A Chinese envoy called for a UN-led international investigation of the September 2022 Nord Stream pipeline explosions. It has been more than 18 months since the Nord Stream incident. Watch in for more details!

China urges UN for international probe of Nord Stream blasts

Elon Musk pushed for China's approval for Tesla to roll out advanced driver-assistance systems in a whirlwind trip to Beijing that ended on Monday, a step that could boost revenues at a time when Tesla is under pressure from Chinese rivals.

Tesla CEO Musk arrived in the Chinese capital on Sunday where he was expected to discuss the rollout of&nbsp;Full<a data-testid="Link" href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/what-is-teslas-full-self-driving-why-its-china-rollout-matters-2024-04-29/" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"> </a>Self-Driving (FSD) software&nbsp;and permission to transfer driving data overseas, according to a person with knowledge of the matter.

His meetings included one with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who praised Tesla's&nbsp;development in China as a successful example of China's economic and trade cooperation though state media did not say if the two had discussed FSD.

Still, the US&nbsp;automaker won a key endorsement that coincided with his trip - from a top Chinese auto association which said Tesla's Model 3 and Y cars were among models found to be compliant with China's data security requirements.

Two separate sources also told Reuters Tesla had reached an&nbsp;agreement with Baidu&nbsp;to use the Chinese tech giant's mapping license for data collection on China's public roads, which they described as a key step for FSD to be introduced in the country.

Tesla shares were last up 7% in premarket trade.

Data security and compliance have been among the reasons why the U.S. electric vehicle maker, which rolled out the most autonomous version of its Autopilot software four years ago, has yet to make FSD fully available in China, its second-largest market globally, despite customer demand.

Chinese regulators had since 2021 required Tesla to store all data collected by its Chinese fleet in Shanghai, leaving the company unable to transfer any back to the United States.

Musk is looking to obtain approval to transfer data collected in the country abroad to train algorithms for its autonomous driving technologies, the person said.

Musk's visit to China, first reported by Reuters, was not flagged publicly and the person spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak with media.

The plane that Musk arrived on departed from Beijing Capital Airport at 0517 GMT, according to Chinese flight tracking app Flight Manager and was headed to Anchorage, Alaska.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Musk's departure.

It remains unclear as to what, if any, other regulatory approvals Tesla will need to obtain or what conditions the company may have before it makes FSD fully available in China.

Equity analysts at Wedbush called the surprise visit "a major moment for Tesla".

Rival Chinese automakers and suppliers such as XPeng&nbsp;and Huawei Technologies have been seeking to gain an advantage over Tesla by rolling out similar software.

Hu Xijin, a former editor of state-backed tabloid Global Times who regularly posts in support of China's official position, said on his Weibo account that Tesla was the only foreign-funded automaker to meet China's data compliance requirements and said that this would pave the way for Tesla cars to enter premises owned by government agencies and state-owned firms across China.

"This is not only a breakthrough in China, but also a significant demonstration for the entire world in solving data security issues," he said.

Musk's visit came just over a week after he scrapped a planned trip to India to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing "very heavy Tesla obligations".

Musk had been set on his cancelled India trip to announce $2 billion to $3 billion in new investments, including in a car plant, after India offered lower import taxes on EVs in return under a new policy.

<h2 data-testid="Heading">CHINA DATA</h2>

Tesla cars have for years&nbsp;been banned&nbsp;from entering Chinese military complexes over security concerns relating to cameras installed on its vehicles. Its cars have also been turned away from sites holding important political events, such as an annual summer leadership conclave the ruling Communist Party held in 2022.

He Xiaopeng, the CEO of XPeng whose XNGP Advanced Driver Assistance System is&nbsp;similar to FSD, said on his Weibo account he welcomed the entry of the Tesla technology into China.

"Only when we have better products and technologies entering [China], can we provide a better experience to the market and customers and let the market develop in a healthy manner and at a faster pace," he said.

"Let a hundred flowers bloom," he said, echoing a famous line from Chairman Mao Zedong, the founder of modern China.

The improved prospect of FSD entering China comes as Tesla shares have lost almost a third of their value since the start of the year, as concerns have grown about the EV maker's growth trajectory. Last week, Tesla reported its first decline in quarterly revenue since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic slowed production and deliveries.

