Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun are likely to meet next week in Laos on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Minister's Plus meeting (ADMM +). ADMM Plus is an annual meeting that includes ASEAN defence ministers and defence ministers of eight countries – Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia and the United States.

A request has been made by the Chinese side for the meeting. This is expected to be the first ministerial meeting between the Indian and Chinese sides since the Kazan meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which was seen as a breakthrough in the normalisation of ties.&nbsp;

The last meeting between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Chinese counterpart was in April 2023 in India. That time, the then Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu had travelled to Delhi for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO Defence Minister meeting. While the border issue dominated the meeting, the fact that Rajnath chose to do a namaste, instead of a handshake with his Chinese counterpart, showed that the ties remained frosty.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjA7dvN9tmJAxXXoa8BHRIJJKcQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chief-warns-against-chinas-tactics-along-lac-says-situation-stable-but-not-normal-763605" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chief-warns-against-chinas-tactics-along-lac-says-situation-stable-but-not-normal-763605&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjA7dvN9tmJAxXXoa8BHRIJJKcQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Indian Army Chief warns against China’s tactics along LAC, says, ‘situation stable, but not normal’</a>

Prior to the 2023 meet, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the then Chinese Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe met on the sidelines of the SCO meet in Russia's Moscow in 2020, just months after the Galwan incident. The deadly clashes in Galwan, Eastern Ladakh in June of that year left 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers dead.

A ministerial meeting will be seen as a positive element in ties, just a month after the Kazan meeting in October at the leaders' level. The October meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS summit was the first bilateral meeting between Indian and Chinese leaders since the Galwan incident which led to a downfall in the ties of the two Asian giants. Following the clashes, India had banned a number of Chinese apps and increased scrutiny on Chinese investments.&nbsp;

One of the key outcomes of the Kazan meeting was that the Special Representatives on the boundary question – Indian NSA Ajit Doval and China's Wang Yi will meet at an early date. Foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet at a later date. The Kazan thaw coincided with the patrolling agreement between India and China and disengagement in Depsang and Demchok at the Line of Actual Control or LAC. A revival in India-China ties could have positive ties in trading ties and comes ahead of Beijing's presidency of the SCO summit next year.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun are likely to meet next week in Laos on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Minister's Plus meeting (ADMM +).

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun are likely to meet next week in Laos on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Minister's Plus meeting (ADMM +). ADMM Plus is an annual meeting that includes ASEAN defence ministers and defence ministers of eight countries – Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia and the United States. A request has been made by the Chinese side for the meeting. This is expected to be the first ministerial meeting between the Indian and Chinese sides since the Kazan meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which was seen as a breakthrough in the normalisation of ties. The last meeting between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Chinese counterpart was in April 2023 in India. That time, the then Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu had travelled to Delhi for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO Defence Minister meeting. While the border issue dominated the meeting, the fact that Rajnath chose to do a namaste, instead of a handshake with his Chinese counterpart, showed that the ties remained frosty. Also read: Indian Army Chief warns against China’s tactics along LAC, says, ‘situation stable, but not normal’ Prior to the 2023 meet, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the then Chinese Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe met on the sidelines of the SCO meet in Russia's Moscow in 2020, just months after the Galwan incident. The deadly clashes in Galwan, Eastern Ladakh in June of that year left 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers dead. A ministerial meeting will be seen as a positive element in ties, just a month after the Kazan meeting in October at the leaders' level. The October meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS summit was the first bilateral meeting between Indian and Chinese leaders since the Galwan incident which led to a downfall in the ties of the two Asian giants. Following the clashes, India had banned a number of Chinese apps and increased scrutiny on Chinese investments. One of the key outcomes of the Kazan meeting was that the Special Representatives on the boundary question – Indian NSA Ajit Doval and China's Wang Yi will meet at an early date. Foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet at a later date. The Kazan thaw coincided with the patrolling agreement between India and China and disengagement in Depsang and Demchok at the Line of Actual Control or LAC. A revival in India-China ties could have positive ties in trading ties and comes ahead of Beijing's presidency of the SCO summit next year.

Indian, Chinese defence ministers likely to meet next week in Laos

Chinese state television is set to premiere a historical drama that will&nbsp;the life of Xi Zhongxun, the late father of current Chinese President Xi Jinping. The series, Time in the Northwest, is going to be the first-ever television dramatization of elder Xi's life story and will be aired&nbsp;during prime time on CCTV's flagship channel.&nbsp;

The series will unfold in 40 episodes that trace Xi Zhongxun's journey from humble beginnings to revolutionary leadership. The narrative begins in 1927, following the story of a young man born to farmers in Shaanxi province, and continues through 1952, documenting his ascent to becoming a pivotal figure in the Communist Party's northwestern revolutionary movement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{89ef7158-6ae6-442b-a1cb-2be3ec50d818}{81}" paraid="1913500589" >What is the series about?&nbsp;</h3>

The series particularly focuses on&nbsp;Xi Zhongxun's crucial role in establishing the revolutionary base in Yanan, Shaanxi, highlighting his diplomatic skills&nbsp;in handling ethnic and religious matters and his dedication to regional economic development. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Throughout the series, Xi Zhongxun is depicted as the embodiment of Communist Party ideals – a loyal leader with loyalty and strong ethics. This portrayal aligns with President Xi Jinping's own emphasis on traditional family values and patriotic devotion.&nbsp;

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{89ef7158-6ae6-442b-a1cb-2be3ec50d818}{207}" paraid="564825250" >Xi Jinping’s family &nbsp;</h3>

In his office, President Xi&nbsp;has kept on display photographs of his father, his 98-year-old mother Qi Xin, and one with his wife Peng Liyuan, glimpses of which have been visible during his annual New Year's Eve addresses to the nation.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/khloe-kardashians-birthday-message-for-kendall-jenner-is-a-pure-celebration-of-sisterhood-773340">Khloe Kardashian’s birthday message for Kendall Jenner is a pure celebration of sisterhood</a>

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{af892f80-f08c-4569-bc09-a620f73ba8a1}{120}" paraid="1261712042" >Xi Jinping’s mother&nbsp;</h3>

The family's story&nbsp;came under the limelight last year when Qi Xin made a rare public appearance in a documentary series-&nbsp;Chicheng (meaning- total devotion), which coincided with the 110th anniversary of Xi Zhongxun's birth. &nbsp;

Chinese state television is set to premiere a historical drama that will the life of Xi Zhongxun, the late father of current Chinese President Xi Jinping. The series, Time in the Northwest, is going to be the first-ever television dramatization of elder Xi's life story and will be aired during prime time on CCTV's flagship channel.

Chinese state television is set to premiere a historical drama that will the life of Xi Zhongxun, the late father of current Chinese President Xi Jinping. The series, Time in the Northwest, is going to be the first-ever television dramatization of elder Xi's life story and will be aired during prime time on CCTV's flagship channel. The series will unfold in 40 episodes that trace Xi Zhongxun's journey from humble beginnings to revolutionary leadership. The narrative begins in 1927, following the story of a young man born to farmers in Shaanxi province, and continues through 1952, documenting his ascent to becoming a pivotal figure in the Communist Party's northwestern revolutionary movement. What is the series about? The series particularly focuses on Xi Zhongxun's crucial role in establishing the revolutionary base in Yanan, Shaanxi, highlighting his diplomatic skills in handling ethnic and religious matters and his dedication to regional economic development. Throughout the series, Xi Zhongxun is depicted as the embodiment of Communist Party ideals – a loyal leader with loyalty and strong ethics. This portrayal aligns with President Xi Jinping's own emphasis on traditional family values and patriotic devotion. Xi Jinping’s family In his office, President Xi has kept on display photographs of his father, his 98-year-old mother Qi Xin, and one with his wife Peng Liyuan, glimpses of which have been visible during his annual New Year's Eve addresses to the nation. Also read: Khloe Kardashian’s birthday message for Kendall Jenner is a pure celebration of sisterhood Xi Jinping’s mother The family's story came under the limelight last year when Qi Xin made a rare public appearance in a documentary series- Chicheng (meaning- total devotion), which coincided with the 110th anniversary of Xi Zhongxun's birth.

Time in the Northwest: Series to air in China on President Xi Jinping’s father

Indian and Chinese armies have till now finished 80-90 per cent disengagement at Demchok and Depsang in&nbsp;Eastern Ladakh, as reported by ANI.&nbsp;

As part of the process, all types of infrastructure were removed and the troops were pulled back from both sides.

The armies are expected to complete the entire process by Tuesday (October 29).

On Friday (Oct 25), the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that the frontier troops of both China and India have been engaged in "relevant work" in accordance with the agreement reached between the two countries on issues related to the border.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday (Oct 25), Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that the disengagement has been underway "smoothly".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-and-china-to-finalise-military-disengagement-today-what-exactly-is-happening-on-the-ground-771260">India and China to finalise military disengagement today: What exactly is happening&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;ground?</a>

Speaking about if India and China have started taking back their troops from LAC, Li Jian said, "In accordance with the resolutions that China and India reached recently on issues concerning the border area, the Chinese and Indian frontier troops are engaged in relevant work, which is going smoothly at the moment."

<h2>India-China agreement on LAC</h2>

India on October 21 reached an agreement over patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh with China which brought to an end the four-year-long military standoff.

While addressing an event on October 24, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh&nbsp;said that both countries have reached a consensus for restoring the "ground situation" on the basis of principles of mutual and equal security.

Watch:&nbsp;India, China Disengagement Starts In Ladakh After LAC Agreement

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He said that the agreement includes restoration of "patrolling and grazing to traditional areas".

Singh said that the countries saw progress in their ties due to the "power of engaging in continuous dialogue because, sooner or later, solutions will emerge."

"India and China have been involved in talks both at diplomatic and military levels to resolve their differences in certain areas along the LAC. A broad consensus has been achieved to restore ground situation based on the principles of equal and mutual security," Singh said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian and Chinese armies have till now finished 80-90 per cent disengagement at Demchok and Depsang in Eastern Ladakh, as reported by ANI. As part of the process, all types of infrastructure were removed and the troops were pulled back from both sides.

Indian and Chinese armies have till now finished 80-90 per cent disengagement at Demchok and Depsang in Eastern Ladakh, as reported by ANI. As part of the process, all types of infrastructure were removed and the troops were pulled back from both sides. The armies are expected to complete the entire process by Tuesday (October 29). On Friday (Oct 25), the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that the frontier troops of both China and India have been engaged in "relevant work" in accordance with the agreement reached between the two countries on issues related to the border. Speaking at a press conference on Friday (Oct 25), Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that the disengagement has been underway "smoothly". Also Read: India and China to finalise military disengagement today: What exactly is happening on the ground? Speaking about if India and China have started taking back their troops from LAC, Li Jian said, "In accordance with the resolutions that China and India reached recently on issues concerning the border area, the Chinese and Indian frontier troops are engaged in relevant work, which is going smoothly at the moment." India-China agreement on LAC India on October 21 reached an agreement over patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh with China which brought to an end the four-year-long military standoff. While addressing an event on October 24, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that both countries have reached a consensus for restoring the "ground situation" on the basis of principles of mutual and equal security. Watch: India, China Disengagement Starts In Ladakh After LAC Agreement He said that the agreement includes restoration of "patrolling and grazing to traditional areas". Singh said that the countries saw progress in their ties due to the "power of engaging in continuous dialogue because, sooner or later, solutions will emerge." "India and China have been involved in talks both at diplomatic and military levels to resolve their differences in certain areas along the LAC. A broad consensus has been achieved to restore ground situation based on the principles of equal and mutual security," Singh said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian, Chinese armies complete 80 to 90 per cent disengagement in Ladakh: Report

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting in Kazan, Russia, on Wednesday (Oct 23), India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed during a press briefing.&nbsp;

"I can confirm that there will be a bilateral meeting held between Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping tomorrow on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit," Misri said in a special Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) briefing on Tuesday (Oct 22). &nbsp;

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The meet comes days after India and China reached a key pact about patrolling the Line of Actual Control. 
 
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Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Kazan on Tuesday (Oct 22) to attend the 16th BRICS Summit.

Senior Russian officials greeted the Chinese president at the airport.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/working-to-restore-trust-indian-army-chief-on-lac-deal-with-china-769819">Also read:&nbsp;‘Working to restore trust,’ Indian Army chief on LAC deal with China</a>

Xi will be attending the BRICS Summit in Russia from Tuesday to Thursday at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reached Kazan earlier in the day and held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

The BRICS Summit is taking&nbsp;place in Kazan under Russia's chairmanship on October 22-23.

Watch |&nbsp;India, China Reach Agreement On Border Patrolling Along LAC: Indian Foreign Secretary Misri

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The Summit, themed "Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security," will provide an important platform for leaders to discuss key global issues," according to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Moreover, China on Tuesday also confirmed that the two Asian giants had reached an agreement to end the border crisis.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said, “China and India have maintained close communication through diplomatic and military channels regarding border-related issues. Currently, the two sides have reached a solution on the relevant matters, which China views positively.”

“In the next phase, China will work with India to effectively implement the solution plan,” Lin Jian added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting in Kazan, Russia, on Wednesday (Oct 23), India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed during a press briefing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting in Kazan, Russia, on Wednesday (Oct 23), India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed during a press briefing. "I can confirm that there will be a bilateral meeting held between Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping tomorrow on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit," Misri said in a special Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) briefing on Tuesday (Oct 22). #WATCH | India's #PMModi and China's President #XiJinping to hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the #BRICSSummit, Kazan, Russia. The meet comes days after India and China reached a key pact about patrolling the Line of Actual Control. READ: https://t.co/cUsR90O0Hj… pic.twitter.com/7ZBCzowPmT — WION (@WIONews) October 22, 2024 × Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Kazan on Tuesday (Oct 22) to attend the 16th BRICS Summit. Senior Russian officials greeted the Chinese president at the airport. Also read: ‘Working to restore trust,’ Indian Army chief on LAC deal with China Xi will be attending the BRICS Summit in Russia from Tuesday to Thursday at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reached Kazan earlier in the day and held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The BRICS Summit is taking place in Kazan under Russia's chairmanship on October 22-23. Watch | India, China Reach Agreement On Border Patrolling Along LAC: Indian Foreign Secretary Misri × The Summit, themed "Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security," will provide an important platform for leaders to discuss key global issues," according to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Moreover, China on Tuesday also confirmed that the two Asian giants had reached an agreement to end the border crisis. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said, “China and India have maintained close communication through diplomatic and military channels regarding border-related issues. Currently, the two sides have reached a solution on the relevant matters, which China views positively.” “In the next phase, China will work with India to effectively implement the solution plan,” Lin Jian added. (With inputs from agencies)

BRICS Summit: PM Modi to hold bilateral meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday

A recent survey in China found that around 60 per cent of Chinese with the age of 60 and above are empty nesters, and most of them are unable to afford living in a nursing home.&nbsp;

The number of empty nesters with the particular age group has increased more than 10 per cent in the last 10 years in China.&nbsp;

The nationwide survey, which gets conducted every five years by China's Ministry of Civil Affairs, found that people in the age bracket of 60 and above were also less dependent on their children.&nbsp;

As a result of China's one-child policy of the 1970s, the average number of children per household dropped by 0.6 from 2011 to 2021.

Now, the new average is 2.6 children per household in China.

The poll&nbsp;also noted that nearly 50 per cent of people willing to live in nursing homes could afford to pay up to US $140 only in monthly fees, which makes most aged care facilities out of reach in cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

The cost of aged care facilities is more than US $700 a month in such big cities of China.

The National Committee on Ageing wrote in the survey report that&nbsp;China’s 'traditional way' of relying on children to support their elderly parents is being 'seriously challenged'.

The committee also said, “The rapid growth of the empty-nest elderly population calls for better care services and coordinated policies to improve their well-being.” 
 
The survey also showed a major gap in the annual incomes of people in the particular age group living in urban and rural areas.

