Escalating the tit-for-tat battle with China, the US is planning to restrict Chinese access to US cloud-computing services, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the situation.

Escalating the tit-for-tat battle with China, the US is planning to restrict Chinese access to US cloud-computing services, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the situation. The Biden administration's new rules, if adopted, would mean that US cloud providers such as Amazon and Microsoft will have to seek government permission before they can provide cloud-computing services that use advanced artificial intelligence chips to Chinese customers. "The proposed restriction is seen as a means to close a significant loophole. National security analysts have warned that Chinese AI companies might have bypassed the current export controls rules by using cloud services," the publication added. Currently, cloud computing services allow customers to gain powerful computing abilities, without purchasing advanced equipment such as semiconductors. Despite closing doors on advanced A100 and H100 chips from Nvidia, China is able to circumvent the sanctions, using the loophole. China restricts raw materials for chip manufacturing Notably, the proposed restrictions by Washington come on the same day as China decided to impose export controls on two rare elements, essential for the manufacturing of semiconductors. The Commerce Department is expected to unveil the restrictions, as early as next week as part of semiconductor export control policy. Starting August 1, exports of gallium and germanium, among several other industrial compounds will be subject to restrictions, Beijing announced on Monday, in order to “safeguard national security and interests”. China’s Ministry of Commerce and Administration of Customs took the decision, laying it out that the exporters will have to seek special approval from the State Council, China's cabinet, for the listed items. Also read | The semiconductor wars: China restricts exports of raw materials critical to chip production Why the restrictions? The chip wars between the two nations began under the tenure of former president Donald Trump when his administration banned suppliers from selling chips made using US technology to tech giant Huawei without a special license. For years, the US led the technology battle with China. However, the tips have recently scaled in Beijing's favour. According to a study presented by Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), the US could lose the tech competition to China if it does not take action on the 5G, AI, and microchip core fronts. WATCH | Micron fails China's security check The report added that the tech race would be going through its critical phase in the 2025-2030 period. During this window, Beijing might be able to edge out the USA if the current trend continues. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tit-for-tat: After China restricts metals export, US mulls ban on access to cloud computing

China has reacted strongly to US presidential contender Nikki Haley's remarks on the Communist Party ending up on "ash heap of history'. China said that those who blamed Beijing for problem would end up on the said 'ash heap of history'.

Haley was America's United Nations ambassador during the Trump administration. She has now taken the most hawkish position on China. Haley is currently competing to win the Republican Party nomination to run for president in 2024 elections.

She has called on Washington to drastically limit ties with China because of dramatic rise in fentanyl overdose deaths in the US. She has said that the US should revoke China's permanent normal trade relations status until it helped stem the flow of chemicals used to create fentanyl. She has also said that she would push American companies to leave and that if the US rallied, China's ruling Communist Party would "end up on the ash heap of history."

<h2>China calls remarks irresponsible</h2>

"Pushing American companies to leave China runs counter to economic laws, and will ultimately harm everyone's interests," the spokesman for China's embassy in Washington, Liu Pengyu, said in a statement to Reuters late on Tuesday.

Watch | Chinese Premier Li Qiang warns world against politicizing economic issue

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"Only those who draw attention by smearing and blame-shifting in the election campaign will end up on the ash heap of history," Liu said.

US officials reportedly say that Chinese government hasn't been co-operating on the fentanyl issue or on money laundering related to the drug's trafficking. Beijing denies the criticism.

Currently, the Republican field is led by Donald Trump. Haley is well-behind Trump. Only 3 per cent of Republicans support her, as stated by primary opinion surveys.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stalkers-protected-us-supreme-court-makes-it-more-difficult-to-prosecute-someone-making-threats-609745">‘Stalkers protected,’ US Supreme Court makes it more difficult to prosecute someone making threats</a>

She has sought to use foreign policy as a way to differentiate herself in a crowded Republican field, and her hardline stance on China could push her rivals to adopt harsher positions as well.

Haley has criticised Trump over his recent indictments.

Last Monday, she unleashed a fierce critique of her one-time boss.

"If this indictment is true... president Trump was incredibly reckless with our national security," Haley told Fox News.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China has reacted strongly to US presidential contender Nikki Haley's remarks on the Communist Party ending up on "ash heap of history'. China said that those who blamed Beijing for problem would end up on the said 'ash heap of history'.

China has reacted strongly to US presidential contender Nikki Haley's remarks on the Communist Party ending up on "ash heap of history'. China said that those who blamed Beijing for problem would end up on the said 'ash heap of history'. Haley was America's United Nations ambassador during the Trump administration. She has now taken the most hawkish position on China. Haley is currently competing to win the Republican Party nomination to run for president in 2024 elections. She has called on Washington to drastically limit ties with China because of dramatic rise in fentanyl overdose deaths in the US. She has said that the US should revoke China's permanent normal trade relations status until it helped stem the flow of chemicals used to create fentanyl. She has also said that she would push American companies to leave and that if the US rallied, China's ruling Communist Party would "end up on the ash heap of history." China calls remarks irresponsible "Pushing American companies to leave China runs counter to economic laws, and will ultimately harm everyone's interests," the spokesman for China's embassy in Washington, Liu Pengyu, said in a statement to Reuters late on Tuesday. Watch | Chinese Premier Li Qiang warns world against politicizing economic issue × "Only those who draw attention by smearing and blame-shifting in the election campaign will end up on the ash heap of history," Liu said. US officials reportedly say that Chinese government hasn't been co-operating on the fentanyl issue or on money laundering related to the drug's trafficking. Beijing denies the criticism. Currently, the Republican field is led by Donald Trump. Haley is well-behind Trump. Only 3 per cent of Republicans support her, as stated by primary opinion surveys. Also Read | ‘Stalkers protected,’ US Supreme Court makes it more difficult to prosecute someone making threats She has sought to use foreign policy as a way to differentiate herself in a crowded Republican field, and her hardline stance on China could push her rivals to adopt harsher positions as well. Haley has criticised Trump over his recent indictments. Last Monday, she unleashed a fierce critique of her one-time boss. "If this indictment is true... president Trump was incredibly reckless with our national security," Haley told Fox News. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China slams Nikki Haley's 'ash heap' comment

China's authoritarian regime has banned a prominent financial journalist who took a scathing view of the country's sluggish economic state, comparing it to the Great Depression of the 1930s.

China's authoritarian regime has banned a prominent financial journalist who took a scathing view of the country's sluggish economic state, comparing it to the Great Depression of the 1930s. The influential journalist, identified as Wu Xiaobo, had more than 4.7 million followers on his Weibo (Twitter-like platform) account. However, on Tuesday, his page displayed a message saying the account "is currently in a banned state due to violation of relevant laws and regulations". According to media reports, all media content posted on Wu's Weibo page since April 2022 appears to have been scrubbed out. The platform's content moderators said they had blocked three verified users for "spreading smears against the development of the securities market" and "hyping up the unemployment rate". The platform did not give away the full usernames of the blocked accounts but said one of them had a three-character name starting with "Wu" and ending with "Bo", allegedly referring to the journalist. In one of his regular columns in the Chinese financial market magazine Caixin, Wu made the ominous comparison, which reportedly drew the wrath of the Politburo officials. "The huge army of the unemployed is likely to become a fuse that ignites the powder keg," wrote Wu in a May column that compared the situation with the Great Depression. While Wu suffers an online blackout, the latest data released by the National Bureau of Statistics backs his claims. Watch: Why are youths in China quitting high-paying jobs × Unemployment on the rise in China According to the data, the unemployment rate among young people aged 16 to 24 soared to a record high of 20.8 per cent in May, surpassing the previous peak observed in April. The surge in unemployment indicates that young individuals are encountering significant challenges in finding jobs, as the labour market becomes increasingly competitive. Due to the lack of jobs, fresh Chinese graduates are posting pictures of themselves slumped over a chair, collapsed against a wall and prostrated on the ground wearing graduation gowns as a form of rebellion. The photos are a form of silent protest and show students posing as corpses with the message "more dead than alive". Also read | Fresh graduates in China pose like corpses to stage silent protest over lack of jobs Under President Xi Jinping, the once-soaring economy of the country has taken a serious tumble, especially after the pandemic. Xi's crackdown on the private sector has inflicted massive harm on the country’s tech and education sector, which has stressed the job market like never before. China’s private sector accounts for 80 per cent of total jobs nationwide, and it has been ravaged by China’s now-abandoned zero-Covid policy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Prominent Chinese financial journalist banned from social media for THIS reason

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, on Sunday (June 25), in Beijing, where the two countries discussed “international” issues. This comes amid Russia’s mercenary group Wagner group’s mutinous threat to storm the capital city of Moscow, challenging President Vladimir Putin’s decades-long power over the country. &nbsp;

<h2>What did Russian and Chinese diplomats discuss?</h2>

In a one-line statement, on their website, the Chinese foreign ministry said Rudenko and Qin discussed China-Russia relations as well as “international and regional issues of common concern”.&nbsp; 
 
However, a statement released by the Russian&nbsp;foreign ministry said&nbsp;Beijing had backed Moscow's efforts to counter the Wagner fighters. "The Chinese side expressed support for the efforts of the leadership of the Russian Federation to stabilise the situation in the country in connection with the events of June 24, and reaffirmed its interest in strengthening the unity and further prosperity of Russia," said the&nbsp;Russian foreign ministry.&nbsp;

The statement was released following a meeting between&nbsp;China's deputy foreign minister Ma Zhaoxu and&nbsp;Rudenko.

Subsequently,&nbsp;the Chinese foreign ministry released another statement, in&nbsp;Beijing's first official remarks on the Wagner rebellion and said, "As a friendly neighbour and a new era comprehensive strategic cooperative partner, China supports Russia in protecting national stability and achieving development and prosperity," adding that it was&nbsp;Russia's "internal affair".

<h2>Russian diplomat’s visit to Beijing</h2>

While it was not immediately clear when the Russian diplomat arrived in Beijing and if it was before or after the Wagner fighters threatened to storm Moscow or even in response to the apparent rebellion by heavily armed mercenaries on Friday.

China, Russia’s key ally, was&nbsp;yet to publicly comment on the situation that unfolded near Moscow and which Putin said threatened Russia’s very existence, prior to the Russian diplomat's visit. This comes as several countries in the West including the United States said that they would be closely monitoring the situation.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pointed to the emerging political instability in Moscow, indicating that the armed insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group reveals Russia’s weakness.&nbsp;

On the other hand, countries like North Korea expressed their full support for Russia in dealing with the mutiny, the country’s state media reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

During a meeting with the Russian ambassador to Pyongyang Alexander Matsegora, the North Korea vice foreign minister Im Chon Il “expressed firm belief that the recent armed rebellion in Russia would be successfully put down,” quoted Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).&nbsp;

<h2>Chinese people about the Wagner mutiny</h2>

“China will support Russia while stressing no interference of its internal affairs,” a prominent Chinese military expert and TV commentator Song Zhongping told Reuters. Notably, as per the news agency, for&nbsp;Song, the rebellion has ended. “Prigozhin realises that it is difficult to achieve the desired results through rebellion.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, many Chinese citizens, as per Reuters, took to social media in support of Putin and wrote, “You can do it, Russia!” However, several reports have said that Putin’s problems will continue as he was forced to accept an amnesty deal and Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s move against the Kremlin has exposed fragility in the Russian president’s rule.&nbsp;

The security measures imposed under Russia’s “anti-terrorism operation” were still in place in Moscow, on Sunday. This comes as the long and ongoing tensions between the Wagner chief and the Russian military’s top brass boiled over when Prigozhin’s forces seized the base in Rostov-on-Don and were reportedly on their way to Moscow.&nbsp;

The Russian president called the move an act of “treason” and vowed to punish the perpetrators. However, hours later, in a surprise announcement, Prigozhin said his forces could return to base to avoid “spilling Russian blood”. Subsequently, the Kremlin announced that Putin’s former ally would leave for Belarus and Russia would neither prosecute him nor Wagner’s troops.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, on Sunday (June 25), in Beijing, where the two countries discussed “international” issues.

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, on Sunday (June 25), in Beijing, where the two countries discussed “international” issues. This comes amid Russia’s mercenary group Wagner group’s mutinous threat to storm the capital city of Moscow, challenging President Vladimir Putin’s decades-long power over the country. What did Russian and Chinese diplomats discuss? In a one-line statement, on their website, the Chinese foreign ministry said Rudenko and Qin discussed China-Russia relations as well as “international and regional issues of common concern”. However, a statement released by the Russian foreign ministry said Beijing had backed Moscow's efforts to counter the Wagner fighters. "The Chinese side expressed support for the efforts of the leadership of the Russian Federation to stabilise the situation in the country in connection with the events of June 24, and reaffirmed its interest in strengthening the unity and further prosperity of Russia," said the Russian foreign ministry. The statement was released following a meeting between China's deputy foreign minister Ma Zhaoxu and Rudenko. Subsequently, the Chinese foreign ministry released another statement, in Beijing's first official remarks on the Wagner rebellion and said, "As a friendly neighbour and a new era comprehensive strategic cooperative partner, China supports Russia in protecting national stability and achieving development and prosperity," adding that it was Russia's "internal affair". Russian diplomat’s visit to Beijing While it was not immediately clear when the Russian diplomat arrived in Beijing and if it was before or after the Wagner fighters threatened to storm Moscow or even in response to the apparent rebellion by heavily armed mercenaries on Friday. China, Russia’s key ally, was yet to publicly comment on the situation that unfolded near Moscow and which Putin said threatened Russia’s very existence, prior to the Russian diplomat's visit. This comes as several countries in the West including the United States said that they would be closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pointed to the emerging political instability in Moscow, indicating that the armed insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group reveals Russia’s weakness. On the other hand, countries like North Korea expressed their full support for Russia in dealing with the mutiny, the country’s state media reported on Sunday. During a meeting with the Russian ambassador to Pyongyang Alexander Matsegora, the North Korea vice foreign minister Im Chon Il “expressed firm belief that the recent armed rebellion in Russia would be successfully put down,” quoted Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Chinese people about the Wagner mutiny “China will support Russia while stressing no interference of its internal affairs,” a prominent Chinese military expert and TV commentator Song Zhongping told Reuters. Notably, as per the news agency, for Song, the rebellion has ended. “Prigozhin realises that it is difficult to achieve the desired results through rebellion.” Meanwhile, many Chinese citizens, as per Reuters, took to social media in support of Putin and wrote, “You can do it, Russia!” However, several reports have said that Putin’s problems will continue as he was forced to accept an amnesty deal and Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s move against the Kremlin has exposed fragility in the Russian president’s rule. The security measures imposed under Russia’s “anti-terrorism operation” were still in place in Moscow, on Sunday. This comes as the long and ongoing tensions between the Wagner chief and the Russian military’s top brass boiled over when Prigozhin’s forces seized the base in Rostov-on-Don and were reportedly on their way to Moscow. The Russian president called the move an act of “treason” and vowed to punish the perpetrators. However, hours later, in a surprise announcement, Prigozhin said his forces could return to base to avoid “spilling Russian blood”. Subsequently, the Kremlin announced that Putin’s former ally would leave for Belarus and Russia would neither prosecute him nor Wagner’s troops. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian diplomat in China discusses ‘international’ issues, Beijing 'supports' Moscow over Wagner mutiny

No direct evidence proving that coronavirus was created in any incident which took place at China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology was found by United States intelligence agencies, said a report declassified on Friday. 
 
