Multiple Chinese military warships were spotted off the coast of Alaska over the weekend, the US Coast Guard announced. Watch to know more!

US coast guard says Chinese Naval ships spotted off Alaska Island

Headlines of the hour: - Biden defiant despite NATO gaffes - Clashes at Canada's McGill University - Japan Navy Chief quits amid security scandal - China's 'Hyperbola 1' launch fails - Massive blaze at Philadelphia apartment - UK sets bold growth targets

Japan Navy Chief quits | China's 'Hyperbola 1' launch fails | WION Headlines

US coast guard says Chinese Naval ships spotted off Alaska

Headlines of the hour: - Chinese Naval ships spotted off Alaska - Biden: Most qualified to run for President - Biden's twin gaffes at NATO summit - Netanyahu heckled with 'shame' chants - Nepal: 66 people missing after landslide - India: Yellow alert issued for Mumbai - China leads global EV sales

India: Yellow alert issued from Mumbai | China leads global EV sales

For the very first time since making landmark climate neutrality commitments in 2020, China did not permit any new coal-based steelmaking projects in the first half of the year, according to a report released Thursday. This marks quite a blunt move in the country's approach toward greenifying the industry.

All 7.1 million tons of the annual steelmaking capacity approved by provincial governments in the first half of the year used electric arc furnaces, running on recycled scrap and electricity, and hence are a cleaner alternative to traditional coal-based methods, according to a report by the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air.

The steel sector accounts for the second-largest source of China's carbon emissions at about 15 per cent, making the sector key to Beijing's 2060 goal for carbon neutrality. In recent years, Beijing has been seeking to clamp down on crude steel output and promote cleaner steelmaking technologies. However, challenges remain as mills are under pressure with low margins amid a sluggish economy.

According to CREA, this move might just be the signal step in China's decarbonisation of steel. This alone could help China slash 200 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions from the steel industry by 2025—representing a 10 per cent decrease from its peak in 2020, said the research organisation.

In May, the world's largest steel consumer announced a new action plan for the sector covering 2024-2025, aiming to reduce a total of 53 million tons of emissions and severely restricting low-value iron and steel exports.

“As China’s steel demand peaks and more scrap becomes available, it brings us a major opportunity to reduce emissions over the next 10 years,” Xinyi Shen, the lead author, said in the report.

China has taken proactive steps to reduce coal-based steel projects and promote cleaner alternatives, underlining the commitment to long-term environmental goals despite economic challenges. It can indeed turn the tide of global efforts toward fighting climate change.

For the very first time since making landmark climate neutrality commitments in 2020, China did not permit any new coal-based steelmaking projects in the first half of the year, according to a report released Thursday.

For the very first time since making landmark climate neutrality commitments in 2020, China did not permit any new coal-based steelmaking projects in the first half of the year, according to a report released Thursday. This marks quite a blunt move in the country's approach toward greenifying the industry. All 7.1 million tons of the annual steelmaking capacity approved by provincial governments in the first half of the year used electric arc furnaces, running on recycled scrap and electricity, and hence are a cleaner alternative to traditional coal-based methods, according to a report by the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air. The steel sector accounts for the second-largest source of China's carbon emissions at about 15 per cent, making the sector key to Beijing's 2060 goal for carbon neutrality. In recent years, Beijing has been seeking to clamp down on crude steel output and promote cleaner steelmaking technologies. However, challenges remain as mills are under pressure with low margins amid a sluggish economy. According to CREA, this move might just be the signal step in China's decarbonisation of steel. This alone could help China slash 200 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions from the steel industry by 2025—representing a 10 per cent decrease from its peak in 2020, said the research organisation. In May, the world's largest steel consumer announced a new action plan for the sector covering 2024-2025, aiming to reduce a total of 53 million tons of emissions and severely restricting low-value iron and steel exports. “As China’s steel demand peaks and more scrap becomes available, it brings us a major opportunity to reduce emissions over the next 10 years,” Xinyi Shen, the lead author, said in the report. China has taken proactive steps to reduce coal-based steel projects and promote cleaner alternatives, underlining the commitment to long-term environmental goals despite economic challenges. It can indeed turn the tide of global efforts toward fighting climate change.

China's steel revolution: pioneering decarbonisation for global impact

Six people were killed as record rains struck southwest China, state media reported Thursday, as the country endures a summer of extreme weather.

Torrential downpours struck Dianjiang county, near the megacity of Chongqing, from Wednesday night to Thursday morning, state news agency Xinhua said, citing county officials.

State broadcaster CCTV, citing the county flood control office, reported that four people had died in "geological disasters" and a further two had "drowned" as of 1:50 pm (0550 GMT) on Thursday.

Xinhua said one of the people had perished after a house collapsed, and at least three had been caught in a landslide.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-gears-up-for-rare-once-a-century-floods-amid-heavy-rainfall-713605" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-gears-up-for-rare-once-a-century-floods-amid-heavy-rainfall-713605&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQsMOyup6HAxXYTGwGHTfiBE0QFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Cgc2tylptB4Hgpm1BUHaw&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-gears-up-for-rare-once-a-century-floods-amid-heavy-rainfall-713605&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQsMOyup6HAxXYTGwGHTfiBE0QFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Cgc2tylptB4Hgpm1BUHaw&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" target="_blank">China&nbsp;gears up for 'once a century' floods amid heavy&nbsp;rainfall</a>

Nearly 7,000 people have been affected by rainstorms and 170 have been told to evacuate, according to Xinhua.

It added that up to 254.6 millimetres (10 inches) of rain had been measured in parts of Dianjiang, the highest daily maximum since records began.

China is enduring a summer of extreme weather, with heavy rains across the east and south coming as much of the north has sweltered in successive heat waves.