For people living in urban areas, the average annual income is around US $6,600, which is more than three times of rural's US $1,900.&nbsp;

For people with age 60 and above, pensions are the primary source of income, but the fund for the pension is expected to dry up by the year 2035. Hence, the government is now encouraging these people to restart their careers.&nbsp;

The survey said, “The health status of older people has been improving, and an increasing number of younger seniors—those aged between 60 and 69—are getting jobs.” 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

As a result of one-child policy of 1970s, the average number of children per household was noted dropped by 0.6 from 2011 to 2021. Now the average is 2.6 children per household. The survey also found that nearly 50 per cent of those willing to live in nursing homes could afford to pay up to US $140 only in monthly fees.

A recent survey in China found that around 60 per cent of Chinese with the age of 60 and above are empty nesters, and most of them are unable to afford living in a nursing home. The number of empty nesters with the particular age group has increased more than 10 per cent in the last 10 years in China. The nationwide survey, which gets conducted every five years by China's Ministry of Civil Affairs, found that people in the age bracket of 60 and above were also less dependent on their children. As a result of China's one-child policy of the 1970s, the average number of children per household dropped by 0.6 from 2011 to 2021. Now, the new average is 2.6 children per household in China. The poll also noted that nearly 50 per cent of people willing to live in nursing homes could afford to pay up to US $140 only in monthly fees, which makes most aged care facilities out of reach in cities like Beijing and Shanghai. The cost of aged care facilities is more than US $700 a month in such big cities of China. The National Committee on Ageing wrote in the survey report that China’s 'traditional way' of relying on children to support their elderly parents is being 'seriously challenged'. The committee also said, “The rapid growth of the empty-nest elderly population calls for better care services and coordinated policies to improve their well-being.” The survey also showed a major gap in the annual incomes of people in the particular age group living in urban and rural areas. For people living in urban areas, the average annual income is around US $6,600, which is more than three times of rural's US $1,900. For people with age 60 and above, pensions are the primary source of income, but the fund for the pension is expected to dry up by the year 2035. Hence, the government is now encouraging these people to restart their careers. The survey said, “The health status of older people has been improving, and an increasing number of younger seniors—those aged between 60 and 69—are getting jobs.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘China’s traditional way being challenged’: 60% Chinese above 60 are empty nesters

China has detained four staffers of the Taiwanese iPhone maker company Foxconn, a move described by Taiwan as 'quite strange', reports said on Friday (Oct 11).

Foxconn is the world's largest iPhone producer for the American tech behemoth Apple.

The four Foxconn employees were held in mainland China. Reuters news agency quoted a statement from Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council as saying that they were held in Zhengzhou on suspicion of 'breach of trust'.

Foxconn, whose official name is&nbsp;Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd, has a&nbsp;major iPhone assembly plant in Zhengzhou.

"The circumstances of this case are quite strange," Reuters quoted the Taiwanese agency as saying.

Watch: Chinese Naval Flotilla Takes Offensive Positions Against Taiwan In Last 9 Days

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It said the case may be linked to graft and abuse of power by some Chinese security officials, without providing further details, Reuters said in the report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-to-open-new-office-in-mumbai-on-october-16-765732">Also read: &nbsp;Taiwan to open new office in Mumbai on October 16</a>

The council quoted Foxconn as saying that the company didn't suffer any losses, and that the detained staff did "nothing to harm" its interests.

"This has seriously damaged the confidence of companies. We call on relevant departments on the other side of the Taiwan Strait to investigate and deal with it as soon as possible," it&nbsp;added, as per Reuters.

The developments comes months after a travel advisory issued by Taiwan to its citizens against non-essential travel to China.

The warning in June came after China threatened to execute those who supported the independence of Taiwan, a democracy that Beijing considers its territory that should be annexed by force if necessary.

The news of detention of the Foxconn staff also came just hours after the new Taiwanese president said his country would resist annexation attempts by Bejing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-president-lai-vows-to-resist-annexation-amid-chinas-growing-pressure-766370">Also read: Taiwan President Lai vows to resist annexation amid China's growing pressure</a>

President William Lai said he would "uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty," in a high-profile public adderss just months after taking office.

Companies based out of Taiwan, a powerhouse in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, have billions of dollars invested in mainland China.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has detained four staffers of the Taiwanese iPhone maker company Foxconn, a move described by Taiwan as 'quite strange', reports said on Friday (Oct 11). Foxconn is the world's largest iPhone producer for the American tech behemoth Apple.

China has detained four staffers of the Taiwanese iPhone maker company Foxconn, a move described by Taiwan as 'quite strange', reports said on Friday (Oct 11). Foxconn is the world's largest iPhone producer for the American tech behemoth Apple. The four Foxconn employees were held in mainland China. Reuters news agency quoted a statement from Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council as saying that they were held in Zhengzhou on suspicion of 'breach of trust'. Foxconn, whose official name is Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd, has a major iPhone assembly plant in Zhengzhou. "The circumstances of this case are quite strange," Reuters quoted the Taiwanese agency as saying. Watch: Chinese Naval Flotilla Takes Offensive Positions Against Taiwan In Last 9 Days × It said the case may be linked to graft and abuse of power by some Chinese security officials, without providing further details, Reuters said in the report. Also read: Taiwan to open new office in Mumbai on October 16 The council quoted Foxconn as saying that the company didn't suffer any losses, and that the detained staff did "nothing to harm" its interests. "This has seriously damaged the confidence of companies. We call on relevant departments on the other side of the Taiwan Strait to investigate and deal with it as soon as possible," it added, as per Reuters. The developments comes months after a travel advisory issued by Taiwan to its citizens against non-essential travel to China. The warning in June came after China threatened to execute those who supported the independence of Taiwan, a democracy that Beijing considers its territory that should be annexed by force if necessary. The news of detention of the Foxconn staff also came just hours after the new Taiwanese president said his country would resist annexation attempts by Bejing. Also read: Taiwan President Lai vows to resist annexation amid China's growing pressure President William Lai said he would "uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty," in a high-profile public adderss just months after taking office. Companies based out of Taiwan, a powerhouse in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, have billions of dollars invested in mainland China. (With inputs from agencies)

China detains 4 staff of iPhone maker Foxconn, Taiwan calls move 'strange': Politically motivated?

Taiwan said Thursday that 43 Chinese aircraft and eight naval vessels were detected around the democratic island within a 24-hour period, movements that came as a Japanese warship cruised through the sensitive Taiwan Strait.

China, which claims democratic Taiwan as part of its territory, sends warplanes, drones and naval vessels around the island nearly every day.

The latest incursions came as Japanese media reported that a Japanese warship sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait for the first time to assert its freedom of navigation.

There was no immediate confirmation from Tokyo of the passage, which media reports said took place on Wednesday following similar journeys by US and European navies in recent years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-unveils-new-144-kmph-kamikaze-drone-heightening-tensions-with-taiwan-761595">Watch |&nbsp;China Unveils New 144 Kmph Kamikaze Drone, Heightening Tensions With Taiwan</a>

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On Thursday, Taiwan's defence ministry said the 43 Chinese military aircraft and eight naval vessels were detected in a 24-hour period ending at 6:00 am (2200 GMT Wednesday).

In a statement, it said: "34 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern and eastern ADIZ (air defence identification zone)."

"We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-hits-back-at-chinese-embassys-criticism-of-wion-interview-711166">Also read |&nbsp;Taiwan hits back at Chinese embassy’s criticism of WION interview</a>

An illustration released by the ministry showed the aircraft surrounding the island except for the northeastern coast.

The record this year came on July 11 when Taipei said it detected 66 Chinese military aircraft in a 24-hour window.&nbsp;

China has said it would never renounce the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, and has ramped up military pressures on the island in recent years.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taiwan said Thursday that 43 Chinese aircraft and eight naval vessels were detected around the democratic island within a 24-hour period, movements that came as a Japanese warship cruised through the sensitive Taiwan Strait.

Taiwan said Thursday that 43 Chinese aircraft and eight naval vessels were detected around the democratic island within a 24-hour period, movements that came as a Japanese warship cruised through the sensitive Taiwan Strait. China, which claims democratic Taiwan as part of its territory, sends warplanes, drones and naval vessels around the island nearly every day. The latest incursions came as Japanese media reported that a Japanese warship sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait for the first time to assert its freedom of navigation. There was no immediate confirmation from Tokyo of the passage, which media reports said took place on Wednesday following similar journeys by US and European navies in recent years. Watch | China Unveils New 144 Kmph Kamikaze Drone, Heightening Tensions With Taiwan × On Thursday, Taiwan's defence ministry said the 43 Chinese military aircraft and eight naval vessels were detected in a 24-hour period ending at 6:00 am (2200 GMT Wednesday). In a statement, it said: "34 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern and eastern ADIZ (air defence identification zone)." "We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly." Also read | Taiwan hits back at Chinese embassy’s criticism of WION interview An illustration released by the ministry showed the aircraft surrounding the island except for the northeastern coast. The record this year came on July 11 when Taipei said it detected 66 Chinese military aircraft in a 24-hour window. China has said it would never renounce the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, and has ramped up military pressures on the island in recent years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China sends 43 aircraft, 8 navy ships around Taiwan in fresh provocation act

China's Deep Blue Aerospace said on Sunday (Sep 22) that its first-of-its-kind reusable kerosene-fuelled rocket, Nebula-1, failed to complete a high-altitude vertical recovery test flight in the country's northern region of Inner Mongolia, crashing at the final stage.

The private rocket startup's spacecraft completed 10 of its 11 tasks, the company said in a statement, with its three thrusters igniting as usual and launching the Nebula-1 high into the sky. Two of its engines then disengaged, as planned, and the rocket began its descent.

But as the Nebula-1 was re-approaching its launch pad, its landing system failed and it touched down too hard, resulting in the rocket's top portion snapping off as it fell to its side and fire damage to its exterior, pictures of the test showed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-space-rocket-blows-up-causes-massive-fireball-736905">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China space rocket blows up, causes massive fireball</a>

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Investors and rocket developers have said alternative fuels such as kerosene, methane and liquid oxygen could help slash costs and enable rockets to be launched in a cleaner and more efficient way.

Several private Chinese rocket startups have tested various spacecraft over the past year, aiming to prepare their products for the increasing demand in China's expanding commercial space industry, amid growing competition to form a constellation of satellites as an alternative to Elon Musk's Starlink.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China's Deep Blue Aerospace said on Sunday (Sep 22) that its first-of-its-kind reusable kerosene-fuelled rocket, Nebula-1, failed to complete a high-altitude vertical recovery test flight in the country's northern region of Inner Mongolia, crashing at the final stage.

China's Deep Blue Aerospace said on Sunday (Sep 22) that its first-of-its-kind reusable kerosene-fuelled rocket, Nebula-1, failed to complete a high-altitude vertical recovery test flight in the country's northern region of Inner Mongolia, crashing at the final stage. The private rocket startup's spacecraft completed 10 of its 11 tasks, the company said in a statement, with its three thrusters igniting as usual and launching the Nebula-1 high into the sky. Two of its engines then disengaged, as planned, and the rocket began its descent. But as the Nebula-1 was re-approaching its launch pad, its landing system failed and it touched down too hard, resulting in the rocket's top portion snapping off as it fell to its side and fire damage to its exterior, pictures of the test showed. Watch | Gravitas: China space rocket blows up, causes massive fireball × Investors and rocket developers have said alternative fuels such as kerosene, methane and liquid oxygen could help slash costs and enable rockets to be launched in a cleaner and more efficient way. Several private Chinese rocket startups have tested various spacecraft over the past year, aiming to prepare their products for the increasing demand in China's expanding commercial space industry, amid growing competition to form a constellation of satellites as an alternative to Elon Musk's Starlink. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China's first-of-its-kind reusable kerosene-powered rocket fails test flight

A couple, married for 7 years, Hansen and his wife Momo, look after six little ones in their apartment in downtown Beijing.

These little ones are not their biological children but six little “fur babies,” or “mao hai zi” in Chinese. The couple refers to them as “our daughters, our sons.”

“They are all part of our family. We are one big family,” said Momo, who only wanted to be referred to by her nickname to avoid any kind of trouble from authorities for stating their opinion on their lifestyle choice, as China is putting effort into enhancing the birth rate.

China’s fast-ageing population and the decrease in the labour force after implementing the one-child policy make the country one of the most expensive places to raise a child, compared with Australia and France, according to a YuWa Population Research Institute study.

After revoking the one-child policy in 2016 and making new measures for birth policy in 2021, the authorities now want couples to produce three children. However, China’s capital Beijing hasn’t been successful in driving up the birth rate.

Many Chinese couples like Hansen, 36, and Momo, 35, prefer to be pet parents instead of having their children.

By 2023, the number of pets in urban China will equal the number of children nationwide. As per this estimate, the country’s pet ownership rate will be higher than the number of dogs and cats in rural areas.

According to the Goldman Sachs evaluation, the changing generation no longer sees marriage as the means to pass the family lineage.

“Different generations value things differently, you know,” said Hansen, who only provided his nickname.

 
Increasing pet economy

In the booming sales of dog and cat food, Goldman Sachs discovered the trend which has become a big concern for Chinese authorities.

The country’s population dropped in 2022, the first drop since 1961 during the famine caused by former leader Mao Zedong’s disastrous plan, the Great Leap Forward.

A year later, China was considered to be the world’s most populated country, surpassing India.

Goldman revealed that China has one of the fastest-growing pet food industries, with sales increasing by an average of 16% between 2017 and 2023, establishing a $7 billion industry.

The industry value is expected to increase up to $12 billion by 2030. From an optimistic point of view, the report added it can exceed up to a $15 billion industry in China in the next six years.

As the report suggests, the number of new births in China is expected to contract at an average annual rate of 4.2% between 2022 and 2030, due to a decline in women in the age group from 20 to 35, as well as the new generation’s changing mindset.

“We expect to see stronger momentum in pet ownership amid a relatively weaker birth rate outlook and higher incremental household pet penetration from the younger generation,” the report added.

Authorities are now promoting parenthood, from giving cash to more parental leave.

China’s population of 1.409 billion last year has been in decline for the last two years, with its birth rate being 6.39 births per 1,000 people, touching the lowest since 1949, the foundation of Communist China.

The changing perspective

Tao, a 38-year-old woman, runs a dog lodge in Beijing. In her opinion, the preference for pets means a profitable business.

In the peak holiday season in China, pet owners are eager to find someone to look after their canines, which starts in October.

“We were almost fully booked for that holiday,” she said.

Tao, who also preferred to be denoted by her nickname, has two dogs and no kids. She knew exactly what lifestyle she wanted to pursue, and that’s what she was living.

“I enjoy my lifestyle. My partner and I travel a lot. I like to go see the world. So, the idea of having kids just wasn’t attractive enough for me,” she said.

She observed that the younger generation’s perspective has changed. “I feel like people start to be more like, ‘This is what I want,’ or ‘This is what I like for my life,’ rather than like, ‘This is what society taught me to do,’ or ‘This is what my parents want me to do,’ ” Tao added.

Stuart Gietel-Basten, a professor of social science and public policy at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, asserted that children and pets together are not uncommon.

The young generational couple is dealing with unemployment and the expectation for women to give up their careers after giving birth.

“If you’re a 20-something in China and you feel the strong need to nurture, it is much easier to get a puppy, kitten, or rabbit than find a partner to get married and have children with,” Gietel-Basten said.

Hansen and Momo, simply enjoy the company of their fur babies.

“We’re not following any trend. We’re not affected by them. It’s just our own choice. I think it’s just that we love dogs,” Hansen said.

 
A couple, married for 7 years, Hansen and his wife Momo, look after six little ones in their apartment in downtown Beijing.

These little ones are not their biological children but six little “fur babies,” or “mao hai zi” in Chinese. The couple refers to them as “our daughters, our sons.”

“They are all part of our family. We are one big family,” said Momo, who only wanted to be referred to by her nickname to avoid any kind of trouble from authorities for stating their opinion on their lifestyle choice, as China is putting effort into enhancing the birth rate.

China’s fast-ageing population and the decrease in the labour force after implementing the one-child policy make the country one of the most expensive places to raise a child, compared with Australia and France, according to a YuWa Population Research Institute study.