The Office of the Director of national intelligence's (ODNI) four-page report stated that the United States intelligence community cannot still rule out the possibility of the virus emerging from the laboratory, however, they have not been able to find evidence that proves the pandemic originated from the lab in any incident. 
 
“The Central Intelligence Agency and another agency remain unable to determine the precise origin of the COVID-19 pandemic, as both (natural and lab) hypotheses rely on significant assumptions or face challenges with conflicting reporting,” the ODNI report stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-data-scepticism-china-didnt-release-cremation-data-in-quarterly-report-605268">Covid scepticism deepens as China fails to release cremation data in quarterly report</a>

The report stated that while they have conducted “extensive work” on coronaviruses at the Wuhan Institute (WIV), no evidence of a specific incident has been found by the agencies that proves to have caused the outbreak. 
 
“We continue to have no indication that the WIV’s pre-pandemic research holdings included SARS-CoV-2 or a close progenitor, nor any direct evidence that a specific research-related incident occurred involving WIV personnel before the pandemic that could have caused the Covid pandemic,” the report stated.

<h2 lang="en-US">China obstructing independent reviews: Lawmakers</h2>

Lawmakers have asked intelligence officials to share more materials about the origins of coronavirus. However, the officials have argued repeatedly that the official obstruction created by China in independent reviews makes it impossible to find the origin of the pandemic. 
 
The report emerged three months after a fuller explanation of the information, that the US intelligence has on the pandemic's origin, was demanded by the lawmakers. 
 
Few lawmakers have alleged that the virus was produced from the gain-of-function genetic engineering research which was carried out in the Wuhan lab and that the evidence has been covered up by Beijing. 
 
Reiterating a conclusion which was reached in March, the ODNI report stated that "almost all" of its constituent agencies, which include the CIA, FBI and NSA have assessed that the coronavirus was not engineered genetically, however, many believe that it was not laboratory-adapted.

WATCH |&nbsp;Why India need not worry about China’s recent COVID surge

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<h2 lang="en-US">COVID-19 not developed as bioweapon?</h2>

The report stated that pathogen research was conducted by Wuhan lab as well as vaccine development along with with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) "for public health needs."

However, the use of coronaviruses in this research "were too distantly related to have led to the creation of SARS-CoV-2," the report claimed. The report also strongly rejected the allegations the virus was developed as a bio-weapon by the PLA.

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(With inputs from agencies)

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No direct evidence proving that coronavirus was created in any incident which took place at China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology was found by United States intelligence agencies, said a report declassified on Friday.

No direct evidence proving that coronavirus was created in any incident which took place at China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology was found by United States intelligence agencies, said a report declassified on Friday. The Office of the Director of national intelligence's (ODNI) four-page report stated that the United States intelligence community cannot still rule out the possibility of the virus emerging from the laboratory, however, they have not been able to find evidence that proves the pandemic originated from the lab in any incident. “The Central Intelligence Agency and another agency remain unable to determine the precise origin of the COVID-19 pandemic, as both (natural and lab) hypotheses rely on significant assumptions or face challenges with conflicting reporting,” the ODNI report stated. ALSO READ | Covid scepticism deepens as China fails to release cremation data in quarterly report The report stated that while they have conducted “extensive work” on coronaviruses at the Wuhan Institute (WIV), no evidence of a specific incident has been found by the agencies that proves to have caused the outbreak. “We continue to have no indication that the WIV’s pre-pandemic research holdings included SARS-CoV-2 or a close progenitor, nor any direct evidence that a specific research-related incident occurred involving WIV personnel before the pandemic that could have caused the Covid pandemic,” the report stated. China obstructing independent reviews: Lawmakers Lawmakers have asked intelligence officials to share more materials about the origins of coronavirus. However, the officials have argued repeatedly that the official obstruction created by China in independent reviews makes it impossible to find the origin of the pandemic. The report emerged three months after a fuller explanation of the information, that the US intelligence has on the pandemic's origin, was demanded by the lawmakers. Few lawmakers have alleged that the virus was produced from the gain-of-function genetic engineering research which was carried out in the Wuhan lab and that the evidence has been covered up by Beijing. Reiterating a conclusion which was reached in March, the ODNI report stated that "almost all" of its constituent agencies, which include the CIA, FBI and NSA have assessed that the coronavirus was not engineered genetically, however, many believe that it was not laboratory-adapted. WATCH | Why India need not worry about China’s recent COVID surge COVID-19 not developed as bioweapon? The report stated that pathogen research was conducted by Wuhan lab as well as vaccine development along with with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) "for public health needs." However, the use of coronaviruses in this research "were too distantly related to have led to the creation of SARS-CoV-2," the report claimed. The report also strongly rejected the allegations the virus was developed as a bio-weapon by the PLA. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US intelligence: No direct evidence found to prove coronavirus created in Wuhan lab, China obstructing review

Over six months after Pokhara International Airport (PIA) was inaugurated in Nepal, the airport witnessed its first international landing. A Sichuan Airlines A319 aircraft from Chengdu, China landed on the airport tarmac at 9:06 am on Wednesday.

Over six months after Pokhara International Airport (PIA) was inaugurated in Nepal, the airport witnessed its first international landing. A Sichuan Airlines A319 aircraft from Chengdu, China landed on the airport tarmac at 9:06 am on Wednesday. The flight had passengers, including athletes who will be participating in Nepal China Dragon Boat Race Festival to be held from June 23 to June 25 at Phewa Lake in Pokhara. However, the landing, which was supposed to be a milestone, may turn into yet another controversy. After the landing, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song reiterated that the airport was built under Beijing's highly ambitious Belt and Roads Initiative (BRI). “The Pokhara International Airport, which commenced in January 2023, was planned and constructed with the assistance of the Chinese government. It was built by Chinese engineers. Today, we have achieved a significant milestone with the successful landing of an international flight at Pokhara International Airport. This achievement falls within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project," said Chen. Notably, a day prior to the opening of the airport, Chen courted controversy by saying the airport was a “flagship project of China-Nepal BRI cooperation”. “This is the flagship project of China-Nepal BRI cooperation. Warmly congratulations to Nepali Gov and Nepali people!” the embassy said. ALSO READ | Nepal plane crash: Pokhara International Airport was inaugurated two weeks ago, built with Chinese assistance Nepalese government not fan of BRI tag The declaration riled up the Nepalese government with newly-appointed Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ expressing concerns over why and how this issue had surfaced at such a critical time. Despite the first landing, experts remain pessimistic about the airport's future. A Chinese airline landing in an airport constructed using Chinese money does not inspire confidence among the shareholders. Ever since the airport was constructed, it has been in the news but for all the wrong reasons. Two weeks after the inauguration, a Yeti Airlines twin-engine ATR 72 plane crashed, attempting a landing at the airport. Reportedly, the plane crashed on the bank of the Seti River between the old airport and the new airport. There were 72 people onboard the plane, including two infants, four crew members and 10 foreign nationals. According to reports, 68 died in the crash. WATCH | Nepal Plane Crash: Pokhara International Airport temporarily closed × China's debt trap? According to The Annapurna Express, in March 2016, China's Exim Bank provided $215.96 million in a loan agreement for the construction of the airport, which is surrounded by the pristine Annapurna Mountain Range In order to sustain itself, the airport should be conducting at least 100 daily domestic and 500 weekly international flights, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). The airport has to pay $3.2 million alone in annual interest for which it needs to have income in excess of $19 million when it operates at full potential. However, experts argue that even then, the airport would struggle to pay the instalments on time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chinese-built Pokhara Airport receives first int'l flight, six months after its inauguration

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is waxing lyrical about China as&nbsp;International Monetary Fund (IMF) continues to delay the release of bailout funding. Sharif hailed Beijing for "outstanding" financial support amid the 'inordinate' delay by the monetary body.&nbsp;

Sharif was speaking after Islamabad&nbsp;signed&nbsp;a memorandum of understanding with Beijing&nbsp;for the 1,200 MW Chashma-5 (C-5) nuclear power project.

“It is a great occasion and a great moment between two great friends, China and Pakistan.&nbsp;Hopefully, we will kickstart it without further delay," said Sharif, adding that&nbsp;investment from China, to the tune of $4.8 billion, had sent a “loud and clear” message.&nbsp;

Sharif's statement also came in the backdrop of his government announcing that&nbsp;$2.3 billion in Chinese loans would be rolled over before the fiscal year ends on June 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Our friendship sweeter than sugar and honey: Sharif</h2>

“Our friendship is higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the deepest ocean, sweeter than sugar and honey, and stronger than iron and steel,” said Sharif.&nbsp;

As for receiving the bailout money from IMF, Sharif said Pakistan had met all the terms and conditions and yet was unable to make any progress in the discussions.&nbsp;

“We thought this would be done two months ago, three months ago but there has been inordinate delay...China, once again, came to our help and rescue. This is friendship. A friend in need is a friend indeed.”

“But at this point and time, at this juncture, Chinese financial support has been outstanding.&nbsp;We are deeply obliged to President Xi Jinping, to the Chinese leadership and to the Chinese finance minister," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882">WATCH |&nbsp;Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse?</a>

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<h2>Pakistan on risk of default</h2>

Earlier this month,&nbsp;credit ratings agency Moody's said time is running out for Pakistan to convince IMF&nbsp;to release the remaining tranche of the $2.2 billion of the $6.7 billion payout.&nbsp;

“There are increasing risks that Pakistan may be unable to complete the IMF program that expires at the end of June,” Grace Lim, a sovereign analyst with Moody's Singapore was quoted as saying by Bloomberg.&nbsp;

“Without an IMF program, Pakistan could default, given its very weak reserves," Lim added.&nbsp;

The deadline to reach a deal on the financing programme is approaching and the Pakistani government is nowhere near securing the funding. Despite finance minister Ishaq Dar holding several rounds of discussions with the top IMF officials, Islamabad hasn't been able to lock dates for a board meeting, a pre-requisite for the disbursement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-running-out-of-time-could-default-says-credit-rating-agency-moodys-604740">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan running out of time, could default, says credit rating agency Moody's&nbsp;</a>

Notably, conducting a board meeting on the review of the programme would require a prior staff-level agreement. However, the deal has been delayed since November last year, the longest delay since at least 2008.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Islamabad needs to satisfy IMF on three counts, including&nbsp;the budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24). However, over a week since the budget was tabled in the National Assembly, IMF remains unconvinced.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is waxing lyrical about China as International Monetary Fund (IMF) continues to delay the release of bailout funding. Sharif hailed Beijing for "outstanding" financial support amid the 'inordinate' delay by the monetary body.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is waxing lyrical about China as International Monetary Fund (IMF) continues to delay the release of bailout funding. Sharif hailed Beijing for "outstanding" financial support amid the 'inordinate' delay by the monetary body. Sharif was speaking after Islamabad signed a memorandum of understanding with Beijing for the 1,200 MW Chashma-5 (C-5) nuclear power project. “It is a great occasion and a great moment between two great friends, China and Pakistan. Hopefully, we will kickstart it without further delay," said Sharif, adding that investment from China, to the tune of $4.8 billion, had sent a “loud and clear” message. Sharif's statement also came in the backdrop of his government announcing that $2.3 billion in Chinese loans would be rolled over before the fiscal year ends on June 30. Our friendship sweeter than sugar and honey: Sharif “Our friendship is higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the deepest ocean, sweeter than sugar and honey, and stronger than iron and steel,” said Sharif. As for receiving the bailout money from IMF, Sharif said Pakistan had met all the terms and conditions and yet was unable to make any progress in the discussions. “We thought this would be done two months ago, three months ago but there has been inordinate delay...China, once again, came to our help and rescue. This is friendship. A friend in need is a friend indeed.” “But at this point and time, at this juncture, Chinese financial support has been outstanding. We are deeply obliged to President Xi Jinping, to the Chinese leadership and to the Chinese finance minister," he added. WATCH | Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse? × Pakistan on risk of default Earlier this month, credit ratings agency Moody's said time is running out for Pakistan to convince IMF to release the remaining tranche of the $2.2 billion of the $6.7 billion payout. “There are increasing risks that Pakistan may be unable to complete the IMF program that expires at the end of June,” Grace Lim, a sovereign analyst with Moody's Singapore was quoted as saying by Bloomberg. “Without an IMF program, Pakistan could default, given its very weak reserves," Lim added. The deadline to reach a deal on the financing programme is approaching and the Pakistani government is nowhere near securing the funding. Despite finance minister Ishaq Dar holding several rounds of discussions with the top IMF officials, Islamabad hasn't been able to lock dates for a board meeting, a pre-requisite for the disbursement. Also read | Pakistan running out of time, could default, says credit rating agency Moody's Notably, conducting a board meeting on the review of the programme would require a prior staff-level agreement. However, the deal has been delayed since November last year, the longest delay since at least 2008. Islamabad needs to satisfy IMF on three counts, including the budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24). However, over a week since the budget was tabled in the National Assembly, IMF remains unconvinced. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'China came to our help...': Pakistan PM waxes lyrical about Beijing as IMF delays bailout package

The air force of Taiwan came into action on Sunday after 10 Chinese warplanes were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, as the defence ministry of the island further added that combat patrols were carried out by four Chinese warships. 
 
For the second time in a week, renewed Chinese military activity has been reported by Taiwan after 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into the air defence zone of the island on Thursday, some of which then flew into the western Pacific. 
 
China, which has continued to claim the democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, in the past three years has regularly flown its air force near the island, though it has not entered into the territorial air space of Taiwan. 
 
Taiwan's defence ministry, in a short statement, said that around 2 pm (0600 GMT) on Sunday, 24 Chinese air force planes were detected by them, which included J-10, J-11, J-16 and Su-30 fighters, as well as H-6 bombers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-president-pledges-to-strengthen-islands-defence-capability-with-new-technologies-602946">Taiwan president pledges to strengthen island’s defence capabilities with new technologies</a>

The ministry stated that 10 had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which separates the two countries and was considered as an unofficial barrier earlier. 
 
Four Chinese naval ships were also involved in "joint combat readiness patrols", stated the ministry. 
 
Taiwan stated that it has its own fighters and deployed land-based missile systems and ships to keep watch.

<h2>Honduras opens its embassy in China after severing ties with Taiwan</h2>

The embassy of Honduras was officially opened in China on Sunday, months after it changed its diplomatic allegiance from Taipei to Beijing. 
 