The country is the world's leading emitter of the greenhouse gases that scientists say drive climate change and make extreme weather more likely.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-heavy-rains-hit-central-southern-parts-of-china-floods-landslides-claim-58-lives-734427" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-heavy-rains-hit-central-southern-parts-of-china-floods-landslides-claim-58-lives-734427&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQsMOyup6HAxXYTGwGHTfiBE0QFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3QCTWlOX7gs-3DainvI3fk&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-heavy-rains-hit-central-southern-parts-of-china-floods-landslides-claim-58-lives-734427" target="_blank">Heavy&nbsp;rains&nbsp;hit central &amp; southern parts of&nbsp;China, floods &amp; landslides</a>

Beijing has committed to bringing its emissions of planet-heating carbon dioxide to a peak by 2030 and to net zero by 2060.

(Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Six people were killed as record rains struck southwest China, state media reported Thursday, as the country endures a summer of extreme weather. Torrential downpours struck Dianjiang county, near the megacity of Chongqing, from Wednesday night to Thursday morning, state news agency Xinhua said, citing county officials.

Six people were killed as record rains struck southwest China, state media reported Thursday, as the country endures a summer of extreme weather. Torrential downpours struck Dianjiang county, near the megacity of Chongqing, from Wednesday night to Thursday morning, state news agency Xinhua said, citing county officials. State broadcaster CCTV, citing the county flood control office, reported that four people had died in "geological disasters" and a further two had "drowned" as of 1:50 pm (0550 GMT) on Thursday. Xinhua said one of the people had perished after a house collapsed, and at least three had been caught in a landslide. Also read: China gears up for 'once a century' floods amid heavy rainfall Nearly 7,000 people have been affected by rainstorms and 170 have been told to evacuate, according to Xinhua. It added that up to 254.6 millimetres (10 inches) of rain had been measured in parts of Dianjiang, the highest daily maximum since records began. China is enduring a summer of extreme weather, with heavy rains across the east and south coming as much of the north has sweltered in successive heat waves. The country is the world's leading emitter of the greenhouse gases that scientists say drive climate change and make extreme weather more likely. Also read: Heavy rains hit central & southern parts of China, floods & landslides Beijing has committed to bringing its emissions of planet-heating carbon dioxide to a peak by 2030 and to net zero by 2060. (Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Six dead in Southwest China after record rainfall: State media

The Chinese and Russians are collaborating on a new Silk Road in the Arctic. On the 6th of July, As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was preparing for his state visit to Russia, a train left Moscow for the Arctic. Did China leak the news of its departure to the media to dampen the mood around India-Russia summit?

Gravitas: China, Russia collaborate on a new Silk Road in the Arctic. What does it mean for India?

The Chinese government says it will investigate allegations that fuel tankers have been used to transport cooking oil after carrying toxic chemicals without being cleaned properly between loads. The controversy has spread online as social media users express concerns about potential food contamination.

Gravitas | China's cooking oil contamination scandal

To make a mark in the world of space science, China has now planned to strike an asteroid to deflect it by 2030, on the pretext of planetary defence.&nbsp;

The scientists have said that the mission has a dual purpose - the asteroid will be impacted by one spacecraft and its partner will make observations of the space rock to understand more about the solar system and its formation.

As per the reports, the&nbsp;near-Earth object&nbsp;(NEO) 2015 XF261 - which is a 100-foot-wide (30-metre)&nbsp;asteroid - is most probably the selected target of the China National Space Administration&nbsp;(CNSA) mission.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-2024-mt-1-makes-extremely-close-approach-to-earth-739111">Asteroid 2024 MT-1 makes extremely close approach to Earth</a>

According to the database of NASA's&nbsp;Jet Propulsion Laboratory&nbsp;(JPL), asteroid 2015 XF261 had made a relatively close flyby to Earth&nbsp;on Tuesday (July 9). It was at a distance of 31 million miles (50 million kilometres) from Earth.

The space rock whizzed at a speed of around 26,000 mph (42,000 kph), which was 30 times faster than the speed of sound.

<h2>NASA's DART to pave way for Chinese mission</h2>

It was reported by the nonprofit Planetary Society that the proposed 2015 XF261-targeting mission was discussed in a recent paper in the&nbsp;Journal of Deep Space Exploration.

"For China's first near-Earth asteroid defence on-orbit verification mission, a defensive disposal demonstration will be carried out on the potential risk of near-Earth asteroids impacting the Earth," stated the study.&nbsp;

"The scientific objectives of the on-orbit verification of&nbsp;asteroid defence&nbsp;and its specific scientific exploration mission will be designed and proposed," it added.&nbsp;

"A scientific payload demand analysis will be carried out, and payload configuration plans and exploration mission requirements will be proposed to provide a decision-making basis for the future implementation of asteroid defence missions," researchers wrote.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Starliner astronauts 'confident' on return trip, Sunita Williams &amp; Billy Wilmore address press

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/starliner-astronauts-confident-on-return-trip-sunita-williams-billy-wilmore-address-press-739752/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China is set to follow in the footsteps of NASA's planetary defence mission - the&nbsp;Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) - which deflected a small body in the&nbsp;Didymos binary asteroid system in September 2022.

It is difficult to say if the asteroid will be safely deflected or if our Earth will face some impact, in case the process goes wrong. One cannot&nbsp;forget the mounting evidence which suggests&nbsp;how an asteroid hitting the planet Earth led to the extinction of the dinosaurs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

To make a mark in the world of space science, China has now planned to strike an asteroid to deflect it by 2030, on the pretext of planetary defence. The scientists have said that the mission has a dual purpose - the asteroid will be impacted by one spacecraft and its partner will make observations of the space rock to understand more about the solar system and its formation.

