhile, there is going to be no change in India’s stance on the border issue or BRI/CPEC. However, some agreements on delimitation leading to the demarcation of LAC, to prevent a repeat of Doklam like incident is doable, if the political will exists on both sides. China is expected to control its adventurism during the ongoing trade war. We can thus expect a relatively quiet period on Chinese borders, with some positive steps for better border management. Pakistan factor In 2019, I do not visualise any dramatic change in Pakistan’s behaviour. The terror industry and proxy war will continue, notwithstanding the perceived economic difficulties the country is facing. Whenever Pakistan is on the verge of sinking, some country will it out to foster its own interest through it. Their terror industry is mainly sustained by parallel economy involving drug trafficking and assistance from ISI, with material and operational support from Pakistan Army. As the security situation unfolds in AfPak Region, I will not be surprised if Taliban would be in driving seat of power in Afghanistan (much against Indian interest), and the US may have no option but to silently end their pursuit against them. Pakistan is well used to international isolation, hence, UN-declared terrorists will continue to move freely and plan terror operations against India in 2019. Sino-Pak nexus The progress on CPEC will continue despite India's opposition, although BRI will face many roadblocks in 2019 as well. According to experts, CPEC will force Pakistan to enter into a patron-client relationship, wherein strategic choices of Pakistan will be hostage to China. This brings out a long-term threat to India in terms of "two-front war" which India has to prepare for. What should India do Over the last few decades, financial allocations and attention towards military have been marred by bureaucratic denials. Chanakya, Clausewitz, and Sun Tzu have said, and rightly so, that no nation will be secure unless it has a powerful military which can deter a potential adversary. The military is trained and equipped to launch operations across the IB/LC/LAC. We should realise that defence capabilities take a long time to build up, more-so, if India does not have a strong manufacturing base. The defence budget allocation made in 2018 should be increased in 2019. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What are India’s security challenges in 2019

China's armed forces must strengthen their sense of urgency and do everything they can to prepare for battle, President Xi Jinping told a meeting of top brass on Friday.

China is keen to beef up its armed forces amid territorial disputes in the South China Sea and escalating tension with the United States over issues ranging from trade to the status of Taiwan.

The official Xinhua news agency said Xi told a meeting of the top military authority that China faced increasing risks and challenges, and the armed forces must work to secure its security and development needs.

Xi, who is also chairman of the Central Military Commission, said the armed forces must devise strategies for the new era and take on responsibilities for preparing and waging war.

"The world is facing a period of major changes never seen in a century, and China is still in an important period of strategic opportunity for development," he was quoted as saying.

He said the armed forces needed to be able to respond quickly to emergencies, needed to upgrade their joint operations capabilities and nurture new types of combat forces.

Xi's comments followed his remarks on Wednesday that China still reserved the right to use force to achieve "reunification" with Taiwan and prevent the island's independence.

Xi's Taiwan speech came just days after U.S. President Donald Trump signed the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act into law, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to the island's security.

China's armed forces must strengthen their sense of urgency and do everything they can to prepare for battle, President Xi Jinping told a meeting of top brass on Friday.

China's armed forces must strengthen their sense of urgency and do everything they can to prepare for battle, President Xi Jinping told a meeting of top brass on Friday. China is keen to beef up its armed forces amid territorial disputes in the South China Sea and escalating tension with the United States over issues ranging from trade to the status of Taiwan. The official Xinhua news agency said Xi told a meeting of the top military authority that China faced increasing risks and challenges, and the armed forces must work to secure its security and development needs. Xi, who is also chairman of the Central Military Commission, said the armed forces must devise strategies for the new era and take on responsibilities for preparing and waging war. "The world is facing a period of major changes never seen in a century, and China is still in an important period of strategic opportunity for development," he was quoted as saying. He said the armed forces needed to be able to respond quickly to emergencies, needed to upgrade their joint operations capabilities and nurture new types of combat forces. Xi's comments followed his remarks on Wednesday that China still reserved the right to use force to achieve "reunification" with Taiwan and prevent the island's independence. Xi's Taiwan speech came just days after U.S. President Donald Trump signed the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act into law, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to the island's security.

President Xi Jinping calls on Chinese Army to be battle-ready

Canada said on Thursday that 13 of its citizens have been detained in China since Huawei Technologies Co-Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was arrested last month in Vancouver at the request of the United States.

"At least" eight of those 13 have since been released, a Canadian government statement said, without disclosing what charges if any have been laid.

Prior to Thursday's statement, detention of only three Canadian citizens had been publicly disclosed. Diplomatic tensions between Canada and China have escalated since Meng's arrest on Dec. 1.

The Canadian government has said several times it sees no explicit link between the arrest of Meng, the daughter of Huawei's founder, and the detentions of Canadian citizens. But Beijing-based Western diplomats and former Canadian diplomats have said they believe the detentions were a "tit-for-tat" reprisal by China.

Meng was released on a C$10 million ($7.4 million) bail on Dec. 11 and is now living in one of her two multi-million-dollar Vancouver homes as she fights extradition to the United States. The 46-year-old executive must wear an ankle monitor and stay at home from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.

The 13 Canadians detained include Michael Kovrig, Michael Spavor and Sarah McIver, a Canadian government official who declined to be identified, said on Thursday.

McIver, a teacher, has since been released and returned to Canada. Kovrig and Spavor remain in custody. Canadian consular officials saw them once each in mid-December.

Overall, there are about 200 Canadians who have been detained in China for a variety of alleged infractions who continue to face on-going legal proceedings. "This number has remained relatively stable," the official said.

In comparison, there are almost 900 Canadians in a similar situation in the United States, the official added.

Canada said on Thursday that 13 of its citizens have been detained in China since Huawei Technologies Co-Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was arrested last month in Vancouver at the request of the United States.

Canada said on Thursday that 13 of its citizens have been detained in China since Huawei Technologies Co-Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was arrested last month in Vancouver at the request of the United States. "At least" eight of those 13 have since been released, a Canadian government statement said, without disclosing what charges if any have been laid. Prior to Thursday's statement, detention of only three Canadian citizens had been publicly disclosed. Diplomatic tensions between Canada and China have escalated since Meng's arrest on Dec. 1. The Canadian government has said several times it sees no explicit link between the arrest of Meng, the daughter of Huawei's founder, and the detentions of Canadian citizens. But Beijing-based Western diplomats and former Canadian diplomats have said they believe the detentions were a "tit-for-tat" reprisal by China. Meng was released on a C$10 million ($7.4 million) bail on Dec. 11 and is now living in one of her two multi-million-dollar Vancouver homes as she fights extradition to the United States. The 46-year-old executive must wear an ankle monitor and stay at home from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. The 13 Canadians detained include Michael Kovrig, Michael Spavor and Sarah McIver, a Canadian government official who declined to be identified, said on Thursday. McIver, a teacher, has since been released and returned to Canada. Kovrig and Spavor remain in custody. Canadian consular officials saw them once each in mid-December. Overall, there are about 200 Canadians who have been detained in China for a variety of alleged infractions who continue to face on-going legal proceedings. "This number has remained relatively stable," the official said. In comparison, there are almost 900 Canadians in a similar situation in the United States, the official added.

Canada says 13 citizens detained in China since Huawei CFO arrest

A US government delegation will visit China next week for the first face-to-face talks since President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart agreed on a temporary truce in the trade war, Beijing said Friday.

The US and China have exchanged tit-for-tat tariffs on more than $300 billion worth of goods in total two-way trade, locking them in a conflict that has begun to eat into profits and contributed to stock market plunges.

Deputy US Trade Representative Jeffrey Gerrish will lead the Washington delegation and will discuss "implementing the important consensus" reached by Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina last year, China's commerce ministry said.

Word of the meeting next Monday and Tuesday follows small signs of progress -- and the absence of new threats from Trump -- while the two sides work to ease trade tensions by March 1.

Trump initiated the trade war because of complaints over unfair Chinese trade practices -- concerns shared by the European Union, Japan and others.

The ceasefire began on December 1 in Buenos Aires after the two heads of state agreed to hold off on further tariffs or retaliation for 90 days.

In December, Beijing's commerce ministry said China and the US "made new progress" on the issues of trade balance and intellectual property –- one of the main sticking points of the trade dispute -- during a phone call between officials from the two countries.

China's major state-owned grain stockpiler also said it had resumed buying US soybeans, and Beijing announced it would suspend extra tariffs on US-made cars and auto parts starting January 1.

The bruising trade war comes as China grapples with a slowing domestic economy. Growth is expected by the government to have eased to around 6.5 per cent in 2018, down from 6.9 per cent in 2017.

The country's manufacturing sector has also been hit by the trade dispute, contracting last month for the first time in over two years, according to official data.

US firms that rely on Chinese consumers have also been impacted by the country's economic slowdown.&nbsp;

Shares in Apple slid nine per cent after it announced late Wednesday that it was trimming its sales forecast for the most recent quarter, citing steeper-than-expected "economic deceleration" in China -- one of its largest overseas markets -- amid the US-China trade war.

A US government delegation will visit China next week for the first face-to-face talks since President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart agreed on a temporary truce in the trade war, Beijing said Friday.