"The relations between Honduras and China will open new opportunities and capabilities to strengthen the cooperation between both countries," said Honduran Foreign Minister Enrique Reina while speaking to Chinese state media after attending a ceremony in which the plaque for the new embassy was unveiled. 
 
Honduran President Xiomara Castro reached Shanghai on Friday to embark on his five-day visit to cement the relationship and is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing.

WATCH |&nbsp;China's territorial ambitions, claims over Taiwan

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During her visit, Castro is expected to sign a host of agreements. Earlier this month, Reina said that China had already started importing melons, shrimp, bananas and other products from Honduras. 
 
The ceremony was attended by Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Sunday, the official Xinhua news agency stated. 
 
He shook hands with Reina in front of a row of Honduran and Chinese flags. Honduras severed its diplomatic ties with Taiwan in March in favour of Beijing.

 
&nbsp;

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The air force of Taiwan came into action on Sunday after 10 Chinese warplanes were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, as the defence ministry of the island further added that combat patrols were carried out by four Chinese warships.

The air force of Taiwan came into action on Sunday after 10 Chinese warplanes were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, as the defence ministry of the island further added that combat patrols were carried out by four Chinese warships. For the second time in a week, renewed Chinese military activity has been reported by Taiwan after 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into the air defence zone of the island on Thursday, some of which then flew into the western Pacific. China, which has continued to claim the democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, in the past three years has regularly flown its air force near the island, though it has not entered into the territorial air space of Taiwan. Taiwan's defence ministry, in a short statement, said that around 2 pm (0600 GMT) on Sunday, 24 Chinese air force planes were detected by them, which included J-10, J-11, J-16 and Su-30 fighters, as well as H-6 bombers. ALSO READ | Taiwan president pledges to strengthen island’s defence capabilities with new technologies The ministry stated that 10 had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which separates the two countries and was considered as an unofficial barrier earlier. Four Chinese naval ships were also involved in "joint combat readiness patrols", stated the ministry. Taiwan stated that it has its own fighters and deployed land-based missile systems and ships to keep watch. Honduras opens its embassy in China after severing ties with Taiwan The embassy of Honduras was officially opened in China on Sunday, months after it changed its diplomatic allegiance from Taipei to Beijing. "The relations between Honduras and China will open new opportunities and capabilities to strengthen the cooperation between both countries," said Honduran Foreign Minister Enrique Reina while speaking to Chinese state media after attending a ceremony in which the plaque for the new embassy was unveiled. Honduran President Xiomara Castro reached Shanghai on Friday to embark on his five-day visit to cement the relationship and is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. WATCH | China's territorial ambitions, claims over Taiwan During her visit, Castro is expected to sign a host of agreements. Earlier this month, Reina said that China had already started importing melons, shrimp, bananas and other products from Honduras. The ceremony was attended by Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Sunday, the official Xinhua news agency stated. He shook hands with Reina in front of a row of Honduran and Chinese flags. Honduras severed its diplomatic ties with Taiwan in March in favour of Beijing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan scrambles jets as 10 Chinese warplanes cross median line of strait

After 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into Taiwan's air defence zone for "long-range aerial reconnaissance training" on Thursday (June 8), the island nation activated its air defence systems.

After 37 Chinese military aircraft flew into Taiwan's air defence zone for "long-range aerial reconnaissance training" on Thursday (June 8), the island nation activated its air defence systems. Taiwan's defence ministry said it detected the Chinese air force planes that included J-11 and J-16 fighters as well as nuclear-capable H-6 bombers, flying into the southwestern corner of its air defence identification zone around 5 am (2100 GMT on Wednesday). "Since 0500 (UTC+8) today (Jun. 8), 37 PLA aircraft, including J-11, J-16, H-6, YU-20, and AWACS, have successively entered Taiwan's SW airspace. Several aircraft entered the western Pacific through Taiwan's SE airspace for long-range aerial reconnaissance training," the ministry said. Taipei deploys quick countermeasures As a countermeasure, Taipei activated land-based missile systems and deployed its aircraft and ships to keep watch on any suspected movement, the ministry added. "R.O.C. Armed Forces are monitoring the situation closely with our ISR system and have dispatched CAP aircraft, naval vessels, and land-based missile systems in response." WATCH | Taiwan and its challenges with China, will US support Taiwan like Ukraine? × China unhappy with Taiwan-US deal The latest incursion by the Chinese side comes days after Taiwan and the United States signed the first deal under a new trade talks framework. Beijing has been seething ever since the talks between Washington and Taipei began over the trade deal. It asked Washington to 'refrain' from interfering in the region. “The United States should stop any form of official exchanges with Taiwan, refrain from negotiating agreements with Taiwan that have sovereign connotations or official nature and refrain from sending wrong signals to the Taiwan independence’ secessionist forces,” said a ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning. Meanwhile, the White House has said it fears China's "growing aggressiveness" in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea may soon lead to casualties. "It won't be long before somebody gets hurt," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters. "That's the concern with these unsafe and unprofessional intercepts." Also read | White House warns someone may get 'hurt' by Chinese military's 'aggressiveness' The US military alleged that the Chinese Navy knowingly carried out “unsafe manoeuvres” near its destroyer transiting the sensitive Taiwan Strait. China considers Taiwan a crucial part of its sovereign territory. Under its 'Once China' diplomacy, Beijing does not appreciate any country keeping diplomatic ties with Taipei. Although Washington does not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it continues to engage with the island nation, much to China's chagrin. Since former House speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last year, Beijing has increased the intensity of its incursion in Taiwanese water and air zones. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Taiwan activates air defence system after Chinese aircraft encroach zone

A former executive at TikTok's parent company ByteDance has claimed that China's Communist Party (CCP) accessed user data collected by the short-video app to spy upon and monitor Hong Kong activists in 2018.

A former executive at TikTok's parent company ByteDance has claimed that China's Communist Party (CCP) accessed user data collected by the short-video app to spy upon and monitor Hong Kong activists in 2018. Yintao Yu, the executive who led ByteDance's US engineering team made the stunning revelations in a wrongful termination lawsuit filed in May. The court filings, accessed by Wall Street Journal revealed that the CCP collected IP addresses, SIM card IDs and communication data of users in Hong Kong in 2018. “Protesters’, supporters’, and civil rights activists’ device identifiers were tracked in addition to their network information, SIM card identifications, and IP addresses,” said Yu during the hearing. “This information was used to determine both the users’ identity and locations. The TikTok app stores all the users’ direct messages, their search histories, the content viewed by the users, and duration. From the logs, I saw that the Committee accessed the protestors’, civil rights activists’, and supporters’ unique user data, locations, and communications," he added. WATCH | TikTok says 'disappointed over the ban' in US × God credential: A passkey to access user data The former employee said the existence of the 'god credential' is a well-known fact amongst the top hierarchy of ByteDance which contradicts the claims made to the legislators in US and other countries. Also read | Biden administration pressures TikTok's Chinese owners to sell stakes, threatens complete ban Yu worked from ByteDance's Menlo Park office in California and also spent time in the company’s offices in Los Angeles and Beijing. He added that the alleged backdoor allowed certain high-level persons in Beijing the ability to access user data, no matter where it was located. Meanwhile, ByteDance termed Yu's claims as baseless and that he was looking to attract media attention. “We vigorously oppose what we believe are baseless claims and allegations in this complaint," said a spokesperson. “His actions are clearly intended to garner media attention." “We plan to vigorously oppose what we believe are baseless claims and allegations in this complaint. Mr. Yu worked for ByteDance Inc. for less than a year and his employment ended in July 2018." The spokesperson added that Yu worked on an app called Flipagram which was discontinued years ago for business reasons. TikTok has come under heavy scrutiny across the globe for its shoddy data handling practices. Countries such as India and US have imposed a complete or partial ban on the app's operations, primarily because of its CCP connection. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Using TikTok, China spied on Hong Kong activists, claims former employee

Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu has said a conflict with the United States would be an "unbearable disaster" for the world. Li made the comment during the Shangri-La security summit in Singapore over the weekend, adding that Beijing seeks dialogue over confrontation.

Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu has said a conflict with the United States would be an "unbearable disaster" for the world. Li made the comment during the Shangri-La security summit in Singapore over the weekend, adding that Beijing seeks dialogue over confrontation. "China and the US have different systems and are different in many other ways," said Li who was giving his first major speech since taking on the role. "However, this should not keep the two sides from seeking common ground and common interests to grow bilateral ties and deepen cooperation," he said. "It is undeniable that a severe conflict or confrontation between China and the US will be an unbearable disaster for the world." WATCH | Thaw in U.S-China relationship? Spotlight on Beijing's state-led development, calls to rethink ties Beijing blames Washington The statement by Li comes after he declined an invitation to meet with his US counterpart Llyod Austin, along the sidelines of Asia’s top security summit. Beijing shot down the plans and blamed the US for the recent escalation in tension. It said Washington should “earnestly respect China’s sovereignty and security interests and concerns, immediately correct the wrongdoing, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries". Austin termed the cancellation of the meeting as 'unfortunate', adding that without dialogue, any small incident could "spiral out of control". "You've heard me talk a number of times about the importance of countries with large, with significant capabilities, being able to talk to each other so you can manage crises and prevent things from spiralling out of control unnecessarily," he said. "We would hope that they would alter their actions, but since they haven't yet, I'm concerned about at some point having an incident that could very, very quickly spiral out of control." Also read | US defence secretary terms cancellation of talks with Chinese counterpart as ‘unfortunate’ Tensions rise between the two nations Both China and US have been at each other's case over myriad issues, ranging from Taiwan to territorial disputes in the South China Sea to US President's heavy-handedness on semiconductor chip exports to Beiji.ng. However, the recent flare-up in relations came last week when the US military alleged that the Chinese navy carried out “unsafe manoeuvres” near a US destroyer transiting the sensitive Taiwan Strait. Previously, the two nations locked horns when a Chinese plane “flew directly in front of and within 400 feet of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence". In a declassified video footage, a fighter plane could be seen crossing in front of the American aircraft which appears to be shaking due to the resulting turbulence. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chinese defence minister says war with US would be 'unbearable disaster', seeks dialogue

Chinese scientists have started drilling a 10,000-metre (32,808 feet) hole into the crust of the Earth, as the second largest economy of the world is exploring new frontiers not just above but below the surface of the planet. 
 
China has started drilling to create what will be the deepest borehole ever made in the country. The drilling started in the oil-rich Tarim Basin, in northwest China's Xinjiang region on Tuesday, reported the official Xinhua News Agency. 
 
The operation kicked off at 11:46 am on Tuesday. The construction of the borehole is a landmark event in the deep-Earth exploration of China, providing the nation with an unprecedented opportunity to study areas of Earth which are deep beneath the surface. 
 
The borehole is being constructed in the hinterland of the Taklimakan Desert, which is China's largest desert.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-enhancing-its-air-power-along-lac-reveal-new-satellite-images-599013">China enhances air power along Line of Actual Control, reveal satellite images</a>

Earlier on Tuesday morning, for the first time, China's civilian astronaut was sent into space from the Gobi Desert.

<h2>Narrow shaft to reach&nbsp;cretaceous system in Earth's crust</h2>

The narrow shaft which is being constructed inside the ground, along with the drill bits and drill pipes which weigh more than 2,000 tonnes, will reach the cretaceous system in the Earth's crust after penetrating more than 10 layers of rocks or continental strata, as per the report. 
 
The cretaceous system of the Earth features rock that date back some 145 million years. 
 
Technical expert Wang Chunsheng, who recently joined the operation, stated that drilling a borehole which is more than 10,000 metres deep is a bold step to explore the Earth's unknown territory and enhance the boundaries of human understanding. 
 
"The construction difficulty of the drilling project can be compared to a big truck driving on two thin steel cables," said Sun Jinsheng, a scientist at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, while speaking to Xinhua. 
 
The Tarim Basin, where the borehole is being constructed, is one of the toughest areas to explore because of its harsh ground environment along with complicated underground conditions.

WATCH |&nbsp;China: Xi Jinping warns state security becoming complex, says 'more security challenges lie ahead'

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While addressing the leading scientists of the nation in 2021, President Xi Jinping in his speech had called for greater progress in the exploration of deep Earth. 
 
Such explorations help in identifying mineral and energy resources and assessing the risks of environmental disasters, like volcano eruptions and earthquakes. 
 
The Earth's deepest man-made hole is the Russian Kola Superdeep Borehole, which was drilled for 20 years to reach a depth of 12,262 metres (40,230 feet) in 1989. 
 
According to a BBC report, the Kola Superdeep Borehole is so deep that locals claim one can hear the moans of souls who get tortured in hell.

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Chinese scientists have started drilling a 10,000-metre (32,808 feet) hole into the crust of the Earth, as the second largest economy of the world is exploring new frontiers not just above but below the surface of the planet.

Chinese scientists have started drilling a 10,000-metre (32,808 feet) hole into the crust of the Earth, as the second largest economy of the world is exploring new frontiers not just above but below the surface of the planet. China has started drilling to create what will be the deepest borehole ever made in the country. The drilling started in the oil-rich Tarim Basin, in northwest China's Xinjiang region on Tuesday, reported the official Xinhua News Agency. The operation kicked off at 11:46 am on Tuesday. The construction of the borehole is a landmark event in the deep-Earth exploration of China, providing the nation with an unprecedented opportunity to study areas of Earth which are deep beneath the surface. The borehole is being constructed in the hinterland of the Taklimakan Desert, which is China's largest desert. ALSO READ | China enhances air power along Line of Actual Control, reveal satellite images Earlier on Tuesday morning, for the first time, China's civilian astronaut was sent into space from the Gobi Desert. Narrow shaft to reach cretaceous system in Earth's crust The narrow shaft which is being constructed inside the ground, along with the drill bits and drill pipes which weigh more than 2,000 tonnes, will reach the cretaceous system in the Earth's crust after penetrating more than 10 layers of rocks or continental strata, as per the report. The cretaceous system of the Earth features rock that date back some 145 million years. Technical expert Wang Chunsheng, who recently joined the operation, stated that drilling a borehole which is more than 10,000 metres deep is a bold step to explore the Earth's unknown territory and enhance the boundaries of human understanding. "The construction difficulty of the drilling project can be compared to a big truck driving on two thin steel cables," said Sun Jinsheng, a scientist at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, while speaking to Xinhua. The Tarim Basin, where the borehole is being constructed, is one of the toughest areas to explore because of its harsh ground environment along with complicated underground conditions. WATCH | China: Xi Jinping warns state security becoming complex, says 'more security challenges lie ahead' While addressing the leading scientists of the nation in 2021, President Xi Jinping in his speech had called for greater progress in the exploration of deep Earth. Such explorations help in identifying mineral and energy resources and assessing the risks of environmental disasters, like volcano eruptions and earthquakes. The Earth's deepest man-made hole is the Russian Kola Superdeep Borehole, which was drilled for 20 years to reach a depth of 12,262 metres (40,230 feet) in 1989. According to a BBC report, the Kola Superdeep Borehole is so deep that locals claim one can hear the moans of souls who get tortured in hell. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China drilling 10,000-metre deep hole into Earth's crust. Here's why

Elon Musk,&nbsp;on Tuesday, arrived in Beijing on an unannounced visit. This is his first trip to China in more than three years. He is expected to&nbsp;visit Tesla's Shanghai plant during his trip.&nbsp;

Musk met Foreign Minister Qin Gang in Beijing after he landed, said the ministry.