To make a mark in the world of space science, China has now planned to strike an asteroid to deflect it by 2030, on the pretext of planetary defence. The scientists have said that the mission has a dual purpose - the asteroid will be impacted by one spacecraft and its partner will make observations of the space rock to understand more about the solar system and its formation. As per the reports, the near-Earth object (NEO) 2015 XF261 - which is a 100-foot-wide (30-metre) asteroid - is most probably the selected target of the China National Space Administration (CNSA) mission. Also Read: Asteroid 2024 MT-1 makes extremely close approach to Earth According to the database of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), asteroid 2015 XF261 had made a relatively close flyby to Earth on Tuesday (July 9). It was at a distance of 31 million miles (50 million kilometres) from Earth. The space rock whizzed at a speed of around 26,000 mph (42,000 kph), which was 30 times faster than the speed of sound. NASA's DART to pave way for Chinese mission It was reported by the nonprofit Planetary Society that the proposed 2015 XF261-targeting mission was discussed in a recent paper in the Journal of Deep Space Exploration. "For China's first near-Earth asteroid defence on-orbit verification mission, a defensive disposal demonstration will be carried out on the potential risk of near-Earth asteroids impacting the Earth," stated the study. "The scientific objectives of the on-orbit verification of asteroid defence and its specific scientific exploration mission will be designed and proposed," it added. "A scientific payload demand analysis will be carried out, and payload configuration plans and exploration mission requirements will be proposed to provide a decision-making basis for the future implementation of asteroid defence missions," researchers wrote. Watch: Starliner astronauts 'confident' on return trip, Sunita Williams & Billy Wilmore address press China is set to follow in the footsteps of NASA's planetary defence mission - the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) - which deflected a small body in the Didymos binary asteroid system in September 2022. It is difficult to say if the asteroid will be safely deflected or if our Earth will face some impact, in case the process goes wrong. One cannot forget the mounting evidence which suggests how an asteroid hitting the planet Earth led to the extinction of the dinosaurs. (With inputs from agencies)

China set to shoot projectile at asteroid in space by 2030. Will it threaten Earth?

China is at it again. After reports suggested that the Indian government was planning to spend $1 billion on the construction of hydropower stations in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, China’s Foreign Ministry responded on Wednesday saying that India has no right to carry out development in the area. Why does China feel it has the right to comment on India's affairs? What right does it have over what India does in its territory? Why is China poking its nose in Arunachal Pradesh?

Gravitas | Why is China Poking Its Nose in Arunachal? Beijing Calls Development in State 'Illegal'

Reports say that The Philippines wants more Brahmos missile batteries from India. The supersonic cruise missiles that have been delivered by India to Manila , has been touted as a gamechanger by the country as it faces maritime security threat from China.

Gravitas | The Philippines Want More Brahmos From India | Big Boost for India's Defence Export

Headlines of the hour: - Ukraine's path to NATO 'irreversible' - China warns NATO over Russia ties - Spain rejects Gaza 'double standards' - US to send 500-pound bombs to Israel? - Baghdadi's widow sentenced to death - Democrats pile pressure on Biden - Taiwan: Surge in Chinese air force activity

US to send 500 pound bombs to Israel? | Baghdadi's widow sentenced to death

Taiwan's defence ministry said Thursday (July 11) it had detected 66 Chinese military aircraft around the island in a 24-hour window, a record-high this year, a day after Beijing reportedly conducted military exercises in nearby waters.

China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as part of its territory and has said it will never renounce the use of force to bring it under Beijing's control.

Thursday's record comes a day after Taipei spotted Chinese aircraft around the island that it said were headed to the western Pacific for exercises with the PLA aircraft carrier Shandong.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/xis-china-sends-45-aircraft-around-taiwan-ahead-of-new-presidents-inauguration-721504" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/xis-china-sends-45-aircraft-around-taiwan-ahead-of-new-presidents-inauguration-721504&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrj_6PgJ6HAxWXTWwGHRybBpQQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3HWqpNs-kFvEY4EwJDSbrj&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xis-china-sends-45-aircraft-around-taiwan-ahead-of-new-presidents-inauguration-721504" target="_blank">Xi's China sends 45 aircraft around&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;</a>

"66 PLA aircraft and seven PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 am (2200 GMT Wednesday) today," the defence ministry said in Thursday's statement.

Fifty-six of the aircraft crossed the sensitive median line bisecting the Taiwan Strait -- a narrow 180-kilometre (110-mile) waterway separating the island from China.

The ministry added it had "monitored the situation and responded accordingly".

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66 PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 56 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern and southeasten ADIZ. <a href="https://t.co/UnNyjvbcDI">pic.twitter.com/UnNyjvbcDI</a>
— 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoNDefense/status/1811207709863379226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The year's previous record was in May, when Beijing sent 62 military aircraft and 27 naval vessels around Taiwan.

That occurred in the middle of war games Beijing launched on the heels of the inauguration of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who Beijing regards as a "dangerous separatist".

Taiwan defence minister Wellington Koo on Wednesday said the Shandong "did not pass through the Bashi Channel", the area off Taiwan's southern tip where Chinese ships typically transit en route to the Pacific Ocean.

Instead, it "went further south through the Balingtang Channel towards the Western Pacific," he said, referring to a waterway just north of the Philippines' Babuyan Island -- about 250 kilometres south of Bashi.

Neighbouring Japan on Tuesday confirmed that four PLA navy vessels -- including the Shandong -- were sailing 520 kilometres southeast of Miyako island.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-china-tensions-taiwan-detects-chinese-planes-as-china-plans-taiwan-invasion-725790" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-china-tensions-taiwan-detects-chinese-planes-as-china-plans-taiwan-invasion-725790&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrj_6PgJ6HAxWXTWwGHRybBpQQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2tgACreYjHewA70k2CDjjN&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-china-tensions-taiwan-detects-chinese-planes-as-china-plans-taiwan-invasion-725790" target="_blank">Taiwan&nbsp;detects Chinese planes as China plans&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;invasion</a>

"Fighter aircraft and helicopters" had been seen taking off from and landing on the Shandong,"it said.

The Philippines' military public affairs chief said they had received reports of a China-Russia exercise taking place in the Philippine Sea though he did not comment about the Shandong directly.

Tensions between Manila and Beijing have ramped up following a series of escalating confrontations over the hotly disputed South China Sea.

(Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Taiwan's defence ministry said Thursday (July 11) it had detected 66 Chinese military aircraft around the island in a 24-hour window, a record-high this year, a day after Beijing reportedly conducted military exercises in nearby waters.