After revoking the one-child policy in 2016 and making new measures for birth policy in 2021, the authorities now want couples to produce three children. However, China’s capital Beijing hasn’t been successful in driving up the birth rate.

Many Chinese couples like Hansen, 36, and Momo, 35, prefer to be pet parents instead of having their children.

By 2023, the number of pets in urban China will equal the number of children nationwide. As per this estimate, the country’s pet ownership rate will be higher than the number of dogs and cats in rural areas.

According to the Goldman Sachs evaluation, the changing generation no longer sees marriage as the means to pass the family lineage.

“Different generations value things differently, you know,” said Hansen, who only provided his nickname.

<h2> 
Increasing pet economy</h2>

In the booming sales of dog and cat food, Goldman Sachs discovered the trend which has become a big concern for Chinese authorities.

The country’s population dropped in 2022, the first drop since 1961 during the famine caused by former leader Mao Zedong’s disastrous plan, the Great Leap Forward.

A year later, China was considered to be the world’s most populated country, surpassing India.

Goldman revealed that China has one of the fastest-growing pet food industries, with sales increasing by an average of 16% between 2017 and 2023, establishing a $7 billion industry.

The industry value is expected to increase up to $12 billion by 2030. From an optimistic point of view, the report added it can exceed up to a $15 billion industry in China in the next six years.

As the report suggests, the number of new births in China is expected to contract at an average annual rate of 4.2% between 2022 and 2030, due to a decline in women in the age group from 20 to 35, as well as the new generation’s changing mindset.

“We expect to see stronger momentum in pet ownership amid a relatively weaker birth rate outlook and higher incremental household pet penetration from the younger generation,” the report added.

Authorities are now promoting parenthood, from giving cash to more parental leave.

China’s population of 1.409 billion last year has been in decline for the last two years, with its birth rate being 6.39 births per 1,000 people, touching the lowest since 1949, the foundation of Communist China.

<h2>The changing perspective</h2>

Tao, a 38-year-old woman, runs a dog lodge in Beijing. In her opinion, the preference for pets means a profitable business.

In the peak holiday season in China, pet owners are eager to find someone to look after their canines, which starts in October.

“We were almost fully booked for that holiday,” she said.

Tao, who also preferred to be denoted by her nickname, has two dogs and no kids. She knew exactly what lifestyle she wanted to pursue,&nbsp;that’s what she is&nbsp;living.

“I enjoy my lifestyle. My partner and I travel a lot. I like to go see the world. So, the idea of having kids just wasn’t attractive enough for me,” she said.

She observed that the younger generation’s perspective has changed. “I feel like people start to be more like, ‘This is what I want,’ or ‘This is what I like for my life,’ rather than like, ‘This is what society taught me to do,’ or ‘This is what my parents want me to do,’ ” Tao added.

Stuart Gietel-Basten, a professor of social science and public policy at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, asserted that children and pets together are not uncommon.

The young generational couple is dealing with unemployment and the expectation for women to give up their careers after giving birth.

“If you’re a 20-something in China and you feel the strong need to nurture, it is much easier to get a puppy, kitten, or rabbit than find a partner to get married and have children with,” Gietel-Basten said.

Hansen and Momo, simply enjoy the company of their fur babies.

“We’re not following any trend. We’re not affected by them. It’s just our own choice. I think it’s just that we love dogs,” Hansen said.

A couple, married for 7 years, Hansen and his wife Momo, look after six little ones in their apartment in downtown Beijing. These little ones are not their biological children but six little “fur babies,” or “mao hai zi” in Chinese.

A couple, married for 7 years, Hansen and his wife Momo, look after six little ones in their apartment in downtown Beijing. These little ones are not their biological children but six little “fur babies,” or “mao hai zi” in Chinese. The couple refers to them as “our daughters, our sons.” “They are all part of our family. We are one big family,” said Momo, who only wanted to be referred to by her nickname to avoid any kind of trouble from authorities for stating their opinion on their lifestyle choice, as China is putting effort into enhancing the birth rate. China’s fast-ageing population and the decrease in the labour force after implementing the one-child policy make the country one of the most expensive places to raise a child, compared with Australia and France, according to a YuWa Population Research Institute study. After revoking the one-child policy in 2016 and making new measures for birth policy in 2021, the authorities now want couples to produce three children. However, China’s capital Beijing hasn’t been successful in driving up the birth rate. Many Chinese couples like Hansen, 36, and Momo, 35, prefer to be pet parents instead of having their children. By 2023, the number of pets in urban China will equal the number of children nationwide. As per this estimate, the country’s pet ownership rate will be higher than the number of dogs and cats in rural areas. According to the Goldman Sachs evaluation, the changing generation no longer sees marriage as the means to pass the family lineage. “Different generations value things differently, you know,” said Hansen, who only provided his nickname. Increasing pet economy In the booming sales of dog and cat food, Goldman Sachs discovered the trend which has become a big concern for Chinese authorities. The country’s population dropped in 2022, the first drop since 1961 during the famine caused by former leader Mao Zedong’s disastrous plan, the Great Leap Forward. A year later, China was considered to be the world’s most populated country, surpassing India. Goldman revealed that China has one of the fastest-growing pet food industries, with sales increasing by an average of 16% between 2017 and 2023, establishing a $7 billion industry. The industry value is expected to increase up to $12 billion by 2030. From an optimistic point of view, the report added it can exceed up to a $15 billion industry in China in the next six years. As the report suggests, the number of new births in China is expected to contract at an average annual rate of 4.2% between 2022 and 2030, due to a decline in women in the age group from 20 to 35, as well as the new generation’s changing mindset. “We expect to see stronger momentum in pet ownership amid a relatively weaker birth rate outlook and higher incremental household pet penetration from the younger generation,” the report added. Authorities are now promoting parenthood, from giving cash to more parental leave. China’s population of 1.409 billion last year has been in decline for the last two years, with its birth rate being 6.39 births per 1,000 people, touching the lowest since 1949, the foundation of Communist China. The changing perspective Tao, a 38-year-old woman, runs a dog lodge in Beijing. In her opinion, the preference for pets means a profitable business. In the peak holiday season in China, pet owners are eager to find someone to look after their canines, which starts in October. “We were almost fully booked for that holiday,” she said. Tao, who also preferred to be denoted by her nickname, has two dogs and no kids. She knew exactly what lifestyle she wanted to pursue, and that’s what she was living. “I enjoy my lifestyle. My partner and I travel a lot. I like to go see the world. So, the idea of having kids just wasn’t attractive enough for me,” she said. She observed that the younger generation’s perspective has changed. “I feel like people start to be more like, ‘This is what I want,’ or ‘This is what I like for my life,’ rather than like, ‘This is what society taught me to do,’ or ‘This is what my parents want me to do,’ ” Tao added. Stuart Gietel-Basten, a professor of social science and public policy at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, asserted that children and pets together are not uncommon. The young generational couple is dealing with unemployment and the expectation for women to give up their careers after giving birth. “If you’re a 20-something in China and you feel the strong need to nurture, it is much easier to get a puppy, kitten, or rabbit than find a partner to get married and have children with,” Gietel-Basten said. Hansen and Momo, simply enjoy the company of their fur babies. “We’re not following any trend. We’re not affected by them. It’s just our own choice. I think it’s just that we love dogs,” Hansen said. A couple, married for 7 years, Hansen and his wife Momo, look after six little ones in their apartment in downtown Beijing. These little ones are not their biological children but six little “fur babies,” or “mao hai zi” in Chinese. The couple refers to them as “our daughters, our sons.” “They are all part of our family. We are one big family,” said Momo, who only wanted to be referred to by her nickname to avoid any kind of trouble from authorities for stating their opinion on their lifestyle choice, as China is putting effort into enhancing the birth rate. China’s fast-ageing population and the decrease in the labour force after implementing the one-child policy make the country one of the most expensive places to raise a child, compared with Australia and France, according to a YuWa Population Research Institute study. After revoking the one-child policy in 2016 and making new measures for birth policy in 2021, the authorities now want couples to produce three children. However, China’s capital Beijing hasn’t been successful in driving up the birth rate. Many Chinese couples like Hansen, 36, and Momo, 35, prefer to be pet parents instead of having their children. By 2023, the number of pets in urban China will equal the number of children nationwide. As per this estimate, the country’s pet ownership rate will be higher than the number of dogs and cats in rural areas. According to the Goldman Sachs evaluation, the changing generation no longer sees marriage as the means to pass the family lineage. “Different generations value things differently, you know,” said Hansen, who only provided his nickname. Increasing pet economy In the booming sales of dog and cat food, Goldman Sachs discovered the trend which has become a big concern for Chinese authorities. The country’s population dropped in 2022, the first drop since 1961 during the famine caused by former leader Mao Zedong’s disastrous plan, the Great Leap Forward. A year later, China was considered to be the world’s most populated country, surpassing India. Goldman revealed that China has one of the fastest-growing pet food industries, with sales increasing by an average of 16% between 2017 and 2023, establishing a $7 billion industry. The industry value is expected to increase up to $12 billion by 2030. From an optimistic point of view, the report added it can exceed up to a $15 billion industry in China in the next six years. As the report suggests, the number of new births in China is expected to contract at an average annual rate of 4.2% between 2022 and 2030, due to a decline in women in the age group from 20 to 35, as well as the new generation’s changing mindset. “We expect to see stronger momentum in pet ownership amid a relatively weaker birth rate outlook and higher incremental household pet penetration from the younger generation,” the report added. Authorities are now promoting parenthood, from giving cash to more parental leave. China’s population of 1.409 billion last year has been in decline for the last two years, with its birth rate being 6.39 births per 1,000 people, touching the lowest since 1949, the foundation of Communist China. The changing perspective Tao, a 38-year-old woman, runs a dog lodge in Beijing. In her opinion, the preference for pets means a profitable business. In the peak holiday season in China, pet owners are eager to find someone to look after their canines, which starts in October. “We were almost fully booked for that holiday,” she said. Tao, who also preferred to be denoted by her nickname, has two dogs and no kids. She knew exactly what lifestyle she wanted to pursue, that’s what she is living. “I enjoy my lifestyle. My partner and I travel a lot. I like to go see the world. So, the idea of having kids just wasn’t attractive enough for me,” she said. She observed that the younger generation’s perspective has changed. “I feel like people start to be more like, ‘This is what I want,’ or ‘This is what I like for my life,’ rather than like, ‘This is what society taught me to do,’ or ‘This is what my parents want me to do,’ ” Tao added. Stuart Gietel-Basten, a professor of social science and public policy at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, asserted that children and pets together are not uncommon. The young generational couple is dealing with unemployment and the expectation for women to give up their careers after giving birth. “If you’re a 20-something in China and you feel the strong need to nurture, it is much easier to get a puppy, kitten, or rabbit than find a partner to get married and have children with,” Gietel-Basten said. Hansen and Momo, simply enjoy the company of their fur babies. “We’re not following any trend. We’re not affected by them. It’s just our own choice. I think it’s just that we love dogs,” Hansen said.

China is expected to have more pets than offspring, which has become a headache for Beijing

In a bold move to reclaim its position in the tech world, Huawei has announced a product launch event scheduled for September 10, 2024, at 2 p.m. Beijing time. This strategic timing coincides closely with Apple's highly anticipated unveiling of the iPhone 16, which is set to take place on the morning of September 9 under the promotional theme "It's Glowtime". The announcement was made in a post on Chinese X like service Weibo. 

Richard Yu, the executive responsible for Huawei's consumer and automotive technology divisions, has described the upcoming product as an "epoch-making" innovation as detailed in a report by CNBC. While the exact description of the product remains scarce, Yu's enthusiasm suggests that it could be a game-changer in the tech industry. He emphasised that this product is "leading, innovative, and disruptive," and that it represents a concept that others may have envisioned but could not realise.

Brief history of Huawei Technologies <o:p></o:p>

Huawei Technologies is a Chinese multinational digital communications technology conglomerate corporation headquartered in Bantian, Longgang District, Shenzhen, Guangdong. It designs, develops, manufactures and sells telecommunications equipment, consumer electronics, smart devices and various rooftop solar products. The corporation was founded in 1987 by Ren Zhengfei, a former officer in the People's Liberation Army.

Initially focused on manufacturing phone switches, Huawei has expanded to more than 170 countries to include building telecommunications networks, providing operational and consulting services and equipment, and manufacturing communications devices for the consumer market

It overtook Ericsson in 2012 as the largest telecommunications equipment manufacturer in the world. Huawei surpassed Apple and Samsung, in 2018 and 2020, respectively, to become the largest smartphone manufacturer worldwide. Amidst its rise, Huawei has been accused of intellectual property infringement, for which it has settled with companies like Cisco.

Challenging Apple's dominance in the Chinese market<o:p></o:p>

Huawei's comeback has already posed a serious challenge to Apple in the Chinese market. Recent data indicates that Apple has fallen out of the top five smartphone manufacturers in China during the second quarter of this year, marking a shift in the competitive landscape. Due to intense competition, it is anticipated that the challenges for Apple are going to grow.&nbsp;

Further, the timing of Huawei's launch is not coincidental; it aims to overshadow Apple's announcements and capture the attention of consumers and analysts alike. By hosting the event just hours after Apple's iPhone 16 unveiling, Huawei is making a clear statement about its commitment to innovation and its determination to regain its footing in the tech arena.

Richard Yu's comments on the product highlight Huawei's dedication to advancing technology. He noted that after five years of dedicated investment, Huawei has successfully "turned science fiction into reality." This assertion resonates with the growing anticipation surrounding the reveal, suggesting that the race for technological supremacy between the leading companies is far from over.

Implications for the future<o:p></o:p>

As both companies prepare for their respective launches, the impact on consumer choice and market dynamics remains to be seen. Huawei's determination to innovate and disrupt the market could mark a pivotal moment for the brand. The September launch event is expected to draw significant attention, not only from tech enthusiasts but also from industry analysts who are eager to see how this new product will shape the future of technology.

Therefore, Huawei's decision to launch its product just hours after Apple's iPhone 16 unveiling is a strategic move that underscores the company's ambition to lead in innovation. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that the battle for market share and technological supremacy is intensifying.

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

In a bold move to reclaim its position in the tech world, Huawei has announced a product launch event scheduled for September 10, 2024, at 2 p.m. Beijing time. This strategic timing coincides closely with Apple's highly anticipated unveiling of the iPhone 16, which is set to take place on the morning of September 9 under the promotional theme "It's Glowtime".

In a bold move to reclaim its position in the tech world, Huawei has announced a product launch event scheduled for September 10, 2024, at 2 p.m. Beijing time. This strategic timing coincides closely with Apple's highly anticipated unveiling of the iPhone 16, which is set to take place on the morning of September 9 under the promotional theme "It's Glowtime". The announcement was made in a post on Chinese X like service Weibo. Richard Yu, the executive responsible for Huawei's consumer and automotive technology divisions, has described the upcoming product as an "epoch-making" innovation as detailed in a report by CNBC. While the exact description of the product remains scarce, Yu's enthusiasm suggests that it could be a game-changer in the tech industry. He emphasised that this product is "leading, innovative, and disruptive," and that it represents a concept that others may have envisioned but could not realise. Brief history of Huawei Technologies Huawei Technologies is a Chinese multinational digital communications technology conglomerate corporation headquartered in Bantian, Longgang District, Shenzhen, Guangdong. It designs, develops, manufactures and sells telecommunications equipment, consumer electronics, smart devices and various rooftop solar products. The corporation was founded in 1987 by Ren Zhengfei, a former officer in the People's Liberation Army. Initially focused on manufacturing phone switches, Huawei has expanded to more than 170 countries to include building telecommunications networks, providing operational and consulting services and equipment, and manufacturing communications devices for the consumer market It overtook Ericsson in 2012 as the largest telecommunications equipment manufacturer in the world. Huawei surpassed Apple and Samsung, in 2018 and 2020, respectively, to become the largest smartphone manufacturer worldwide. Amidst its rise, Huawei has been accused of intellectual property infringement, for which it has settled with companies like Cisco. Challenging Apple's dominance in the Chinese market Huawei's comeback has already posed a serious challenge to Apple in the Chinese market. Recent data indicates that Apple has fallen out of the top five smartphone manufacturers in China during the second quarter of this year, marking a shift in the competitive landscape. Due to intense competition, it is anticipated that the challenges for Apple are going to grow. Further, the timing of Huawei's launch is not coincidental; it aims to overshadow Apple's announcements and capture the attention of consumers and analysts alike. By hosting the event just hours after Apple's iPhone 16 unveiling, Huawei is making a clear statement about its commitment to innovation and its determination to regain its footing in the tech arena. Richard Yu's comments on the product highlight Huawei's dedication to advancing technology. He noted that after five years of dedicated investment, Huawei has successfully "turned science fiction into reality." This assertion resonates with the growing anticipation surrounding the reveal, suggesting that the race for technological supremacy between the leading companies is far from over. Implications for the future As both companies prepare for their respective launches, the impact on consumer choice and market dynamics remains to be seen. Huawei's determination to innovate and disrupt the market could mark a pivotal moment for the brand. The September launch event is expected to draw significant attention, not only from tech enthusiasts but also from industry analysts who are eager to see how this new product will shape the future of technology. Therefore, Huawei's decision to launch its product just hours after Apple's iPhone 16 unveiling is a strategic move that underscores the company's ambition to lead in innovation. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that the battle for market share and technological supremacy is intensifying.