A US government delegation will visit China next week for the first face-to-face talks since President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart agreed on a temporary truce in the trade war, Beijing said Friday. The US and China have exchanged tit-for-tat tariffs on more than $300 billion worth of goods in total two-way trade, locking them in a conflict that has begun to eat into profits and contributed to stock market plunges. Deputy US Trade Representative Jeffrey Gerrish will lead the Washington delegation and will discuss "implementing the important consensus" reached by Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina last year, China's commerce ministry said. Word of the meeting next Monday and Tuesday follows small signs of progress -- and the absence of new threats from Trump -- while the two sides work to ease trade tensions by March 1. Trump initiated the trade war because of complaints over unfair Chinese trade practices -- concerns shared by the European Union, Japan and others. The ceasefire began on December 1 in Buenos Aires after the two heads of state agreed to hold off on further tariffs or retaliation for 90 days. In December, Beijing's commerce ministry said China and the US "made new progress" on the issues of trade balance and intellectual property –- one of the main sticking points of the trade dispute -- during a phone call between officials from the two countries. China's major state-owned grain stockpiler also said it had resumed buying US soybeans, and Beijing announced it would suspend extra tariffs on US-made cars and auto parts starting January 1. The bruising trade war comes as China grapples with a slowing domestic economy. Growth is expected by the government to have eased to around 6.5 per cent in 2018, down from 6.9 per cent in 2017. The country's manufacturing sector has also been hit by the trade dispute, contracting last month for the first time in over two years, according to official data. US firms that rely on Chinese consumers have also been impacted by the country's economic slowdown. Shares in Apple slid nine per cent after it announced late Wednesday that it was trimming its sales forecast for the most recent quarter, citing steeper-than-expected "economic deceleration" in China -- one of its largest overseas markets -- amid the US-China trade war.

US govt delegation to visit China for trade negotiation

China has given a full appraisal of the series of significant moves taken by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) towards <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/will-china-help-trump-denuclearise-north-korea-177266">denuclearisation</a>, and encourages and supports DPRK and the United States in continuing their dialogues and achieve positive results, said a spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.

The spokesman, Lu Kang, made the remarks at a media briefing in Beijing when asked to comment on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/east-asia/denuclearisation-includes-eliminating-us-nuclear-threat-in-korean-peninsula-north-korean-state-media-185456">New Year Message </a>delivered by DPRK's top leader Kim Jong Un.

Lu said: "It is known to all that important and positive changes have taken place in the Korean Peninsula over the past year. We are glad to see that the Korean Peninsula issue has returned to the track of dialogue and negotiations and the north and south of the Peninsula have realized improvement and development in their relations."

"China supports the series of important moves taken by the DPRK toward the denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula, supports the DPRK in persisting in the stand of denuclearisation and peaceful dialogue. We also support the DPRK and the United States and the DPRK and the Republic of Korea (ROK) in continuing the good momentum of their interactions, in continuing revealing goodwill, consolidating mutual trust and improving relations and pushing the denuclearisation of the Peninsula and the process of political solution to the peninsula issue," said Lu.

Lu said that "just as Chinese President Xi Jinping said in his telephone conversation with U.S. President Trump on Dec. 29, 2018, China supports the DPRK and the United States in continuing their dialogue and achieve positive results. We also encourage the two sides to do the same."

Lu said: "We believe and hope that the two sides respect each other and address each other's reasonable concerns, make concerted efforts for positive progress in pushing the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and building a mechanism for peace on the peninsula. China will continue its role in these respects."

China has given a full appraisal of the series of significant moves taken by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) towards denuclearisation, and encourages and supports DPRK and the United States in continuing their dialogues and achieve positive results, said a spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.

China has given a full appraisal of the series of significant moves taken by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) towards denuclearisation, and encourages and supports DPRK and the United States in continuing their dialogues and achieve positive results, said a spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday. The spokesman, Lu Kang, made the remarks at a media briefing in Beijing when asked to comment on the New Year Message delivered by DPRK's top leader Kim Jong Un. Lu said: "It is known to all that important and positive changes have taken place in the Korean Peninsula over the past year. We are glad to see that the Korean Peninsula issue has returned to the track of dialogue and negotiations and the north and south of the Peninsula have realized improvement and development in their relations." "China supports the series of important moves taken by the DPRK toward the denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula, supports the DPRK in persisting in the stand of denuclearisation and peaceful dialogue. We also support the DPRK and the United States and the DPRK and the Republic of Korea (ROK) in continuing the good momentum of their interactions, in continuing revealing goodwill, consolidating mutual trust and improving relations and pushing the denuclearisation of the Peninsula and the process of political solution to the peninsula issue," said Lu. Lu said that "just as Chinese President Xi Jinping said in his telephone conversation with U.S. President Trump on Dec. 29, 2018, China supports the DPRK and the United States in continuing their dialogue and achieve positive results. We also encourage the two sides to do the same." Lu said: "We believe and hope that the two sides respect each other and address each other's reasonable concerns, make concerted efforts for positive progress in pushing the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and building a mechanism for peace on the peninsula. China will continue its role in these respects."

We support US, North Korea on continued dialogue: China

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/42-injured-after-a-powerful-blast-in-japans-restaurant-184627">Japan will accelerate </a>spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said.

The plans are the clearest indication yet of Japan's ambition to become a regional power as a military build-up by China and a resurgent Russia puts pressure on its US ally.

"The United States remains the world's most powerful nation, but national rivalries are surfacing and we recognise the importance of the strategic competition with both China and Russia as they challenge the regional order," said a 10-year defence programme outline approved by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government on Tuesday.

The United States, followed by China, North Korea and Russia, are the countries that most influenced Japan's latest military thinking, the paper said.

China, the world's second-biggest economy, is deploying more ships and aircraft to patrol waters near Japan, while North Korea has yet to fulfil a pledge to dismantle its nuclear and missile programmes.

Russia, which continues to probe Japanese air defences, said on Monday it had built new barracks for troops on a northern island it captured from Japan at the end of World War Two.

MORE STEALTH FIGHTERS

Japan plans to buy 45 Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealth fighters, worth about $4 billion, in addition to the 42 jets already on order, according to a separate five-year procurement plan approved on Tuesday.

The new planes will include 18 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) B variants of the F-35 that planners want to deploy on Japanese islands along the edge of the East China Sea.

The islands are part of a chain stretching past Taiwan and down to the Philippines that has marked the limit of Chinese military dominance east of the disputed South China Sea.

"Japan's decision to acquire more F-35s is a testament to the aircraft's transformational capability and its increasing role in promoting regional stability and enhancing the US-Japan security alliance," Lockheed Martin said in a statement.

The navy's two large helicopter carriers, the Izumo and Kaga, will be modified for F-35B operations, the paper said.

The 248-metre (814 ft) long Izumo-class ships are as big as any of Japan's aircraft carriers in World War Two. They will need reinforced decks to withstand the heat blast from F-35 engines and could be fitted with ramps to aid short take-offs, two defence ministry officials told Reuters.

TRADE WAR THREAT

The new F-35 order may also help Japan avert a trade war with the United States.

US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose tariffs on Japanese car imports, thanked Abe for buying the F-35s when the two met at a summit in Argentina this month.

Other US-made equipment on Japan's shopping list includes two land-based Aegis Ashore air defence radars to defend against North Korean missiles, four Boeing Co KC-46 Pegasus refuelling planes to extend the range of Japanese aircraft, and nine Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye early-warning planes.

Japan plans to spend $224.7 billion&nbsp;on military equipment over the next five years, 6.4 per cent higher than the previous five-year plan. Cost-cutting will free up another 2 trillion yen for purchases, the procurement paper said.

Japan only spends about 1 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, but the size of its economy means it already has one of the world's largest militaries.

"The budget is increasing and there has been an acceleration to deploy capability as soon as possible," Robert Morrissey, head of Raytheon Co's unit in Japan, said this month.

Wary of North Korean promises to abandon ballistic missile development, Japan's military is buying longer-range Raytheon SM-3 interceptor missiles to strike enemy warheads in space.

The defence papers assessed non-traditional military threats as well. A new joint-forces cyber unit will bolster Japan's defences against cyber attacks. More electronic warfare capabilities are planned.

Japan's air force will also get its first space unit to help keep tabs on potential adversaries high above the Earth's atmosphere.

Japan will accelerate spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said.