Qin told Musk China was "committed to creating a better market-oriented, rule-of-law-based and internationalised business environment" for foreign enterprises, his ministry said on its website.

Musk in response said, "Tesla opposes 'decoupling and breaking chains', and is willing to continue to expand its business in China", according to the ministry's readout.

According to Beijing, on Tuesday, Qin and Musk discussed relations between China and the United States, with the Chinese foreign minister saying the two countries should "apply the brakes in a timely manner to avoid dangerous driving".

<h2>Musk's private jet lands in Beijing&nbsp;</h2>

As per a Reuters news agency witness, a private jet, which is used by Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk, landed in Beijing on Tuesday.

According to a flight aggregation website ADS-B Exchange, Musk’s private jet, a 2015 Gulfstream G650ER, was seen leaving Alaska before crossing over Japan and South Korea on Tuesday morning.

The jet with its identifying tail number could be seen at Beijing Capital International Airport on Tuesday, according to the Reuters witness.

After the United States, China is Tesla's second-largest market. The electric car company's Shanghai plant is its largest production hub.

Musk's visit to China would be the first after he took the internet by storm with his bizarre dance moves during a 2020 event at Tesla's plant in Shanghai.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> knows how to get down <a href="https://t.co/yIwcByxAuL">pic.twitter.com/yIwcByxAuL</a>
— Tesla Owners Silicon Valley (@teslaownersSV) <a href="https://twitter.com/teslaownersSV/status/1632611010061430784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

This would also mark his first visit to the country since the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

This also comes after Tesla is facing challenges including intense competition from Chinese automaker companies that are exporting their vehicles as demand in the world's largest auto market weakens.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Musk in a conversation with CNBC had said, "There are some constraints on our ability to expand in China." He added: "It's not a demand issue."

In the same interview, Musk said tensions between the United States and China "should be a concern for everyone."

<h2>Tesla's road to India and a Chinese stumble</h2>

Tesla has not yet entered India, the world's fifth-largest economy.&nbsp;

While Elon Musk has criticised what he said were India's high import taxes, India is averse to the idea of letting Tesla sell electric vehicles made in China.&nbsp;

In April 2022, speaking at Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, India's road transport minister Nitin Gadkari said that Tesla's proposition of "manufacturing in China and selling in India" cannot be an acceptable one.&nbsp;

He said, "If Elon Musk is ready to manufacture in India, we have all the competencies and technology. Our request to him is to manufacture in India. India is a huge market, we have ports here. He could make in India and export all over."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Elon Musk, on Tuesday, arrived in Beijing on an unannounced visit. This is his first trip to China in more than three years. He is expected to visit Tesla's Shanghai plant during his trip.

Elon Musk, on Tuesday, arrived in Beijing on an unannounced visit. This is his first trip to China in more than three years. He is expected to visit Tesla's Shanghai plant during his trip. Musk met Foreign Minister Qin Gang in Beijing after he landed, said the ministry. Qin told Musk China was "committed to creating a better market-oriented, rule-of-law-based and internationalised business environment" for foreign enterprises, his ministry said on its website. Musk in response said, "Tesla opposes 'decoupling and breaking chains', and is willing to continue to expand its business in China", according to the ministry's readout. According to Beijing, on Tuesday, Qin and Musk discussed relations between China and the United States, with the Chinese foreign minister saying the two countries should "apply the brakes in a timely manner to avoid dangerous driving". Musk's private jet lands in Beijing As per a Reuters news agency witness, a private jet, which is used by Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk, landed in Beijing on Tuesday. According to a flight aggregation website ADS-B Exchange, Musk’s private jet, a 2015 Gulfstream G650ER, was seen leaving Alaska before crossing over Japan and South Korea on Tuesday morning. The jet with its identifying tail number could be seen at Beijing Capital International Airport on Tuesday, according to the Reuters witness. After the United States, China is Tesla's second-largest market. The electric car company's Shanghai plant is its largest production hub. Musk's visit to China would be the first after he took the internet by storm with his bizarre dance moves during a 2020 event at Tesla's plant in Shanghai. .@elonmusk knows how to get down pic.twitter.com/yIwcByxAuL — Tesla Owners Silicon Valley (@teslaownersSV) March 6, 2023 × This would also mark his first visit to the country since the COVID-19 pandemic. This also comes after Tesla is facing challenges including intense competition from Chinese automaker companies that are exporting their vehicles as demand in the world's largest auto market weakens. Earlier this month, Musk in a conversation with CNBC had said, "There are some constraints on our ability to expand in China." He added: "It's not a demand issue." In the same interview, Musk said tensions between the United States and China "should be a concern for everyone." Tesla's road to India and a Chinese stumble Tesla has not yet entered India, the world's fifth-largest economy. While Elon Musk has criticised what he said were India's high import taxes, India is averse to the idea of letting Tesla sell electric vehicles made in China. In April 2022, speaking at Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, India's road transport minister Nitin Gadkari said that Tesla's proposition of "manufacturing in China and selling in India" cannot be an acceptable one. He said, "If Elon Musk is ready to manufacture in India, we have all the competencies and technology. Our request to him is to manufacture in India. India is a huge market, we have ports here. He could make in India and export all over." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tesla CEO Elon Musk lands in Beijing, meets Foreign Minister Qin Gang

Japan has no plans to become a NATO member, even though the military alliance was planning a liaison office in Tokyo, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday

Kishida was responding to questions after&nbsp;Japan's ambassador to the US Koji Tomita, earlier this month said Tokyo and NATO were working towards opening an office - the first in Asia, to facilitate consultations in the region.

"I am not aware of any decision made&nbsp;at NATO regarding the establishment of the office,"&nbsp;Kishida told a Wednesday parliament session.&nbsp;

<h2>China reacts sharply&nbsp;</h2>

After Kishida's statement not ruling&nbsp;out the possibility of opening a NATO office, China reacted sternly. Beijing said Asia-Pacific does not welcome NATO's plan.&nbsp;

"We want to say that the Asia-Pacific does not welcome group confrontation, does not welcome military confrontation," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.

Mao warned that Japan should be "extra cautious on the issue of military security" given its "history of aggression".&nbsp;

Beijing continues to refer to the maritime regions east of the Arabian Sea in the Indian Ocean as Asia-Pacific, despite the entire world having moved on to the accurate and factual lexicon - the Indo-Pacific, which refers to&nbsp;India's centrality in the region.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;NATO to strengthen partnership with Japan amid the ongoing Ukraine war

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<h2>What did the Japanese ambassador say?&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier this month, Tomita, at an event hosted&nbsp;by the National Press Club in Washington said Japan and NATO were working in the direction of opening the liaison office.

"The point you mentioned is one of the things that we are working on to strengthen our partnership. But I really haven't heard any final confirmation of that, but we are working in that direction," said Tomita, when quizzed about the Nikkei Asia report.&nbsp;

Nikkei Asia reported that NATO and Japan plan to upgrade their levels of cooperation. It added that the office was due to open next year and would enable&nbsp;discussions with NATO's security partners, such as South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, with geopolitical challenges from China and Russia in mind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-checkmating-china-in-indo-pacific-us-led-alliance-to-open-tokyo-office-588627">ALSO READ |&nbsp;NATO checkmating China in Indo-Pacific? US-led alliance to open Tokyo office</a>

The&nbsp;developments come against the backdrop of NATO chief&nbsp;Jens Stoltenberg visiting the country in January and pledging to&nbsp;strengthen ties in the face of "historic" security challenges.&nbsp;

Even then, Beijing said high vigilance; was needed as the US-led military alliance continues its "eastward expansion".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan has no plans to become a NATO member, even though the military alliance was planning a liaison office in Tokyo, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday Kishida was responding to questions after Japan's ambassador to the US Koji Tomita, earlier this month said Tokyo and NATO were working towards opening an office - the first in Asia, to facilitate consultations in the region.

Japan has no plans to become a NATO member, even though the military alliance was planning a liaison office in Tokyo, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday Kishida was responding to questions after Japan's ambassador to the US Koji Tomita, earlier this month said Tokyo and NATO were working towards opening an office - the first in Asia, to facilitate consultations in the region. "I am not aware of any decision made at NATO regarding the establishment of the office," Kishida told a Wednesday parliament session. China reacts sharply After Kishida's statement not ruling out the possibility of opening a NATO office, China reacted sternly. Beijing said Asia-Pacific does not welcome NATO's plan. "We want to say that the Asia-Pacific does not welcome group confrontation, does not welcome military confrontation," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning. Mao warned that Japan should be "extra cautious on the issue of military security" given its "history of aggression". Beijing continues to refer to the maritime regions east of the Arabian Sea in the Indian Ocean as Asia-Pacific, despite the entire world having moved on to the accurate and factual lexicon - the Indo-Pacific, which refers to India's centrality in the region. ALSO WATCH | NATO to strengthen partnership with Japan amid the ongoing Ukraine war × What did the Japanese ambassador say? Earlier this month, Tomita, at an event hosted by the National Press Club in Washington said Japan and NATO were working in the direction of opening the liaison office. "The point you mentioned is one of the things that we are working on to strengthen our partnership. But I really haven't heard any final confirmation of that, but we are working in that direction," said Tomita, when quizzed about the Nikkei Asia report. Nikkei Asia reported that NATO and Japan plan to upgrade their levels of cooperation. It added that the office was due to open next year and would enable discussions with NATO's security partners, such as South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, with geopolitical challenges from China and Russia in mind. ALSO READ | NATO checkmating China in Indo-Pacific? US-led alliance to open Tokyo office The developments come against the backdrop of NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg visiting the country in January and pledging to strengthen ties in the face of "historic" security challenges. Even then, Beijing said high vigilance; was needed as the US-led military alliance continues its "eastward expansion". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan won't join NATO, says Kishida, acknowledging alliance wants to open office in Tokyo

Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape said on Thursday (May 18) that the country will sign a security pact with the US. The pact will give US troops access to the Pacific nation's ports and airports. The development has come amid Washington's attempts to jostle for influence in this region with China.

China is actively trying to woo island nations in the Pacific with an array of diplomatic and financial incentives in return for strategic support. US President Joe Biden has placed more importance on the region given the situation.

"We are elevating to a specific defence cooperation agreement, something that is falling short of a treaty," he told a press conference.

"We are moving ahead, we are signing with the best military on the face of planet Earth."

<h2>What are the pacts?</h2>

PM Marape said that the two agreements will focus on defence co-operation and maritime surveillance. The pact will be formally signed at the earliest after parliamentary approval.

These agreements can be renewed every 15 years. They will give the US vital manoeuvrability in Papua New Guinea's waters which are near to sea routes to Australia and Japan. US will in return will give access to satellite surveillance.

"It now gives us an opportune time to focus not just on maritime access but satellite access on... illegal activities on the high sea," Marape said.

Watch | China to host first in-person China-Central Asia Summit from 18 to 19 May

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A leaked draft version of the defence cooperation agreement showed American forces would have broad autonomy at some of the country's key entry points, but Marape said any access would have to be approved by his government.&nbsp;

"The ports, the infrastructure... will not in any way stand to be exclusively used by the military," he said.

"They would always be asking our defence to have access to our facilities."

<h2>The visit that almost happened</h2>

Biden was due for a historic first visit to most populous South Pacific nation next week. But he had to cancel the trip because of domestic debt ceiling crisis talks.

The White House said Biden called Marape from Air Force One on Thursday to inform him that Secretary of State Antony Blinken would instead attend the summit with Pacific leaders in Port Moresby on Monday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-western-embassies-in-beijing-over-propaganda-displays-reports-593444">China warns Western embassies in Beijing over ‘propaganda’ displays: Reports</a>

Biden invited Marape and other Pacific leaders to another summit in Washington later this year to carry on "discussions around enhancing US-Pacific cooperation", the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;

Washington is courting Pacific nations more intensely after the Solomon Islands became the unlikely epicentre of a diplomatic tussle between the United States and China last year when it signed a security pact with Beijing.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape said on Thursday (May 18) that the country will sign a security pact with the US. The pact will give US troops access to the Pacific nation's ports and airports.

Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape said on Thursday (May 18) that the country will sign a security pact with the US. The pact will give US troops access to the Pacific nation's ports and airports. The development has come amid Washington's attempts to jostle for influence in this region with China. China is actively trying to woo island nations in the Pacific with an array of diplomatic and financial incentives in return for strategic support. US President Joe Biden has placed more importance on the region given the situation. "We are elevating to a specific defence cooperation agreement, something that is falling short of a treaty," he told a press conference. "We are moving ahead, we are signing with the best military on the face of planet Earth." What are the pacts? PM Marape said that the two agreements will focus on defence co-operation and maritime surveillance. The pact will be formally signed at the earliest after parliamentary approval. These agreements can be renewed every 15 years. They will give the US vital manoeuvrability in Papua New Guinea's waters which are near to sea routes to Australia and Japan. US will in return will give access to satellite surveillance. "It now gives us an opportune time to focus not just on maritime access but satellite access on... illegal activities on the high sea," Marape said. Watch | China to host first in-person China-Central Asia Summit from 18 to 19 May × A leaked draft version of the defence cooperation agreement showed American forces would have broad autonomy at some of the country's key entry points, but Marape said any access would have to be approved by his government. "The ports, the infrastructure... will not in any way stand to be exclusively used by the military," he said. "They would always be asking our defence to have access to our facilities." The visit that almost happened Biden was due for a historic first visit to most populous South Pacific nation next week. But he had to cancel the trip because of domestic debt ceiling crisis talks. The White House said Biden called Marape from Air Force One on Thursday to inform him that Secretary of State Antony Blinken would instead attend the summit with Pacific leaders in Port Moresby on Monday. Also Read | China warns Western embassies in Beijing over ‘propaganda’ displays: Reports Biden invited Marape and other Pacific leaders to another summit in Washington later this year to carry on "discussions around enhancing US-Pacific cooperation", the White House said in a statement. Washington is courting Pacific nations more intensely after the Solomon Islands became the unlikely epicentre of a diplomatic tussle between the United States and China last year when it signed a security pact with Beijing. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Amid US-China competition in Pacific, Papua New Guinea to sign pact with Washington

An American citizen has been sentenced to life in prison by a Chinese court on spying charges.&nbsp;78-year-old&nbsp;John Shing-Wan Leung was convicted of espionage and given a life sentence by the&nbsp;Intermediate People’s Court in the eastern city of Suzhou on Monday.&nbsp;It also ordered the confiscation of&nbsp;personal property worth&nbsp;$71,797 (500,000 yuan).&nbsp;

Leung, who also holds permanent Hong Kong residency, was arrested by the Chinese authorities on April 15, 2021 in&nbsp;Suzhou, Jiangsu province.&nbsp;Details of the charges against him have not been released publicly.&nbsp;

However, according to an article published in 2004 in the People's Daily, a person with the same name, born in Hong Kong on the same date was a US-based businessman who had close ties to officials with local governments in both countries.&nbsp;

The article stated that Leung founded a friendship association between the US city of Oklahoma and the Chinese city of Guangzhou in 1985 which actively promoted and started US-China trade and cultural exchanges.&nbsp;

The pictures also showed Leung posing for photos and attending events with senior officials, according to a report by South China Morning Post.&nbsp;

<h2>China amends espionage law</h2>

The court's verdict comes after amendments to the Counter-Espionage Law were implemented during the&nbsp;14th National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee meeting last month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Under the revised law, the definition of espionage activities has been refined. It explicitly categorises "collaborating with&nbsp;spy organisations and their agents" and "conducting cyber-attacks against state organs, confidential-related units, or critical information infrastructure" as espionage activities.