Musk said last week that Tesla would introduce new cheaper models using its current EV platforms and production lines and would offer a new "robotaxi" with self-driving technology. He said on X this month that he would unveil the robotaxi on Aug. 8.

China's complicated traffic conditions with more pedestrians and cyclists than in many other markets provide more scenarios that are key for training autonomous driving algorithms at a faster pace, according to industry experts.

"If Musk is able to obtain approval from Beijing to transfer data collected in China abroad this would be a 'game changer' around the acceleration of training its algorithms for its autonomous technology globally," Wedbush analyst Dan Ives said in a note.

Musk said this month that Tesla may make FSD available to customers in China "very soon", in response to a query on X.

Besides meeting Li on the short trip to Beijing, Musk met the organiser of the ongoing Beijing auto show. The chairman of Chinese battery giant CATL&nbsp;&nbsp;Robin Zeng, a key Tesla battery supplier, also visited Musk's hotel on Monday, according to a Reuters witness.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Elon Musk pushed for China's approval for Tesla to roll out advanced driver-assistance systems in a whirlwind trip to Beijing that ended on Monday, a step that could boost revenues at a time when Tesla is under pressure from Chinese rivals.

Elon Musk pushed for China's approval for Tesla to roll out advanced driver-assistance systems in a whirlwind trip to Beijing that ended on Monday, a step that could boost revenues at a time when Tesla is under pressure from Chinese rivals. Tesla CEO Musk arrived in the Chinese capital on Sunday where he was expected to discuss the rollout of Full Self-Driving (FSD) software and permission to transfer driving data overseas, according to a person with knowledge of the matter. His meetings included one with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who praised Tesla's development in China as a successful example of China's economic and trade cooperation though state media did not say if the two had discussed FSD. Still, the US automaker won a key endorsement that coincided with his trip - from a top Chinese auto association which said Tesla's Model 3 and Y cars were among models found to be compliant with China's data security requirements. Two separate sources also told Reuters Tesla had reached an agreement with Baidu to use the Chinese tech giant's mapping license for data collection on China's public roads, which they described as a key step for FSD to be introduced in the country. Tesla shares were last up 7% in premarket trade. Data security and compliance have been among the reasons why the U.S. electric vehicle maker, which rolled out the most autonomous version of its Autopilot software four years ago, has yet to make FSD fully available in China, its second-largest market globally, despite customer demand. Chinese regulators had since 2021 required Tesla to store all data collected by its Chinese fleet in Shanghai, leaving the company unable to transfer any back to the United States. Musk is looking to obtain approval to transfer data collected in the country abroad to train algorithms for its autonomous driving technologies, the person said. Musk's visit to China, first reported by Reuters, was not flagged publicly and the person spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak with media. The plane that Musk arrived on departed from Beijing Capital Airport at 0517 GMT, according to Chinese flight tracking app Flight Manager and was headed to Anchorage, Alaska. Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Musk's departure. It remains unclear as to what, if any, other regulatory approvals Tesla will need to obtain or what conditions the company may have before it makes FSD fully available in China. Equity analysts at Wedbush called the surprise visit "a major moment for Tesla". Rival Chinese automakers and suppliers such as XPeng and Huawei Technologies have been seeking to gain an advantage over Tesla by rolling out similar software. Hu Xijin, a former editor of state-backed tabloid Global Times who regularly posts in support of China's official position, said on his Weibo account that Tesla was the only foreign-funded automaker to meet China's data compliance requirements and said that this would pave the way for Tesla cars to enter premises owned by government agencies and state-owned firms across China. "This is not only a breakthrough in China, but also a significant demonstration for the entire world in solving data security issues," he said. Musk's visit came just over a week after he scrapped a planned trip to India to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing "very heavy Tesla obligations". Musk had been set on his cancelled India trip to announce $2 billion to $3 billion in new investments, including in a car plant, after India offered lower import taxes on EVs in return under a new policy. CHINA DATA Tesla cars have for years been banned from entering Chinese military complexes over security concerns relating to cameras installed on its vehicles. Its cars have also been turned away from sites holding important political events, such as an annual summer leadership conclave the ruling Communist Party held in 2022. He Xiaopeng, the CEO of XPeng whose XNGP Advanced Driver Assistance System is similar to FSD, said on his Weibo account he welcomed the entry of the Tesla technology into China. "Only when we have better products and technologies entering [China], can we provide a better experience to the market and customers and let the market develop in a healthy manner and at a faster pace," he said. "Let a hundred flowers bloom," he said, echoing a famous line from Chairman Mao Zedong, the founder of modern China. The improved prospect of FSD entering China comes as Tesla shares have lost almost a third of their value since the start of the year, as concerns have grown about the EV maker's growth trajectory. Last week, Tesla reported its first decline in quarterly revenue since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic slowed production and deliveries. Musk said last week that Tesla would introduce new cheaper models using its current EV platforms and production lines and would offer a new "robotaxi" with self-driving technology. He said on X this month that he would unveil the robotaxi on Aug. 8. China's complicated traffic conditions with more pedestrians and cyclists than in many other markets provide more scenarios that are key for training autonomous driving algorithms at a faster pace, according to industry experts. "If Musk is able to obtain approval from Beijing to transfer data collected in China abroad this would be a 'game changer' around the acceleration of training its algorithms for its autonomous technology globally," Wedbush analyst Dan Ives said in a note. Musk said this month that Tesla may make FSD available to customers in China "very soon", in response to a query on X. Besides meeting Li on the short trip to Beijing, Musk met the organiser of the ongoing Beijing auto show. The chairman of Chinese battery giant CATL Robin Zeng, a key Tesla battery supplier, also visited Musk's hotel on Monday, according to a Reuters witness.