Huawei set to unveil groundbreaking product just hours after Apple's iPhone 16 launch

China's&nbsp;most senior uniformed military official,&nbsp;Zhang Youxia, on Thursday (Aug 29), warned the US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan that the White House must stop "military collusion"&nbsp;with Taiwan and stop spreading 'false narratives'.&nbsp;

Zhang is the&nbsp;vice-chair of the powerful Central Military Commission and is the most senior military official to meet a US official from the Biden administration. Sullivan on Thursday concluded a three-day&nbsp;trip to China, which was the first by a White House NSA in eight years.&nbsp;

"China demands that the US halts military collusion with Taiwan, ceases arming Taiwan, and stops spreading false narratives related to Taiwan," the readout from the Chinese side stated.&nbsp;

Zhang warned that the&nbsp;status of the island nation was "the first red line that cannot be crossed in China-US relations".

"China has always been committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," he said.&nbsp;

"But 'Taiwan independence' and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are incompatible."

While Beijing delivered a clear response, the US stressed the importance of stability in the tense Strait.&nbsp;

"Mr&nbsp;Sullivan underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," stated the readout by the White House.&nbsp;

Sullivan also raised the importance of "freedom of navigation" in the South China Sea, where Beijing and Manila have clashed in recent months.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US-China war over Taiwan? Xi Jinping demands 'modern system for military governance' | Details

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-china-war-over-taiwan-xi-jinping-demands-modern-system-for-military-governance-details-623039/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Hellscape strategy</h2>

Zhang's statement also comes in the backdrop of the US military releasing its "Hellscape' strategy in June under which the PLA troops will be stopped from setting foot on Taiwanese land by a swarm of drones.&nbsp;

“I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape,” Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, told The Washington Post in an interview published on June 10.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-plans-to-use-drones-to-blockade-taiwan-after-us-unveils-hellscape-strategy-738679">Also read |&nbsp;China plans to use drones to blockade Taiwan after US unveils 'Hellscape' strategy</a>

China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as a part of its territory. Under President Xi Jinping's leadership, Beijing has not renounced the use of force to bring the island under control.&nbsp;

Apart from meeting Zhang, Sullivan also held a meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi and&nbsp;discussed plans for their leaders to talk in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

Chinese state media reported that Wang issued his own warning to Washington. The diplomat said the US must not use its bilateral treaties to "undermine China's sovereignty".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

China's most senior uniformed military official, Zhang Youxia, on Thursday (Aug 29), warned the US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan that the White House must stop "military collusion" with Taiwan and stop spreading 'false narratives'.

China's most senior uniformed military official, Zhang Youxia, on Thursday (Aug 29), warned the US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan that the White House must stop "military collusion" with Taiwan and stop spreading 'false narratives'. Zhang is the vice-chair of the powerful Central Military Commission and is the most senior military official to meet a US official from the Biden administration. Sullivan on Thursday concluded a three-day trip to China, which was the first by a White House NSA in eight years. "China demands that the US halts military collusion with Taiwan, ceases arming Taiwan, and stops spreading false narratives related to Taiwan," the readout from the Chinese side stated. Zhang warned that the status of the island nation was "the first red line that cannot be crossed in China-US relations". "China has always been committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," he said. "But 'Taiwan independence' and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are incompatible." While Beijing delivered a clear response, the US stressed the importance of stability in the tense Strait. "Mr Sullivan underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," stated the readout by the White House. Sullivan also raised the importance of "freedom of navigation" in the South China Sea, where Beijing and Manila have clashed in recent months. Also watch | US-China war over Taiwan? Xi Jinping demands 'modern system for military governance' | Details Hellscape strategy Zhang's statement also comes in the backdrop of the US military releasing its "Hellscape' strategy in June under which the PLA troops will be stopped from setting foot on Taiwanese land by a swarm of drones. “I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape,” Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, told The Washington Post in an interview published on June 10. Also read | China plans to use drones to blockade Taiwan after US unveils 'Hellscape' strategy China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as a part of its territory. Under President Xi Jinping's leadership, Beijing has not renounced the use of force to bring the island under control. Apart from meeting Zhang, Sullivan also held a meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi and discussed plans for their leaders to talk in the coming weeks. Chinese state media reported that Wang issued his own warning to Washington. The diplomat said the US must not use its bilateral treaties to "undermine China's sovereignty". (With inputs from agencies)

'Stop spreading false narratives': China warns Sullivan to stop colluding with Taiwan during Beijing visit

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a spike in terror attacks in recent weeks and during these operations' security forces have recovered arms and ammunition along with communication devices from various parts of the Union Territory. Security forces have recently recovered Chinese-made telecommunication equipment from the terrorists in Jammu Kashmir. These devices are meant for the Pakistan Army but are being recovered from the terror groups in Jammu Kashmir.

In recent recoveries made by the security forces, highly encrypted Chinese telecom gear known as "Ultra Set" mostly used by the Pakistan Army was recovered from the terrorists. Jammu and Kashmir Police's DGP recently said that there are around 70-80 foreign terrorists active in the Union Territory and most of them had recently infiltrated. This clearly indicates that these terror groups are hand in glove with the Pakistan Army.

The Chinese equipment has been often recovered by the security forces in the Kashmir Valley from the terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir. In a recent hideout bust in North Kashmir, Sources in the security forces said that they had recovered the 'Ultra Set' handsets from the operation site while after the recent attacks in Jammu, the forces also recovered it from the terrorists in the area.

These Chinese-made "Ultra Set" handsets, mostly combine cell-phone capabilities with specialised radio equipment that does not rely on traditional mobile technologies like Global System for Mobile (GSM) or Code-Division Multiple Access (CDMA). "Ultra Set" handsets work on radio waves for message transmission and reception, with each "Ultra Set" linked to a control station located across the border. Sources say that Chinese satellites are used to carry these messages which are compressed to bytes from the handset to the master server in Pakistan for its onward transmission.

Recovery of this equipment from the terror groups also indicates the support that the Chinese government is providing to Pakistan, which eventually lands up in the hands of these terror groups. This also comes in the backdrop of China Pakistan meeting regarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The 3rd round of the Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) of Political Parties on CPEC and the Pakistan-China Political Parties Forum was held in Islamabad. In the meeting, Both China and Pakistan reaffirmed the salience of CPEC and pledged to make joint efforts for its up-gradation and for further strengthening the Pakistan-China All-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a spike in terror attacks in recent weeks and during these operations' security forces have recovered arms and ammunition along with communication devices from various parts of the Union Territory.

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a spike in terror attacks in recent weeks and during these operations' security forces have recovered arms and ammunition along with communication devices from various parts of the Union Territory. Security forces have recently recovered Chinese-made telecommunication equipment from the terrorists in Jammu Kashmir. These devices are meant for the Pakistan Army but are being recovered from the terror groups in Jammu Kashmir. In recent recoveries made by the security forces, highly encrypted Chinese telecom gear known as "Ultra Set" mostly used by the Pakistan Army was recovered from the terrorists. Jammu and Kashmir Police's DGP recently said that there are around 70-80 foreign terrorists active in the Union Territory and most of them had recently infiltrated. This clearly indicates that these terror groups are hand in glove with the Pakistan Army. The Chinese equipment has been often recovered by the security forces in the Kashmir Valley from the terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir. In a recent hideout bust in North Kashmir, Sources in the security forces said that they had recovered the 'Ultra Set' handsets from the operation site while after the recent attacks in Jammu, the forces also recovered it from the terrorists in the area. These Chinese-made "Ultra Set" handsets, mostly combine cell-phone capabilities with specialised radio equipment that does not rely on traditional mobile technologies like Global System for Mobile (GSM) or Code-Division Multiple Access (CDMA). "Ultra Set" handsets work on radio waves for message transmission and reception, with each "Ultra Set" linked to a control station located across the border. Sources say that Chinese satellites are used to carry these messages which are compressed to bytes from the handset to the master server in Pakistan for its onward transmission. Recovery of this equipment from the terror groups also indicates the support that the Chinese government is providing to Pakistan, which eventually lands up in the hands of these terror groups. This also comes in the backdrop of China Pakistan meeting regarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The 3rd round of the Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) of Political Parties on CPEC and the Pakistan-China Political Parties Forum was held in Islamabad. In the meeting, Both China and Pakistan reaffirmed the salience of CPEC and pledged to make joint efforts for its up-gradation and for further strengthening the Pakistan-China All-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

Forces in JK recover Chinese-made telecommunications equipment from terrorists

A military history enthusiast in China grabbed headlines after he revealed that four discarded books at a neighborhood recycling station he had bought for less than $1 mostly included confidential military documents.

The country’s Ministry of State Security took to its official social media account on Thursday (June 13), heaping praises on the retired man for reporting the incident.&nbsp;

It identified the man as Zhang, his family name, without sharing details on what the document was about.

“Mr Zhang thought to himself that he had ‘bought’ the country’s military secrets and brought them home,” the post reads, “but if someone with ulterior motives were to buy them, the consequences would be unimaginable!”

The social media post, reposted by at least two renowned Chinese news websites, was the latest in a series of posts in an attempt to draw new audiences with dramatic stories. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/major-left-wing-parties-in-france-form-popular-front-to-challenge-macron-in-snap-polls-731777">Major left-wing parties in France form 'Popular Front' to challenge Macron in snap polls</a>

The campaign reportedly has been created to raise awareness about the significance of national security.

This comes during the time when confrontation with the United States has intensified and theft or transfer of confidential and secret information is a matter of concern for both the countries.

The post describes Zhang as someone who loves to collect military newspapers and periodicals. It said that he bought the books at the recycling station for 6 yuan (about 85 cents).

State security agents immediately rushed to the station after Zhang reported the incident, said the post.

After the probe, it was found out that two military employees who were charged with shredding over 200 books, sold them off at a recycling centre as paper waste.

The agents reportedly seized the books and the military has closed loopholes in the handling of such material.

(With inputs from agencies)

A military history enthusiast in China grabbed headlines after he revealed that four discarded books at a neighborhood recycling station he had bought for less than $1 mostly included confidential military documents.

A military history enthusiast in China grabbed headlines after he revealed that four discarded books at a neighborhood recycling station he had bought for less than $1 mostly included confidential military documents. The country’s Ministry of State Security took to its official social media account on Thursday (June 13), heaping praises on the retired man for reporting the incident. It identified the man as Zhang, his family name, without sharing details on what the document was about. “Mr Zhang thought to himself that he had ‘bought’ the country’s military secrets and brought them home,” the post reads, “but if someone with ulterior motives were to buy them, the consequences would be unimaginable!” The social media post, reposted by at least two renowned Chinese news websites, was the latest in a series of posts in an attempt to draw new audiences with dramatic stories. Also read: Major left-wing parties in France form 'Popular Front' to challenge Macron in snap polls The campaign reportedly has been created to raise awareness about the significance of national security. This comes during the time when confrontation with the United States has intensified and theft or transfer of confidential and secret information is a matter of concern for both the countries. The post describes Zhang as someone who loves to collect military newspapers and periodicals. It said that he bought the books at the recycling station for 6 yuan (about 85 cents). State security agents immediately rushed to the station after Zhang reported the incident, said the post. After the probe, it was found out that two military employees who were charged with shredding over 200 books, sold them off at a recycling centre as paper waste. The agents reportedly seized the books and the military has closed loopholes in the handling of such material. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese military history enthusiast buys books including confidential military documents

Apple is running a big sale on its official Tmall site in China, slashing prices by up to $318 on certain iPhone models.

This move is aimed at keeping Apple competitive in the high-end smartphone market, particularly against local competitors like Huawei.

The sale runs from May 20 to May 28 and offers bigger discounts compared to Apple's previous sale in February.

Back then, the highest discount was $159, but this time it's a whopping $318. The biggest price cut is for the 1TB iPhone 15 Pro Max, but other models also have significant discounts.

For example, the 128GB version of the base iPhone 15 model is now $193.48 cheaper, as per Reuters' checks on Monday.

The increased competition from Huawei's new Pura 70 series, launched after the Mate 60 series, has pushed Apple to get more aggressive with pricing to protect its market share.

Apple's February sales had a positive impact, as it helped offset a sales slowdown.

Reuters' analysis of data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) shows that Apple's shipments in China surged by 12 per cent in March, a significant rebound from a 37 per cent decline in sales during the first two months of 2024.

By offering these big discounts, Apple hopes to attract more customers and boost its sales in the tough Chinese market.

It'll be interesting to see how this strategy plays out as Apple deals with competition from both local and global rivals.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Apple is running a big sale on its official Tmall site in China, slashing prices by up to $318 on certain iPhone models. This move is aimed at keeping Apple competitive in the high-end smartphone market, particularly against local competitors like Huawei.

Apple is running a big sale on its official Tmall site in China, slashing prices by up to $318 on certain iPhone models. This move is aimed at keeping Apple competitive in the high-end smartphone market, particularly against local competitors like Huawei. The sale runs from May 20 to May 28 and offers bigger discounts compared to Apple's previous sale in February. Back then, the highest discount was $159, but this time it's a whopping $318. The biggest price cut is for the 1TB iPhone 15 Pro Max, but other models also have significant discounts. For example, the 128GB version of the base iPhone 15 model is now $193.48 cheaper, as per Reuters' checks on Monday. The increased competition from Huawei's new Pura 70 series, launched after the Mate 60 series, has pushed Apple to get more aggressive with pricing to protect its market share. Apple's February sales had a positive impact, as it helped offset a sales slowdown. Reuters' analysis of data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) shows that Apple's shipments in China surged by 12 per cent in March, a significant rebound from a 37 per cent decline in sales during the first two months of 2024. By offering these big discounts, Apple hopes to attract more customers and boost its sales in the tough Chinese market. It'll be interesting to see how this strategy plays out as Apple deals with competition from both local and global rivals. (With inputs from Reuters)

Apple launches aggressive discount campaign on Tmall in China

China said on Monday (May 20) it would sanction three US defence companies over their sales of arms to Taiwan, as the self-ruled island inaugurated a new president.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced that it will add three US companies—General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, General Dynamics Land Systems, and Boeing Defense, Space &amp; Security—to its list of "unreliable entities."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-drone-searching-for-raisis-plane-finds-heat-source-could-be-aircrafts-debris-723214">Rescue teams spot helicopter carrying Iran's President Raisi: Official</a>

"They will be barred from engaging in China-related import or export activities, and are forbidden to make new investments in China," the state-run Xinhua news agency said.

"The move also bars top executives from setting foot in China, revoking their work permits and any existing visas," it further stated.