Taiwan's defence ministry said Thursday (July 11) it had detected 66 Chinese military aircraft around the island in a 24-hour window, a record-high this year, a day after Beijing reportedly conducted military exercises in nearby waters. China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as part of its territory and has said it will never renounce the use of force to bring it under Beijing's control. Thursday's record comes a day after Taipei spotted Chinese aircraft around the island that it said were headed to the western Pacific for exercises with the PLA aircraft carrier Shandong. Also read: Xi's China sends 45 aircraft around Taiwan "66 PLA aircraft and seven PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 am (2200 GMT Wednesday) today," the defence ministry said in Thursday's statement. Fifty-six of the aircraft crossed the sensitive median line bisecting the Taiwan Strait -- a narrow 180-kilometre (110-mile) waterway separating the island from China. The ministry added it had "monitored the situation and responded accordingly". 66 PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 56 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern and southeasten ADIZ. pic.twitter.com/UnNyjvbcDI — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) July 11, 2024 × The year's previous record was in May, when Beijing sent 62 military aircraft and 27 naval vessels around Taiwan. That occurred in the middle of war games Beijing launched on the heels of the inauguration of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who Beijing regards as a "dangerous separatist". Taiwan defence minister Wellington Koo on Wednesday said the Shandong "did not pass through the Bashi Channel", the area off Taiwan's southern tip where Chinese ships typically transit en route to the Pacific Ocean. Instead, it "went further south through the Balingtang Channel towards the Western Pacific," he said, referring to a waterway just north of the Philippines' Babuyan Island -- about 250 kilometres south of Bashi. Neighbouring Japan on Tuesday confirmed that four PLA navy vessels -- including the Shandong -- were sailing 520 kilometres southeast of Miyako island. Also read: Taiwan detects Chinese planes as China plans Taiwan invasion "Fighter aircraft and helicopters" had been seen taking off from and landing on the Shandong,"it said. The Philippines' military public affairs chief said they had received reports of a China-Russia exercise taking place in the Philippine Sea though he did not comment about the Shandong directly. Tensions between Manila and Beijing have ramped up following a series of escalating confrontations over the hotly disputed South China Sea. (Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Taiwan tracks 66 Chinese military aircraft near its territory within a day

NATO leaders on Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;10) labelled China a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war against Ukraine, accusing it of playing a key role in helping Moscow's assault. Beijing in response warned the alliance against "provoking confrontation" over China's ties with Russia.

<h2>"Decisive enabler" of Russia-Ukraine war</h2>

In a declaration shared from their summit in Washington, NATO leaders expressed "deep concern," over China's deepening ties with Russia, reports news agency AFP. They said that China "has become a decisive enabler of Russia's war against Ukraine through its so-called 'no limits' partnership and its large-scale support for Russia's defence industrial base."

The communique called on China to "cease all material and political support to Russia's war effort," including "the transfer of dual-use materials, such as weapons components, equipment, and raw materials that serve as inputs for Russia's defence sector."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-summit-ukraine-gets-f-16-jets-irreversible-path-to-bloc-membership-739654">NATO summit: Ukraine gets F-16 jets, 'irreversible' path to bloc membership</a>

As per Reuters, it also expressed concern about Beijing's expanding space capabilities and referred to the nation's rapid expansion of its nuclear arsenal, urging China to engage in strategic risk reduction talks.

The NATO leaders also warned China that it "cannot enable the largest war in Europe in recent history without this negatively impacting its interests and reputation."

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told the press later that this was the first time the 32 NATO allies had come together to label China this way, and that it was an important message.

"I think the message sent from NATO from this summit is very strong and very clear, and we are clearly defining China's responsibility when it comes to enabling Russia's war," said the outgoing Secretary-General.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-cant-predict-what-trump-would-do-if-he-wins-pushes-leaders-to-make-strong-decisions-now-739503">Zelensky says can't predict what Trump would do if he wins, pushes US leaders to 'make strong decisions' now</a>

<h2>China slams NATO</h2>

Reacting to the NATO declaration on its ties with Russia, China warned the alliance against "hyping up the so-called China threat".

"NATO should stop hyping up the so-called China threat and provoking confrontation and rivalry, and do more to contribute to world peace and stability," a spokesperson for Beijing's mission to the European Union said in a statement on its website.

(With inputs from agencies)

NATO leaders on Wednesday (Jul 10) labelled China a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war against Ukraine, accusing it of playing a key role in helping Moscow's assault.

NATO leaders on Wednesday (Jul 10) labelled China a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war against Ukraine, accusing it of playing a key role in helping Moscow's assault. Beijing in response warned the alliance against "provoking confrontation" over China's ties with Russia. "Decisive enabler" of Russia-Ukraine war In a declaration shared from their summit in Washington, NATO leaders expressed "deep concern," over China's deepening ties with Russia, reports news agency AFP. They said that China "has become a decisive enabler of Russia's war against Ukraine through its so-called 'no limits' partnership and its large-scale support for Russia's defence industrial base." The communique called on China to "cease all material and political support to Russia's war effort," including "the transfer of dual-use materials, such as weapons components, equipment, and raw materials that serve as inputs for Russia's defence sector." Also read | NATO summit: Ukraine gets F-16 jets, 'irreversible' path to bloc membership As per Reuters, it also expressed concern about Beijing's expanding space capabilities and referred to the nation's rapid expansion of its nuclear arsenal, urging China to engage in strategic risk reduction talks. The NATO leaders also warned China that it "cannot enable the largest war in Europe in recent history without this negatively impacting its interests and reputation." NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told the press later that this was the first time the 32 NATO allies had come together to label China this way, and that it was an important message. "I think the message sent from NATO from this summit is very strong and very clear, and we are clearly defining China's responsibility when it comes to enabling Russia's war," said the outgoing Secretary-General. Also read | Zelensky says can't predict what Trump would do if he wins, pushes US leaders to 'make strong decisions' now China slams NATO Reacting to the NATO declaration on its ties with Russia, China warned the alliance against "hyping up the so-called China threat". "NATO should stop hyping up the so-called China threat and provoking confrontation and rivalry, and do more to contribute to world peace and stability," a spokesperson for Beijing's mission to the European Union said in a statement on its website. (With inputs from agencies)

China warns NATO against provoking confrontation after alliance labels it 'decisive enabler' of Russia's war

China and Taiwan tensions are soaring - Taiwan's Defence Ministry said that 37 Chinese aircraft were detected around the self-rules island of Taiwan on Wednesday.