Elon Musk pursues self-driving approval on China trip as Tesla wins key endorsement

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is developing very long-range air-to-air missiles that can strike targets from far distances. Watch in for more details!

China's air-to-air missile race

For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS".

Here, TTS stands for Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, which can cause people to have blood clots and a low blood platelet count.

The admittance, as per the Telegraph, could pave the way for a multi-million-pound legal payout.

<h2>Medical claims against company</h2>

AstraZeneca is facing class action suits over claims that its COVID-19 vaccine, developed in conjunction with Oxford, caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-50-of-us-voters-dont-like-trump-for-president-but-more-would-prefer-him-over-biden-poll-716147">Over 50% of US voters don't like Trump for president, but more would prefer him over Biden: Poll</a>

The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine. Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT).

He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury.

Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million).

Lawyers for the pharma giant, however, in a letter of response sent in May last year contended "we do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level".

However, in the document submitted in February this year, AstraZeneca said, "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known."

"Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/years-long-chill-to-end-ron-desantis-and-donald-trump-hold-private-talks-in-miami-716178">Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami</a>

However, lawyers for the victims argue that AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims.

Jamie Scott's wife, in a statement to The Telegraph, said, "The medical world has acknowledged for a long time that VITT was caused by the vaccine. It's only AstraZeneca who have questioned whether Jamie’s condition was caused by the jab."

She said while it has "taken three years for this admission to come…it is progress".

"But we would like to see more from them and the Government. It's time for things to move more quickly," she added.

"I hope their admission means we will be able to sort this out sooner rather than later. We need an apology, fair compensation for our family and other families who have been affected. We have the truth on our side, and we are not going to give up."

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS".

For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS". Here, TTS stands for Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, which can cause people to have blood clots and a low blood platelet count. The admittance, as per the Telegraph, could pave the way for a multi-million-pound legal payout. Medical claims against company AstraZeneca is facing class action suits over claims that its COVID-19 vaccine, developed in conjunction with Oxford, caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases. Also read | Over 50% of US voters don't like Trump for president, but more would prefer him over Biden: Poll The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine. Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT). He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury. Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million). Lawyers for the pharma giant, however, in a letter of response sent in May last year contended "we do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level". However, in the document submitted in February this year, AstraZeneca said, "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known." "Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence." Also read | Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami However, lawyers for the victims argue that AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims. Jamie Scott's wife, in a statement to The Telegraph, said, "The medical world has acknowledged for a long time that VITT was caused by the vaccine. It's only AstraZeneca who have questioned whether Jamie’s condition was caused by the jab." She said while it has "taken three years for this admission to come…it is progress". "But we would like to see more from them and the Government. It's time for things to move more quickly," she added. "I hope their admission means we will be able to sort this out sooner rather than later. We need an apology, fair compensation for our family and other families who have been affected. We have the truth on our side, and we are not going to give up." (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca admits in court that its Covid vaccine can ‘in very rare cases, cause TTS’