China’s announcement came as Lai Ching-te was sworn in on Monday as president of the democratic island.

It is worth mentioning here, China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has branded 64-year-old Lai a dangerous separatist who will bring war and decline to the island.

Despite switching diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979, the United States remains Taiwan's strongest international partner and primary source of military equipment.&nbsp;

Last month, the US approved a significant military aid package for Taiwan, including $1.9 billion to bolster its defenses.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-deploy-47-rescue-specialists-helicopter-after-raisis-aircraft-crashes-723207">Russia to deploy 47 rescuers, helicopter after Raisi's aircraft crashes</a>

Beijing fumed over the package, warned it would increase the risk of conflict along the strait.

<h2>Antony Blinken congratulates Taiwan's newly inaugurated President</h2>

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated Taiwan's newly inaugurated President Lai Ching-te, saying he looked forward to Washington and Taipei deepening ties and maintaining "peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait."

"We also congratulate the Taiwan people for once again demonstrating the strength of their robust and resilient democratic system," Blinken said in a statement.

<h2>Taiwan's new president&nbsp;Lai Ching-te</h2>

Lai Ching-te on Monday (May 20) sworn in as Taiwan's new president on Monday (May 20).&nbsp;After taking office, Lai, who is seen as a moderate figure, called on China to 'cease political and military intimidation'.

Vice President Hsia Bi-khim also took an oath in front of Sun Yat-Sen portrait, founding father of the Republic of China (ROC), as Taiwan has been known officially.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

China said on Monday (May 20) it would sanction three US defence companies over their sales of arms to Taiwan, as the self-ruled island inaugurated a new president.

China said on Monday (May 20) it would sanction three US defence companies over their sales of arms to Taiwan, as the self-ruled island inaugurated a new president. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced that it will add three US companies—General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, General Dynamics Land Systems, and Boeing Defense, Space & Security—to its list of "unreliable entities." Also read: Rescue teams spot helicopter carrying Iran's President Raisi: Official "They will be barred from engaging in China-related import or export activities, and are forbidden to make new investments in China," the state-run Xinhua news agency said. "The move also bars top executives from setting foot in China, revoking their work permits and any existing visas," it further stated. China’s announcement came as Lai Ching-te was sworn in on Monday as president of the democratic island. It is worth mentioning here, China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has branded 64-year-old Lai a dangerous separatist who will bring war and decline to the island. Despite switching diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979, the United States remains Taiwan's strongest international partner and primary source of military equipment. Last month, the US approved a significant military aid package for Taiwan, including $1.9 billion to bolster its defenses. Also read: Russia to deploy 47 rescuers, helicopter after Raisi's aircraft crashes Beijing fumed over the package, warned it would increase the risk of conflict along the strait. Antony Blinken congratulates Taiwan's newly inaugurated President Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated Taiwan's newly inaugurated President Lai Ching-te, saying he looked forward to Washington and Taipei deepening ties and maintaining "peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait." "We also congratulate the Taiwan people for once again demonstrating the strength of their robust and resilient democratic system," Blinken said in a statement. Taiwan's new president Lai Ching-te Lai Ching-te on Monday (May 20) sworn in as Taiwan's new president on Monday (May 20). After taking office, Lai, who is seen as a moderate figure, called on China to 'cease political and military intimidation'. Vice President Hsia Bi-khim also took an oath in front of Sun Yat-Sen portrait, founding father of the Republic of China (ROC), as Taiwan has been known officially. (With inputs from agencies)

China sanctions US defence companies selling arms to Taiwan

China on Friday (May 3) successfully launched its historic mission to collect rocks and soil from the far side of the Moon, becoming the first country to make such an ambitious attempt.&nbsp;

<h2>About the launch of&nbsp;Chang’e-6 probe</h2>

The Long March-5, China’s largest rocket, successfully launched carrying the Chang’e-6 probe, which weighs more than eight metric tonnes, from the Wenchang Space Launch Centre, on the southern island of Hainan, at around 5:27 pm (local time), announced the China National Space Administration (CNSA).&nbsp;

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🎉Congratulations to the successful moon shot launch of Chang’e 6 lunar probe! Looking forward to collecting humankind’s first-ever lunar soil from the far side of the moon! 🌖 Long March 5 Launch video: <a href="https://t.co/Oxx3ZQ1CvC">https://t.co/Oxx3ZQ1CvC</a> <a href="https://t.co/nohTUB6xPc">pic.twitter.com/nohTUB6xPc</a>
— CNSA Watcher (@CNSAWatcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/CNSAWatcher/status/1786330703803920883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The launch was attended by scientists, diplomats and space agency officials from France, Italy, Pakistan, and the European Space Agency (ESA), all of which have Moon-studying payloads aboard the rocket.&nbsp;

“It is a bit of a mystery to us how China has been able to develop such an ambitious and successful programme in such a short time,” said Pierre-Yves Meslin, a French researcher working on one of the scientific objectives of the Chang’e-6 mission, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

Notably, no United States-based organisations applied to get a payload spot, said Ge Ping, deputy director of the CNSA’s Lunar Exploration and Space Programme.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-set-to-launch-lunar-probe-change-6-with-pakistans-satellite-on-board-717525">China set to launch lunar probe Chang'e-6 with Pakistan's satellite on board</a>

This is because Beijing is banned by American law from any collaboration with the US space agency NASA.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Chang’e-6&nbsp;mission about?</h2>

Chang’e-6 is tasked with landing in the South Pole-Aitken Basin on the far side of the Moon, which faces away from Earth, to retrieve samples.&nbsp;

The mission’s goal is to collect two kilogrammes of soil and rocks from the landing site and bring them back to Earth for detailed analysis.&nbsp;

“The far side of the moon has a mystique perhaps because we literally can’t see it, we have never seen it apart from with robotic probes or the very few number of humans that have been around the other side,” said Neil Melville-Kenney, a technical officer at ESA working with Chinese researchers on one of the Chang’e-6 payloads, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/change-6-missions-experimental-satellites-beam-back-eerie-image-of-moon-and-earth-714096">Crater-filled Moon and faint Earth in the background: Chinese satellites beam eerie image from space</a>

The Chinese spacecraft will rely on the relay satellite that has been recently deployed and in its 53-day mission is orbiting the Moon.

Once the probe separates from the rocket it will take around four to five days to reach the Moon and is expected to land on the far side of the lunar surface in June.&nbsp;

The probe – named after the Chinese Moon goddess – will then spend around two days digging up the samples before it makes its journey back to Earth, where it is expected to land in Inner Mongolia.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Friday (May 3) successfully launched its historic mission to collect rocks and soil from the far side of the Moon, becoming the first country to make such an ambitious attempt.

China on Friday (May 3) successfully launched its historic mission to collect rocks and soil from the far side of the Moon, becoming the first country to make such an ambitious attempt. About the launch of Chang’e-6 probe The Long March-5, China’s largest rocket, successfully launched carrying the Chang’e-6 probe, which weighs more than eight metric tonnes, from the Wenchang Space Launch Centre, on the southern island of Hainan, at around 5:27 pm (local time), announced the China National Space Administration (CNSA). 🎉Congratulations to the successful moon shot launch of Chang’e 6 lunar probe! Looking forward to collecting humankind’s first-ever lunar soil from the far side of the moon! 🌖 Long March 5 Launch video: https://t.co/Oxx3ZQ1CvC pic.twitter.com/nohTUB6xPc — CNSA Watcher (@CNSAWatcher) May 3, 2024 × The launch was attended by scientists, diplomats and space agency officials from France, Italy, Pakistan, and the European Space Agency (ESA), all of which have Moon-studying payloads aboard the rocket. “It is a bit of a mystery to us how China has been able to develop such an ambitious and successful programme in such a short time,” said Pierre-Yves Meslin, a French researcher working on one of the scientific objectives of the Chang’e-6 mission, as quoted by Reuters. Notably, no United States-based organisations applied to get a payload spot, said Ge Ping, deputy director of the CNSA’s Lunar Exploration and Space Programme. Also Read | China set to launch lunar probe Chang'e-6 with Pakistan's satellite on board This is because Beijing is banned by American law from any collaboration with the US space agency NASA. What is the Chang’e-6 mission about? Chang’e-6 is tasked with landing in the South Pole-Aitken Basin on the far side of the Moon, which faces away from Earth, to retrieve samples. The mission’s goal is to collect two kilogrammes of soil and rocks from the landing site and bring them back to Earth for detailed analysis. “The far side of the moon has a mystique perhaps because we literally can’t see it, we have never seen it apart from with robotic probes or the very few number of humans that have been around the other side,” said Neil Melville-Kenney, a technical officer at ESA working with Chinese researchers on one of the Chang’e-6 payloads, as quoted by Reuters. Also Read | Crater-filled Moon and faint Earth in the background: Chinese satellites beam eerie image from space The Chinese spacecraft will rely on the relay satellite that has been recently deployed and in its 53-day mission is orbiting the Moon. Once the probe separates from the rocket it will take around four to five days to reach the Moon and is expected to land on the far side of the lunar surface in June. The probe – named after the Chinese Moon goddess – will then spend around two days digging up the samples before it makes its journey back to Earth, where it is expected to land in Inner Mongolia. (With inputs from agencies)

Chang’e-6: China launches historic mission to collect samples from far side of the Moon

The Philippines summoned a Chinese diplomat on Thursday (May 2) to protest Beijing's use of water cannons against Filipino vessels at a shoal in the South China Sea.

The Philippines lodged its strongest protest yet this year, summoning a senior Chinese diplomat over repeated actions by China's coast guard and fishing vessels, which the Philippines claims are actually maritime militia.

"The Philippines protested the harassment, ramming, swarming, shadowing and blocking, dangerous manoeuvres, use of water cannons, and other aggressive actions of China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia," it said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-china-sea-philippines-accuses-chinese-coast-guard-of-using-brute-force-717004" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-china-sea-philippines-accuses-chinese-coast-guard-of-using-brute-force-717004&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivw-GBm-6FAxVlsVYBHQtpDP0QFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2UCu6m1CJiKpd-o8E1L7xx&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-china-sea-philippines-accuses-chinese-coast-guard-of-using-brute-force-717004" target="_blank">Philippines accuses&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;coast guard of using brute force</a>

The Philippines has accused China of elevating tensions in the South China Sea after its coast guard used water cannons and damaged two of its vessels&nbsp;en route to the Scarborough shoal on Tuesday (May 30).

It is worth mentioning that shoal, which has been occupied by China for more than a decade, has been a flashpoint between the Philippines and China on and off for years.&nbsp;

A prime fishing patch used by several countries and close to major shipping lanes, the shoal falls inside the Philippines' exclusive economic zone and is claimed by China, though no country has sovereignty over it.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-china-sea-philippines-slams-china-for-stirring-up-trouble-697395" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/south-china-sea-philippines-slams-china-for-stirring-up-trouble-697395&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivw-GBm-6FAxVlsVYBHQtpDP0QFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3x0KLmLXi5cvwGcN2czIHq&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-china-sea-philippines-slams-china-for-stirring-up-trouble-697395" target="_blank">South China Sea: Philippines slams China for 'stirring up trouble'</a>

China's embassy in Manila on Wednesday said the atoll had always been China's territory and urged the Philippines to cease infringements and provocations. China claims sovereignty over much of the South China Sea, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippines summoned a Chinese diplomat on Thursday (May 2) to protest Beijing's use of water cannons against Filipino vessels at a shoal in the South China Sea.

The Philippines summoned a Chinese diplomat on Thursday (May 2) to protest Beijing's use of water cannons against Filipino vessels at a shoal in the South China Sea. The Philippines lodged its strongest protest yet this year, summoning a senior Chinese diplomat over repeated actions by China's coast guard and fishing vessels, which the Philippines claims are actually maritime militia. "The Philippines protested the harassment, ramming, swarming, shadowing and blocking, dangerous manoeuvres, use of water cannons, and other aggressive actions of China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia," it said in a statement. Also read: Philippines accuses Chinese coast guard of using brute force The Philippines has accused China of elevating tensions in the South China Sea after its coast guard used water cannons and damaged two of its vessels en route to the Scarborough shoal on Tuesday (May 30). It is worth mentioning that shoal, which has been occupied by China for more than a decade, has been a flashpoint between the Philippines and China on and off for years. A prime fishing patch used by several countries and close to major shipping lanes, the shoal falls inside the Philippines' exclusive economic zone and is claimed by China, though no country has sovereignty over it. Also read: South China Sea: Philippines slams China for 'stirring up trouble' China's embassy in Manila on Wednesday said the atoll had always been China's territory and urged the Philippines to cease infringements and provocations. China claims sovereignty over much of the South China Sea, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. (With inputs from agencies)

Tensions rise in South China sea: Philippines summons Chinese diplomat over water cannon incident

In a bid to de-escalate tensions in the West Asian region, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi and urged Beijing to assert its influence to dissuade Iran from launching an offensive against Israel.

Wang further urged the United States to play “a constructive role” in the Middle East during the telephonic conversation, the US State Department released a statement saying.

After the phone call, China said that Wang also expressed China's "condemnation" of the strike on an Iranian consulate building in Syria's Damascus.

“China will continue to play a constructive role in the resolution of the Middle East issue… and contribute to cooling down the situation,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said as per The Times Of Israel report.

“The United States side in particular should play a constructive role.”

<h2>Blinken speaks to Turkish, Chinese, Saudi Arabian counterparts&nbsp;</h2>

Blinken also spoke to his Turkish, Chinese and Saudi Arabian counterparts emphasizing that escalation in the Middle East is not in anyone's interest, said the US State Department said on Thursday (Apr 11).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-advised-not-to-travel-to-iran-and-israel-till-further-notice-710555">Middle East crisis: Indians advised not to travel to Iran and Israel</a>

"He (Secretary of State Antony Blinken) talked to the Turkish foreign minister last night. He talked to Wang Yi this morning and then early this morning then talked to the Saudi foreign minister later this morning," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a regular news briefing.

"We have been engaged in a series of contacts, not just to his level, but other levels, too, to talk to foreign counterparts, to send this very clear message to Iran that they should not escalate this conflict," he said.

Escalation of conflict in Middle East

This comes after the United States issued concerns saying that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. US-based media outlets claimed that the strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel.&nbsp;

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant also said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. "A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office.&nbsp;

Tehran has already issued a warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to de-escalate tensions in the West Asian region, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi and urged Beijing to assert its influence to dissuade Iran from launching an offensive against Israel.

In a bid to de-escalate tensions in the West Asian region, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi and urged Beijing to assert its influence to dissuade Iran from launching an offensive against Israel. Wang further urged the United States to play “a constructive role” in the Middle East during the telephonic conversation, the US State Department released a statement saying. After the phone call, China said that Wang also expressed China's "condemnation" of the strike on an Iranian consulate building in Syria's Damascus. “China will continue to play a constructive role in the resolution of the Middle East issue… and contribute to cooling down the situation,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said as per The Times Of Israel report. “The United States side in particular should play a constructive role.” Blinken speaks to Turkish, Chinese, Saudi Arabian counterparts Blinken also spoke to his Turkish, Chinese and Saudi Arabian counterparts emphasizing that escalation in the Middle East is not in anyone's interest, said the US State Department said on Thursday (Apr 11). Also read: Middle East crisis: Indians advised not to travel to Iran and Israel "He (Secretary of State Antony Blinken) talked to the Turkish foreign minister last night. He talked to Wang Yi this morning and then early this morning then talked to the Saudi foreign minister later this morning," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a regular news briefing. "We have been engaged in a series of contacts, not just to his level, but other levels, too, to talk to foreign counterparts, to send this very clear message to Iran that they should not escalate this conflict," he said. Escalation of conflict in Middle East This comes after the United States issued concerns saying that an Iranian attack on Israel is imminent. US-based media outlets claimed that the strike could involve high-precision missile and drone attacks at military and government sites in Israel. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant also said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. "A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office. Tehran has already issued a warning as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week that Israel "must be punished and it shall be" for attacking the Iranian embassy compound in Syria. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis: Blinken asks China to assert influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel

A hotpot eatery entrepreneur in China has taken things to the next level amid debates and discussions over AI or artificial intelligence's ability to replace human jobs.