Under the law, an espionage conviction that threatens national security could lead to a jail sentence ranging from 10 years to life.

<h2>US-China relations</h2>

The sentencing comes at a time when relations between the two countries are at a historic low. The US Embassy in Beijing said it was aware of the situation.&nbsp;

“The Department of State has no greater priority than the safety and security of US citizens overseas. Due to privacy considerations, we have no further comment," a spokesperson was quoted as saying by CNN.&nbsp;

The spy balloon saga earlier this year led to a further deterioration of US-China ties. However, as the officials were resuming high-level engagements, the fresh sentencing threatens&nbsp;to set back the initiative.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/highest-us-china-engagement-since-spy-balloon-incident-591484">WATCH |&nbsp;Highest US-China engagement since spy balloon incident</a>

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In recent years, Beijing has been going after foreign nationals who it accuses of being spies, In March, a Japanese employee (17th overall since 2004) was detained on spy charges. Previously,&nbsp;two Canadians – former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor – were detained for over three years by the authorities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An American citizen has been sentenced to life in prison by a Chinese court on spying charges. 78-year-old John Shing-Wan Leung was convicted of espionage and given a life sentence by the Intermediate People’s Court in the eastern city of Suzhou on Monday.

An American citizen has been sentenced to life in prison by a Chinese court on spying charges. 78-year-old John Shing-Wan Leung was convicted of espionage and given a life sentence by the Intermediate People’s Court in the eastern city of Suzhou on Monday. It also ordered the confiscation of personal property worth $71,797 (500,000 yuan). Leung, who also holds permanent Hong Kong residency, was arrested by the Chinese authorities on April 15, 2021 in Suzhou, Jiangsu province. Details of the charges against him have not been released publicly. However, according to an article published in 2004 in the People's Daily, a person with the same name, born in Hong Kong on the same date was a US-based businessman who had close ties to officials with local governments in both countries. The article stated that Leung founded a friendship association between the US city of Oklahoma and the Chinese city of Guangzhou in 1985 which actively promoted and started US-China trade and cultural exchanges. The pictures also showed Leung posing for photos and attending events with senior officials, according to a report by South China Morning Post. China amends espionage law The court's verdict comes after amendments to the Counter-Espionage Law were implemented during the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee meeting last month. Under the revised law, the definition of espionage activities has been refined. It explicitly categorises "collaborating with spy organisations and their agents" and "conducting cyber-attacks against state organs, confidential-related units, or critical information infrastructure" as espionage activities. Under the law, an espionage conviction that threatens national security could lead to a jail sentence ranging from 10 years to life. US-China relations The sentencing comes at a time when relations between the two countries are at a historic low. The US Embassy in Beijing said it was aware of the situation. “The Department of State has no greater priority than the safety and security of US citizens overseas. Due to privacy considerations, we have no further comment," a spokesperson was quoted as saying by CNN. The spy balloon saga earlier this year led to a further deterioration of US-China ties. However, as the officials were resuming high-level engagements, the fresh sentencing threatens to set back the initiative. WATCH | Highest US-China engagement since spy balloon incident × In recent years, Beijing has been going after foreign nationals who it accuses of being spies, In March, a Japanese employee (17th overall since 2004) was detained on spy charges. Previously, two Canadians – former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor – were detained for over three years by the authorities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US elderly citizen jailed for life on spying charges by Chinese court

China lifted the ban on foreigners entering Tibet this year, and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra—the annual religious pilgrimage—&nbsp;opened for the first time since COVID-19, but with strict regulations for Indians and Nepalese.&nbsp;

As per new regulations, the visa fees for Nepali guides and staff assisting the pilgrims from India and other countries to Tibet and Kailash have increased from $30 to $120. While for permits to acquire a visa, Nepalese will now have to pay $300 while earlier it was $100.&nbsp;

Additionally, another inconvenience for Nepali firms operating tours to Kailash Manasarovar is that they have to deposit $60,000 (8 million Nepali rupees) each to send Indian pilgrims to Tibet.&nbsp;

Nepal’s central bank does not allow Nepali travel agencies to deposit funds in foreign banks. Top tour operators in Nepal —Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal,&nbsp;Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) and The Association of Kailash Tour Operators Nepal (AKTON)—have written to the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song.&nbsp;

"The Foreign Exchange Centre (FEC) under the Tibet Autonomous Region, the body responsible for issuing permits for Indian pilgrims, has banned Nepali tourism businessmen who oversee Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Indian pilgrims. We would like to inform you that a mandatory deposit of sixty thousand US dollars (about 8 million Nepalese rupees) has been made for a Nepalese company to handle Indian pilgrims to Kailash Yatra. This arrangement is contrary to the rules and laws of Nepal," the letter by the association, which WION has access to, states.

Meanwhile, for Indians, China has increased the cost of the Kailash tour package to 2,50,000 Indian rupees (US $3,000 approx.) from Rs 1,50,000 (US $1,800 approx.) per person, as per the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

The new rules further state that Indian pilgrims should be in a group of at least five people to obtain visas, and at least four of them should be present physically.&nbsp;

"Now, tourists going to Kailash and Lhasha have to be present for biometrics for applying for a visa. Tourists and Nepali tourism entrepreneurs are now in a dilemma with this unpractical rule," Nepal tour operators said in the letter.&nbsp;

Earlier, Chinese authorities used to collect biometric details at the immigration office at the border points.

The tour operators told WION that permit applications for Indians have not yet begun thus putting the Nepali tourism sector under pressure.&nbsp;

From 2014 to 2019, over 100,000 Indian nationals have been to Manasarovar via Nepal. They bring in both money and work for Nepal’s tourism which thrives even in the lean seasons of May-September, as each tourist spends anywhere between $800 to $1,200 for the week-long trip.

Every year, Nepal receives 40,000 Kailash pilgrims, out of which 30,000 are Indian pilgrims, as per tour operators.&nbsp;

About 10,000 Nepalese are directly benefitted every season from the food and support of Indian and Nepali pilgrims going on the Kailash Yatra.&nbsp;

Nepali operators, who were hoping that the reopening of the northern border would help their businesses to recover, are having to face innumerable difficulties and financial hurdles.&nbsp;

"Thousands of pilgrims used to come to Nepal from India and other countries. The permit applications for Indians have not yet begun. Only foreign passport and Nepali passport holders are allowed. We hope the process begins for Indians too. There are some issues that can only be addressed at the government level. All Indian, China, and Nepal governments will have to solve some border, visa issues. The new restrictions that ask pilgrims to be present physically for biometrics to acquire a visa are I think controlled tourism,"&nbsp;Pradip Pandit, Vice President of Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal told WION.&nbsp;

"Due to many restrictions, the flow of tourists will decrease. We have taken this to the Chinese Embassy, Nepal Foreign Ministry, and Prime Minister," he added.&nbsp;

Calling the restrictions impractical, Pandit said, "A single Nepali staff will incur $420 dollars, which is more than their earnings of monthly NPR 25,000 ($190). Even we cannot bear this cost, it is very expensive. We asked our counterparts to change these regulations.&nbsp;

The Chinese government has allowed Kailash pilgrims to go only through Tibet's capital Lhasa and Nepal's Kerung Pass. The main season for Kailash is from May to September every year.&nbsp;

The annual pilgrimage season would be a boom time for the tourism industry, and the government too would see increased revenue from taxes. Religious tourists create good business for hotels and restaurants including travel agents.&nbsp;

However, this year Nepal is not even expecting one-fourth of the pilgrims of what it used to receive earlier.

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China lifted the ban on foreigners entering Tibet this year, and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra—the annual religious pilgrimage— opened for the first time since COVID-19, but with strict regulations for Indians and Nepalese.

China lifted the ban on foreigners entering Tibet this year, and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra—the annual religious pilgrimage— opened for the first time since COVID-19, but with strict regulations for Indians and Nepalese. As per new regulations, the visa fees for Nepali guides and staff assisting the pilgrims from India and other countries to Tibet and Kailash have increased from $30 to $120. While for permits to acquire a visa, Nepalese will now have to pay $300 while earlier it was $100. Additionally, another inconvenience for Nepali firms operating tours to Kailash Manasarovar is that they have to deposit $60,000 (8 million Nepali rupees) each to send Indian pilgrims to Tibet. Nepal’s central bank does not allow Nepali travel agencies to deposit funds in foreign banks. Top tour operators in Nepal —Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) and The Association of Kailash Tour Operators Nepal (AKTON)—have written to the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song. "The Foreign Exchange Centre (FEC) under the Tibet Autonomous Region, the body responsible for issuing permits for Indian pilgrims, has banned Nepali tourism businessmen who oversee Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Indian pilgrims. We would like to inform you that a mandatory deposit of sixty thousand US dollars (about 8 million Nepalese rupees) has been made for a Nepalese company to handle Indian pilgrims to Kailash Yatra. This arrangement is contrary to the rules and laws of Nepal," the letter by the association, which WION has access to, states. Meanwhile, for Indians, China has increased the cost of the Kailash tour package to 2,50,000 Indian rupees (US $3,000 approx.) from Rs 1,50,000 (US $1,800 approx.) per person, as per the Tibet Tourism Bureau. The new rules further state that Indian pilgrims should be in a group of at least five people to obtain visas, and at least four of them should be present physically. "Now, tourists going to Kailash and Lhasha have to be present for biometrics for applying for a visa. Tourists and Nepali tourism entrepreneurs are now in a dilemma with this unpractical rule," Nepal tour operators said in the letter. Earlier, Chinese authorities used to collect biometric details at the immigration office at the border points. The tour operators told WION that permit applications for Indians have not yet begun thus putting the Nepali tourism sector under pressure. From 2014 to 2019, over 100,000 Indian nationals have been to Manasarovar via Nepal. They bring in both money and work for Nepal’s tourism which thrives even in the lean seasons of May-September, as each tourist spends anywhere between $800 to $1,200 for the week-long trip. Every year, Nepal receives 40,000 Kailash pilgrims, out of which 30,000 are Indian pilgrims, as per tour operators. About 10,000 Nepalese are directly benefitted every season from the food and support of Indian and Nepali pilgrims going on the Kailash Yatra. Nepali operators, who were hoping that the reopening of the northern border would help their businesses to recover, are having to face innumerable difficulties and financial hurdles. "Thousands of pilgrims used to come to Nepal from India and other countries. The permit applications for Indians have not yet begun. Only foreign passport and Nepali passport holders are allowed. We hope the process begins for Indians too. There are some issues that can only be addressed at the government level. All Indian, China, and Nepal governments will have to solve some border, visa issues. The new restrictions that ask pilgrims to be present physically for biometrics to acquire a visa are I think controlled tourism," Pradip Pandit, Vice President of Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal told WION. "Due to many restrictions, the flow of tourists will decrease. We have taken this to the Chinese Embassy, Nepal Foreign Ministry, and Prime Minister," he added. Calling the restrictions impractical, Pandit said, "A single Nepali staff will incur $420 dollars, which is more than their earnings of monthly NPR 25,000 ($190). Even we cannot bear this cost, it is very expensive. We asked our counterparts to change these regulations. The Chinese government has allowed Kailash pilgrims to go only through Tibet's capital Lhasa and Nepal's Kerung Pass. The main season for Kailash is from May to September every year. The annual pilgrimage season would be a boom time for the tourism industry, and the government too would see increased revenue from taxes. Religious tourists create good business for hotels and restaurants including travel agents. However, this year Nepal is not even expecting one-fourth of the pilgrims of what it used to receive earlier. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Nepal tour operators request China to remove 'unpractical rules' for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The promise of refunding candidates who fail the government examination turned out to be the greatest undoing of a Chinese ed-tech firm.

Offcn Education Technology Co built a fortune helping Chinese students prepare for the tough examination to join several government department, which is considered among the toughest in the world, with a success rate of about less than 1.5 percent.

Things were going great for Lu Zhongfang and her son Li Yongxin, the ed-tech company's founders. Their combined fortune reached $21 billion dollars at one point of time.&nbsp;

But Covid-19 and its economic consequences played spoilsport. The rising uncertainty around private jobs led to the Chinese looking for more stable career options. Bureaucracy is considered one such career option, where people have lifetime job security.&nbsp;

Consider these numbers: in November 2019, 1 million Chinese citizens appeared for filling 24,000 jobs. Three years later, nearly 2.6 million candidates sat for the examinations to secure 37,000 jobs.&nbsp;

This was a classic case of high demand and low supply. Initially, this conundrum worked well for the company. The company's policy of ensuring up to 100 percent fee refund to subscribers who fail the examination helped it woo more customers.

But refund policy also triggered the company's downfall. The average fee refund rate in 2019 stood at 44 percent, which rose to 70 percent by 2022, as per a Bloomberg report.&nbsp;

The business losses of the last two years have impacted the billionaire duo's net worth. From a peak of $21 billion, it has now fallen to less than $1 billion. The billionaire duo have also started selling their shares, in a bid to raise cash and keep the company operations running. Their company reported a loss of $346 million in 2021 and of $158 million last year, media reports said.&nbsp;

The situation may worsen for the ed-tech company. As per reports, over 11 million Chinese students are expected to graduate and enter the job&nbsp;market this year. Given the uncertain economic situation in China, many of them may probably sit for the exam to enter government services.&nbsp;

The promise of refunding candidates who fail the government examination turned out to be the greatest undoing of a Chinese ed-tech firm. Offcn Education Technology Co built a fortune helping Chinese students prepare for the tough examination to join several government department, which is considered among the toughest in the world, with a success rate of about less than 1.