British politician Tim Loughton has said that he was detained and deported from the Eastern African country of&nbsp;Djibouti earlier in April due to his criticism of China. Djibouti has close ties with China&nbsp;and has received billions of dollars of investment from Beijing.&nbsp; 
 
Loughton,&nbsp;a Tory MP, is one of the seven parliamentarians sanctioned by Beijing in 2021 over what it called the spreading of lies and disinformation about human rights abuses in Xinjiang.

According to a report by The Telegraph on Sunday (Apr 28),&nbsp;Loughton, 61, was in&nbsp;Djibouti on April 8 for a 24-hour visit including meeting the British ambassador. However, the Tory MP told The Telegraph that he was detained for over seven hours at the airport,&nbsp;barred entry to the country and told he was being removed on the next available flight.

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Reacting to the detention and deportation,&nbsp;Loughton said this was the latest example of&nbsp; intimidation that the seven sanctioned parliamentarians have suffered over the last three years.

<h2>What happened at the airport?</h2>

Loughton said that he arrived at the airport in Djibouti at midday, and like other travellers, was preparing to collect his visa.&nbsp;“As soon as I revealed I was a British MP, and my passport was checked, things turned decidedly frosty,” the 61-year-old said.

Loughton added that he was held for an hour without any explanation in the arrivals hall after all the other travellers sailed through border control. The Tory MP was then taken into a holding room where he was locked in and detained alone for three hours.&nbsp;

A delegation of three officers, including the head of the border immigration service, told him that he would not be allowed into&nbsp;Djibouti, and would be&nbsp;put on the next plane out of the country.&nbsp;

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He was escorted across the airport tarmac to wait in the departure lounge for an evening flight to Dubai.&nbsp;Loughton also said that he was not given a reason for his detention and deportation.

<h2>China reacts</h2>

A spokesperson from the Chinese embassy (in&nbsp;Djibouti) said that the allegations that Loughton was detained due to his criticism of China were purely baseless, The Telegraph further reported on Sunday.

The spokesperson said that the allegations were fabricated and slanderous rhetoric that attempts to smear China and damage&nbsp;Beijing-London relations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

British politician Tim Loughton has said that he was detained and deported from the Eastern African country of Djibouti earlier in April due to his criticism of China.

British politician Tim Loughton has said that he was detained and deported from the Eastern African country of Djibouti earlier in April due to his criticism of China. Djibouti has close ties with China and has received billions of dollars of investment from Beijing. Loughton, a Tory MP, is one of the seven parliamentarians sanctioned by Beijing in 2021 over what it called the spreading of lies and disinformation about human rights abuses in Xinjiang. According to a report by The Telegraph on Sunday (Apr 28), Loughton, 61, was in Djibouti on April 8 for a 24-hour visit including meeting the British ambassador. However, the Tory MP told The Telegraph that he was detained for over seven hours at the airport, barred entry to the country and told he was being removed on the next available flight. Also read | Two men in UK charged with spying for China, breaching Official Secrets Act Reacting to the detention and deportation, Loughton said this was the latest example of intimidation that the seven sanctioned parliamentarians have suffered over the last three years. What happened at the airport? Loughton said that he arrived at the airport in Djibouti at midday, and like other travellers, was preparing to collect his visa. “As soon as I revealed I was a British MP, and my passport was checked, things turned decidedly frosty,” the 61-year-old said. Loughton added that he was held for an hour without any explanation in the arrivals hall after all the other travellers sailed through border control. The Tory MP was then taken into a holding room where he was locked in and detained alone for three hours. A delegation of three officers, including the head of the border immigration service, told him that he would not be allowed into Djibouti, and would be put on the next plane out of the country. Also watch | UK PM Rishi Sunak under fire, govt least transparent in 25 years × He was escorted across the airport tarmac to wait in the departure lounge for an evening flight to Dubai. Loughton also said that he was not given a reason for his detention and deportation. China reacts A spokesperson from the Chinese embassy (in Djibouti) said that the allegations that Loughton was detained due to his criticism of China were purely baseless, The Telegraph further reported on Sunday. The spokesperson said that the allegations were fabricated and slanderous rhetoric that attempts to smear China and damage Beijing-London relations. (With inputs from agencies)

British politician Tim Loughton says he was deported from Djibouti due to his criticism of China

Chinese president Xi Jinping is set to embark on a tour of Europe. He will be visiting several countries on his first trip to the continent since the covid pandemic. As China looks for greater trade and strategic ties with the region. During the reported tour the Chinese leader will make stops in Hungary, Siberia and France. Watch in for more details!