A hotpot eatery entrepreneur in China has taken things to the next level amid debates and discussions over AI or artificial intelligence's ability to replace human jobs. The restaurant owner in Chongqing municipality in southwestern China has gone viral for her innovative impersonation of a robot waitress. She has become an online sensation for her unique performance, where she acts like a robot to serve customers. In one of the videos, she serves a dish to a table set with a spicy hotpot soup base, duck intestines, ham and vegetables. Many viewers are confused and think that she is a real robot because of her mechanical waving to greet guests at the entrance, and the way she serves dishes, pours tea, and makes toasts in a robotic style. People are stunned by her ability to keep her eyes still as she does these activities. Some sharp viewers noticed subtle details, distinguishing her from a real robot, like blackheads and slight movement of nostrils. The restaurant owner is a 26-year-old, surnamed Qin, Jiupai News reported. She has been passionate about dance since childhood and underwent professional training when she was 12. ALSO READ | China's consumer prices rise for second consecutive month, factory deflation continues According to her, the rhythmic and mechanical movements resemble the beats of street dance, making the task easier for her. Qin said, "Eye expressions are definitely acted, but the moves rely on muscle control. When customers or friends come to the restaurant, we dance together. By chance, they thought my impersonation was very realistic and recorded a video of me, which was then uploaded online. It's about having fun using my talents and adding a unique feature to the restaurant." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Balakrishnan R (@balakrishnanrbk) × While many visitors were delighted by her performance, several people have expressed the desire to experience the service live. "I was fooled at first, thinking it was a real robot," said one person. Another added, "I laughed so hard at this video! I'll go to this hotpot restaurant just to see the business owner." The videos reposted on Facebook have garnered around 50,000 likes and international attention. A viewer commented, "I love creativity!" Another added, "It's unbelievable. She didn't even blink. That is almost impossible to do." (With inputs from agencies)

'Is she really a robot?': China restaurant owner stuns customers with robotic moves, becomes online sensation

United States President Joe Biden is set to warn China this week over its growing belligerent movements in the South China Sea during his scheduled summits with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

According to the Financial Times report, two high-ranking US officials said that Biden is expected to voice grave concerns over the ongoing situation surrounding the Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed submerged reef within the Spratly Islands.

The officials stated that Biden would emphasise that the Sierra Madre is covered under the US-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty and that the US president expressed “deep concern” when he had a telephonic conversation with Xi last week.

“China is underestimating the potential for escalation. We’ve tried to make that clear in a series of conversations . . . that our mutual defence treaty covers Philippine sailors and ships and by extension . . . the Sierra Madre,” the Financial Times quoted one of the officials as saying.

“China needs to examine its tactics or risk some serious blowback,” they added.&nbsp;

Biden held his first direct talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, since their meeting in November, where the US president emphasised "the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the rule of law and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea," the White House said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-vows-countermeasures-against-attacks-by-chinese-coastguard-will-not-be-cowed-into-silence-705371">Also read: Philippines vows countermeasures against attacks by Chinese coastguard; 'will not be cowed into silence'</a>

Xi, after the phone call, stated that the diplomatic ties between the United States and China have started to stabilise. However, he also warned that there were chances that both countries could "slide into conflict or confrontation," as per China's official Xinhua news agency.

<h2>Beijing patrols the South China Sea</h2>

Meanwhile, China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia.&nbsp;

“The Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army will conduct a joint air and sea combat patrol in the South China Sea on April 7,” said Southern Theatre Command in a surprising announcement on its WeChat account, on Sunday morning.&nbsp;

The statement indicated that the patrols were conducted in response to the joint naval exercises by the US and its allies in the South China Sea. The PLA, in its brief statement, added “All military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and create hotspots are under control.”

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden is set to warn China this week over its growing belligerent movements in the South China Sea during his scheduled summits with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

United States President Joe Biden is set to warn China this week over its growing belligerent movements in the South China Sea during his scheduled summits with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. According to the Financial Times report, two high-ranking US officials said that Biden is expected to voice grave concerns over the ongoing situation surrounding the Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed submerged reef within the Spratly Islands. The officials stated that Biden would emphasise that the Sierra Madre is covered under the US-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty and that the US president expressed “deep concern” when he had a telephonic conversation with Xi last week. “China is underestimating the potential for escalation. We’ve tried to make that clear in a series of conversations . . . that our mutual defence treaty covers Philippine sailors and ships and by extension . . . the Sierra Madre,” the Financial Times quoted one of the officials as saying. “China needs to examine its tactics or risk some serious blowback,” they added. Biden held his first direct talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, since their meeting in November, where the US president emphasised "the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the rule of law and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea," the White House said in a statement. Also read: Philippines vows countermeasures against attacks by Chinese coastguard; 'will not be cowed into silence' Xi, after the phone call, stated that the diplomatic ties between the United States and China have started to stabilise. However, he also warned that there were chances that both countries could "slide into conflict or confrontation," as per China's official Xinhua news agency. Beijing patrols the South China Sea Meanwhile, China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia. “The Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army will conduct a joint air and sea combat patrol in the South China Sea on April 7,” said Southern Theatre Command in a surprising announcement on its WeChat account, on Sunday morning. The statement indicated that the patrols were conducted in response to the joint naval exercises by the US and its allies in the South China Sea. The PLA, in its brief statement, added “All military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and create hotspots are under control.” (With inputs from agencies)

Biden set to issue warning to China over its increasing belligerence in South China Sea

A 20-year-old Chinese man, diagnosed with a rare condition called delusional love disorder, has taken the internet by storm.

According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reports, second-year university student Liu strongly believed that all the women in his class fancied him.

With the passage of time, as his condition worsened, he started exhibiting "bold displays of love" in an inappropriate manner for his fellow female classmates.

The symptoms of this rare condition were detected in Liu in Feb 2024 and have deteriorated since then, reported SCMP.

Hailing from eastern China's Jiangsu province, Liu told Dr Lu Zhenjiao from Huai’an No. 3 People’s Hospital that "all the girls in school like me," as per SCMP.

The doctor revealed that Liu thought he was the "best-looking guy in the whole university".

“He (Liu) has brought much trouble to many of his schoolmates,” he added.

The outlet said that the women in his class refused his advances, but he still thought they were too shy to accept his affection.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/trees-to-reveal-clues-for-dangerous-solar-storms-by-measuring-radiocarbon-spike-708115">Trees to reveal clues of largest solar storm to have hit Earth</a>

<h2>Other symptoms displayed by Liu</h2>

Apart from this, other symptoms displayed by Liu included being excited all the time and a constant change in his behaviour.

He stayed up all night, spent money lavishly and also was distracted during classes. After this, he was sent to the hospital where the doctors diagnosed him with delusional love disorder.

Dr Lu, elucidating on the causes of the disorder said that they are mostly seen from March to April as the change in weather during the period leads to “fluctuation of endocrine levels in the body”.&nbsp;

He said that people suffering from the condition experience sleep loss and also get hyper.

“In more extreme cases, patients can become enraged and attack people,” Lu said as per SCMP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 20-year-old Chinese man, diagnosed with a rare condition called delusional love disorder, has taken the internet by storm. According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reports, second-year university student Liu strongly believed that all the women in his class fancied him.

A 20-year-old Chinese man, diagnosed with a rare condition called delusional love disorder, has taken the internet by storm. According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reports, second-year university student Liu strongly believed that all the women in his class fancied him. With the passage of time, as his condition worsened, he started exhibiting "bold displays of love" in an inappropriate manner for his fellow female classmates. The symptoms of this rare condition were detected in Liu in Feb 2024 and have deteriorated since then, reported SCMP. Hailing from eastern China's Jiangsu province, Liu told Dr Lu Zhenjiao from Huai’an No. 3 People’s Hospital that "all the girls in school like me," as per SCMP. The doctor revealed that Liu thought he was the "best-looking guy in the whole university". “He (Liu) has brought much trouble to many of his schoolmates,” he added. The outlet said that the women in his class refused his advances, but he still thought they were too shy to accept his affection. Also read: Trees to reveal clues of largest solar storm to have hit Earth Other symptoms displayed by Liu Apart from this, other symptoms displayed by Liu included being excited all the time and a constant change in his behaviour. He stayed up all night, spent money lavishly and also was distracted during classes. After this, he was sent to the hospital where the doctors diagnosed him with delusional love disorder. Dr Lu, elucidating on the causes of the disorder said that they are mostly seen from March to April as the change in weather during the period leads to “fluctuation of endocrine levels in the body”. He said that people suffering from the condition experience sleep loss and also get hyper. “In more extreme cases, patients can become enraged and attack people,” Lu said as per SCMP. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese man diagnosed with delusional love disorder; 'all women in school like me'

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change.

With salt levels dripping into the land and corrupting water that is potable, the low-lying archipelago nation, which comprises over 1,192 tiny coral islands, is at the forefront of the climate crisis, further pushing it to be dependent on desalination plants.

According to the scientists, the Himalayan glaciers are melting faster than ever due to the climate change.

<h2>'Gift from world's highest mountains'</h2>

The Maldives foreign ministry released a statement saying that the consignment of 1,500 tonnes of drinking water was a gift from Yan Jinhai, the chairman of the Xizang Autonomous Region, or Tibet, lying more than 3,385 kilometres (2,100 miles) away on the far side of the world's highest mountain range.

The bottles of water, which were packed into 90 sea containers, had arrived last week and were&nbsp;unloaded in the capital city Male, said a port authority official.

"The Chairman of Xizang Autonomous Region announced his wish to donate 1,500 tonnes of drinking water... during his official visit to the country in November," the Maldives foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Shortage of water</h2>

Earlier, there were reports that the water was imported for the consumption of President Mohamed Muizzu, who is also dubbed as pro-China.

However, the ministry rebuffed the accusations stating that the ministry had decided to utilise the water to assist islands.

"The government of Maldives has decided to utilise the water to provide assistance to islands in case of water shortage," it said.

<h2>Maldives to get free military assistance from China</h2>

Earlier this month, China inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties.

The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations.

Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle.

Previously, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change.

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change. With salt levels dripping into the land and corrupting water that is potable, the low-lying archipelago nation, which comprises over 1,192 tiny coral islands, is at the forefront of the climate crisis, further pushing it to be dependent on desalination plants. According to the scientists, the Himalayan glaciers are melting faster than ever due to the climate change. 'Gift from world's highest mountains' The Maldives foreign ministry released a statement saying that the consignment of 1,500 tonnes of drinking water was a gift from Yan Jinhai, the chairman of the Xizang Autonomous Region, or Tibet, lying more than 3,385 kilometres (2,100 miles) away on the far side of the world's highest mountain range. The bottles of water, which were packed into 90 sea containers, had arrived last week and were unloaded in the capital city Male, said a port authority official. "The Chairman of Xizang Autonomous Region announced his wish to donate 1,500 tonnes of drinking water... during his official visit to the country in November," the Maldives foreign ministry said in a statement. Shortage of water Earlier, there were reports that the water was imported for the consumption of President Mohamed Muizzu, who is also dubbed as pro-China. However, the ministry rebuffed the accusations stating that the ministry had decided to utilise the water to assist islands. "The government of Maldives has decided to utilise the water to provide assistance to islands in case of water shortage," it said. Maldives to get free military assistance from China Earlier this month, China inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties. The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations. Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle. Previously, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate change-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China

The Tibetan government-in-exile commemorated the 65th Tibetan National Uprising Day on Sunday in Dharamshala and highlighted Chinese atrocities in Tibet including environmental destruction due to hydropower electric projects.

Tibetan Women's Association General Secretary Kalsang Dolma also demanded the Chinese government to release the political prisoners unconditionally.

The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) of the Tibetan government in exile held an official programme on the occasion.

Several Parliamentarians of Australia and Germany and other senior officials attended the event. They also expressed their support for a "middle-way approach" to the conflict.

The guests included Senator Dean Anthony Smith, Senator Deborah Mary O'Neil, MP Michael McCormack, MP David Smith and members of a German group led by MP Michael Karl Brand and a member group from Taiwan and Thailand.

President of Tibetan Youth Congress Gonpo Dhundup highlighted the continuous resistance carried out in Tibet.

"All the Tibetian supporters across the globe, we are observing the day as the 65th Tibetian National Uprising Day...China has to listen to our voices...There is continuous resistance that has been carried out by our brothers and sisters inside Tibet," he told ANI.

Tibetan Women's Association General Secretary Kalsang Dolma demanded the release of political prisoners under Chinese captivity.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh: Speaking on the 65th National Uprising Day, President of Tibetan Youth Congress Gonpo Dhundup says, "All the Tibetian supporters across the globe, we are observing the day as the 65th Tibetian National Uprising Day...China has to listen to… <a href="https://t.co/ABYqZvEBxQ">pic.twitter.com/ABYqZvEBxQ</a>
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&nbsp;

"Since 1959 till now, is the 65th Uprising day. Every year we commemorate this day...We have lots of demands - first, the Chinese government has to release the political prisoners unconditionally. They also have to stop hydropower electric projects built in Tibet as it causes lots of environmental destruction," she said.

Earlier this month, the Tibetan diaspora held a protest in front of the Chinese Embassy in Vienna on Wednesday, demanding the release of arrested Tibetans in Sichuan who were peacefully protesting the planned construction of a dam in Tibet, local sources stated.

The protest was held to showcase their solidarity with Tibetans in China's Sichuan province and the demonstrators called for the immediate release of hundreds of Tibetan monks and villagers.

Last month, members of over 44 countries took part in the ninth edition of the International Conference of Tibet Support Groups being held in Brussels, Belgium.

The Tibetan government-in-exile commemorated the 65th Tibetan National Uprising Day on Sunday in Dharamshala and highlighted Chinese atrocities in Tibet including environmental destruction due to hydropower electric projects.

The Tibetan government-in-exile commemorated the 65th Tibetan National Uprising Day on Sunday in Dharamshala and highlighted Chinese atrocities in Tibet including environmental destruction due to hydropower electric projects. Tibetan Women's Association General Secretary Kalsang Dolma also demanded the Chinese government to release the political prisoners unconditionally. The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) of the Tibetan government in exile held an official programme on the occasion. Several Parliamentarians of Australia and Germany and other senior officials attended the event. They also expressed their support for a "middle-way approach" to the conflict. The guests included Senator Dean Anthony Smith, Senator Deborah Mary O'Neil, MP Michael McCormack, MP David Smith and members of a German group led by MP Michael Karl Brand and a member group from Taiwan and Thailand. President of Tibetan Youth Congress Gonpo Dhundup highlighted the continuous resistance carried out in Tibet. "All the Tibetian supporters across the globe, we are observing the day as the 65th Tibetian National Uprising Day...China has to listen to our voices...There is continuous resistance that has been carried out by our brothers and sisters inside Tibet," he told ANI. Tibetan Women's Association General Secretary Kalsang Dolma demanded the release of political prisoners under Chinese captivity. #WATCH | Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh: Speaking on the 65th National Uprising Day, President of Tibetan Youth Congress Gonpo Dhundup says, "All the Tibetian supporters across the globe, we are observing the day as the 65th Tibetian National Uprising Day...China has to listen to… pic.twitter.com/ABYqZvEBxQ — ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2024 × "Since 1959 till now, is the 65th Uprising day. Every year we commemorate this day...We have lots of demands - first, the Chinese government has to release the political prisoners unconditionally. They also have to stop hydropower electric projects built in Tibet as it causes lots of environmental destruction," she said. Earlier this month, the Tibetan diaspora held a protest in front of the Chinese Embassy in Vienna on Wednesday, demanding the release of arrested Tibetans in Sichuan who were peacefully protesting the planned construction of a dam in Tibet, local sources stated. The protest was held to showcase their solidarity with Tibetans in China's Sichuan province and the demonstrators called for the immediate release of hundreds of Tibetan monks and villagers. Last month, members of over 44 countries took part in the ninth edition of the International Conference of Tibet Support Groups being held in Brussels, Belgium.