The promise of refunding candidates who fail the government examination turned out to be the greatest undoing of a Chinese ed-tech firm. Offcn Education Technology Co built a fortune helping Chinese students prepare for the tough examination to join several government department, which is considered among the toughest in the world, with a success rate of about less than 1.5 percent. Things were going great for Lu Zhongfang and her son Li Yongxin, the ed-tech company's founders. Their combined fortune reached $21 billion dollars at one point of time. But Covid-19 and its economic consequences played spoilsport. The rising uncertainty around private jobs led to the Chinese looking for more stable career options. Bureaucracy is considered one such career option, where people have lifetime job security. Consider these numbers: in November 2019, 1 million Chinese citizens appeared for filling 24,000 jobs. Three years later, nearly 2.6 million candidates sat for the examinations to secure 37,000 jobs. This was a classic case of high demand and low supply. Initially, this conundrum worked well for the company. The company's policy of ensuring up to 100 percent fee refund to subscribers who fail the examination helped it woo more customers. But refund policy also triggered the company's downfall. The average fee refund rate in 2019 stood at 44 percent, which rose to 70 percent by 2022, as per a Bloomberg report. The business losses of the last two years have impacted the billionaire duo's net worth. From a peak of $21 billion, it has now fallen to less than $1 billion. The billionaire duo have also started selling their shares, in a bid to raise cash and keep the company operations running. Their company reported a loss of $346 million in 2021 and of $158 million last year, media reports said. The situation may worsen for the ed-tech company. As per reports, over 11 million Chinese students are expected to graduate and enter the job market this year. Given the uncertain economic situation in China, many of them may probably sit for the exam to enter government services.

Chinese tycoons lose $20 billion as company's student refund policy backfires

A mysterious Chinese spacecraft returned to Earth on Monday to the Jiuquan launch centre in northwest China after staying in orbit for over nine months or 276 days, which was 100 times longer than its maiden flight less than three years ago.

A mysterious Chinese spacecraft returned to Earth on Monday to the Jiuquan launch centre in northwest China after staying in orbit for over nine months or 276 days, which was 100 times longer than its maiden flight less than three years ago. Little is known about the spacecraft and the Chinese space authorities are not in any hurry to provide information about it. However, according to a South China Morning Post report, the 'mysterious' spacecraft might be a reusable, uncrewed space vehicle. China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, the country's biggest space defence contractor is known to have developed the spacecraft after it hailed the classified mission as a "complete success", adding that it marked an "important breakthrough" in China's research into the technology. Despite calling the mission a success, the contractor refused to elaborate on what kind of technology was used or how high the aircraft flew and where its orbits had taken it since its launch in early August 2022. Notably, such has been the secrecy that the Chinese space authorities are yet to release images of the craft to the public. WATCH | The new space race: China vs US over lunar landing × Mysterious spacecraft same as US variant? The said spacecraft first took flight in September 2020, and spent two days in orbit, before returning to Earth. Since the reusable craft was launched using the Long March 2F rocket, experts calculated the payload capacity and concluded that the craft might be similar in design and size to the US Air Force’s Boeing X-37B. According to the US Air Force, Boeing X-37B is a premier reusable and unmanned spacecraft which allows scientists to recover experiments in space. The US aircraft measures nine metres in length and three metres in height. It spent a record 908 days in orbit during its fifth flight since being introduced in 2010. ALSO READ | Mysterious US X-37B space plane eyes orbital record Experts close to the matter, however, argue that the suspected Chinese craft could be equipped with advanced imaging and sensing equipment to keep an eye on enemies and potential targets to gather sensitive intelligence data. Last month, Chinese scientists allowed an artificial intelligence (AI) machine to take full control of one of its satellites. To everyone's surprise, the AI-controlled satellite instantly locked Zoom on India's Patna city which has the Bihar Regiment – the Indian Army unit that clashed with Chinese forces in the Galwan Valley in 2020. ALSO READ | Chinese scientists let AI control satellite, it takes ‘closer look’ at specific spots in India, Japan The other targeted area was Osaka, one of Japan’s busiest ports, which occasionally hosts US Navy vessels operating in the Pacific. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Mysterious Chinese spacecraft returns to Earth after 9-month space voyage

Pakistan’s junior foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar suggested to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that the country should stop cosying up with the United States at the expense of sacrificing its strategic relationship with China, leaked US intelligence documents revealed.

She said that the country can “no longer try to maintain a middle ground between China and the United States,” the report stated, according to the Washington Post.

The leaked documents, published by Washington Post, contain two Pakistani memos warning the top brass not to irk China to maintain links with the United States.

The Washington Post, however, has not revealed how it got access to those Pakistani memos.

It also states how Pakistan should distance itself from the United States on issues like Moscow and China.

One of the memos talks about the meeting that took place between Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar and the PM in March this year to discuss Pakistan’s relations with China

The memo titled “Pakistan’s difficult choices”, details how Islamabad is cautious and wants to avoid giving the appearance of appeasing the West.

<h2>US Warns Beijing on South China Sea</h2>

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Another memo, dated February 17, reveals details of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s discussions with a subordinate on an upcoming UN vote on the Ukraine conflict. It also anticipated renewed Western pressure to back the UN resolution condemning Russia’s invasion.

Pakistan is among the 32 countries that abstained from voting every time a US-backed resolution on the Ukrainian conflict was raised in the UN General Assembly.

In the memo, one of his advisors told PM Sharif that supporting the UN-backed resolution would signal a shift in Pakistan’s position as it had earlier maintained absence on a similar resolution.

The advisor further states Pakistan should focus on negotiating trade and energy deals with Russia, and not support the resolution as it could jeopardise those ties.

The Washington Post report further points out that leaked documents reflect how major developing nations are looking to “evade the intensifying standoff between the United States, Russia and China and, in some cases, exploit that rivalry for their own gain.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan’s junior foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar suggested to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that the country should stop cosying up with the United States at the expense of sacrificing its strategic relationship with China, leaked US intelligence documents revealed.

Pakistan’s junior foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar suggested to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that the country should stop cosying up with the United States at the expense of sacrificing its strategic relationship with China, leaked US intelligence documents revealed. She said that the country can “no longer try to maintain a middle ground between China and the United States,” the report stated, according to the Washington Post. The leaked documents, published by Washington Post, contain two Pakistani memos warning the top brass not to irk China to maintain links with the United States. The Washington Post, however, has not revealed how it got access to those Pakistani memos. It also states how Pakistan should distance itself from the United States on issues like Moscow and China. One of the memos talks about the meeting that took place between Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar and the PM in March this year to discuss Pakistan’s relations with China The memo titled “Pakistan’s difficult choices”, details how Islamabad is cautious and wants to avoid giving the appearance of appeasing the West. US Warns Beijing on South China Sea Another memo, dated February 17, reveals details of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s discussions with a subordinate on an upcoming UN vote on the Ukraine conflict. It also anticipated renewed Western pressure to back the UN resolution condemning Russia’s invasion. Pakistan is among the 32 countries that abstained from voting every time a US-backed resolution on the Ukrainian conflict was raised in the UN General Assembly. In the memo, one of his advisors told PM Sharif that supporting the UN-backed resolution would signal a shift in Pakistan’s position as it had earlier maintained absence on a similar resolution. The advisor further states Pakistan should focus on negotiating trade and energy deals with Russia, and not support the resolution as it could jeopardise those ties. The Washington Post report further points out that leaked documents reflect how major developing nations are looking to “evade the intensifying standoff between the United States, Russia and China and, in some cases, exploit that rivalry for their own gain.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pak minister Hina Rabbani Khar told PM Sharif not to side with US at expense of angering China: Report

China and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening maritime law enforcement cooperation, Chinese state media said on Wednesday.

The coast guard of the People's Republic of China and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation signed the agreement, state media said.

According to media reports, the agreement was signed in the Russian city of Murmansk and highlights joint efforts by the countries to combat terrorism, illegal migration, smuggling of drugs and weapons, as well as stopping illegal fishing.

China's state broadcaster CCTV said that the agreement was inked after a two-day meeting with Russian and Chinese sides. The meeting concluded on Tuesday.

The Chinese side was represented by coastguard chief Yu Zhing while Vladimir Grigorovich Kulishov, first deputy FSB director was present from the Russian side during the signing ceremony.

According to CCTV, the two sides said they would “actively promote maritime law enforcement cooperation, join hands to build a maritime community of destiny, and make every effort to serve the comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Russia in the new era”

Both countries reportedly said that that they aim to implement the consensus reached by presidents of both nations as they met earlier this year.

As they signed the joint statement, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin had described ties between the two countries as a "no-limits" partnership.

In Murmansk, when the two countries were holding discussions on maritime cooperation, the Chinese delegation also observed a maritime exercise carried out by Russian forces.

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China and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening maritime law enforcement cooperation, Chinese state media said on Wednesday. The coast guard of the People's Republic of China and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation signed the agreement, state media said.

China and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening maritime law enforcement cooperation, Chinese state media said on Wednesday. The coast guard of the People's Republic of China and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation signed the agreement, state media said. According to media reports, the agreement was signed in the Russian city of Murmansk and highlights joint efforts by the countries to combat terrorism, illegal migration, smuggling of drugs and weapons, as well as stopping illegal fishing. China's state broadcaster CCTV said that the agreement was inked after a two-day meeting with Russian and Chinese sides. The meeting concluded on Tuesday. The Chinese side was represented by coastguard chief Yu Zhing while Vladimir Grigorovich Kulishov, first deputy FSB director was present from the Russian side during the signing ceremony. According to CCTV, the two sides said they would “actively promote maritime law enforcement cooperation, join hands to build a maritime community of destiny, and make every effort to serve the comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Russia in the new era” Both countries reportedly said that that they aim to implement the consensus reached by presidents of both nations as they met earlier this year. As they signed the joint statement, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin had described ties between the two countries as a "no-limits" partnership. In Murmansk, when the two countries were holding discussions on maritime cooperation, the Chinese delegation also observed a maritime exercise carried out by Russian forces. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China and Russia ink maritime cooperation deal in the Arctic

India's Border Road Organisation (BRO) put up a signboard saying 'India's first village' in Mana, a village in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand which borders China. The village is on the India-China border in Chamoli District.

"Now Mana will not be known as the last but the first village of the country," Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said in a Tweet.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said during his visit to Chamoli District last year, that border villages in the country are first villages and not the last as they are usually called.

"Now even for me, every village on the border is the first village in the country," PM Modi had said.

"Our government is always dedicated to the all-round development of the border areas," CM Dhami said. 
Chief Minister Dhami said under the leadership of PM Modi, the border areas of the country were becoming more vibrant. "For this, the Vibrant Village programme has been initiated," Dhami said.

Mana is situated near Badrinath and devotees going to the Himalayan temple go up to the village for sightseeing.

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India's Border Road Organisation (BRO) put up a signboard saying 'India's first village' in Mana, a village in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand which borders China.

India's Border Road Organisation (BRO) put up a signboard saying 'India's first village' in Mana, a village in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand which borders China. The village is on the India-China border in Chamoli District. "Now Mana will not be known as the last but the first village of the country," Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said in a Tweet. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said during his visit to Chamoli District last year, that border villages in the country are first villages and not the last as they are usually called. "Now even for me, every village on the border is the first village in the country," PM Modi had said. "Our government is always dedicated to the all-round development of the border areas," CM Dhami said. Chief Minister Dhami said under the leadership of PM Modi, the border areas of the country were becoming more vibrant. "For this, the Vibrant Village programme has been initiated," Dhami said. Mana is situated near Badrinath and devotees going to the Himalayan temple go up to the village for sightseeing. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India puts up 'first village' signboard in village on India-China border 

China's Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong has requested solemn representations with the ambassador of South Korea after the country's president made "erroneous" remarks about Taiwan, stated the Chinese foreign ministry on Sunday.

While speaking exclusively with Reuters, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said that there has been an increase in tensions around Taiwan after forced attempts were made to change the status quo. The president added that he opposes such a change.

"The Taiwan issue is not simply an issue between China and Taiwan but, like the issue of North Korea, it is a global issue," said Yoon.

Sun called the remarks made by Yoon as "totally unacceptable", as per the statement released by the Chinese foreign ministry.

"The South Korean leader made no mention of the One China principle, but equated the Taiwan issue with the Korean Peninsula issue," said Sun.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-raises-concerns-over-taiwan-amid-talks-with-china-585129">Philippines raises concerns over 'escalating tensions' Taiwan Strait amid talks with China</a>

"Both North and South Korea are sovereign states that have joined the United Nations. It is a well-known fact that the Korean Peninsula issue and the Taiwan issue are completely different in nature and in latitude and longitude, and are not comparable at all,” the Chinese vice foreign minister.

China claims Taiwan, which is democratically ruled, as belonging to its own territory. The claims made by China are strongly rejected by Taipei.

The Chinese government demands that the nation, with which it shares ties, must recognise Taiwan as Chinese territory.

The complaint was made by Sun after last week the Chinese foreign ministry stated that all the issues related to Taiwan must be handled “prudently” by South Korea.

Retorting to the statement, South Korea summoned China's ambassador to protest against the remarks made by Beijing.

WATCH | Gravitas: US' leaked files judge Taiwan's defence

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Recently, China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang claimed that two sides of the Taiwan Strait were part of China's territory and it was right for the Chinese government to uphold its sovereignty.

“Taiwan has been an inalienable part of China's territory since ancient times. Both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one China. This is the history of Taiwan and the current situation of Taiwan,” the minister said.

"Recently there has been absurd rhetoric, accusing China of challenging the rules-based international order, and that it’s trying to unilaterally upend the status quo in the Taiwan Strait by force or coercion... The logic is absurd and the consequences are dangerous. Those who play with fire on the Taiwan issue will eventually get themselves burned," Qin added.

China had also held military exercises around Taiwan after its president Tsai Ing-wen held talks with US House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Los Angeles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong has requested solemn representations with the ambassador of South Korea after the country's president made "erroneous" remarks about Taiwan, stated the Chinese foreign ministry on Sunday.