China President Xi Jinping to visit France, Serbia & Hungary

A UN-led international probe into the September 2022 Nord Stream pipeline explosions was demanded on Friday by a Chinese delegate. Over eighteen months have passed since the Nord Stream disaster. China's deputy permanent representative to the UN, Geng Shuang, expressed sorrow that no decision has been made.

China calls for UN-led international probe of Nord Stream blasts, asks Russia to be involved in probe

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - ICC to issue arrest warrant against Bibi? - Xi on France state visit on May 6-7 - Strikes on Hezbollah posts: IDF - Kenya delays school opening - Ukraine troops retreat in 3 places

Xi on France state visit on May 6-7 | Strikes on Hezbollah posts: IDF

A tornado struck the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, killing five people and damaging more than 140 factory buildings.

Tornado in China: Five killed & 140 factory buildings damaged in tornado

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - ICC to issue arrest warrant against Bibi? - China to launch high-stake moon mission - Indian markets open higher - Kenya delays school opening - Ukraine troops retreat in 3 places

China to launch high-stake moon mission | ICC to issue arrest warrant against Netanyahu

US Export controls on advanced computing chips are not meant to hold back china's economy or technological development. That's what secretary of state antonym Blinken has said during a recent interview with a radio channel. The statement assumes significance as it comes amid the heated tech rivalry between the two largest economies.

Blinken: Export controls not meant to hobble China's economy

Tesla CEO Elon Musk arrived in Beijing on Sunday on an unannounced visit, where he met Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing. Earlier in the day, Musk met with the head of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. Watch in for more details!

Tesla owner Elon Musk meets Chinese premier Li Qiang

Ever since Mohamed Muizzu became the President of Maldives, Maldives has garnered attention from all across the world. This is mainly because of the row with India and Muizzu's growing closeness with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. And now with Muizzu sweeping parliamentary elections, Male will move closer to Beijing. At the same time, seeing the geographical importance of the island, The U.S., too, is bolstering ties with Maldives. What role can the Maldives play in Indo-Pacific security? Let's deep dive

The Maldives geopolitics in Indo-Pacific | WION Wideangle

Chinese president XI Jinping is set to embark on a tour of Europe. He will be visiting several countries on his first trip to the continent since the covid pandemic. As China looks for greater trade and strategic ties with the region. During the reported tour the Chinese leader will make stops in Hungary, Siberia and France. Watch in for more details!

Xi Jinping's first trip to Europe after covid pandemic outbreak

Tensions in the Taiwan Strait remain high. Taiwan recently reported the detection of Chinese military aircraft and vessels operating near the island. What are the claims between China and Taiwan in the South China Sea? Taiwan's foreign minister even claimed that China has built "enormous" military bases on three islands surrounding Taiwan's main holding in the disputed waters. How is Taiwan preparing to defend itself from China's aggression?

China’s continuous incursions into Taiwan air defence zone | WION Wideangle

At least five people were killed and 33 others were injured after a tornado struck China’s southern city of Guangzhou, reported the state news agency Xinhua, on Saturday (Apr 27) citing local officials.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

Earlier on Saturday, the Chinese media reported that a tornado struck Guangzhou amid a severe rain and hail storm, which sent debris swirling into the air. The tornado hit about 3:00 pm (local time) in the city’s Baiyun district, according to the China Meteorological Administration.&nbsp;

The tornado&nbsp;also damaged 141 factory buildings but no residential houses&nbsp;collapsed, according to Xinhua.&nbsp;

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Rescuers from the city’s emergency management, weather, fire, waterworks and health departments, as well as local residents, were sent to the site and as of 10:00 pm (local time) search and rescue work was&nbsp;completed, reported the Chinese news agency.&nbsp;

Images and videos on social media show a darkened sky in the mid-afternoon and&nbsp;debris swirling upward, reported the Associated Press. Additionally, some photos online&nbsp;showed damaged cars and uprooted trees.