Japan will accelerate spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said. The plans are the clearest indication yet of Japan's ambition to become a regional power as a military build-up by China and a resurgent Russia puts pressure on its US ally. "The United States remains the world's most powerful nation, but national rivalries are surfacing and we recognise the importance of the strategic competition with both China and Russia as they challenge the regional order," said a 10-year defence programme outline approved by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government on Tuesday. The United States, followed by China, North Korea and Russia, are the countries that most influenced Japan's latest military thinking, the paper said. China, the world's second-biggest economy, is deploying more ships and aircraft to patrol waters near Japan, while North Korea has yet to fulfil a pledge to dismantle its nuclear and missile programmes. Russia, which continues to probe Japanese air defences, said on Monday it had built new barracks for troops on a northern island it captured from Japan at the end of World War Two. MORE STEALTH FIGHTERS Japan plans to buy 45 Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealth fighters, worth about $4 billion, in addition to the 42 jets already on order, according to a separate five-year procurement plan approved on Tuesday. The new planes will include 18 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) B variants of the F-35 that planners want to deploy on Japanese islands along the edge of the East China Sea. The islands are part of a chain stretching past Taiwan and down to the Philippines that has marked the limit of Chinese military dominance east of the disputed South China Sea. "Japan's decision to acquire more F-35s is a testament to the aircraft's transformational capability and its increasing role in promoting regional stability and enhancing the US-Japan security alliance," Lockheed Martin said in a statement. The navy's two large helicopter carriers, the Izumo and Kaga, will be modified for F-35B operations, the paper said. The 248-metre (814 ft) long Izumo-class ships are as big as any of Japan's aircraft carriers in World War Two. They will need reinforced decks to withstand the heat blast from F-35 engines and could be fitted with ramps to aid short take-offs, two defence ministry officials told Reuters. TRADE WAR THREAT The new F-35 order may also help Japan avert a trade war with the United States. US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose tariffs on Japanese car imports, thanked Abe for buying the F-35s when the two met at a summit in Argentina this month. Other US-made equipment on Japan's shopping list includes two land-based Aegis Ashore air defence radars to defend against North Korean missiles, four Boeing Co KC-46 Pegasus refuelling planes to extend the range of Japanese aircraft, and nine Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye early-warning planes. Japan plans to spend $224.7 billion on military equipment over the next five years, 6.4 per cent higher than the previous five-year plan. Cost-cutting will free up another 2 trillion yen for purchases, the procurement paper said. Japan only spends about 1 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, but the size of its economy means it already has one of the world's largest militaries. "The budget is increasing and there has been an acceleration to deploy capability as soon as possible," Robert Morrissey, head of Raytheon Co's unit in Japan, said this month. Wary of North Korean promises to abandon ballistic missile development, Japan's military is buying longer-range Raytheon SM-3 interceptor missiles to strike enemy warheads in space. The defence papers assessed non-traditional military threats as well. A new joint-forces cyber unit will bolster Japan's defences against cyber attacks. More electronic warfare capabilities are planned. Japan's air force will also get its first space unit to help keep tabs on potential adversaries high above the Earth's atmosphere.

Japan aims to buy more stealth jets, radar to support US in western Pacific

Oil prices fell on Friday as investors cashed in gains of more than 2 per cent made during the previous session on concerns demand may slump amid slowing economic growth, though there are still expectations for producer supply cuts to support prices.

China, the world's second-largest economy and the largest crude importer, on Friday, reported some of the slowest retail sales and industrial output growth in years for November, highlighting the risks of the country's trade dispute with the United States.

Oil refinery throughput in November in China fell from October, which was the second-highest month on record, suggesting an easing in Chinese oil demand, though runs were 2.9 per cent higher than a year earlier.

However, some support for prices remains because of the output cuts agreed between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC producers including Russia. That could create a supply deficit by the second quarter of next year, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Thursday.

Brent crude oil futures were at $61.09 per barrel at 0353 GMT, down 36 cents, or 0.6 per cent, from their last close.

US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $52.47 per barrel, down 11 cents, or 0.2 per cent, from their last settlement.

"I think after the big moves overnight there's a little bit of self-shock among traders, volumes are well down... I don't see a great deal of follow through on last night's moves," said Michael McCarthy, chief markets strategist at CMC Markets.

International benchmark Brent crude rose 2.2 per cent on Thursday, while WTI climbed 2.8 per cent.

"After the big move yesterday, it's a little bit of consolidation that's happening," said Jonathan Barratt, chief investment officer at Probis Securities in Sydney.

For the week, however, Brent is set to drop 0.9 per cent and WTI is set to fall 0.3 per cent.

As a part of the OPEC supply-cutting deal agreed last week, its de facto leader Saudi Arabia plans to reduce its output to 10.2 million barrels per day (bpd) in January.

In China, refineries processed 50.46 million tonnes of crude oil last month, or 12.28 million bpd, up 2.9 per cent from the same month last year, the National Bureau of Statistics reported.

However, that is down from October and from the record of 12.49 million bpd reported in September.

Still for the first 11 months of the year, refinery output gained 7.2 per cent to 554.48 million tonnes, or 12.12 million bpd, on track for an annual record.

Oil prices fell on Friday as investors cashed in gains of more than 2 per cent made during the previous session on concerns demand may slump amid slowing economic growth, though there are still expectations for producer supply cuts to support prices.

Oil prices fell on Friday as investors cashed in gains of more than 2 per cent made during the previous session on concerns demand may slump amid slowing economic growth, though there are still expectations for producer supply cuts to support prices. China, the world's second-largest economy and the largest crude importer, on Friday, reported some of the slowest retail sales and industrial output growth in years for November, highlighting the risks of the country's trade dispute with the United States. Oil refinery throughput in November in China fell from October, which was the second-highest month on record, suggesting an easing in Chinese oil demand, though runs were 2.9 per cent higher than a year earlier. However, some support for prices remains because of the output cuts agreed between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC producers including Russia. That could create a supply deficit by the second quarter of next year, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Thursday. Brent crude oil futures were at $61.09 per barrel at 0353 GMT, down 36 cents, or 0.6 per cent, from their last close. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $52.47 per barrel, down 11 cents, or 0.2 per cent, from their last settlement. "I think after the big moves overnight there's a little bit of self-shock among traders, volumes are well down... I don't see a great deal of follow through on last night's moves," said Michael McCarthy, chief markets strategist at CMC Markets. International benchmark Brent crude rose 2.2 per cent on Thursday, while WTI climbed 2.8 per cent. "After the big move yesterday, it's a little bit of consolidation that's happening," said Jonathan Barratt, chief investment officer at Probis Securities in Sydney. For the week, however, Brent is set to drop 0.9 per cent and WTI is set to fall 0.3 per cent. As a part of the OPEC supply-cutting deal agreed last week, its de facto leader Saudi Arabia plans to reduce its output to 10.2 million barrels per day (bpd) in January. In China, refineries processed 50.46 million tonnes of crude oil last month, or 12.28 million bpd, up 2.9 per cent from the same month last year, the National Bureau of Statistics reported. However, that is down from October and from the record of 12.49 million bpd reported in September. Still for the first 11 months of the year, refinery output gained 7.2 per cent to 554.48 million tonnes, or 12.12 million bpd, on track for an annual record.

Oil prices fall as investors take profits amid China economy worries

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-trump-putin-meeting-while-russia-holds-ukraine-ship-john-bolton-183876">US national security adviser John Bolton</a> said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory."

Washington's No 1 priority will be developing economic ties with the region to create opportunities for American businesses and protecting the independence of African countries along with US national security interests, he said in a speech at the Heritage Foundation.

"Great-power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa," Bolton said.

"They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States."

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, leaders of the world's two largest economies, have been trying to resolve trade disputes that have roiled markets.

"China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing's wishes and demands. Its investment ventures are riddled with corruption," Bolton said. He had equally harsh words for Russia.

"Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance," he said.

He accused Moscow of selling arms and energy in exchange for votes at the United Nations "that keep strongmen in power, undermine peace and security, and run counter to the best interests of the African people."

Bolton said "predatory practices" by China and Russia stunt economic growth in Africa and threaten nations' economic independence.

He said the United States was developing the "Prosper Africa" initiative to support US investment in Africa and a growing middle class in the region. He gave no details.

Landry Signe, a fellow at the Brookings Institution's Africa Growth Initiative in Washington, welcomed the administration's focus on trade and investment as opposed to security, but wanted details on planned US action.

"The Trump administration's new Africa Strategy reflects a more accurate understanding of the fast-changing dynamics within Africa," he said, "but the strategy doesn't seem sufficient to effectively address the United States' threatened economic, security, and influence interests."

Judd Devermont, director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said release of an Africa strategy was welcome after two years of "conflicting narratives" by the administration.

Devermont said he was disappointed that China dominated Bolton's presentation, which lacked details on US plans.

"China loomed over everything, and loomed over really important issues on trade and investment, and transparency," said Devermont. "We didn't get many details on what the 'Prosper Africa' approach looks like and how it would be resourced. Those should have been the headlines of the strategy."

"We need a greater articulation on what are the sectors that the US government wants to prioritise in Africa for US investment," Devermont said, "They should be transparent with the Africans to explain why certain countries are getting the bulk of the investment."

China's policies in Africa have concerned Washington as the United States seeks to ramp up development finance in the face of China's global ambitions.

In July, the head of the US Overseas Private Investment Corp (OPIC) said China was saddling poor nations with unsustainable debt through large infrastructure projects that are not economically viable.

Bolton said the American approach contrasted with China's "bait and switch" policies. "The way we do business is much more straightforward."

In October Trump signed legislation overhauling the way the federal government lends money for foreign development, creating a $60 billion agency intended largely to respond to China’s growing influence. The new U.S. International Development Finance Corp combines OPIC and other government development organizations.

Xi's "Belt and Road" initiative, unveiled in 2013, aims to build an infrastructure network connecting China by land and sea to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

Bolton said the lack of economic progress in Africa has created a climate conducive to violent conflict and the proliferation of terrorism.

He said the United States has little to show for the billions of dollars it has poured into Africa. He said the administration will work to ensure US aid is used more efficiently and effectively, with investments in health, education, government and fiscal transparency measures and rule of law.

"We will make certain that ALL aid to the region - whether for security, humanitarian, or development needs - advances US interests," he said, adding that Washington will also re-evaluate its support for UN peacekeeping missions.

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory.