Taiwan: 36 Chinese aircraft cross Taiwan strait, country says 'keeping watch on China's movements'

Chinese coast guard ships entered prohibited waters around Taiwan's frontline islands of Kinmen. The video of the incident was released by Taiwan’s coast guard. In response to the alleged intrusion of its waters. Taiwan dispatched four of its coast guard vessels to conduct one-on-one monitoring alongside the four Chinese ships.

China coast guard vessels entered waters near frontline islands, says Taiwan

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg made a big statement during a press conference. He said that the 32 allies had collectively identified China as a decisive enabler of Russia’s war. Watch this video for all details.

NATO Summit 2024: NATO allies raise concern over China's role in Russia-Ukraine war

China dominates wind and solar buildout, surpassing the rest of the world combined by nearly double, according to a new study, published Thursday (Jul&nbsp;11).

China, the world's second-largest economy, is also the world's top emitter of greenhouse gases linked to climate change.

China has committed to bring carbon emissions to a peak by 2030 and to net zero by 2060.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-tracks-66-chinese-military-aircraft-near-its-territory-within-a-day-739738" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-tracks-66-chinese-military-aircraft-near-its-territory-within-a-day-739738&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQ26Hqmp6HAxXZRmcHHS9zCEkQFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw03oua6I9WPzGfstk7X6OMg&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-tracks-66-chinese-military-aircraft-near-its-territory-within-a-day-739738" target="_blank">Taiwan tracks 66&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;military aircraft near its territory within a day</a>

It has undergone several waves of extreme weather in recent months that scientists believe are rendered more severe by climate change.

China at present has a total of 339 gigawatts (GW) of capacity under construction, including 159 GW of wind and 180 GW of solar.

According to a study by Global Energy Monitor, a US-based NGO, this is "nearly twice as much as the rest of the world combined."&nbsp;

The report also indicated that this figure significantly surpasses that of the second-ranked nation, the United States, which is constructing only 40 GW.

China has broken ground on a third of the new wind and solar capacity it has announced to date, compared to a global average of just seven per cent, the report further said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-cuts-off-china-from-chatgpt-and-ai-services-739306" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-cuts-off-china-from-chatgpt-and-ai-services-739306&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQ26Hqmp6HAxXZRmcHHS9zCEkQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3FMXpF3EudXxC7IHcCIQA6&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-cuts-off-china-from-chatgpt-and-ai-services-739306" target="_blank">OpenAI cuts off&nbsp;China&nbsp;from ChatGPT and AI services</a>

"The stark contrast in construction rates illustrates the active nature of China's commitment to building renewables projects," the study said.

<h2>'Turning point?</h2>

China's huge renewable energy buildout does have some drawbacks.

The national grid relies on heavily polluting coal plants to handle surges in power demand. Additionally, it faces challenges in transmitting renewable energy generated in the remote northwestern regions to the economic and population centres in the east.

However, China's combined wind and solar capacity is set to overtake coal this year, as per the report.

The speedy renewables expansion raises hopes that Beijing's carbon emissions will peak even sooner than expected.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-anchors-monster-ship-inside-philippines-exclusive-zone-beijing-manila-dispute-gravitas-739698" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-anchors-monster-ship-inside-philippines-exclusive-zone-beijing-manila-dispute-gravitas-739698&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQ26Hqmp6HAxXZRmcHHS9zCEkQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1KXaOhk4L8nJqKlscyWAch&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-anchors-monster-ship-inside-philippines-exclusive-zone-beijing-manila-dispute-gravitas-739698" target="_blank">China&nbsp;Anchors 'Monster' Ship Inside Philippines' Exclusive Zone</a>

In a separate report released on Thursday, the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) revealed that China did not issue any new permits for coal-based steelmaking projects in the first half of 2024.

CREA said that was the first time on a half-yearly basis that there have been no new permits since China announced its "dual carbon goals" in September 2020.

China's steel industry is poised for a green transformation. A peak in steel demand coupled with increasing scrap availability creates a prime opportunity to move away from polluting coal-based production. This shift could significantly reduce emissions over the next decade, according to a report by CREA.

Scientists say global warming makes extreme weather more frequent and intense.

(With inputs from agencies)

China dominates wind and solar buildout, surpassing the rest of the world combined by nearly double, according to a new study, published Thursday (Jul 11). China, the world's second-largest economy, is also the world's top emitter of greenhouse gases linked to climate change.

China dominates wind and solar buildout, surpassing the rest of the world combined by nearly double, according to a new study, published Thursday (Jul 11). China, the world's second-largest economy, is also the world's top emitter of greenhouse gases linked to climate change. China has committed to bring carbon emissions to a peak by 2030 and to net zero by 2060. Also read: Taiwan tracks 66 Chinese military aircraft near its territory within a day It has undergone several waves of extreme weather in recent months that scientists believe are rendered more severe by climate change. China at present has a total of 339 gigawatts (GW) of capacity under construction, including 159 GW of wind and 180 GW of solar. According to a study by Global Energy Monitor, a US-based NGO, this is "nearly twice as much as the rest of the world combined." The report also indicated that this figure significantly surpasses that of the second-ranked nation, the United States, which is constructing only 40 GW. China has broken ground on a third of the new wind and solar capacity it has announced to date, compared to a global average of just seven per cent, the report further said. Also read: OpenAI cuts off China from ChatGPT and AI services "The stark contrast in construction rates illustrates the active nature of China's commitment to building renewables projects," the study said. 'Turning point? China's huge renewable energy buildout does have some drawbacks. The national grid relies on heavily polluting coal plants to handle surges in power demand. Additionally, it faces challenges in transmitting renewable energy generated in the remote northwestern regions to the economic and population centres in the east. However, China's combined wind and solar capacity is set to overtake coal this year, as per the report. The speedy renewables expansion raises hopes that Beijing's carbon emissions will peak even sooner than expected. Also read: China Anchors 'Monster' Ship Inside Philippines' Exclusive Zone In a separate report released on Thursday, the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) revealed that China did not issue any new permits for coal-based steelmaking projects in the first half of 2024. CREA said that was the first time on a half-yearly basis that there have been no new permits since China announced its "dual carbon goals" in September 2020. China's steel industry is poised for a green transformation. A peak in steel demand coupled with increasing scrap availability creates a prime opportunity to move away from polluting coal-based production. This shift could significantly reduce emissions over the next decade, according to a report by CREA. Scientists say global warming makes extreme weather more frequent and intense. (With inputs from agencies)