Dharamshala: Tibetan government-in-exile commemorates 65th Tibetan National Uprising Day

The Chief Investment Officer of Goldman Sachs Group Inc.'s wealth-management business, Sharmin Mossavar-Rahmani, has issued a stark warning against investing in China, despite recent significant declines in the country's stock market. <o:p></o:p>

In a Bloomberg Television interview, Mossavar-Rahmani acknowledged the common perception of China's apparent cheapness but emphasised, "Our view is that one should not invest in China."<o:p></o:p>

Citing multiple reasons for this stance, Mossavar-Rahmani expressed concerns about China's economic trajectory over the next decade. <o:p></o:p>

She highlighted anticipated challenges in the three pillars of China's growth - the property market, infrastructure, and exports. <o:p></o:p>

Additionally, a lack of clarity in China's policymaking, coupled with inconsistent economic data, further raises apprehensions about investing in the country.<o:p></o:p>

The Goldman Sachs executive pointed out uncertainties in China's policy direction, particularly regarding information security measures and restrictions on data removal from the nation. <o:p></o:p>

The recent suspension of some unemployment figures by the statistics bureau and the discontinuation of annual press briefings by China's premier have contributed to the lack of clarity. <o:p></o:p>

Mossavar-Rahmani noted, "It is not clear what the overall general direction of policy will be long term," adding that such policy uncertainties can cap the equity market.<o:p></o:p>

China's benchmark CSI 300 Index experienced a significant dip last month, hitting a five-year low amid concerns about domestic demand and escalating geopolitical tensions. <o:p></o:p>

While it has rebounded after regulatory interventions, Mossavar-Rahmani remains sceptical. <o:p></o:p>

She anticipates potential short-term stimulus measures but suggests that China's real estate sector has not yet stabilised. <o:p></o:p>

Expressing doubt about China's official economic expansion figures, she highlighted the lack of clarity in economic data, resonating with concerns among several economists.<o:p></o:p>

Despite China's formal publication of a growth rate above 5 per cent for 2023, Mossavar-Rahmani stated, "most people think that is not the real growth number — it was actually a lot weaker." <o:p></o:p>

She concluded by reiterating Goldman Sachs' cautious stance, emphasising that they do not recommend clients move into China at this point.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Bloomberg)<o:p></o:p>

The Chief Investment Officer of Goldman Sachs Group Inc.'s wealth-management business, Sharmin Mossavar-Rahmani, has issued a stark warning against investing in China, despite recent significant declines in the country's stock market.

The Chief Investment Officer of Goldman Sachs Group Inc.'s wealth-management business, Sharmin Mossavar-Rahmani, has issued a stark warning against investing in China, despite recent significant declines in the country's stock market. In a Bloomberg Television interview, Mossavar-Rahmani acknowledged the common perception of China's apparent cheapness but emphasised, "Our view is that one should not invest in China." Citing multiple reasons for this stance, Mossavar-Rahmani expressed concerns about China's economic trajectory over the next decade. She highlighted anticipated challenges in the three pillars of China's growth - the property market, infrastructure, and exports. Additionally, a lack of clarity in China's policymaking, coupled with inconsistent economic data, further raises apprehensions about investing in the country. The Goldman Sachs executive pointed out uncertainties in China's policy direction, particularly regarding information security measures and restrictions on data removal from the nation. The recent suspension of some unemployment figures by the statistics bureau and the discontinuation of annual press briefings by China's premier have contributed to the lack of clarity. Mossavar-Rahmani noted, "It is not clear what the overall general direction of policy will be long term," adding that such policy uncertainties can cap the equity market. China's benchmark CSI 300 Index experienced a significant dip last month, hitting a five-year low amid concerns about domestic demand and escalating geopolitical tensions. While it has rebounded after regulatory interventions, Mossavar-Rahmani remains sceptical. She anticipates potential short-term stimulus measures but suggests that China's real estate sector has not yet stabilised. Expressing doubt about China's official economic expansion figures, she highlighted the lack of clarity in economic data, resonating with concerns among several economists. Despite China's formal publication of a growth rate above 5 per cent for 2023, Mossavar-Rahmani stated, "most people think that is not the real growth number — it was actually a lot weaker." She concluded by reiterating Goldman Sachs' cautious stance, emphasising that they do not recommend clients move into China at this point. (With inputs from Bloomberg)

Goldman Sachs Wealth Management cautions against investing in China. Here’s why

China's Lunar New Year celebrations have got a new flavour as citizens are falling in love with pork-flavoured coffee which has been introduced by Starbucks, one of the largest coffee chains in the world. 
 
The drink, which is strangely becoming everyone's favourite, has a combination of Dongpo Braised Pork Flavor Sauce with espresso and steamed milk and also contains extra pork sauce and pork breast meat for garnish. The drink is being sold across China at a price of ¥68 ($9.45). 
 
Taking to Weibo, the coffee shop wrote, "Eating meat means prosperity in the coming year". It said that the drink brings "traditional New Year customs into coffee," and creates "unexpected savoury and sweet flavours."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-price-of-parenthood-china-among-the-most-expensive-places-to-raise-children-finds-report-692793">The price of parenthood: China among the most expensive places to raise children, finds report</a>

Across Asia, Lunar New Year is celebrated as one of the biggest annual holidays. People in China travel back home to celebrate the festivals with their families during this time. 
 
According to government data, around 474 million trips were made within China during this year's travel season. 
 
And although the foods served at the feasts during New Year vary region by region, braised pork makes a frequent appearance.

<h2 lang="en-US">Pork latte or real braised pork? Chinese make a tough choice</h2>

The pork latte gained quick popularity on Chinese social media as the topic received more than 476,000 views on Weibo by the time it was published. 
 
Some of the users expressed curiosity regarding the drink while others remained sceptical as they even pointed to the high price and questioned why should they not eat real braised pork and rather drink the latte. 
 
"For 67 yuan, I could eat a plate of braised pork then go to Luckin and drink two lattes," said a Weibo user.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Did China hack into Indian government offices?

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Another user said, "I would allow both (pork and coffee) to exist in my stomach at the same time, but not in my mouth at the same time." 
 
Jiupai News, which is a site affiliated with the state-run Changjiang Daily, said that the drink was sold out at one of the stores in Wuhan, as customers claimed that the flavour was "unique" and gave a dense, smooth mouthfeel.

(With inputs from agencies)

China's Lunar New Year celebrations have got a new flavour as citizens are falling in love with pork-flavoured coffee which has been introduced by Starbucks, one of the largest coffee chains in the world.

China's Lunar New Year celebrations have got a new flavour as citizens are falling in love with pork-flavoured coffee which has been introduced by Starbucks, one of the largest coffee chains in the world. The drink, which is strangely becoming everyone's favourite, has a combination of Dongpo Braised Pork Flavor Sauce with espresso and steamed milk and also contains extra pork sauce and pork breast meat for garnish. The drink is being sold across China at a price of ¥68 ($9.45). Taking to Weibo, the coffee shop wrote, "Eating meat means prosperity in the coming year". It said that the drink brings "traditional New Year customs into coffee," and creates "unexpected savoury and sweet flavours." Also Read: The price of parenthood: China among the most expensive places to raise children, finds report Across Asia, Lunar New Year is celebrated as one of the biggest annual holidays. People in China travel back home to celebrate the festivals with their families during this time. According to government data, around 474 million trips were made within China during this year's travel season. And although the foods served at the feasts during New Year vary region by region, braised pork makes a frequent appearance. Pork latte or real braised pork? Chinese make a tough choice The pork latte gained quick popularity on Chinese social media as the topic received more than 476,000 views on Weibo by the time it was published. Some of the users expressed curiosity regarding the drink while others remained sceptical as they even pointed to the high price and questioned why should they not eat real braised pork and rather drink the latte. "For 67 yuan, I could eat a plate of braised pork then go to Luckin and drink two lattes," said a Weibo user. Watch: Gravitas | Did China hack into Indian government offices? Another user said, "I would allow both (pork and coffee) to exist in my stomach at the same time, but not in my mouth at the same time." Jiupai News, which is a site affiliated with the state-run Changjiang Daily, said that the drink was sold out at one of the stores in Wuhan, as customers claimed that the flavour was "unique" and gave a dense, smooth mouthfeel. (With inputs from agencies)

Pork-flavoured coffee emerges as China’s new love amid Lunar New Year celebrations

Amid growing tensions between India and Maldives, a Chinese 'research' ship reportedly entered the waters of the island nation on Thursday (Feb 22), news agency Reuters reported citing global ship-tracking data.

This comes just three months after a similar vessel visited the Indian Ocean and sparked security concerns among the Indian authorities.

The visit by the ship also comes following the remarks by a US think tank that China's navy could "leverage the insights gained from these missions" for the deployment of naval forces, a claim Beijing calls part of a concocted image-smearing "China threat" narrative.

Xiang Yang Hong 03, which is owned by a research institute that reports to China's natural resources ministry, made a port call in Male more than a month after leaving its home port of Xiamen in southeastern China, added the Reuters report citing data from MarineTraffic.

Before its arrival, the civilian ship, for three weeks, had surveyed waters outside the exclusive economic zones of India, the Maldives and Sri Lanka, the ship-tracking data showed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cannot-bully-us-maldives-president-muizzu-takes-swipe-at-india-after-china-visit-679750">'Cannot bully us': Maldives President Muizzu takes swipe at India after China visit</a>

<h2>Research done&nbsp;"exclusively" for peaceful purposes, claims China</h2>

China's foreign ministry has claimed that the "research" done by the vessel was "exclusively" for peaceful purposes to benefit scientific understanding.

Watch:&nbsp;India-Maldives tensions: Despite row, India's projects in Maldives gain pace

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&nbsp;

According to the report, an Indian security official previously said that the vessels were "dual-use", which means that they collect data which can be used for both civilian as well as military purposes.

Xiang Yang Hong 03 has made multiple visits to the Indian Ocean.

It sailed through the Sunda Strait in Indonesia in the year 2021, raising concerns among Indonesian authorities, who claimed that it had turned off its tracking system three times.

Such Chinese 'research' vessels have also stopped in nearby Sri Lanka.

In the year 2022, Yuan Wang 5, a military vessel capable of tracking rocket and missile launches, arrived in Colombo, raising security concerns in New Delhi.

Before Sri Lanka imposed a year-long moratorium on foreign research ships, effectively denying China a port of call, a Chinese research vessel docked in the island nation for the very last time in October 2023.

(With inputs from the agencies)

Amid growing tensions between India and Maldives, a Chinese 'research' ship reportedly entered the waters of the island nation on Thursday (Feb 22), news agency Reuters reported citing global ship-tracking data.

Amid growing tensions between India and Maldives, a Chinese 'research' ship reportedly entered the waters of the island nation on Thursday (Feb 22), news agency Reuters reported citing global ship-tracking data. This comes just three months after a similar vessel visited the Indian Ocean and sparked security concerns among the Indian authorities. The visit by the ship also comes following the remarks by a US think tank that China's navy could "leverage the insights gained from these missions" for the deployment of naval forces, a claim Beijing calls part of a concocted image-smearing "China threat" narrative. Xiang Yang Hong 03, which is owned by a research institute that reports to China's natural resources ministry, made a port call in Male more than a month after leaving its home port of Xiamen in southeastern China, added the Reuters report citing data from MarineTraffic. Before its arrival, the civilian ship, for three weeks, had surveyed waters outside the exclusive economic zones of India, the Maldives and Sri Lanka, the ship-tracking data showed. Also read: 'Cannot bully us': Maldives President Muizzu takes swipe at India after China visit Research done "exclusively" for peaceful purposes, claims China China's foreign ministry has claimed that the "research" done by the vessel was "exclusively" for peaceful purposes to benefit scientific understanding. Watch: India-Maldives tensions: Despite row, India's projects in Maldives gain pace × According to the report, an Indian security official previously said that the vessels were "dual-use", which means that they collect data which can be used for both civilian as well as military purposes. Xiang Yang Hong 03 has made multiple visits to the Indian Ocean. It sailed through the Sunda Strait in Indonesia in the year 2021, raising concerns among Indonesian authorities, who claimed that it had turned off its tracking system three times. Such Chinese 'research' vessels have also stopped in nearby Sri Lanka. In the year 2022, Yuan Wang 5, a military vessel capable of tracking rocket and missile launches, arrived in Colombo, raising security concerns in New Delhi. Before Sri Lanka imposed a year-long moratorium on foreign research ships, effectively denying China a port of call, a Chinese research vessel docked in the island nation for the very last time in October 2023. (With inputs from the agencies)

Chinese 'research' ship arrives in Maldives triggering security concerns in Indian Ocean

Taiwan called on Beijing to "be rational" on Tuesday following a deadly incident involving a Chinese boat and the Taiwanese coast guard, with the island's premier insisting it would protect its waters.

China claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory, and relations between the two have plummeted in recent years.

Last week two Chinese crew members died after a boat capsized near Kinmen, an island administered by Taipei but located just five kilometres from the mainland city of Xiamen.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: 2 dead after Taiwanese coast guard chase Chinese fishermen in high sea

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It was being pursued by Taiwan's coast guard for being within prohibited waters.

China announced stepped-up patrols around Taiwan's waters, and on Monday members of its coast guard briefly boarded a Taiwanese cruise ship to check the captain and passengers' details.

Taiwan's Premier Chen Chien-jen said Tuesday that both sides had been aware of "restricted and off-limits sea areas" since 1992.

"We will continue to protect these sea areas to ensure safety in our territorial waters and the rights of our fishermen," he told reporters outside Taiwan's parliament. 
 
"We hope both sides can be rational, equitable and cooperate with each other to ensure the safety of the Kinmen-Xiamen waters so that the people from both sides of the strait can engage with each other in a healthy and orderly manner."

Taiwan's defence minister said the military would not get involved, leaving it to the coast guard to monitor waters around Kinmen, "because we want to avoid war".

"If we intervene, it will escalate the conflict which we do not want to see," Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters.&nbsp;

"Let's handle the matter peacefully."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-taiwan-move-forward-with-key-pact-on-labour-cooperation-691019">India, Taiwan move forward with key pact on labour cooperation</a>

Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, and in recent years has ramped up the rhetoric of "unification".

It has stepped up military pressure on Taiwan by deploying warplanes and naval vessels around the island on a near-daily basis.

Last month Taiwan had a presidential election which ended in a win for the Democratic Progressive Party's Lai Ching-te -- a candidate Beijing considers a "separatist".

Taiwan's defence ministry on Tuesday said it detected 24 Chinese warplanes around the island in the 24 hours to 6 am -- a slight uptick compared with recent days.

<h2>- 'Tacit understanding' -</h2>

Relatives of the two deceased crew were expected to arrive in Kinmen on Tuesday, while authorities said the two surviving shipmates would be repatriated.

Taiwan's coast guard had defended its actions during the pursuit that led to the deadly capsizing, saying the Chinese crew refused to cooperate with law enforcement.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-simulate-military-exercise-to-counter-chinese-threat-against-taiwan-687137">US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan</a>

It is not uncommon for Chinese and Taiwanese ships to accidentally enter the other's side, and Kinmen legislator Chen Yu-jen said the mainland coast guard had boarded the tourist ship Monday after it sailed "about one kilometre" into its waters.&nbsp;

"When relations between the two sides were relatively peaceful, we would not board each other's boats... It's because at that time there was a tacit understanding and the two sides would not take tougher actions," she told reporters.&nbsp;

But now with tenser cross-strait relations, she urged Taiwan's tourist boats and fishermen to stay within their waters.

"This is the safest way," Chen told reporters.&nbsp;

Taiwan called on Beijing to "be rational" on Tuesday following a deadly incident involving a Chinese boat and the Taiwanese coast guard, with the island's premier insisting it would protect its waters.