The Chinese authorities said that the tornado was of level-three intensity, two points lower than the highest level.&nbsp;

The weather station in Liangtian Village, around 2.8 kilometres from the tornado’s point of occurrence registered a maximum wind gust of 20.6 metres per second, reported Xinhua.&nbsp;

Earlier on Saturday, city authorities had issued warnings of thunderstorms, rainstorms, hailstorms and tornadoes in several parts of Guangzhou.&nbsp;

<h2>Record-breaking floods kill four</h2>

The tornado also comes after China’s southern Guangdong province recently battled record-breaking floods caused by heavy rains.&nbsp;

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At least four people were killed and tens of thousands across several cities&nbsp;displaced after record-breaking flooding hit the region on Friday (Apr 19), reported the South China Morning Post (SCMP).

Authorities in Guangzhou, on Saturday, said that the city has already witnessed the total monthly&nbsp;rainfall of 455.8mm, which is the highest for April since 1951.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least five people were killed and 33 others were injured after a tornado struck China’s southern city of Guangzhou, reported the state news agency Xinhua, on Saturday (Apr 27) citing local officials.

At least five people were killed and 33 others were injured after a tornado struck China’s southern city of Guangzhou, reported the state news agency Xinhua, on Saturday (Apr 27) citing local officials. What happened? Earlier on Saturday, the Chinese media reported that a tornado struck Guangzhou amid a severe rain and hail storm, which sent debris swirling into the air. The tornado hit about 3:00 pm (local time) in the city’s Baiyun district, according to the China Meteorological Administration. The tornado also damaged 141 factory buildings but no residential houses collapsed, according to Xinhua. Also Read | Japan's Bonin Islands hit by magnitude 6.5 earthquake Rescuers from the city’s emergency management, weather, fire, waterworks and health departments, as well as local residents, were sent to the site and as of 10:00 pm (local time) search and rescue work was completed, reported the Chinese news agency. Images and videos on social media show a darkened sky in the mid-afternoon and debris swirling upward, reported the Associated Press. Additionally, some photos online showed damaged cars and uprooted trees. The Chinese authorities said that the tornado was of level-three intensity, two points lower than the highest level. The weather station in Liangtian Village, around 2.8 kilometres from the tornado’s point of occurrence registered a maximum wind gust of 20.6 metres per second, reported Xinhua. Earlier on Saturday, city authorities had issued warnings of thunderstorms, rainstorms, hailstorms and tornadoes in several parts of Guangzhou. Record-breaking floods kill four The tornado also comes after China’s southern Guangdong province recently battled record-breaking floods caused by heavy rains. Also Read | Tornadoes flatten homes in Nebraska, leave trail of damage in Iowa At least four people were killed and tens of thousands across several cities displaced after record-breaking flooding hit the region on Friday (Apr 19), reported the South China Morning Post (SCMP). Authorities in Guangzhou, on Saturday, said that the city has already witnessed the total monthly rainfall of 455.8mm, which is the highest for April since 1951. (With inputs from agencies)

China: At least five killed, over 30 injured after tornado strikes Guangzhou

Xi Jinping's visit to Europe aiming to repair ties with the EU?

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, went to China on a surprise visit on Sunday (April 28), as reported by Reuters. China is Tesla's second-biggest market for electric vehicles. Musk's trip to India was postponed last week due to Tesla commitments. He had plans to meet&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi and announce Tesla's entry into the Indian market.

Now in China, Musk wants to meet with Chinese officials in Beijing to talk about deploying Full-Self Driving (FSD) software and getting approval to use data collected in China to improve Tesla's self-driving technology.

Musk responded to a question on social media platform X by mentioning that Tesla might offer Full-Self Driving (FSD) to customers in China "very soon." It's worth noting that Musk's trip to China was not widely publicised.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-accused-of-using-charity-foundation-for-serving-tax-breaks-and-self-interests-699225">Also read |&nbsp;Elon Musk&nbsp;accused of using charity foundation to serve tax breaks and self-interests</a>

As reported by Reuters, Tesla has been storing all data gathered by its fleet&nbsp;in Shanghai since 2021, as mandated by Chinese regulators, and hasn't transferred any data back to the United States.