China nearly doubles world's wind and solar capacity: Report

The Chinese government has set up a high-level investigation team after allegations surfaced that fuel tankers were being used to transport cooking oil, without being cleaned properly in between.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (Jul 9), the food safety office announced the interdepartmental investigation while pledging that those responsible for&nbsp;any malpractice “will be severely punished in accordance with the law".&nbsp;

The state-owned company has been identified as&nbsp;Sinograin, China's largest grain storage and transport company in a report published in Beijing News last week. The report added that a private conglomerate named Hopefull Grain and Oil Group was also involved in the scandal, with both players denying their role.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Sinograin requires all units in the system to strictly fulfil their responsibilities, abide by work standards and prevent contamination risks to grain and oil reserves,” the company said in a statement posted on its official Weibo (X-like social media platform)&nbsp;account.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chinas-secret-spaceplane-ejects-mysterious-object-into-earths-orbit-us-hunts-it-down-726732">Also read |&nbsp;China’s secret spaceplane ejects mysterious object into Earth’s orbit. US hunts it down</a>

Hopefull Grain and Oil Group clarified to state-owned news outlets that&nbsp;“relevant departments” had conducted the investigation and would soon make an announcement. The company claimed that one of the tankers reported in the media report was not owned by the conglomerate and that there were no quality issues with the brand's oil products.&nbsp;

Notably, tankers in China are not limited to any particular type of goods. So in theory, they can carry food products straight after transporting coal-based oils. However, not cleaning them means subjecting millions to toxic chemicals which could prove fatal in many cases.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-aircrafts-headed-to-western-pacific-739660">Watch |&nbsp;Chinese aircrafts headed to western pacific</a>

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<h2>Chinese public spooked</h2>

Meanwhile, the public in China has been panicking ever since the news first broke with netizens taking to social media to express their shock.&nbsp;

“Even the cooking oil essential to people’s daily lives has now become problematic… Ordinary people cannot be properly safeguarded…Now I just want to scoff at (phrases like) ‘rule of law’ and ‘serving the people’ whenever I see them,” one of the users said on Weibo.&nbsp;

“This is much worse than the Sanlu scandal, it can’t be settled with just [a] statement,” added another user, referring to the 2008 milk scandal in which nearly 300,000 children fell sick while six died after drinking&nbsp;powdered milk contaminated with high levels of the industrial chemical melamine.

The Chinese government said it had noted the concerns and promised to punish any companies and individuals involved in wrongdoing. At the local level, both&nbsp;Hebei and Tianjin provincial governments had also launched their own probe into the matter.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese government has set up a high-level investigation team after allegations surfaced that fuel tankers were being used to transport cooking oil, without being cleaned properly in between.

The Chinese government has set up a high-level investigation team after allegations surfaced that fuel tankers were being used to transport cooking oil, without being cleaned properly in between. On Tuesday (Jul 9), the food safety office announced the interdepartmental investigation while pledging that those responsible for any malpractice “will be severely punished in accordance with the law". The state-owned company has been identified as Sinograin, China's largest grain storage and transport company in a report published in Beijing News last week. The report added that a private conglomerate named Hopefull Grain and Oil Group was also involved in the scandal, with both players denying their role. “Sinograin requires all units in the system to strictly fulfil their responsibilities, abide by work standards and prevent contamination risks to grain and oil reserves,” the company said in a statement posted on its official Weibo (X-like social media platform) account. Also read | China’s secret spaceplane ejects mysterious object into Earth’s orbit. US hunts it down Hopefull Grain and Oil Group clarified to state-owned news outlets that “relevant departments” had conducted the investigation and would soon make an announcement. The company claimed that one of the tankers reported in the media report was not owned by the conglomerate and that there were no quality issues with the brand's oil products. Notably, tankers in China are not limited to any particular type of goods. So in theory, they can carry food products straight after transporting coal-based oils. However, not cleaning them means subjecting millions to toxic chemicals which could prove fatal in many cases. Watch | Chinese aircrafts headed to western pacific × Chinese public spooked Meanwhile, the public in China has been panicking ever since the news first broke with netizens taking to social media to express their shock. “Even the cooking oil essential to people’s daily lives has now become problematic… Ordinary people cannot be properly safeguarded…Now I just want to scoff at (phrases like) ‘rule of law’ and ‘serving the people’ whenever I see them,” one of the users said on Weibo. “This is much worse than the Sanlu scandal, it can’t be settled with just [a] statement,” added another user, referring to the 2008 milk scandal in which nearly 300,000 children fell sick while six died after drinking powdered milk contaminated with high levels of the industrial chemical melamine. The Chinese government said it had noted the concerns and promised to punish any companies and individuals involved in wrongdoing. At the local level, both Hebei and Tianjin provincial governments had also launched their own probe into the matter. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese companies transport cooking oil in toxic fuel trucks? Major scandal sparks investigation

Now, we look at the new trend where Russia's embrace of the Chinese Yuan is stalling. President Vladimir Putin's war economy, which has been fueled by the quick adoption of the Chinese Yuan in response to the diplomatic crisis surrounding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, may have reached a breaking point. This is according to a Bloomberg report.