China's Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong has requested solemn representations with the ambassador of South Korea after the country's president made "erroneous" remarks about Taiwan, stated the Chinese foreign ministry on Sunday. While speaking exclusively with Reuters, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said that there has been an increase in tensions around Taiwan after forced attempts were made to change the status quo. The president added that he opposes such a change. "The Taiwan issue is not simply an issue between China and Taiwan but, like the issue of North Korea, it is a global issue," said Yoon. Sun called the remarks made by Yoon as "totally unacceptable", as per the statement released by the Chinese foreign ministry. "The South Korean leader made no mention of the One China principle, but equated the Taiwan issue with the Korean Peninsula issue," said Sun. ALSO READ | Philippines raises concerns over 'escalating tensions' Taiwan Strait amid talks with China "Both North and South Korea are sovereign states that have joined the United Nations. It is a well-known fact that the Korean Peninsula issue and the Taiwan issue are completely different in nature and in latitude and longitude, and are not comparable at all,” the Chinese vice foreign minister. China claims Taiwan, which is democratically ruled, as belonging to its own territory. The claims made by China are strongly rejected by Taipei. The Chinese government demands that the nation, with which it shares ties, must recognise Taiwan as Chinese territory. The complaint was made by Sun after last week the Chinese foreign ministry stated that all the issues related to Taiwan must be handled “prudently” by South Korea. Retorting to the statement, South Korea summoned China's ambassador to protest against the remarks made by Beijing. WATCH | Gravitas: US' leaked files judge Taiwan's defence Recently, China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang claimed that two sides of the Taiwan Strait were part of China's territory and it was right for the Chinese government to uphold its sovereignty. “Taiwan has been an inalienable part of China's territory since ancient times. Both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one China. This is the history of Taiwan and the current situation of Taiwan,” the minister said. "Recently there has been absurd rhetoric, accusing China of challenging the rules-based international order, and that it’s trying to unilaterally upend the status quo in the Taiwan Strait by force or coercion... The logic is absurd and the consequences are dangerous. Those who play with fire on the Taiwan issue will eventually get themselves burned," Qin added. China had also held military exercises around Taiwan after its president Tsai Ing-wen held talks with US House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Los Angeles. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China files complaint over 'erroneous' Taiwan remarks made by South Korean president

Russia's oil trade with India and China is going strong amid the Ukraine war and economic sanctions by the West.&nbsp;

India and China have bought the vast majority of Russian oil in April at prices above the price cap of $60 per barrel imposed by the West, a Reuters report said.&nbsp;

The latest media reports suggest that Urals Oil -- a reference oil brand of Russia used for exports -- cargoes loaded in the first half of April were mostly heading to India's and China's ports.

According to a Reuters report, India accounted for more than 70 percent of the seaborne supplies of Urals Oil till mid-April, while China accounted for about 20 percent.

Media reports indicate that India and China -- both countries share strong bilateral relations with Russia -- have not agreed to abide by the price cap. However, the West had hoped that the threat of sanctions might deter traders from helping those countries buy oil above the price cap.

In December 2022, the group of seven (G7) nations and Australia agreed on a $60 per barrel price cap on Russian seaborne crude oil in a bid to cut Russia's oil revenues. But opponents of the price cap say that the measure is too soft to force Moscow to backtrack on its activities in Ukraine.

A G7 source told Reuters that the price cap would remain unchanged for now, despite pressure from some European Union countries, such as Poland, to lower the cap to increase pressure on Moscow.

"We recognize that as markets evolve there will be fluctuations of the discounts that Russia receives relative to global market prices. But the prices Russia receives for its oil remain well below those earned by other producers, which reflects the effects of the global sanctions regime,"&nbsp;the official told Reuters on a condition of anonymity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, lower freight rates and smaller discounts for Urals Oil against global benchmarks nudged its daily price back above the price cap&nbsp;in early April.&nbsp;

Russia has been under a series of economic sanctions since it invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The sanctions by the West aim to cut off Moscow from the global financial and trade system.&nbsp;

Russia's oil trade with India and China is going strong amid the Ukraine war and economic sanctions by the West. India and China have bought the vast majority of Russian oil in April at prices above the price cap of $60 per barrel imposed by the West, a Reuters report said.

Russia's oil trade with India and China is going strong amid the Ukraine war and economic sanctions by the West. India and China have bought the vast majority of Russian oil in April at prices above the price cap of $60 per barrel imposed by the West, a Reuters report said. The latest media reports suggest that Urals Oil -- a reference oil brand of Russia used for exports -- cargoes loaded in the first half of April were mostly heading to India's and China's ports. According to a Reuters report, India accounted for more than 70 percent of the seaborne supplies of Urals Oil till mid-April, while China accounted for about 20 percent. Media reports indicate that India and China -- both countries share strong bilateral relations with Russia -- have not agreed to abide by the price cap. However, the West had hoped that the threat of sanctions might deter traders from helping those countries buy oil above the price cap. In December 2022, the group of seven (G7) nations and Australia agreed on a $60 per barrel price cap on Russian seaborne crude oil in a bid to cut Russia's oil revenues. But opponents of the price cap say that the measure is too soft to force Moscow to backtrack on its activities in Ukraine. A G7 source told Reuters that the price cap would remain unchanged for now, despite pressure from some European Union countries, such as Poland, to lower the cap to increase pressure on Moscow. "We recognize that as markets evolve there will be fluctuations of the discounts that Russia receives relative to global market prices. But the prices Russia receives for its oil remain well below those earned by other producers, which reflects the effects of the global sanctions regime," the official told Reuters on a condition of anonymity. Meanwhile, lower freight rates and smaller discounts for Urals Oil against global benchmarks nudged its daily price back above the price cap in early April. Russia has been under a series of economic sanctions since it invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The sanctions by the West aim to cut off Moscow from the global financial and trade system.

Russia's oil exports remain strong, India and China top buyers in April: Report

Just days ahead of its first-quarter results, trouble seems to be brewing for Elon Musk-owned car maker&nbsp;Tesla in China.&nbsp;

Several workers at the Tesla's Shanghai factory are taking to social media to appeal to Elon Musk after they were informed about plans to cut their performance bonuses, a Reuters report has said.&nbsp;

On Chinese internet platform Baidu, several workers questioned whether the plan to cut their performance bonuses was linked to a fatal accident in the factory in February this year.&nbsp;

Several online posts claimed workers at the Shanghai plant were being unfairly punished for the accident in which one worker died, with some workers alleging that their quarterly bonuses were cut by around 2,000 yuan.&nbsp;

Some workers also logged on to Twitter, owned by Musk but banned in China, to express their grievances. "Please pay attention to the performance (bonus) of frontline workers at Tesla's Shanghai factory being arbitrarily deducted," Reuters quoted a person with the handle @AFeiywu on Twitter.&nbsp;

According to media reports, the online posts are a rare outburst of discontent at Tesla's Shanghai plant. Last year, Musk had praised the factory workers&nbsp;for running the&nbsp;operations&nbsp;during Shanghai's two-month Covid-19 lockdown.&nbsp;

The Shanghai factory, which began operations in late 2019, is the Tesla’s largest manufacturing hub. The plant employs some 20,000 workers and accounted for more than half of Tesla’s global output in 2022. China is Tesla’s second-largest market after the United States by volume.&nbsp;

Just days ahead of its first-quarter results, trouble seems to be brewing for Elon Musk-owned car maker Tesla in China. Several workers at the Tesla's Shanghai factory are taking to social media to appeal to Elon Musk after they were informed about plans to cut their performance bonuses, a Reuters report has said.

Just days ahead of its first-quarter results, trouble seems to be brewing for Elon Musk-owned car maker Tesla in China. Several workers at the Tesla's Shanghai factory are taking to social media to appeal to Elon Musk after they were informed about plans to cut their performance bonuses, a Reuters report has said. On Chinese internet platform Baidu, several workers questioned whether the plan to cut their performance bonuses was linked to a fatal accident in the factory in February this year. Several online posts claimed workers at the Shanghai plant were being unfairly punished for the accident in which one worker died, with some workers alleging that their quarterly bonuses were cut by around 2,000 yuan. Some workers also logged on to Twitter, owned by Musk but banned in China, to express their grievances. "Please pay attention to the performance (bonus) of frontline workers at Tesla's Shanghai factory being arbitrarily deducted," Reuters quoted a person with the handle @AFeiywu on Twitter. According to media reports, the online posts are a rare outburst of discontent at Tesla's Shanghai plant. Last year, Musk had praised the factory workers for running the operations during Shanghai's two-month Covid-19 lockdown. The Shanghai factory, which began operations in late 2019, is the Tesla’s largest manufacturing hub. The plant employs some 20,000 workers and accounted for more than half of Tesla’s global output in 2022. China is Tesla’s second-largest market after the United States by volume.

Tesla workers in Shanghai appeal to Elon Musk over bonus cuts

After having changed the French President Emmanuel Macron's stance regarding the Taiwan issue, China is hoping that Germany starts accepting its version as well. Beijing's top diplomat Wang Yi said he&nbsp;“hopes and believes” Germany will support China’s “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan.&nbsp;

Wang made the statement during his meeting with German&nbsp;Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock who is on a state visit to the country.&nbsp;

“To maintain stability in the Taiwan Strait, it is necessary to firmly oppose separatist activities related to ‘Taiwan independence’,” said Wang, who added that Taiwan's 'return to China' was an important part of post-World War II international order.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Baerbock, meanwhile, did not deviate from the normal and stated that any escalation in the region would not be an ideal situation.&nbsp;

"A military escalation in the Taiwan Strait, through which 50 per cent&nbsp;of world trade goes every day, would be a horror scenario for the entire world," said Baerbock.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-foreign-minister-baerbock-concludes-3-day-china-visit-582997">WATCH |&nbsp;German Foreign Minister Baerbock concludes 3-day China visit</a>

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<h2>French president and his Taiwan version</h2>

The German side's comments were seemingly different from what Macron had said following his three-day state trip to Beijing.&nbsp;

Macron warned that the European Union must not take the US or Chinese side when it comes to the Taiwan issue. It was the first instance that Macron had displayed such clarity on the issue which has not gone down well with the allies.&nbsp;

“The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,”&nbsp;Macron was quoted as saying in an interview after his recent visit to China.

“Stability in the Taiwan Strait is of paramount importance. The threat [of] the use of force to change the status quo is unacceptable," said the French president.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-backs-macrons-remarks-against-following-us-policy-on-taiwan-581808">ALSO READ |&nbsp;China backs French President Macron’s remarks against following US policy on Taiwan</a>

Afterwards, Wang appreciated Macron and said his statements should not come as a surprise to anyone.

"We have noticed President Macron's view that Europe should insist on strategic autonomy and avoid getting involved in group confrontations has attracted some criticism, especially from the United States. We are not surprised by this."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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After having changed the French President Emmanuel Macron's stance regarding the Taiwan issue, China is hoping that Germany starts accepting its version as well.

After having changed the French President Emmanuel Macron's stance regarding the Taiwan issue, China is hoping that Germany starts accepting its version as well. Beijing's top diplomat Wang Yi said he “hopes and believes” Germany will support China’s “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan. Wang made the statement during his meeting with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock who is on a state visit to the country. “To maintain stability in the Taiwan Strait, it is necessary to firmly oppose separatist activities related to ‘Taiwan independence’,” said Wang, who added that Taiwan's 'return to China' was an important part of post-World War II international order. Baerbock, meanwhile, did not deviate from the normal and stated that any escalation in the region would not be an ideal situation. "A military escalation in the Taiwan Strait, through which 50 per cent of world trade goes every day, would be a horror scenario for the entire world," said Baerbock. WATCH | German Foreign Minister Baerbock concludes 3-day China visit × French president and his Taiwan version The German side's comments were seemingly different from what Macron had said following his three-day state trip to Beijing. Macron warned that the European Union must not take the US or Chinese side when it comes to the Taiwan issue. It was the first instance that Macron had displayed such clarity on the issue which has not gone down well with the allies. “The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,” Macron was quoted as saying in an interview after his recent visit to China. “Stability in the Taiwan Strait is of paramount importance. The threat [of] the use of force to change the status quo is unacceptable," said the French president. ALSO READ | China backs French President Macron’s remarks against following US policy on Taiwan Afterwards, Wang appreciated Macron and said his statements should not come as a surprise to anyone. "We have noticed President Macron's view that Europe should insist on strategic autonomy and avoid getting involved in group confrontations has attracted some criticism, especially from the United States. We are not surprised by this." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China 'hopes' Germany will support its 'peaceful reunification' with Taiwan

In pics | China: Sandstorm hit Beijing witnesses dangerous pollution

Hours after concluding its three-day military drills on the Taiwan Straits, the Chinese military posted a simulation video showing how it could launch a full-scale attack against the self-ruled nation if war ever breaks out.&nbsp;

The clip was reposted on Twitter by state-run outlet Global Times on Sunday, after the&nbsp;military’s Eastern Theatre Command&nbsp;shared the animated video on its official WeChat account—the Chinese social media account.&nbsp;

The video showed of what appears to be trajectory missiles landing on Taiwan and its surrounding waters as it mapped out how the Chinese forces, including military aircraft and navy vessels, could launch a coordinated attack.&nbsp;

Though the video can be perceived as propaganda and bluster in the wake of Taiwanese leader Tsai Ing-wen's US visit, it is clearly aimed at subduing Taipei’s efforts to seek international support for its cause—to safeguard its sovereignty.&nbsp;

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WATCH: A computer generated animation by the PLA Eastern Theater Command shows its mock joint precision strikes on the island of Taiwan on Sunday <a href="https://t.co/mbjfxsPRcz">pic.twitter.com/mbjfxsPRcz</a>
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/globaltimesnews/status/1644970821977526272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Notably, the animated video is eerily similar to the simulating&nbsp;precision strikes carried out by the Chinese forces on Taiwan&nbsp;over&nbsp;Easter.&nbsp;

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Taiwanese President Tsai slammed China for its ‘irresponsible’ behaviour over the military drills.&nbsp;

<h2>Gravitas: When will China invade Taiwan?</h2>

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“China is using this to launch military exercises to cause instability in Taiwan and the region, which is not the responsible attitude of a regional power,” she said after returning from the US.&nbsp;

She added that “the protection of democratic Taiwan is the top priority”, and thanked “Taiwan’s military personnel for a “high degree of professionalism and sense of mission.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-philippines-hold-largest-war-drills-near-disputed-waters-after-chinese-exercises-581216">US and Philippines hold largest war drills after Chinese exercises</a>

“Although China's military exercises have come to an end, the national army and national security team will continue to hold their positions and defend the country.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s defence ministry on Tuesday claimed that their defence forces have spotted Chinese warplanes and navy ships on their waters despite announcing the end of war games.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-nine-chinese-warships-26-aircraft-after-beijing-announced-the-end-of-military-drills-581193">&nbsp;Taiwan detects nine Chinese warships, 26 aircraft after Beijing announced end of military drills</a>

Around nine Chinese ships and 26 aircraft, including J-16 and Su-30 fighters, were seen carrying out combat readiness patrols around the island late Tuesday morning, the ministry said, reports Reuters news agency.&nbsp;

Taiwan's air force, navy and shore-based missile crews are closely monitoring and responding, it added.&nbsp;

Taiwan's government has repeatedly denounced the drills but said they will not escalate or provoke.&nbsp;

Chinese’ exercises have caused concern in Japan as well, as its southern islands sit close to Taiwan and could become caught up in a conflict.&nbsp;

The Japanese island of Okinawa is host to a major US air force base, and last August when China staged war games to protest the visit of then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taipei, Chinese missiles landed within Japan's exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Hours after concluding its three-day military drills on the Taiwan Straits, the Chinese military posted a simulation video showing how it could launch a full-scale attack against the self-ruled nation if war ever breaks out.