<h2>What's the FSD software?</h2>

The American electric vehicle manufacturer introduced Full-Self Driving (FSD), the most advanced version of its Autopilot software, four years ago. However, it has not yet released it in China, despite customer requests for its availability.

Musk's visit aligns with the Beijing autoshow, which started&nbsp;last week and concludes on May 4.&nbsp;Tesla does not have a presence at China's largest autoshow this year, having last participated in 2021. Instead, the company has announced intentions to use&nbsp;its current factories to manufacture new and more cost-effective vehicles.

Also watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk announces new X feature - Community Posts - now available in India

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As a result, plans for constructing new factories in Mexico and India are uncertain, at least for the foreseeable future.

(With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, went to China on a surprise visit on Sunday (April 28), as reported by Reuters. China is Tesla's second-biggest market for electric vehicles.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, went to China on a surprise visit on Sunday (April 28), as reported by Reuters. China is Tesla's second-biggest market for electric vehicles. Musk's trip to India was postponed last week due to Tesla commitments. He had plans to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and announce Tesla's entry into the Indian market. Now in China, Musk wants to meet with Chinese officials in Beijing to talk about deploying Full-Self Driving (FSD) software and getting approval to use data collected in China to improve Tesla's self-driving technology. Musk responded to a question on social media platform X by mentioning that Tesla might offer Full-Self Driving (FSD) to customers in China "very soon." It's worth noting that Musk's trip to China was not widely publicised. Also read | Elon Musk accused of using charity foundation to serve tax breaks and self-interests As reported by Reuters, Tesla has been storing all data gathered by its fleet in Shanghai since 2021, as mandated by Chinese regulators, and hasn't transferred any data back to the United States. What's the FSD software? The American electric vehicle manufacturer introduced Full-Self Driving (FSD), the most advanced version of its Autopilot software, four years ago. However, it has not yet released it in China, despite customer requests for its availability. Musk's visit aligns with the Beijing autoshow, which started last week and concludes on May 4. Tesla does not have a presence at China's largest autoshow this year, having last participated in 2021. Instead, the company has announced intentions to use its current factories to manufacture new and more cost-effective vehicles. Also watch | Elon Musk announces new X feature - Community Posts - now available in India As a result, plans for constructing new factories in Mexico and India are uncertain, at least for the foreseeable future. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk travels to China days after postponing India visit

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - US: Freight train fire hits key highway - $6 bn new US military package for Ukraine - US: University panel slams crackdowns - China interfering in US polls: Blinken - Ready for debate with Trump: Biden

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Amid reports of back channel talks going on between Tibetan government in exile and the Chinese authorities Beijing has now said it will only talk with the representatives of The Dalai Lama and not the officials of the Tibet government in exile. Watch in for more details!

Beijing slams Tibet's government-in-exile as a separatist bloc

The U.S. and the Philippines have launched their largest combat exercises, Balikatan drills in the South China Sea. For the first time, the drills will extend beyond 12 nautical miles off the Philippines coast and into the waters claimed by China. The military exercises come amid escalating maritime tensions between the Philippines and China. As Balikatan drills began, dozens of Chinese vessels were detected in the contested waters in the South China Sea, So, what is the maritime dispute between Manila and Beijing? We deep dive and tell you all about China's aggression in the region on WION Wideangle

Chinese vessels detected amid US-Philippines drills

The top diplomats of the US and China held tough talks in Beijing as the rival superpowers sought to clarify their growing differences on an array of bilateral and global issues. Watch in for more details!

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Critical minerals, essential for everything from clean energy to cutting-edge technology, are increasingly controlled by a single player: China. The report takes a closer look at the grip China holds on the world's minerals and manufacturing.

China's dominance threatens global tech ambitions

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and senior Chinese officials, stressing the importance of “responsibly managing” the differences between the United States and China. Watch in for more details!

Antony Blinken meets Xi Jinping in Beijing to discuss bilateral and global issues

China denies back-channel talks with Tibet's govt-in-exile

Taiwan has reported new Chinese military activity near the island on Saturday (Apr 27) with 12 Chinese aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, just a day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken left after his visit to China.