Russia's embrace of Chinese Yuan stalls

#Gravitas | China's intimidation tactics in South China Sea continues. Beijing has deployed its “monster ship” named CCG-5901, near Sabina Shoal in the Spratly Islands. It falls under Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

China Anchors 'Monster' Ship Inside Philippines’ Exclusive Zone | Beijing-Manila Dispute | Gravitas

Chinese aircraft carrier the Shandong passed close to the northern Philippines on its way to drills in the Pacific, Taiwan's defence minister said on Wednesday, as Taipei reported dozens of warplanes joining the ship for exercises.

Chinese aircrafts headed to western pacific

Myanmar ethnic minority fighters said Wednesday they had seized a town along a key trade highway to China following days of clashes, in another blow to the military.

Northern Shan state has been rocked by fighting since late last month, when an alliance of ethnic armed groups renewed an offensive against the military along the highway to China's Yunnan province.

The clashes have shredded a Beijing-brokered truce that in January halted an offensive by the alliance of the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-ethnic-armed-group-says-captured-hundreds-of-junta-personnel-718665">Myanmar ethnic armed group says captured hundreds of junta personnel</a>

The town of Naungcho "is totally ours", General Tar Bhone Kyaw of the TNLA told AFP.&nbsp;

Earlier Wednesday, a military source told AFP that ethnic minority fighters were in control of "most" of the town.

AFP was unable to reach a junta spokesman for comment.&nbsp;

Naungcho is around 50 kilometres (30 miles) down the highway from the former British hill station of Pyin Oo Lwin, home to the military's elite officer training academy.&nbsp;

Another road from the town leads to Taunggyi, the capital of Shan state.&nbsp;

TNLA fighters were also inside the town of Lashio, home to the junta's northeastern command, the TNLA said.

Its forces had briefly captured a battallion command near the city but had been forced to retreat when the military launched air strikes, said Tar Bhone Kyaw.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Myanmar: Junta under pressure as intense fighting breaks out in northeastern Myanmar

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On Tuesday the junta said 18 civilians in Lashio had been killed and 24 wounded in shelling, rocket and drone attacks by the alliance.

The military has carried out several air strikes around the town of about 150,000 people, according to residents.

<h2>Fleeing in convoys</h2>

On Tuesday Lashio residents piled into cars weighed down with belongings and navigated potholed and monsoon-soaked dirt roads in a bid to flee the fighting, AFP images showed.&nbsp;

On Monday around 45 people crowded onto a boat to be taken across a river swollen by the monsoon rains.

Myanmar's borderlands are home to myriad ethnic armed groups who have battled the military since independence from Britain in 1948 for autonomy and control of lucrative resources.

Some have given shelter and training to newer "People's Defence Forces" (PDFs) that have sprung up to battle the military after it ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in 2021.

In recent days, PDF fighters have battled junta forces in Madaya township, around an hour north of second city Mandalay.

Amid the renewed fighting last week, top junta general Soe Win travelled to China to discuss security cooperation along their shared border.

China is a major ally and arms supplier to the junta, but analysts say Beijing also maintains ties with Myanmar's armed ethnic groups holding territory near its border.&nbsp;

Myanmar ethnic minority fighters said Wednesday they had seized a town along a key trade highway to China following days of clashes, in another blow to the military.

Myanmar ethnic minority fighters said Wednesday they had seized a town along a key trade highway to China following days of clashes, in another blow to the military. Northern Shan state has been rocked by fighting since late last month, when an alliance of ethnic armed groups renewed an offensive against the military along the highway to China's Yunnan province. The clashes have shredded a Beijing-brokered truce that in January halted an offensive by the alliance of the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). Also read | Myanmar ethnic armed group says captured hundreds of junta personnel The town of Naungcho "is totally ours", General Tar Bhone Kyaw of the TNLA told AFP. Earlier Wednesday, a military source told AFP that ethnic minority fighters were in control of "most" of the town. AFP was unable to reach a junta spokesman for comment. Naungcho is around 50 kilometres (30 miles) down the highway from the former British hill station of Pyin Oo Lwin, home to the military's elite officer training academy. Another road from the town leads to Taunggyi, the capital of Shan state. TNLA fighters were also inside the town of Lashio, home to the junta's northeastern command, the TNLA said. Its forces had briefly captured a battallion command near the city but had been forced to retreat when the military launched air strikes, said Tar Bhone Kyaw. Also watch | Myanmar: Junta under pressure as intense fighting breaks out in northeastern Myanmar × On Tuesday the junta said 18 civilians in Lashio had been killed and 24 wounded in shelling, rocket and drone attacks by the alliance. The military has carried out several air strikes around the town of about 150,000 people, according to residents. Fleeing in convoys On Tuesday Lashio residents piled into cars weighed down with belongings and navigated potholed and monsoon-soaked dirt roads in a bid to flee the fighting, AFP images showed. On Monday around 45 people crowded onto a boat to be taken across a river swollen by the monsoon rains. Myanmar's borderlands are home to myriad ethnic armed groups who have battled the military since independence from Britain in 1948 for autonomy and control of lucrative resources. Some have given shelter and training to newer "People's Defence Forces" (PDFs) that have sprung up to battle the military after it ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in 2021. In recent days, PDF fighters have battled junta forces in Madaya township, around an hour north of second city Mandalay. Amid the renewed fighting last week, top junta general Soe Win travelled to China to discuss security cooperation along their shared border. China is a major ally and arms supplier to the junta, but analysts say Beijing also maintains ties with Myanmar's armed ethnic groups holding territory near its border.

Myanmar-China showdown? Ethnic armed group claims control of highway town to China

The no Limits partnership between Russia and China may further manifest in the form of a new polar silk route. China and Russia are advancing plans to keep the Northeast passage open throughout the summer months enhancing their strategic and economic cooperation in the Arctic. Watch in for more details!

Russia & China plot for Polar Silk route, aim to commercialise arctic, resource extraction plans

Nepal heavy rainfall continues to wreak havoc in the Himalayan Nation. The death toll in Nepal has risen to 62 since the onset of the monsoon. Watch in for more detail!