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory." Washington's No 1 priority will be developing economic ties with the region to create opportunities for American businesses and protecting the independence of African countries along with US national security interests, he said in a speech at the Heritage Foundation. "Great-power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa," Bolton said. "They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States." US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, leaders of the world's two largest economies, have been trying to resolve trade disputes that have roiled markets. "China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing's wishes and demands. Its investment ventures are riddled with corruption," Bolton said. He had equally harsh words for Russia. "Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance," he said. He accused Moscow of selling arms and energy in exchange for votes at the United Nations "that keep strongmen in power, undermine peace and security, and run counter to the best interests of the African people." Bolton said "predatory practices" by China and Russia stunt economic growth in Africa and threaten nations' economic independence. He said the United States was developing the "Prosper Africa" initiative to support US investment in Africa and a growing middle class in the region. He gave no details. Landry Signe, a fellow at the Brookings Institution's Africa Growth Initiative in Washington, welcomed the administration's focus on trade and investment as opposed to security, but wanted details on planned US action. "The Trump administration's new Africa Strategy reflects a more accurate understanding of the fast-changing dynamics within Africa," he said, "but the strategy doesn't seem sufficient to effectively address the United States' threatened economic, security, and influence interests." Judd Devermont, director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said release of an Africa strategy was welcome after two years of "conflicting narratives" by the administration. Devermont said he was disappointed that China dominated Bolton's presentation, which lacked details on US plans. "China loomed over everything, and loomed over really important issues on trade and investment, and transparency," said Devermont. "We didn't get many details on what the 'Prosper Africa' approach looks like and how it would be resourced. Those should have been the headlines of the strategy." "We need a greater articulation on what are the sectors that the US government wants to prioritise in Africa for US investment," Devermont said, "They should be transparent with the Africans to explain why certain countries are getting the bulk of the investment." China's policies in Africa have concerned Washington as the United States seeks to ramp up development finance in the face of China's global ambitions. In July, the head of the US Overseas Private Investment Corp (OPIC) said China was saddling poor nations with unsustainable debt through large infrastructure projects that are not economically viable. Bolton said the American approach contrasted with China's "bait and switch" policies. "The way we do business is much more straightforward." In October Trump signed legislation overhauling the way the federal government lends money for foreign development, creating a $60 billion agency intended largely to respond to China’s growing influence. The new U.S. International Development Finance Corp combines OPIC and other government development organizations. Xi's "Belt and Road" initiative, unveiled in 2013, aims to build an infrastructure network connecting China by land and sea to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Bolton said the lack of economic progress in Africa has created a climate conducive to violent conflict and the proliferation of terrorism. He said the United States has little to show for the billions of dollars it has poured into Africa. He said the administration will work to ensure US aid is used more efficiently and effectively, with investments in health, education, government and fiscal transparency measures and rule of law. "We will make certain that ALL aid to the region - whether for security, humanitarian, or development needs - advances US interests," he said, adding that Washington will also re-evaluate its support for UN peacekeeping missions.

US to counter China, Russia influence in Africa: Bolton

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trump-administration-move-on-pak-religious-freedom-a-courageous-decision-us-lawmaker-183359">Trump Administration</a> on Tuesday designated Pakistan, China, Saudi Arabia and seven others as countries of particular concern for having engaged in or tolerated "systematic, ongoing and egregious violations of religious freedom."

Simultaneously, the Trump Administration also designated al-Nusra Front, al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, al-Qaeda, al-Shabab, Boko Haram, the Houthis, ISIS, ISIS-Khorasan, and the Taliban as Entities of Particular Concern.

"On November 28, 2018, I designated Burma (Myanmar), China, Eritrea, Iran, North Korea, Pakistan, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, as Countries of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 for having engaged in or tolerated "systematic, ongoing, (and) egregious violations of religious freedom," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday.

"I also placed Comoros, Russia, and Uzbekistan on a Special Watch List for governments that have engaged in or tolerated 'severe violations of religious freedom'," Pompeo said in a statement.

Observing that in far too many places across the globe, individuals continue to face harassment, arrests, or even death for simply living their lives in accordance with their beliefs, Pompeo asserted that the US will not stand by as spectators in the face of such oppression.

Protecting and promoting international religious freedom is a top foreign policy priority of the Trump Administration, he said.

"In July, I hosted the first-ever Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom, which brought together some 85 like-minded governments and more than 400 civil society organisations to harness global attention and motivate forceful action to advance respect for the human right of religious freedom," he added.

Asserting that safeguarding religious freedom is vital to ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity, Pompeo said that these designations are aimed at improving the lives of individuals and the broader success of their societies.

"I recognise that several designated countries are working to improve their respect for religious freedom; I welcome such initiatives and look forward to continuing the dialogue," Pompeo said.

The US remains committed to working with governments, civil society organisations, and religious leaders to advance religious freedom around the world, he added.

The Trump Administration on Tuesday designated Pakistan, China, Saudi Arabia and seven others as countries of particular concern for having engaged in or tolerated "systematic, ongoing and egregious violations of religious freedom.

The Trump Administration on Tuesday designated Pakistan, China, Saudi Arabia and seven others as countries of particular concern for having engaged in or tolerated "systematic, ongoing and egregious violations of religious freedom." Simultaneously, the Trump Administration also designated al-Nusra Front, al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, al-Qaeda, al-Shabab, Boko Haram, the Houthis, ISIS, ISIS-Khorasan, and the Taliban as Entities of Particular Concern. "On November 28, 2018, I designated Burma (Myanmar), China, Eritrea, Iran, North Korea, Pakistan, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, as Countries of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 for having engaged in or tolerated "systematic, ongoing, (and) egregious violations of religious freedom," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday. "I also placed Comoros, Russia, and Uzbekistan on a Special Watch List for governments that have engaged in or tolerated 'severe violations of religious freedom'," Pompeo said in a statement. Observing that in far too many places across the globe, individuals continue to face harassment, arrests, or even death for simply living their lives in accordance with their beliefs, Pompeo asserted that the US will not stand by as spectators in the face of such oppression. Protecting and promoting international religious freedom is a top foreign policy priority of the Trump Administration, he said. "In July, I hosted the first-ever Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom, which brought together some 85 like-minded governments and more than 400 civil society organisations to harness global attention and motivate forceful action to advance respect for the human right of religious freedom," he added. Asserting that safeguarding religious freedom is vital to ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity, Pompeo said that these designations are aimed at improving the lives of individuals and the broader success of their societies. "I recognise that several designated countries are working to improve their respect for religious freedom; I welcome such initiatives and look forward to continuing the dialogue," Pompeo said. The US remains committed to working with governments, civil society organisations, and religious leaders to advance religious freedom around the world, he added.

US adds Pakistan, China to its blacklist for religious freedom violations 

China's factory inflation slowed in November, a sign demand remains weak amid Beijing's ongoing trade war with the United States, while consumer inflation also flagged, official data showed Sunday.

The producer price index an important barometer of the industrial sector that measures the cost of goods at the factory gate&nbsp;climbed 2.7% on-year in November.

It ticked down from 3.3% the previous month, recording its weakest growth since October 2016, while remaining in line with the forecast in a Bloomberg News survey.

A slowdown in factory gate inflation reflects sluggish demand.

The consumer price index (CPI) &nbsp;a key measure of retail inflation rose 2.2% on-year, compared with 2.5% in October.

Food prices, up 2.5%, rose quicker than non-food prices, which were up 2.1%. Energy prices fell over the month.

"The broad moderation in inflationary pressures appears to be a reflection of weaker demand growth over the past half a year and should alleviate concerns about possible stagflation," said Goldman Sachs Economic Research in a report.

The weak figures come as China's trade war with the US continues to bite and its economy shows signs of slowing. The Asian giant recorded a GDP growth of 6.5% in the third quarter its weakest in nine years.

The growth of China's trade with the rest of the world slowed last month, with exports up 5.4% and imports up 3% on-year&nbsp;compared with 15.6% and 21.4% respectively in October.

Washington and Beijing announced a tariff truce at the start of December, to allow for trade negotiations by delaying a hike in new duties by 90 days.

The US suspended its plans to raise tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports to 25 per cent beginning January 1, leaving them at the current 10 per cent rate.

China's factory inflation slowed in November, a sign demand remains weak amid Beijing's ongoing trade war with the United States, while consumer inflation also flagged, official data showed Sunday.

China's factory inflation slowed in November, a sign demand remains weak amid Beijing's ongoing trade war with the United States, while consumer inflation also flagged, official data showed Sunday. The producer price index an important barometer of the industrial sector that measures the cost of goods at the factory gate climbed 2.7% on-year in November. It ticked down from 3.3% the previous month, recording its weakest growth since October 2016, while remaining in line with the forecast in a Bloomberg News survey. A slowdown in factory gate inflation reflects sluggish demand. The consumer price index (CPI) a key measure of retail inflation rose 2.2% on-year, compared with 2.5% in October. Food prices, up 2.5%, rose quicker than non-food prices, which were up 2.1%. Energy prices fell over the month. "The broad moderation in inflationary pressures appears to be a reflection of weaker demand growth over the past half a year and should alleviate concerns about possible stagflation," said Goldman Sachs Economic Research in a report. The weak figures come as China's trade war with the US continues to bite and its economy shows signs of slowing. The Asian giant recorded a GDP growth of 6.5% in the third quarter its weakest in nine years. The growth of China's trade with the rest of the world slowed last month, with exports up 5.4% and imports up 3% on-year compared with 15.6% and 21.4% respectively in October. Washington and Beijing announced a tariff truce at the start of December, to allow for trade negotiations by delaying a hike in new duties by 90 days. The US suspended its plans to raise tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports to 25 per cent beginning January 1, leaving them at the current 10 per cent rate.