Taiwan called on Beijing to "be rational" on Tuesday following a deadly incident involving a Chinese boat and the Taiwanese coast guard, with the island's premier insisting it would protect its waters. China claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory, and relations between the two have plummeted in recent years. Last week two Chinese crew members died after a boat capsized near Kinmen, an island administered by Taipei but located just five kilometres from the mainland city of Xiamen. WATCH | Gravitas: 2 dead after Taiwanese coast guard chase Chinese fishermen in high sea It was being pursued by Taiwan's coast guard for being within prohibited waters. China announced stepped-up patrols around Taiwan's waters, and on Monday members of its coast guard briefly boarded a Taiwanese cruise ship to check the captain and passengers' details. Taiwan's Premier Chen Chien-jen said Tuesday that both sides had been aware of "restricted and off-limits sea areas" since 1992. "We will continue to protect these sea areas to ensure safety in our territorial waters and the rights of our fishermen," he told reporters outside Taiwan's parliament. "We hope both sides can be rational, equitable and cooperate with each other to ensure the safety of the Kinmen-Xiamen waters so that the people from both sides of the strait can engage with each other in a healthy and orderly manner." Taiwan's defence minister said the military would not get involved, leaving it to the coast guard to monitor waters around Kinmen, "because we want to avoid war". "If we intervene, it will escalate the conflict which we do not want to see," Chiu Kuo-cheng told reporters. "Let's handle the matter peacefully." Also Read | India, Taiwan move forward with key pact on labour cooperation Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, and in recent years has ramped up the rhetoric of "unification". It has stepped up military pressure on Taiwan by deploying warplanes and naval vessels around the island on a near-daily basis. Last month Taiwan had a presidential election which ended in a win for the Democratic Progressive Party's Lai Ching-te -- a candidate Beijing considers a "separatist". Taiwan's defence ministry on Tuesday said it detected 24 Chinese warplanes around the island in the 24 hours to 6 am -- a slight uptick compared with recent days. - 'Tacit understanding' - Relatives of the two deceased crew were expected to arrive in Kinmen on Tuesday, while authorities said the two surviving shipmates would be repatriated. Taiwan's coast guard had defended its actions during the pursuit that led to the deadly capsizing, saying the Chinese crew refused to cooperate with law enforcement. Also Read | US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan It is not uncommon for Chinese and Taiwanese ships to accidentally enter the other's side, and Kinmen legislator Chen Yu-jen said the mainland coast guard had boarded the tourist ship Monday after it sailed "about one kilometre" into its waters. "When relations between the two sides were relatively peaceful, we would not board each other's boats... It's because at that time there was a tacit understanding and the two sides would not take tougher actions," she told reporters. But now with tenser cross-strait relations, she urged Taiwan's tourist boats and fishermen to stay within their waters. "This is the safest way," Chen told reporters.

Taiwan calls on China to 'be rational' as Chinese Coast Guard boards tourist vessel

The Philippine Coast Guard has accused Chinese vessels of engaging in "dangerous" manoeuvres on Sunday (Feb 11) while on a nine-day patrol close to a reef off the coast of Southeast Asia.&nbsp;

The Philippine vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua was sent out early in the month of February to patrol waters surrounding Scarborough Shoal, which is a productive fishing area in the South China Sea, and also ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen.

China took the reef from the Philippines in the year 2012, and since then, it has been a flashpoint between both countries.

The Philippine Coast Guard released a statement saying that the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, during the patrol, "performed dangerous and blocking manoeuvres at sea against BRP Teresa Magbanua four times, with the CCG vessels crossing the bow of the PCG vessel twice".

The Philippine Coast Guard stated that its ship was also "shadowed" by four Chinese Coast Guard vessels "on more than 40 occasions".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-eight-more-chinese-balloons-crossing-taiwan-strait-689074">Taiwan detects eight more Chinese balloons crossing Taiwan Strait</a>

The Coast Guard also observed what it called "four Chinese Maritime Militia vessels".

Videos that were released by the Philippine Coast Guard showed a Chinese Coast Guard vessel metres from the port beam of the BRP Teresa Magbanua before it crossed the path of the Filipino boat.

"Nevertheless, the PCG vessel professionally engaged both the CCG and CMM vessels through radio reiterating the clear and principled position of the Philippines in accordance with international law," the statement said.

Commenting on the accusations from the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said that the Scarborough Shoal was their country's sovereign territory and that the Chinese coastguard activities were legal in that particular area.

"China requires the Philippines to respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and stop maritime infringement activities. China will continue to firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in accordance with the law," the ministry said as per news agency Reuters.

The incidents occurred two months following severe standoffs between China and the Philippines over disputed reefs in the South China Sea, during which Chinese ships fired water cannons at Philippine boats, leading to a collision between their vessels.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippine Coast Guard has accused Chinese vessels of engaging in "dangerous" manoeuvres on Sunday (Feb 11) while on a nine-day patrol close to a reef off the coast of Southeast Asia.

The Philippine Coast Guard has accused Chinese vessels of engaging in "dangerous" manoeuvres on Sunday (Feb 11) while on a nine-day patrol close to a reef off the coast of Southeast Asia. The Philippine vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua was sent out early in the month of February to patrol waters surrounding Scarborough Shoal, which is a productive fishing area in the South China Sea, and also ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen. China took the reef from the Philippines in the year 2012, and since then, it has been a flashpoint between both countries. The Philippine Coast Guard released a statement saying that the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, during the patrol, "performed dangerous and blocking manoeuvres at sea against BRP Teresa Magbanua four times, with the CCG vessels crossing the bow of the PCG vessel twice". The Philippine Coast Guard stated that its ship was also "shadowed" by four Chinese Coast Guard vessels "on more than 40 occasions". Also read: Taiwan detects eight more Chinese balloons crossing Taiwan Strait The Coast Guard also observed what it called "four Chinese Maritime Militia vessels". Videos that were released by the Philippine Coast Guard showed a Chinese Coast Guard vessel metres from the port beam of the BRP Teresa Magbanua before it crossed the path of the Filipino boat. "Nevertheless, the PCG vessel professionally engaged both the CCG and CMM vessels through radio reiterating the clear and principled position of the Philippines in accordance with international law," the statement said. Commenting on the accusations from the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said that the Scarborough Shoal was their country's sovereign territory and that the Chinese coastguard activities were legal in that particular area. "China requires the Philippines to respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and stop maritime infringement activities. China will continue to firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in accordance with the law," the ministry said as per news agency Reuters. The incidents occurred two months following severe standoffs between China and the Philippines over disputed reefs in the South China Sea, during which Chinese ships fired water cannons at Philippine boats, leading to a collision between their vessels. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippine Coast Guard accuses Chinese vessels of ‘dangerous’ manoeuvres

The Chinese government on Friday (Dec 29) appointed Dong Jun, 62, as the new defence minister of the country, replacing Li Shangfu – the minister who disappeared four months ago without any explanation.

The Chinese government on Friday (Dec 29) appointed Dong Jun, 62, as the new defence minister of the country, replacing Li Shangfu – the minister who disappeared four months ago without any explanation. The National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee during its session that ended on Friday announced the decision. But who is Dong Jun, and what are his credentials? What do we know about Dong Jun so far General Dong Jun is the former commander of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. He was previously the deputy commander of the Southern Military Command as well. That particular command is responsible for handling the South China Sea region. Notably, Beijing claims as its own almost all of the South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored a 2016 international court ruling that says its assertion has no legal basis. Dong's authority in managing the region may have been one of the primary reasons why Beijing took the decision appoint a defence minister from a navy background for the first time. Additionally, Dong does not sit on the national Central Military Commission which suggests that President Xi Jinping has handpicked him over the other sitting members. Watch | China President Xi Jinping says, 'Will prevent anyone from splitting Taiwan from China' × According to reports, General Liu Zhenli, chief of the commission’s joint staff department, was widely expected to become the next defence chief, but Dong has been given the promotion ahead of him. Liu last week spoke with his American counterpart during the first high-level call between military personnel from the two leading world powers in more than a year. Despite Liu's high stature, it looks like he was shunned by Xi. Apart from the Southern Military Command, Dong has also served as the deputy commander of the Eastern Military Command’s navy force – which deals with the East China Sea including Taiwan. Also read | China appoints Dong Jun as new defence minister: State media What does his appointment mean? Although a Chinese defence minister is a mere pawn of the Politburo and decisions are taken by Xi, Dong's appointment comes at a crucial juncture when Beijing attempts to push its Taiwan reunification plans. Dong is also expected to negotiate and restart the top-level military talks with the US which have stalled ever since former House speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, irking Beijing. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Dong Jun? The new Chinese defence minister handpicked by Xi Jinping

As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, the latter has warned its citizens who are "military fans"&nbsp;against posting photos of things and objects considered sensitive.&nbsp;

This comes as in the age of open-source intelligence, western experts have been using photos posted by amateur enthusiasts to analyse new People Liberation Army (PLA) equipment, as China rapidly modernises its forces.

In a post on WeChat, China's counterpart to WhatsApp, the nation's highly secretive civilian spy agency, the Ministry of State Security warned people, "This is a cool hobby, but you must be very careful," as reported by CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/men-enjoy-significant-advantage-over-women-in-chinese-government-jobs-warns-study-674034">Men enjoy significant advantage over women in Chinese government jobs, says study</a>

"Some individual military enthusiasts severely endanger national military security by illegally obtaining information regarding national defence and disseminating them on the internet."

"With a focus on military airports, ports, national defence and military-industrial units, they drove to or took ferries or planes that pass by designated routes, and clandestinely photographed with telephoto lenses or drones," added the agency, which oversees intelligence and counterintelligence within China and overseas.

As per the Chinese spy agency's post, images online can show the process of construction of warships or aircraft. Some may even disclose operational and technical details of the military hardware, it said.

Based on such videos posted on Weibo, in November, Paris-based Naval News reported that China had begun testing an electromagnetic catapult system for its newest aircraft carrier, The Fujian.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-unification-with-china-will-surely-happen-says-xi-jinping-on-maos-anniversary-673983">Taiwan’s unification with China ‘will surely’ happen, says Xi Jinping on Mao’s anniversary</a>

<h2>Punishment for breaking the rules</h2>

As per CNN, repeat offenders face imprisonment of up to seven years. However, "first-time or occasional offenders" may escape with only a warning.&nbsp;

In recent months, China has increasingly become paranoid about espionage. It heightened efforts to protect its secrets, even launching a social media account dedicated to warning citizens about the dangers of exposing them to the outside world and calling them to join the fight against espionage.

(With inputs from agencies)

As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, the latter has warned its citizens who are "military fans" against posting photos of things and objects considered sensitive.

As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, the latter has warned its citizens who are "military fans" against posting photos of things and objects considered sensitive. This comes as in the age of open-source intelligence, western experts have been using photos posted by amateur enthusiasts to analyse new People Liberation Army (PLA) equipment, as China rapidly modernises its forces. In a post on WeChat, China's counterpart to WhatsApp, the nation's highly secretive civilian spy agency, the Ministry of State Security warned people, "This is a cool hobby, but you must be very careful," as reported by CNN. Also read | Men enjoy significant advantage over women in Chinese government jobs, says study "Some individual military enthusiasts severely endanger national military security by illegally obtaining information regarding national defence and disseminating them on the internet." "With a focus on military airports, ports, national defence and military-industrial units, they drove to or took ferries or planes that pass by designated routes, and clandestinely photographed with telephoto lenses or drones," added the agency, which oversees intelligence and counterintelligence within China and overseas. As per the Chinese spy agency's post, images online can show the process of construction of warships or aircraft. Some may even disclose operational and technical details of the military hardware, it said. Based on such videos posted on Weibo, in November, Paris-based Naval News reported that China had begun testing an electromagnetic catapult system for its newest aircraft carrier, The Fujian. Also read | Taiwan’s unification with China ‘will surely’ happen, says Xi Jinping on Mao’s anniversary Punishment for breaking the rules As per CNN, repeat offenders face imprisonment of up to seven years. However, "first-time or occasional offenders" may escape with only a warning. In recent months, China has increasingly become paranoid about espionage. It heightened efforts to protect its secrets, even launching a social media account dedicated to warning citizens about the dangers of exposing them to the outside world and calling them to join the fight against espionage. (With inputs from agencies)

'Cool hobby, but be very careful': China warns 'military fans' against posting photos of its military hardware

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week. 
 
The astronomer claimed that strong emissions, which were at the frequency of 2280 megahertz, were detected at a time when the uncrewed reusable plane flew over British Columbia in Canada, as reported by the South China Morning Post. 
 
“I’m seeing a pattern in its radio emissions while over me and it appears to favour low-elevation western passes,” said Tilley, who has earlier worked with NASA in finding its long-lost IMAGE satellite in 2018. 
 
“This could indicate a clandestine ground station on the west coast of North America or on a ship off the coast,” he added while clarifying that he was speculating.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/amateur-trackers-claim-china-has-deployed-6-mysterious-unidentified-objects-in-earth-orbit-671239">Chinese space plane deployed 6 mysterious 'wingmen' in Earth's orbit: Reports</a>

China's secret plane, which has been seen as the US military space plane X-37B's counterpart, has been closely followed by satellite trackers from across the world since it took off from the Gobi Desert.

<h2>Six objects now flying in Earth's lower orbit: Tilley</h2>

As per Tilley and his team in Switzerland, which has specialised in optical-band space surveillance, because of the secret plane's launch, at least six objects are now flying in the lower orbit of the Earth. 
 
Tilley added that the six objects also included the space plane, which was designated by him as object A and looked very bright with a stable altitude control. 
 
He added that probably there was a pair of satellites (objects D and E) which were released by the plane and emitted radio signals which were similar to object A, “but without any form of data, just idle filler”.

Watch:&nbsp;China rocked by 6.2-magnitude earthquake

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Tilley added that although both the satellite's purpose remains unknown, there is a possibility that they were being used to “test rendezvous and retrieval operations”. 
 
Taking to social media platform X, the European team wrote that object B was “very bright” and its light curve was pointing to a rocket upper stage. Tilley said that Objects C and F also appeared to be rocket debris since they were tumbling and dim. 
 
It is the third mission of the Chinese plane after their two-day maiden flight in 2020 followed by a second flight which lasted only for nine months. As per reports, the plane released mysterious objects during the two previous missions.

(With inputs from agencies)

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week.

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week. The astronomer claimed that strong emissions, which were at the frequency of 2280 megahertz, were detected at a time when the uncrewed reusable plane flew over British Columbia in Canada, as reported by the South China Morning Post. “I’m seeing a pattern in its radio emissions while over me and it appears to favour low-elevation western passes,” said Tilley, who has earlier worked with NASA in finding its long-lost IMAGE satellite in 2018. “This could indicate a clandestine ground station on the west coast of North America or on a ship off the coast,” he added while clarifying that he was speculating. Also read: Chinese space plane deployed 6 mysterious 'wingmen' in Earth's orbit: Reports China's secret plane, which has been seen as the US military space plane X-37B's counterpart, has been closely followed by satellite trackers from across the world since it took off from the Gobi Desert. Six objects now flying in Earth's lower orbit: Tilley As per Tilley and his team in Switzerland, which has specialised in optical-band space surveillance, because of the secret plane's launch, at least six objects are now flying in the lower orbit of the Earth. Tilley added that the six objects also included the space plane, which was designated by him as object A and looked very bright with a stable altitude control. He added that probably there was a pair of satellites (objects D and E) which were released by the plane and emitted radio signals which were similar to object A, “but without any form of data, just idle filler”. Watch: China rocked by 6.2-magnitude earthquake Tilley added that although both the satellite's purpose remains unknown, there is a possibility that they were being used to “test rendezvous and retrieval operations”. Taking to social media platform X, the European team wrote that object B was “very bright” and its light curve was pointing to a rocket upper stage. Tilley said that Objects C and F also appeared to be rocket debris since they were tumbling and dim. It is the third mission of the Chinese plane after their two-day maiden flight in 2020 followed by a second flight which lasted only for nine months. As per reports, the plane released mysterious objects during the two previous missions. (With inputs from agencies)

China's secret aircraft sending signals to hidden station in US? Satellite tracker says 'maybe'

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