Nepal: Storms trap over 130 people in China's Tibet border with Nepal

The proliferation of obscure Chinese brands on Amazon is reshaping the online shopping landscape. Run of the mill brands dominate search results, often offering low-cost alternatives to established names.

Amazon's junk brand invasion

China's new radar can track 10 hypersonic missiles travelling at the speed of Mach 20. Chinese scientists say the feat in unprecedented. Which country will China use this radar against?

Gravitas | All about China's new sci-fi radar for hypersonic missiles

Microsoft bans China-based employees from using Android devices for work, mandates switch to iPhones. Watch in for more details!

Report: Microsoft China bans Android, asks staff to shift to iPhones by September

Chinese developers will no longer be able to rely on Artificial Intelligence market leader ChatGPT. Starting July 9, OpenAI will block users in China from accessing its tools and services.&nbsp;

While OpenAI's ChatGPT was already restricted by China's firewall, developers could previously use VPNs to leverage OpenAI's tools for fine-tuning their AI applications and conducting research.&nbsp;

"We are taking additional steps to block API traffic from regions where we do not support access to OpenAI’s services," an OpenAI spokesperson told Bloomberg last month.

This latest block, originating from OpenAI rather than the Chinese government, is poised to have substantial effects on the AI landscape in China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-faces-fiscal-tightrope-imf-urges-reforms-amid-high-debt-739225">UK faces fiscal tightrope: IMF urges reforms amid high debt</a>

<h2>Rising tensions and technology restrictions</h2>

OpenAI, as per the Guardian, has not elaborated on the reason behind this block. However, this move by OpenAI follows rising tensions between Washington and Beijing, with the US imposing restrictions on the export of advanced semiconductors vital for AI technology training.

<h2>Impact on China's AI community</h2>

The Chinese AI community has expressed "significant concern" over OpenAI's decision,&nbsp; Xiaohu Zhu, founder of the Shanghai-based Centre for Safe AGI, told the Guardian.

He said that "the decision raises questions about equitable access to AI technologies globally."

However, the move also presents opportunities for Chinese AI firms like SenseTime, Baidu, Zhipu AI, and Tencent Cloud.

As per the report, following chatter about the block, these companies started offering free tokens and migration services to attract former OpenAI users.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinese-brands-surge-on-amazon-redefining-online-shopping-739227">Chinese brands surge on Amazon, redefining online shopping</a>

While Baidu is offering 50m free tokens as well as free migration services, ZhipuAI, a local company, offered 150m free tokens for its model. Tencent Cloud meanwhile is giving away 100m free tokens to new users till the end of this month (July).

"Competitors are offering migration pathways for former OpenAI users, seeing this as an opportunity to expand their user base," explained Zhu.

OpenAI's exit may help accelerate the development of Chinese AI companies, which are already in tight competition with US counterparts. China hosts around 130 large language models, accounting for 40 per cent of the global total. While US companies lead in generative AI innovation, Chinese firms have been embroiled in a price war that might affect their profit margins and innovation capacity.

Nonetheless, experts like Winston Ma of New York University suggest that this situation comes "at a time when Chinese big tech players are closing on performance gap with OpenAI and are offering these Chinese LLM models essentially free."

"OpenAI’s departure is a short-term shock to the China market, but it may provide a long-term opportunity for Chinese domestic LLM models to be put to the real test," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese developers will no longer be able to rely on Artificial Intelligence market leader ChatGPT. Starting July 9, OpenAI will block users in China from accessing its tools and services.

Chinese developers will no longer be able to rely on Artificial Intelligence market leader ChatGPT. Starting July 9, OpenAI will block users in China from accessing its tools and services. While OpenAI's ChatGPT was already restricted by China's firewall, developers could previously use VPNs to leverage OpenAI's tools for fine-tuning their AI applications and conducting research. "We are taking additional steps to block API traffic from regions where we do not support access to OpenAI’s services," an OpenAI spokesperson told Bloomberg last month. This latest block, originating from OpenAI rather than the Chinese government, is poised to have substantial effects on the AI landscape in China. Also read | UK faces fiscal tightrope: IMF urges reforms amid high debt Rising tensions and technology restrictions OpenAI, as per the Guardian, has not elaborated on the reason behind this block. However, this move by OpenAI follows rising tensions between Washington and Beijing, with the US imposing restrictions on the export of advanced semiconductors vital for AI technology training. Impact on China's AI community The Chinese AI community has expressed "significant concern" over OpenAI's decision, Xiaohu Zhu, founder of the Shanghai-based Centre for Safe AGI, told the Guardian. He said that "the decision raises questions about equitable access to AI technologies globally." However, the move also presents opportunities for Chinese AI firms like SenseTime, Baidu, Zhipu AI, and Tencent Cloud. As per the report, following chatter about the block, these companies started offering free tokens and migration services to attract former OpenAI users. Also read | Chinese brands surge on Amazon, redefining online shopping While Baidu is offering 50m free tokens as well as free migration services, ZhipuAI, a local company, offered 150m free tokens for its model. Tencent Cloud meanwhile is giving away 100m free tokens to new users till the end of this month (July). "Competitors are offering migration pathways for former OpenAI users, seeing this as an opportunity to expand their user base," explained Zhu. OpenAI's exit may help accelerate the development of Chinese AI companies, which are already in tight competition with US counterparts. China hosts around 130 large language models, accounting for 40 per cent of the global total. While US companies lead in generative AI innovation, Chinese firms have been embroiled in a price war that might affect their profit margins and innovation capacity. Nonetheless, experts like Winston Ma of New York University suggest that this situation comes "at a time when Chinese big tech players are closing on performance gap with OpenAI and are offering these Chinese LLM models essentially free." "OpenAI’s departure is a short-term shock to the China market, but it may provide a long-term opportunity for Chinese domestic LLM models to be put to the real test," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

OpenAI cuts off China from ChatGPT and AI services

Researchers in China have developed a 3D imaging model of early-stage embryos this breakthrough may help women get pregnant more easily through a vitro fertilization or IVF.

Chinese researcher enhance IVF with 3D

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