China's factory gate inflation eases

By Joyce Harper

A scientist in China claims to have produced the world’s first genome-edited babies by altering their DNA to increase their resistance to HIV. Aside from the lack of verifiable evidence for this non-peer-reviewed claim, this research is premature, dangerous and irresponsible.

He Jiankui from the Southern University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen (which has reportedly since suspended him) said he edited the DNA of seven embryos being used for fertility treatment, so far resulting in the birth of one set of twin girls. He says he used the tool known as CRISPR to delete the embryos’ CCR5 gene (C-C motif chemokine receptor 5), mutations in which are linked to resistance to HIV infection.

If true, this is a significant advance in genetic science, but there are some very serious problems with this news. First, the research has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal so we cannot be sure of the exact details of what has been done. Instead, the scientist made the claims to the Associated Press news organisation, and the journalists involved haven’t been able to independently verify them. The parents of the allegedly gene-edited babies declined to be interviewed or identified.

Second, we know there can be significant problems with using existing gene-editing technology on human embryos. The main two issues are mosaicism, where the edited DNA does not appear in every cell of the embryo, and off-target effects, where other parts of the genome may also have been edited with unknown consequences.

Before genome editing becomes a clinical treatment, it is essential that scientists resolve both of these issues and eliminate other potential adverse effects on the embryo. We need comprehensive studies to show that genome editing is not going to cause harm to the future people it helps create. Any children born as a result of genome editing will also need long-term follow up. It would be vital to see the preliminary work that He has done to confirm that his technique has eliminated mosaicism and off-target effects, and it is surprising that he has not published this.

There is also a question over why gene-editing was used to tackle the particular issue of HIV transmission in this case. The reports suggest that the couples involved in the study were made up of HIV-positive men who had the infection under control and HIV-negative women. The risk of transmission of HIV for these couples would have been negligible, and there are well-established ways to prevent HIV transmission to the offspring of HIV-positive couples.

Finally, there is the wider ethical debate, which the scientist, in this case, has chosen to ignore. I was a member of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics working group. We spent 20 months examining all aspects of genome editing and published our report this summer. Our conclusion was that we needed a public debate before gene editing on embryos was carried out because this procedure takes reproduction to a new level.

Do we really need gene editing?

Most reports suggest that the potential main use of genome editing would be therapeutic genome editing to prevent the transmission of genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis. In most cases, couples at risk of transmitting a genetic disease to their children are able to prevent transmission using established techniques of screening before birth or even before an embryo is implanted via IVF. So perhaps editing embryos for therapeutic reasons is not the way forward.

But genome editing could also more controversially used for genetic enhancements, such as ensuring children have a particular desirable characteristic such as a certain eye colour. This raises even more ethical questions.

We also need legislation. In the UK, for example, the use of genome editing would be regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, and would currently be illegal. Before this technique becomes a treatment, governments need to pass laws that will control and regulate it otherwise it could easily be misused.

With all this in mind, any research in this area needs to be peer-reviewed and published in the scientific literature, with all the necessary preliminary work, so that we can make a valued analysis of the technique. In bypassing this process, He has made our job much harder.

(Joyce Harper is Professor of Reproductive Science, UCL)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/worlds-first-gene-edited-babies-premature-dangerous-and-irresponsible-107642">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

By Joyce Harper A scientist in China claims to have produced the world’s first genome-edited babies by altering their DNA to increase their resistance to HIV. Aside from the lack of verifiable evidence for this non-peer-reviewed claim, this research is premature, dangerous and irresponsible.

By Joyce Harper A scientist in China claims to have produced the world’s first genome-edited babies by altering their DNA to increase their resistance to HIV. Aside from the lack of verifiable evidence for this non-peer-reviewed claim, this research is premature, dangerous and irresponsible. He Jiankui from the Southern University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen (which has reportedly since suspended him) said he edited the DNA of seven embryos being used for fertility treatment, so far resulting in the birth of one set of twin girls. He says he used the tool known as CRISPR to delete the embryos’ CCR5 gene (C-C motif chemokine receptor 5), mutations in which are linked to resistance to HIV infection. If true, this is a significant advance in genetic science, but there are some very serious problems with this news. First, the research has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal so we cannot be sure of the exact details of what has been done. Instead, the scientist made the claims to the Associated Press news organisation, and the journalists involved haven’t been able to independently verify them. The parents of the allegedly gene-edited babies declined to be interviewed or identified. Second, we know there can be significant problems with using existing gene-editing technology on human embryos. The main two issues are mosaicism, where the edited DNA does not appear in every cell of the embryo, and off-target effects, where other parts of the genome may also have been edited with unknown consequences. Before genome editing becomes a clinical treatment, it is essential that scientists resolve both of these issues and eliminate other potential adverse effects on the embryo. We need comprehensive studies to show that genome editing is not going to cause harm to the future people it helps create. Any children born as a result of genome editing will also need long-term follow up. It would be vital to see the preliminary work that He has done to confirm that his technique has eliminated mosaicism and off-target effects, and it is surprising that he has not published this. There is also a question over why gene-editing was used to tackle the particular issue of HIV transmission in this case. The reports suggest that the couples involved in the study were made up of HIV-positive men who had the infection under control and HIV-negative women. The risk of transmission of HIV for these couples would have been negligible, and there are well-established ways to prevent HIV transmission to the offspring of HIV-positive couples. Finally, there is the wider ethical debate, which the scientist, in this case, has chosen to ignore. I was a member of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics working group. We spent 20 months examining all aspects of genome editing and published our report this summer. Our conclusion was that we needed a public debate before gene editing on embryos was carried out because this procedure takes reproduction to a new level. Do we really need gene editing? Most reports suggest that the potential main use of genome editing would be therapeutic genome editing to prevent the transmission of genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis. In most cases, couples at risk of transmitting a genetic disease to their children are able to prevent transmission using established techniques of screening before birth or even before an embryo is implanted via IVF. So perhaps editing embryos for therapeutic reasons is not the way forward. But genome editing could also more controversially used for genetic enhancements, such as ensuring children have a particular desirable characteristic such as a certain eye colour. This raises even more ethical questions. We also need legislation. In the UK, for example, the use of genome editing would be regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, and would currently be illegal. Before this technique becomes a treatment, governments need to pass laws that will control and regulate it otherwise it could easily be misused. With all this in mind, any research in this area needs to be peer-reviewed and published in the scientific literature, with all the necessary preliminary work, so that we can make a valued analysis of the technique. In bypassing this process, He has made our job much harder. (Joyce Harper is Professor of Reproductive Science, UCL) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

World’s first gene-edited babies? Premature, dangerous and irresponsible

China on Friday condemned an attack on its consulate<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-firing-reported-outside-chinese-consulate-in-karachi-178903"> in the Pakistani city of Karachi</a> that killed two policemen and urged its ally to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said all consular staff and their families were safe following the shooting, which was claimed by a separatist group.

"China strongly condemns any violent attacks against diplomatic agencies and requests that Pakistan takes practical measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country," Geng said at a regular press briefing.&nbsp;

Three gunmen stormed the Chinese consulate on Friday morning and exchanged gunfire with security forces who shot them down.&nbsp;

Geng said the gunmen did not enter the consulate and the exchange of fire took place outside the facility.&nbsp;

"We highly appreciate the efforts of the Pakistani side," he said when asked about Pakistan's response to the attack.

The attack was claimed by a separatist militant group from Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan, which is at the centre of a major Chinese investment project in the country.

The spokesman of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) branded Beijing "an oppressor" along with Pakistani forces, adding that they were "destroying the future of Balochistan".

The incident is the latest in a series of assaults on Chinese nationals, including workers involved in the multi-billion dollar infrastructure project.&nbsp;

Geng said the attack would not affect Beijing's commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which seeks to connect its western province Xinjiang with the Arabian Sea port of Gwadar, in Balochistan.

"China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic partners," the spokesman said.

"With the broad support of the two peoples, it (CPEC) is proceeding in an orderly manner. China will continue to work with Pakistan to firmly move forward with the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor," he said.

For Pakistan, participating in the project presents an enormous challenge in a country plagued by weak institutions, endemic corruption and a range of insurgencies in areas slated to host the corridor. &nbsp;

The subject of economic dividends from CPEC is extremely sensitive in some of the areas the corridor will run through -- particularly in Balochistan.

Since the beginning of the project militants have repeatedly attacked construction sites, blowing up numerous gas pipelines and trains, and targeted Chinese workers.

In August this year three Chinese nationals were among six wounded in a suicide attack on a bus transporting Chinese engineers working on a mining project in Balochistan, in an attack that was also claimed by the BLA.

"We highly appreciate the great efforts made by Pakistan to safeguard the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, and the security of Chinese citizens and organisations in Pakistan," Geng said.

"We also believe that Pakistan will continue to take effective measures to ensure the safe and smooth development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor," he added.

China on Friday condemned an attack on its consulate in the Pakistani city of Karachi that killed two policemen and urged its ally to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens.