Hours after concluding its three-day military drills on the Taiwan Straits, the Chinese military posted a simulation video showing how it could launch a full-scale attack against the self-ruled nation if war ever breaks out. The clip was reposted on Twitter by state-run outlet Global Times on Sunday, after the military’s Eastern Theatre Command shared the animated video on its official WeChat account—the Chinese social media account. The video showed of what appears to be trajectory missiles landing on Taiwan and its surrounding waters as it mapped out how the Chinese forces, including military aircraft and navy vessels, could launch a coordinated attack. Though the video can be perceived as propaganda and bluster in the wake of Taiwanese leader Tsai Ing-wen's US visit, it is clearly aimed at subduing Taipei’s efforts to seek international support for its cause—to safeguard its sovereignty. WATCH: A computer generated animation by the PLA Eastern Theater Command shows its mock joint precision strikes on the island of Taiwan on Sunday pic.twitter.com/mbjfxsPRcz — Global Times (@globaltimesnews) April 9, 2023 × Notably, the animated video is eerily similar to the simulating precision strikes carried out by the Chinese forces on Taiwan over Easter. In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Taiwanese President Tsai slammed China for its ‘irresponsible’ behaviour over the military drills. Gravitas: When will China invade Taiwan? “China is using this to launch military exercises to cause instability in Taiwan and the region, which is not the responsible attitude of a regional power,” she said after returning from the US. She added that “the protection of democratic Taiwan is the top priority”, and thanked “Taiwan’s military personnel for a “high degree of professionalism and sense of mission.” Also read | US and Philippines hold largest war drills after Chinese exercises “Although China's military exercises have come to an end, the national army and national security team will continue to hold their positions and defend the country.” Meanwhile, Taiwan’s defence ministry on Tuesday claimed that their defence forces have spotted Chinese warplanes and navy ships on their waters despite announcing the end of war games. Also read | Taiwan detects nine Chinese warships, 26 aircraft after Beijing announced end of military drills Around nine Chinese ships and 26 aircraft, including J-16 and Su-30 fighters, were seen carrying out combat readiness patrols around the island late Tuesday morning, the ministry said, reports Reuters news agency. Taiwan's air force, navy and shore-based missile crews are closely monitoring and responding, it added. Taiwan's government has repeatedly denounced the drills but said they will not escalate or provoke. Chinese’ exercises have caused concern in Japan as well, as its southern islands sit close to Taiwan and could become caught up in a conflict. The Japanese island of Okinawa is host to a major US air force base, and last August when China staged war games to protest the visit of then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taipei, Chinese missiles landed within Japan's exclusive economic zone. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese military releases simulation clip of how it will attack Taiwan if war breaks out. Watch

International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that a sharp slowdown will continue in 2023, with India and China remaining to be the only bright spots.

She said that while the world will grow at less than 3 per cent, half of it will be accounted for by the two Asian giants.

“The period of slower economic activity will be prolonged, with the next five years witnessing less than 3 per cent growth, our lowest medium-term growth forecast since 1990, and well below the average of 3.8 per cent from the past two decades," the IMF chief said on Thursday.

"Some momentum comes from emerging economies —Asia especially is a bright spot. India and China are expected to account for half of the global growth in 2023. But others face a steeper climb," she added.

She said that lower-income countries would be hit the hardest, as they will find it difficult to grow amidst a global slowdown.

"Poverty and hunger could further increase, a dangerous trend that was started by the Covid crisis," she said.

<h2>India's Central Bank pauses on rate hikes; RBI on standby mode </h2>

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Georgieva’s remarks come ahead of the next week’s meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, where policy-makers will convene to discuss the global economy's most pressing issues.

While the West, including the EU, is facing fresh headwinds in the wake of the banking collapse, India’s economic growth has so far been resilient.

About 90 per cent of advanced economies are projected to see a decline in their growth rates this year, she said.

The IMF chief’s projections are closely aligned with the Reserve Bank of India’s estimates, which has pegged India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at 7 per cent for 2023.

While announcing RBI’s first bi-monthly monetary policy statement of FY24 on Thursday, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said that India’s real GDP growth for FY24 is projected at 6.5 per cent, with Q1 at 7.8 per cent, Q2 at 6.2 per cent, Q3 at 6.1 per cent, and Q4 at 5.9 per cent.

“The global economy is witnessing a renewed phase of turbulence with fresh headwinds from the banking sector turmoil in advanced economies," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that a sharp slowdown will continue in 2023, with India and China remaining to be the only bright spots.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that a sharp slowdown will continue in 2023, with India and China remaining to be the only bright spots. She said that while the world will grow at less than 3 per cent, half of it will be accounted for by the two Asian giants. “The period of slower economic activity will be prolonged, with the next five years witnessing less than 3 per cent growth, our lowest medium-term growth forecast since 1990, and well below the average of 3.8 per cent from the past two decades," the IMF chief said on Thursday. "Some momentum comes from emerging economies —Asia especially is a bright spot. India and China are expected to account for half of the global growth in 2023. But others face a steeper climb," she added. She said that lower-income countries would be hit the hardest, as they will find it difficult to grow amidst a global slowdown. "Poverty and hunger could further increase, a dangerous trend that was started by the Covid crisis," she said. India's Central Bank pauses on rate hikes; RBI on standby mode Georgieva’s remarks come ahead of the next week’s meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, where policy-makers will convene to discuss the global economy's most pressing issues. While the West, including the EU, is facing fresh headwinds in the wake of the banking collapse, India’s economic growth has so far been resilient. About 90 per cent of advanced economies are projected to see a decline in their growth rates this year, she said. The IMF chief’s projections are closely aligned with the Reserve Bank of India’s estimates, which has pegged India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at 7 per cent for 2023. While announcing RBI’s first bi-monthly monetary policy statement of FY24 on Thursday, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said that India’s real GDP growth for FY24 is projected at 6.5 per cent, with Q1 at 7.8 per cent, Q2 at 6.2 per cent, Q3 at 6.1 per cent, and Q4 at 5.9 per cent. “The global economy is witnessing a renewed phase of turbulence with fresh headwinds from the banking sector turmoil in advanced economies," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India, China to account for half of global growth in 2023, as IMF chief warns of ‘sharp slowdown’

In an effort to lay claim over Arunachal Pradesh, Beijing has renamed 11 places in the northeast Indian state that it says are part of South Tibet. The move drew sharp reaction from India.

China's Ministry of Civil Affairs on Sunday released a third set of names for 11 places in the state, which it refers to as “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”, state-run Global Times reported on Monday.

The first batch of six places was announced in 2017 and the second batch of 15 places in 2021.

The names are standardised in Chinese, Tibetan, and Pinyin characters, which follows the regulations on geographical names issued by the State Council, China's cabinet.

The list includes precise coordinates for two land areas, two residential areas, five mountain peaks, and two rivers, along with their subordinate administrative districts, the news outlet reported.

These are the 11 places that have been renamed

<img src="https://images3.mca.gov.cn/www2017/pic/202304/02/20230402094035921.jpg" />

Beijing has also released a map showing&nbsp;parts of Arunachal Pradesh inside the southern Tibetan region, including a town situated close to the state capital of Itanagar.

<img src="https://images3.mca.gov.cn/www2017/pic/202304/02/20230402094344230.jpg" />

The Global Times quoted Chinese experts as saying that the announcement of names is a legitimate move and China's sovereign right to standardise geographical names.

The move drew&nbsp;strong reactions from New Delhi, which has asserted that Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of India and that assigning "invented" names does not alter this fact.

"We have seen such reports. This is not the first time China has made such an attempt. we reject this outright. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral, inalienable part of India. Attempts to assign invented names will not alter this reality,"&nbsp;India's Ministry of External Affairs&nbsp;spokesperson Arindam Bagchi&nbsp;said in a statement.

Renaming ahead of defence minister’s visit

The latest move at renaming places comes days ahead of the scheduled visit of China’s newly appointed Defence Minister General Li Shangfu to India.

He is expected to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meetings this month. China’s Foreign Minister Qin Gang will also be attending the meeting of SCO foreign ministers in May. India currently holds the presidency of the group.

Also, Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit India for the SCO summit in July.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an effort to lay claim over Arunachal Pradesh, Beijing has renamed 11 places in the northeast Indian state that it says are part of South Tibet. The move drew sharp reaction from India.

In an effort to lay claim over Arunachal Pradesh, Beijing has renamed 11 places in the northeast Indian state that it says are part of South Tibet. The move drew sharp reaction from India. China's Ministry of Civil Affairs on Sunday released a third set of names for 11 places in the state, which it refers to as “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”, state-run Global Times reported on Monday. The first batch of six places was announced in 2017 and the second batch of 15 places in 2021. The names are standardised in Chinese, Tibetan, and Pinyin characters, which follows the regulations on geographical names issued by the State Council, China's cabinet. The list includes precise coordinates for two land areas, two residential areas, five mountain peaks, and two rivers, along with their subordinate administrative districts, the news outlet reported. These are the 11 places that have been renamed Beijing has also released a map showing parts of Arunachal Pradesh inside the southern Tibetan region, including a town situated close to the state capital of Itanagar. The Global Times quoted Chinese experts as saying that the announcement of names is a legitimate move and China's sovereign right to standardise geographical names. The move drew strong reactions from New Delhi, which has asserted that Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of India and that assigning "invented" names does not alter this fact. "We have seen such reports. This is not the first time China has made such an attempt. we reject this outright. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral, inalienable part of India. Attempts to assign invented names will not alter this reality," India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a statement. Renaming ahead of defence minister’s visit The latest move at renaming places comes days ahead of the scheduled visit of China’s newly appointed Defence Minister General Li Shangfu to India. He is expected to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meetings this month. China’s Foreign Minister Qin Gang will also be attending the meeting of SCO foreign ministers in May. India currently holds the presidency of the group. Also, Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit India for the SCO summit in July. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China renames 11 places in India’s Arunachal Pradesh state, calls it ‘Southern Tibet’; New Delhi reacts

China on Tuesday promised that it will "firmly defend" its national sovereignty, ahead of the meeting between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California this week.

"China will closely monitor the situation and firmly defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity," said foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning in a regular briefing.&nbsp;

"China is strongly opposed to the US arranging for Tsai Ing-wen to transit through its territory, and is strongly opposed to the meeting between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the third-ranking US official, and Tsai Ing-wen," said Mao.

"It seriously violates the One-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, and seriously undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," she added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-speaker-mccarthy-to-host-taiwanese-president-on-wednesday-in-california-578769">US House Speaker McCarthy to host Taiwanese president on Wednesday in California</a>

China had earlier warned that the meeting between Tsai Ing-wen and McCarthy will "further damage" relations between Washington and Beijing.

The meeting to be held on Wednesday in California will "greatly hurt the national feelings of 1.4 billion Chinese people" and undermine "the political foundation of China-US relations," said a consulate spokesperson in a statement, adding that it would "further damage China-US relations."

"Speaker McCarthy is ignoring the broad support of the international community for the One-China principle, ignoring the lessons that should have been drawn from previous mistakes," said the consulate.

"There is no doubt that he will make the same mistake again, further damage China-US relations, but it will only strengthen the strong will and determination of the Chinese people" to achieve "reunification" with Taiwan, they added.

McCarthy, who is a Republican, had earlier confirmed that he will be holding talks with Tsai in California, defying China's warnings that he was "playing with fire”.

Tsai has planned to stop over in the US while returning from Central America, where she has met Guatemala's leaders and is travelling to Belize before meeting McCarthy.

McCarthy's office on Monday said that the "bipartisan" meeting will be held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, outside Los Angeles.

WATCH | China-Taiwan tensions continue; Beijing continues its military activities close to Taiwan

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Originally, the Republican had planned to follow the footsteps of his predecessor as a speaker, Democrat Nancy Pelosi, who had made a controversial visit to Taiwan in August.

In the wake of the visit, China had conducted its largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan, a self-governing democracy which Beijing claims as part of its territory.

Last week, China's embassy to the United States charge d'affaires Xu Xueyuan said that the US risked "serious confrontation" no matter if their government visit Taiwan or vice versa.

"The US keeps saying that transit is not a visit and that there are precedents, but we should not use past mistakes as excuses for repeating them today," she stated.

She appealed to Washington "not to repeat playing with fire on the Taiwan question," alluding to Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last year, among other things.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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China on Tuesday promised that it will "firmly defend" its national sovereignty, ahead of the meeting between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California this week.

China on Tuesday promised that it will "firmly defend" its national sovereignty, ahead of the meeting between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California this week. "China will closely monitor the situation and firmly defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity," said foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning in a regular briefing. "China is strongly opposed to the US arranging for Tsai Ing-wen to transit through its territory, and is strongly opposed to the meeting between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the third-ranking US official, and Tsai Ing-wen," said Mao. "It seriously violates the One-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, and seriously undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," she added. ALSO READ | US House Speaker McCarthy to host Taiwanese president on Wednesday in California China had earlier warned that the meeting between Tsai Ing-wen and McCarthy will "further damage" relations between Washington and Beijing. The meeting to be held on Wednesday in California will "greatly hurt the national feelings of 1.4 billion Chinese people" and undermine "the political foundation of China-US relations," said a consulate spokesperson in a statement, adding that it would "further damage China-US relations." "Speaker McCarthy is ignoring the broad support of the international community for the One-China principle, ignoring the lessons that should have been drawn from previous mistakes," said the consulate. "There is no doubt that he will make the same mistake again, further damage China-US relations, but it will only strengthen the strong will and determination of the Chinese people" to achieve "reunification" with Taiwan, they added. McCarthy, who is a Republican, had earlier confirmed that he will be holding talks with Tsai in California, defying China's warnings that he was "playing with fire”. Tsai has planned to stop over in the US while returning from Central America, where she has met Guatemala's leaders and is travelling to Belize before meeting McCarthy. McCarthy's office on Monday said that the "bipartisan" meeting will be held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, outside Los Angeles. WATCH | China-Taiwan tensions continue; Beijing continues its military activities close to Taiwan Originally, the Republican had planned to follow the footsteps of his predecessor as a speaker, Democrat Nancy Pelosi, who had made a controversial visit to Taiwan in August. In the wake of the visit, China had conducted its largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan, a self-governing democracy which Beijing claims as part of its territory. Last week, China's embassy to the United States charge d'affaires Xu Xueyuan said that the US risked "serious confrontation" no matter if their government visit Taiwan or vice versa. "The US keeps saying that transit is not a visit and that there are precedents, but we should not use past mistakes as excuses for repeating them today," she stated. She appealed to Washington "not to repeat playing with fire on the Taiwan question," alluding to Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last year, among other things. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China vows to 'firmly defend national sovereignty' ahead of Tsai-McCarthy meet

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