Taiwan, a self-ruled democracy, lacks formal diplomatic ties with the US, it remains America's key international supporter and arms importer.&nbsp;

During his visit to China, US Secretary of State Blinken emphasised the vital need for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This comes as China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, ramps up military pressure on the island, a claim Taiwan vehemently rejects.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/during-china-visit-antony-blinken-confronts-beijing-over-its-support-for-russian-military-715628">Antony Blinken confronts China over its support for Russian military</a>

Taiwan's defence ministry said that from 9:30 a.m. (0130 GMT) on Saturday it had detected 22 Chinese military aircraft, including Su-30 fighters, of which 12 had crossed the median line to Taiwan's north and centre.

It is worth mentioning that the median line in the Taiwan Strait once acted as an unspoken barrier, respected by both China and Taiwan. However, China's air force now routinely conducts flights across this line, despite denying its legitimacy.

Watch:&nbsp;Chinese vessels detected amid US-Philippines drills

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Taiwan's armed forces are well-equipped and well-trained but dwarfed by those of China's, especially the navy and air force, which respond almost daily to Chinese missions.

China considers Taiwan the most important issue in its relations with the United States, and Beijing has repeatedly demanded Washington end weapons sales to Taiwan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinken-meets-chinese-counterpart-wang-yi-in-beijing-715071">Blinken says US has seen evidence of China meddling in presidential elections</a>

Taiwan President-elect Lai Ching-te takes office on May 20 after winning January's election. Beijing considers him a dangerous separatist and has rebuffed his repeated calls for talks.

Lai said on Thursday (Apr 26) that China should have the self-assurance to talk to Taiwan's elected government. Lai further said only Taiwan's people can decide their future.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan has reported new Chinese military activity near the island on Saturday (Apr 27) with 12 Chinese aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, just a day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken left after his visit to China.

Taiwan has reported new Chinese military activity near the island on Saturday (Apr 27) with 12 Chinese aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, just a day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken left after his visit to China. Taiwan, a self-ruled democracy, lacks formal diplomatic ties with the US, it remains America's key international supporter and arms importer. During his visit to China, US Secretary of State Blinken emphasised the vital need for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This comes as China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, ramps up military pressure on the island, a claim Taiwan vehemently rejects. Also read: Antony Blinken confronts China over its support for Russian military Taiwan's defence ministry said that from 9:30 a.m. (0130 GMT) on Saturday it had detected 22 Chinese military aircraft, including Su-30 fighters, of which 12 had crossed the median line to Taiwan's north and centre. It is worth mentioning that the median line in the Taiwan Strait once acted as an unspoken barrier, respected by both China and Taiwan. However, China's air force now routinely conducts flights across this line, despite denying its legitimacy. Watch: Chinese vessels detected amid US-Philippines drills × Taiwan's armed forces are well-equipped and well-trained but dwarfed by those of China's, especially the navy and air force, which respond almost daily to Chinese missions. China considers Taiwan the most important issue in its relations with the United States, and Beijing has repeatedly demanded Washington end weapons sales to Taiwan. Also read | Blinken says US has seen evidence of China meddling in presidential elections Taiwan President-elect Lai Ching-te takes office on May 20 after winning January's election. Beijing considers him a dangerous separatist and has rebuffed his repeated calls for talks. Lai said on Thursday (Apr 26) that China should have the self-assurance to talk to Taiwan's elected government. Lai further said only Taiwan's people can decide their future. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese military activity reported by Taiwan after Blinken's Beijing visit

Will the Pacific region see an escalation in tensions between the US and China. Reports are now emerging that America is expanding its military accessibility in the region. We decode why the White House is so keen to have a grip on the Asia-Pacific region of the world. Watch in for more details!

US' plan to counter Chinese aggression in the Asia-Pacific region: Explained

China's dominance in rare earths markets threatens global tech ambitions

China's grip on rare earths threatens global Tech supply chains

China's industrial profits posted smaller gains in the January-march quarter, compared to the first two months. Profits at China's industrial firms rose 4.3% in the first quarter from a year earlier. That was slower than a 10.2% rise in the first two months this year.

China: Profits at industrial firms fall from 10.2% to 4.3%

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