China on Friday condemned an attack on its consulate in the Pakistani city of Karachi that killed two policemen and urged its ally to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said all consular staff and their families were safe following the shooting, which was claimed by a separatist group. "China strongly condemns any violent attacks against diplomatic agencies and requests that Pakistan takes practical measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country," Geng said at a regular press briefing. Three gunmen stormed the Chinese consulate on Friday morning and exchanged gunfire with security forces who shot them down. Geng said the gunmen did not enter the consulate and the exchange of fire took place outside the facility. "We highly appreciate the efforts of the Pakistani side," he said when asked about Pakistan's response to the attack. The attack was claimed by a separatist militant group from Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan, which is at the centre of a major Chinese investment project in the country. The spokesman of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) branded Beijing "an oppressor" along with Pakistani forces, adding that they were "destroying the future of Balochistan". The incident is the latest in a series of assaults on Chinese nationals, including workers involved in the multi-billion dollar infrastructure project. Geng said the attack would not affect Beijing's commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which seeks to connect its western province Xinjiang with the Arabian Sea port of Gwadar, in Balochistan. "China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic partners," the spokesman said. "With the broad support of the two peoples, it (CPEC) is proceeding in an orderly manner. China will continue to work with Pakistan to firmly move forward with the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor," he said. For Pakistan, participating in the project presents an enormous challenge in a country plagued by weak institutions, endemic corruption and a range of insurgencies in areas slated to host the corridor. The subject of economic dividends from CPEC is extremely sensitive in some of the areas the corridor will run through -- particularly in Balochistan. Since the beginning of the project militants have repeatedly attacked construction sites, blowing up numerous gas pipelines and trains, and targeted Chinese workers. In August this year three Chinese nationals were among six wounded in a suicide attack on a bus transporting Chinese engineers working on a mining project in Balochistan, in an attack that was also claimed by the BLA. "We highly appreciate the great efforts made by Pakistan to safeguard the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, and the security of Chinese citizens and organisations in Pakistan," Geng said. "We also believe that Pakistan will continue to take effective measures to ensure the safe and smooth development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor," he added.

Pakistan should ensure safety of our citizens and institutions: China

The Chinese-speaking world`s version of the Oscars, the Golden Horse Awards, has created a sharp political divide between film stars and directors as the annual event becomes a lightning rod for questions about Taiwanese independence. 
 
At Saturday`s ceremony, held in Taipei, documentary filmmaker Fu Yue called for Taiwan to be recognised as "an independent entity", sparking off a live sparring match between mainland and Taiwanese stars at the glitzy show. 
 
Mainland actor Tu Men, while presenting an award, referred to Taiwan as "China Taiwan", while the chair of the awards committee, Oscar award-winning director Ang Lee, told reporters after the show that everyone was allowed to say what they wanted to say on stage. 
 
However, he added: "We hope that art can be art, and that no political issues will interfere with it because art is very pure." 
 
Taiwan is self-governed and has a democratically elected leadership, but China claims the island as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to ensure unification. The question of Taiwanese independence is one of Beijing`s most sensitive political concerns. 
 
Tensions between China and Taiwan have grown since pro-independence President Tsai Ing-wen took power in 2016. Taiwan is now preparing for local elections on Saturday, seen as a bellwether for the ruling party`s performance in the 2020 presidential race. 
 
Tsai herself weighed into the debate on Sunday saying that Taiwan had never accepted being called "China Taiwan".&nbsp; 
 
"We can`t accept this term. Taiwan is simply Taiwan," she said on Facebook, adding she was "proud" of the awards ceremony which "highlighted that Taiwan was different from China, that being in our freedom and diversity". 
 
"Taiwan is a democratic and open society," she said. "No one here will be silenced or disappeared because they have different views. We have no sensitive words that will be censored online." 
 
Social media users also left close to 20,000 comments on Fu`s Facebook account after the show, with some criticising her support for Taiwan independence while others praised it. Some said she should not have politicised the ceremony.&nbsp; 
 
In a separate statement on Monday, Taiwan`s ruling Democratic Progressive Party said the criticism of Fu was an attempt at "election interference from outside forces". 
 
The Golden Horse Awards was one of the most discussed topics on China`s Twitter-like Weibo platform on Sunday, with a number of mainland stars also posting supportive posts about China`s claims over Taiwan. 
 
Among them was A-list Chinese movie star Fan Bingbing, who earlier this year vanished for months from public view sparking widespread rumours about her whereabouts. She was fined for tax evasion last month and in her apology said her achievements were inseparable from the Communist Party. 
 
Her Weibo post was her first since she issued her apology last month. 
 
"China cannot be reduced even just a tiny bit," she wrote, alongside a map of Chinese territory, including Taiwan.

The Chinese-speaking world`s version of the Oscars, the Golden Horse Awards, has created a sharp political divide between film stars and directors as the annual event becomes a lightning rod for questions about Taiwanese independence.

The Chinese-speaking world`s version of the Oscars, the Golden Horse Awards, has created a sharp political divide between film stars and directors as the annual event becomes a lightning rod for questions about Taiwanese independence. At Saturday`s ceremony, held in Taipei, documentary filmmaker Fu Yue called for Taiwan to be recognised as "an independent entity", sparking off a live sparring match between mainland and Taiwanese stars at the glitzy show. Mainland actor Tu Men, while presenting an award, referred to Taiwan as "China Taiwan", while the chair of the awards committee, Oscar award-winning director Ang Lee, told reporters after the show that everyone was allowed to say what they wanted to say on stage. However, he added: "We hope that art can be art, and that no political issues will interfere with it because art is very pure." Taiwan is self-governed and has a democratically elected leadership, but China claims the island as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to ensure unification. The question of Taiwanese independence is one of Beijing`s most sensitive political concerns. Tensions between China and Taiwan have grown since pro-independence President Tsai Ing-wen took power in 2016. Taiwan is now preparing for local elections on Saturday, seen as a bellwether for the ruling party`s performance in the 2020 presidential race. Tsai herself weighed into the debate on Sunday saying that Taiwan had never accepted being called "China Taiwan". "We can`t accept this term. Taiwan is simply Taiwan," she said on Facebook, adding she was "proud" of the awards ceremony which "highlighted that Taiwan was different from China, that being in our freedom and diversity". "Taiwan is a democratic and open society," she said. "No one here will be silenced or disappeared because they have different views. We have no sensitive words that will be censored online." Social media users also left close to 20,000 comments on Fu`s Facebook account after the show, with some criticising her support for Taiwan independence while others praised it. Some said she should not have politicised the ceremony. In a separate statement on Monday, Taiwan`s ruling Democratic Progressive Party said the criticism of Fu was an attempt at "election interference from outside forces". The Golden Horse Awards was one of the most discussed topics on China`s Twitter-like Weibo platform on Sunday, with a number of mainland stars also posting supportive posts about China`s claims over Taiwan. Among them was A-list Chinese movie star Fan Bingbing, who earlier this year vanished for months from public view sparking widespread rumours about her whereabouts. She was fined for tax evasion last month and in her apology said her achievements were inseparable from the Communist Party. Her Weibo post was her first since she issued her apology last month. "China cannot be reduced even just a tiny bit," she wrote, alongside a map of Chinese territory, including Taiwan.

Lights, camera, factions: Stars at Chinese-language 'Oscars' split over Taiwan

A 20-member Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) delegation on Monday left for Beijing on visit during which it will be briefed on China's political history and review the ruling Communist party's successes in eradicating poverty and corruption in the world's most populous country.

The week-long visit by a jumbo delegation of Pakistan's ruling party comes weeks after Prime Miinister Imran Khan, who is also the chief of the PTI, made his first visit to China on November 2.

PTI Central Secretary General Arshad Daad is leading the delegation, which was invited by the Communist Party of China (CPC), state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

Both parties are expected to hold meetings where they discuss matters of "bilateral value", the report said.&nbsp;

A briefing on China's political history and inter-departmental arrangements will also be given to the PTI delegation, along with a review of Beijing's successes in eradication of poverty and corruption from the country, it said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has launched a massive crackdown on corruption and under this, many top leaders, including ex-army generals have been arrested for alleged graft.

Prime Minister Khan has often praised the Chinese government's efforts for poverty alleviation.

"This is where we admire China so much. No country in human history, has ever taken 700 million people out of poverty in 30 years as China has done," he said while delivering a speech at the CPC's Central Party School during his visit to Beijing.

China and Pakistan view each other as 'all-weather' allies and Beijing is Pakistan's major source of defence equipment. China has also agreed to provide financial aid to cash-strapped Pakistan government to tide over the current financial problem.

A 20-member Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) delegation on Monday left for Beijing on visit during which it will be briefed on China's political history and review the ruling Communist party's successes in eradicating poverty and corruption in the world's most populous country.

A 20-member Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) delegation on Monday left for Beijing on visit during which it will be briefed on China's political history and review the ruling Communist party's successes in eradicating poverty and corruption in the world's most populous country. The week-long visit by a jumbo delegation of Pakistan's ruling party comes weeks after Prime Miinister Imran Khan, who is also the chief of the PTI, made his first visit to China on November 2. PTI Central Secretary General Arshad Daad is leading the delegation, which was invited by the Communist Party of China (CPC), state-run Radio Pakistan reported. Both parties are expected to hold meetings where they discuss matters of "bilateral value", the report said. A briefing on China's political history and inter-departmental arrangements will also be given to the PTI delegation, along with a review of Beijing's successes in eradication of poverty and corruption from the country, it said. Chinese President Xi Jinping has launched a massive crackdown on corruption and under this, many top leaders, including ex-army generals have been arrested for alleged graft. Prime Minister Khan has often praised the Chinese government's efforts for poverty alleviation. "This is where we admire China so much. No country in human history, has ever taken 700 million people out of poverty in 30 years as China has done," he said while delivering a speech at the CPC's Central Party School during his visit to Beijing. China and Pakistan view each other as 'all-weather' allies and Beijing is Pakistan's major source of defence equipment. China has also agreed to provide financial aid to cash-strapped Pakistan government to tide over the current financial problem.

Jumbo delegation of Imran Khan's PTI leaves for China on 7-day visit

The United States and China resume top-level talks Friday after months of spiraling tension, looking to see if they can find a way forward on disputes from trade to military friction.

Friday's delayed meeting in Washington comes weeks before US leader Donald Trump is expected to meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in Argentina, with both sides hoping they can announce some progress.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will spend Friday morning with two high-ranking Chinese policymakers, days after a congressional election in which Trump painted China as a bogeyman.

A planned trip by Mattis to Beijing last month was cancelled amid rising military tensions between the Pacific powers. But on Friday, China's defence minister, General Wei Fenghe, will visit the Pentagon to a ceremonial honour cordon.

The defence chiefs will beforehand hold talks at the State Department jointly with Pompeo and senior Communist Party official Yang Jiechi, a longtime architect of Chinese foreign policy who formerly served as ambassador to Washington.

The talks will focus on security, but trade is at the heart of tensions. Trump has slapped $250 billion worth of tariffs on Chinese goods, accusing Beijing of nefarious trading practices, prompting retaliatory measures.

While some of the Trump administration's comments on China have prompted commentators to draw parallels to the Cold War, Terry Branstad, the US ambassador to Beijing, said that Washington was not seeking confrontation for its own sake.

"We want this to be a constructive, results-oriented relationship with China. The US is not trying to contain China, but we want fairness and reciprocity," Branstad told reporters on the eve of the talks.

FLURRY OF DISPUTES

Branstad said that the talks would consist of "frank, open exchanges" on issues from human rights to the myriad maritime disputes in the South China Sea.

"We want to achieve progress on our priorities including North Korea, and China has been a very key player in helping to get North Korea to the bargaining table," Branstad said.

Trump is seeking a follow-up to his landmark summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who counts on China as his main supporter.

But a meeting due this week in New York between Pompeo and a senior North Korean official was abruptly called off, the latest twist in turbulent diplomacy.

With the occasional exception of North Korea policy, the United States has increasingly seen China as a meddlesome player on the international scene and has been especially incensed at what it believes is widespread theft of US technology.

China has denied stealing US know-how and has sought to appear as a cooler head on the world stage.

The United States and China resume top-level talks Friday after months of spiraling tension, looking to see if they can find a way forward on disputes from trade to military friction.

The United States and China resume top-level talks Friday after months of spiraling tension, looking to see if they can find a way forward on disputes from trade to military friction. Friday's delayed meeting in Washington comes weeks before US leader Donald Trump is expected to meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in Argentina, with both sides hoping they can announce some progress. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will spend Friday morning with two high-ranking Chinese policymakers, days after a congressional election in which Trump painted China as a bogeyman. A planned trip by Mattis to Beijing last month was cancelled amid rising military tensions between the Pacific powers. But on Friday, China's defence minister, General Wei Fenghe, will visit the Pentagon to a ceremonial honour cordon. The defence chiefs will beforehand hold talks at the State Department jointly with Pompeo and senior Communist Party official Yang Jiechi, a longtime architect of Chinese foreign policy who formerly served as ambassador to Washington. The talks will focus on security, but trade is at the heart of tensions. Trump has slapped $250 billion worth of tariffs on Chinese goods, accusing Beijing of nefarious trading practices, prompting retaliatory measures. While some of the Trump administration's comments on China have prompted commentators to draw parallels to the Cold War, Terry Branstad, the US ambassador to Beijing, said that Washington was not seeking confrontation for its own sake. "We want this to be a constructive, results-oriented relationship with China. The US is not trying to contain China, but we want fairness and reciprocity," Branstad told reporters on the eve of the talks. FLURRY OF DISPUTES Branstad said that the talks would consist of "frank, open exchanges" on issues from human rights to the myriad maritime disputes in the South China Sea. "We want to achieve progress on our priorities including North Korea, and China has been a very key player in helping to get North Korea to the bargaining table," Branstad said. Trump is seeking a follow-up to his landmark summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who counts on China as his main supporter. But a meeting due this week in New York between Pompeo and a senior North Korean official was abruptly called off, the latest twist in turbulent diplomacy. With the occasional exception of North Korea policy, the United States has increasingly seen China as a meddlesome player on the international scene and has been especially incensed at what it believes is widespread theft of US technology. China has denied stealing US know-how and has sought to appear as a cooler head on the world stage.

US, China meet to explore path forward from tensions

Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu on Friday said that China has agreed to increase its imports from the country.

"Global disruptions offer a chance to increase Indian exports," Prabhu said at an event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII).

Prabhu said Chinese authorities will hold a meeting in November specifically with Indian exporters to address their concerns relating to market access and trade regulations.

India's trade deficit with China is its widest with any country, with large amounts of electronics and other items flowing across the border with its northern neighbour.

The Indian government said on Thursday it is set to boost exports of rice and rapeseed to China to try to narrow this gap.

Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu on Friday said that China has agreed to increase its imports from the country. "Global disruptions offer a chance to increase Indian exports," Prabhu said at an event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII).

Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu on Friday said that China has agreed to increase its imports from the country. "Global disruptions offer a chance to increase Indian exports," Prabhu said at an event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII). Prabhu said Chinese authorities will hold a meeting in November specifically with Indian exporters to address their concerns relating to market access and trade regulations. India's trade deficit with China is its widest with any country, with large amounts of electronics and other items flowing across the border with its northern neighbour. The Indian government said on Thursday it is set to boost exports of rice and rapeseed to China to try to narrow this gap.

China has agreed to increase imports from India: Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu

Japan's Shinzo Abe arrived in China Thursday, the first visit to the Asian giant by a Japanese prime minister since relations between the two countries soured six years ago over a territorial row.

Abe and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to discuss how to improve economic cooperation as the world's second and third largest economies prepare to weather a US onslaught of trade measures.

Japanese business is eager for increased access to China's massive market, while Beijing is interested in Japanese technology and corporate know-how.

The visit is the first by a Japanese premier since 2011 and is part of a years-long process of repairing relations in the wake of a disastrous falling-out in 2012, when Tokyo "nationalised" disputed islands claimed by Beijing.

The incident prompted anti-Japanese riots in China, and kicked off a frosty spell that has only recently begun to thaw.

Since an awkward 2014 encounter between Abe and Xi on the sidelines of a summit, there have been ministerial visits by both sides and a softening of rhetoric. 
"Our two countries have been making continuous efforts to improve relations," Abe said before flying to Beijing Thursday, expressing his hope that the visit would "lift bilateral relations to a new level."

The two leaders are likely to focus on a range of potential deals, including joint investments in infrastructure in regional nations including Indonesia and the Philippines.

Abe said they also planned to discuss North Korea and territorial frictions -- calling to make "the East China Sea a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation."

The Japanese leader, who leaves China on Saturday, will also hold talks with Premier Li Keqiang.

Peace treaty anniversary

Just days before Abe's trip, Tokyo lodged an official complaint after Chinese ships cruised around the disputed islands that Tokyo calls the Senkaku and Beijing labels the Diaoyu islands.

Abe's three-day trip sets up the possibility that Xi will visit Japan next year.

China has long denounced Japan for what it says is an insufficiently contrite attitude towards its role in World War II.

But ahead of the trip, Beijing has taken a more cordial stance than it has in the past.

During Abe's visit, the leaders will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the signing of a treaty between the two countries that was intended to set the tone for their relations following the war.

Japanese media have reported Abe is hoping the visit will produce a soft power win in the form of some panda diplomacy, with zoos in Sendai and Kobe apparently angling for new additions. 
&nbsp;

Japan's Shinzo Abe arrived in China Thursday, the first visit to the Asian giant by a Japanese prime minister since relations between the two countries soured six years ago over a territorial row.

Japan's Shinzo Abe arrived in China Thursday, the first visit to the Asian giant by a Japanese prime minister since relations between the two countries soured six years ago over a territorial row. Abe and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to discuss how to improve economic cooperation as the world's second and third largest economies prepare to weather a US onslaught of trade measures. Japanese business is eager for increased access to China's massive market, while Beijing is interested in Japanese technology and corporate know-how. The visit is the first by a Japanese premier since 2011 and is part of a years-long process of repairing relations in the wake of a disastrous falling-out in 2012, when Tokyo "nationalised" disputed islands claimed by Beijing. The incident prompted anti-Japanese riots in China, and kicked off a frosty spell that has only recently begun to thaw. Since an awkward 2014 encounter between Abe and Xi on the sidelines of a summit, there have been ministerial visits by both sides and a softening of rhetoric. "Our two countries have been making continuous efforts to improve relations," Abe said before flying to Beijing Thursday, expressing his hope that the visit would "lift bilateral relations to a new level." The two leaders are likely to focus on a range of potential deals, including joint investments in infrastructure in regional nations including Indonesia and the Philippines. Abe said they also planned to discuss North Korea and territorial frictions -- calling to make "the East China Sea a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation." The Japanese leader, who leaves China on Saturday, will also hold talks with Premier Li Keqiang. Peace treaty anniversary Just days before Abe's trip, Tokyo lodged an official complaint after Chinese ships cruised around the disputed islands that Tokyo calls the Senkaku and Beijing labels the Diaoyu islands. Abe's three-day trip sets up the possibility that Xi will visit Japan next year. China has long denounced Japan for what it says is an insufficiently contrite attitude towards its role in World War II. But ahead of the trip, Beijing has taken a more cordial stance than it has in the past. During Abe's visit, the leaders will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the signing of a treaty between the two countries that was intended to set the tone for their relations following the war. Japanese media have reported Abe is hoping the visit will produce a soft power win in the form of some panda diplomacy, with zoos in Sendai and Kobe apparently angling for new additions.

Japan's PM Shinzo Abe makes rare China visit as relations thaw

Malaysia has freed from detention 11 ethnic Uighur Muslims who fled to the southeast Asian nation after a Thai jailbreak last year, and sent them to Turkey, their lawyer said on Thursday, in disregard of China's request to hand them to Beijing.

The move is likely to strain ties with China, already tested since Mahathir Mohamad became prime minister after a stunning election victory in May and cancelled more than $20 billion worth of projects awarded to Chinese companies.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-seeks-to-disturb-xinjiang-policies-170904">China says </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-seeks-to-disturb-xinjiang-policies-170904">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-seeks-to-disturb-xinjiang-policies-170904"> seeks to 'disturb' Xinjiang policies</a>

Prosecutors in Muslim-majority Malaysia dropped charges against the Uighurs on humanitarian grounds and they arrived in Turkey after flying out of Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, their lawyer, Fahmi Moin, said.

"The charges were withdrawn because the attorney general's chambers agreed to the (appeal) from our side," he told Reuters.

Malaysia's immigration department, home ministry and the attorney general's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The men were detained and charged with illegally entering Malaysia after last November's daring prison break, by punching holes in a prison wall and using blankets as ladders.

In February, Reuters reported that Malaysia was under great pressure from China to deport the men there, citing sources. Some Western missions sought to dissuade it from sending them to China, which has been accused of persecuting Uighurs.

Beijing accuses separatist extremists among the Uighur minority of plotting attacks on China's Han majority in the restive far western region of Xinjiang and elsewhere.

China has been accused of rights abuses in Xinjiang, torture of Uighur detainees and tight controls on their religion and culture. It denies wrongdoing.

Over the years, hundreds, possibly thousands, of Uighurs have escaped the unrest by travelling clandestinely via Southeast Asia to Turkey.

The Uighurs in Malaysia were part of a group of more than 200 detained in Thailand in 2014.

Although they identified themselves as Turkish citizens and asked to be sent to Turkey, more than 100 were forcibly returned to China in July 2015, sparking international condemnation.

In February, Malaysia said it was considering China's request to extradite the 11 men. In the past, it has sent some detained Uighurs to China.

Their detention came as Malaysia drew closer to China under former prime minister Najib Razak, but 93-year-old Mahathir, in his second stint as premier, has been vocal in backing Muslim communities against persecution.

He recently criticised Aung San Suu Kyi, the de facto leader of neighbouring Myanmar, over the Nobel peace laureate's handling of the Rohingya crisis, saying, "We don't really support her anymore."

Malaysia has freed from detention 11 ethnic Uighur Muslims who fled to the southeast Asian nation after a Thai jailbreak last year, and sent them to Turkey, their lawyer said on Thursday, in disregard of China's request to hand them to Beijing.

Malaysia has freed from detention 11 ethnic Uighur Muslims who fled to the southeast Asian nation after a Thai jailbreak last year, and sent them to Turkey, their lawyer said on Thursday, in disregard of China's request to hand them to Beijing. The move is likely to strain ties with China, already tested since Mahathir Mohamad became prime minister after a stunning election victory in May and cancelled more than $20 billion worth of projects awarded to Chinese companies. Also read: China says US seeks to 'disturb' Xinjiang policies Prosecutors in Muslim-majority Malaysia dropped charges against the Uighurs on humanitarian grounds and they arrived in Turkey after flying out of Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, their lawyer, Fahmi Moin, said. "The charges were withdrawn because the attorney general's chambers agreed to the (appeal) from our side," he told Reuters. Malaysia's immigration department, home ministry and the attorney general's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The men were detained and charged with illegally entering Malaysia after last November's daring prison break, by punching holes in a prison wall and using blankets as ladders. In February, Reuters reported that Malaysia was under great pressure from China to deport the men there, citing sources. Some Western missions sought to dissuade it from sending them to China, which has been accused of persecuting Uighurs. Beijing accuses separatist extremists among the Uighur minority of plotting attacks on China's Han majority in the restive far western region of Xinjiang and elsewhere. China has been accused of rights abuses in Xinjiang, torture of Uighur detainees and tight controls on their religion and culture. It denies wrongdoing. Over the years, hundreds, possibly thousands, of Uighurs have escaped the unrest by travelling clandestinely via Southeast Asia to Turkey. The Uighurs in Malaysia were part of a group of more than 200 detained in Thailand in 2014. Although they identified themselves as Turkish citizens and asked to be sent to Turkey, more than 100 were forcibly returned to China in July 2015, sparking international condemnation. In February, Malaysia said it was considering China's request to extradite the 11 men. In the past, it has sent some detained Uighurs to China. Their detention came as Malaysia drew closer to China under former prime minister Najib Razak, but 93-year-old Mahathir, in his second stint as premier, has been vocal in backing Muslim communities against persecution. He recently criticised Aung San Suu Kyi, the de facto leader of neighbouring Myanmar, over the Nobel peace laureate's handling of the Rohingya crisis, saying, "We don't really support her anymore."

Defying China, Malaysia releases Uighur detainees

China is waging an unprecedented campaign to influence American public opinion as November congressional elections approach and presents the greatest long-term counterintelligence threat to the United States, US&nbsp;security officials said on Wednesday.

Senators on the Homeland Security Committee questioned Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and FBI Director Christopher Wray about President Donald Trump's assertion that China is interfering in US&nbsp;elections and asked if Beijing poses a larger threat to the country than Moscow.

Nielsen told the panel that there were two types of threats to American election security from other nation: hacking or disruption of election infrastructure, which includes voter registration lists or voting machines, and influence campaigns.

"China absolutely is on an unprecedented - or exerting unprecedented effort to influence American opinion," Nielsen said. "We have not seen to date any Chinese attempts to compromise election infrastructure."

Wray went farther when asked whether China posed a larger threat than Russia, whose activities during the 2016 presidential election are the subject of a wide-ranging federal investigation that includes whether Moscow cooperated with the Trump campaign to sway the vote.

"China in many ways represents the broadest, most complicated, most long-term counterintelligence threat we face," Wray said. "Russia is in many ways fighting to stay relevant after the fall of the Soviet Union. They're fighting today's fight. China's is fighting tomorrow's fight."

Trump last month accused China of seeking to meddle in the November&nbsp;6 congressional elections, saying Beijing did not want his Republican Party to do well because of his pugnacious stance on trade.

"China has been attempting to interfere in our upcoming 2018 election, coming up in November. Against my administration,” Trump told a U.N. Security Council meeting.

Trump made no reference to suspected Russian meddling in the 2016 election and provided no evidence for his allegation about China, which Beijing immediately rejected during the same meeting.

China denied the allegations, as Russia has repeatedly done. Trump has denied his campaign worked with Russians to sway the election that put him in the White House.

China is waging an unprecedented campaign to influence American public opinion as November congressional elections approach and presents the greatest long-term counterintelligence threat to the United States, US security officials said on Wednesday.

China is waging an unprecedented campaign to influence American public opinion as November congressional elections approach and presents the greatest long-term counterintelligence threat to the United States, US security officials said on Wednesday. Senators on the Homeland Security Committee questioned Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and FBI Director Christopher Wray about President Donald Trump's assertion that China is interfering in US elections and asked if Beijing poses a larger threat to the country than Moscow. Nielsen told the panel that there were two types of threats to American election security from other nation: hacking or disruption of election infrastructure, which includes voter registration lists or voting machines, and influence campaigns. "China absolutely is on an unprecedented - or exerting unprecedented effort to influence American opinion," Nielsen said. "We have not seen to date any Chinese attempts to compromise election infrastructure." Wray went farther when asked whether China posed a larger threat than Russia, whose activities during the 2016 presidential election are the subject of a wide-ranging federal investigation that includes whether Moscow cooperated with the Trump campaign to sway the vote. "China in many ways represents the broadest, most complicated, most long-term counterintelligence threat we face," Wray said. "Russia is in many ways fighting to stay relevant after the fall of the Soviet Union. They're fighting today's fight. China's is fighting tomorrow's fight." Trump last month accused China of seeking to meddle in the November 6 congressional elections, saying Beijing did not want his Republican Party to do well because of his pugnacious stance on trade. "China has been attempting to interfere in our upcoming 2018 election, coming up in November. Against my administration,” Trump told a U.N. Security Council meeting. Trump made no reference to suspected Russian meddling in the 2016 election and provided no evidence for his allegation about China, which Beijing immediately rejected during the same meeting. China denied the allegations, as Russia has repeatedly done. Trump has denied his campaign worked with Russians to sway the election that put him in the White House.

China trumps Russia in counterterrorism threat to US: FBI Director Christopher Wray

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