Since last Saturday, severe hailstorms and thunderstorms have pounded wide sections of China, prompting the country's meteorological observatory to issue a blue alert for extreme weather for the next two days.

Hailstones, thunderstorms batter large parts of China

Is China trying to provoke a verbal conflict with India in the middle of elections? How else can you explain China's actions? Why is China repeating its claims on India's Arunachal Pradesh? Why is Beijing attempting to rename lakes, mountains and districts that do not even belong to China? If not a provocation, what is it?

Gravitas | Xi Jinping's China provoking a verbal conflict with India?

China's housing market slump shows no signs of abating. New home sales by the nation's 100 biggest developers plunged 46% in march compared to last year. This ongoing drought is squeezing major builders like country garden, which missed a deadline for reporting annual results, and china Vanke, whose net income tumbled 46% last year. Watch in for more details!

China: Builders struggle as property market downturn persists

Indonesia's president-elect&nbsp;Prabowo&nbsp;Subianto&nbsp;visited Beijing on Monday on his first foreign trip since his election, and was quoted by Chinese state media as telling President Xi Jinping that he aimed to continue the close ties under his predecessor Joko Widodo.

Prabowo&nbsp;"fully supports the development of closer Indonesia-China relations and wishes to continue President Joko's policy of friendship with China," China's CCTV quoted&nbsp;Prabowo&nbsp;as saying.

The new Indonesian government will promote the alignment of development strategies between the two countries and push for more results in cooperation in fields such as the economy, trade and poverty alleviation, he said.

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Xi described&nbsp;Prabowo&nbsp;as an "old friend of the Chinese people", and said China views its relations with Indonesia from a strategic and long-term perspective, standing ready to deepen all-round strategic cooperation.

Prabowo, 72, was elected in February but will not be sworn in until October. A long-time rival of the outgoing leader popularly known as Jokowi, he is now widely seen as enjoying his predecessor's strong support, winning his decisive victory with Jokowi's son as his vice presidential running-mate.

"The key to the valuable achievements of China-Indonesia relations lies in adherence to strategic autonomy, mutual trust and mutual assistance," CCTV quoted Xi as saying in the meeting.

Prabowo's decision to visit China ahead of Indonesia's neighbours in the region underlines the close partnership built up in the past decade under Jokowi, when China became Indonesia's top trading partner, supplying natural resources including nickel and coal.

Jokowi's first visit after his inauguration was to China, for an annual summit of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders in 2014. That was followed by six more visits.

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China has also ploughed billions into Indonesian infrastructure and industrial projects, including the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway.

It remains to be seen how&nbsp;Prabowo, now Indonesia's defence minister, will navigate issues including the jostling for influence between China and the United States in Southeast Asia.

Prabowo&nbsp;has previously said Indonesia was committed to its policy of non-alignment and would keep good ties with both China and the United States.

China's expansive claims in the South China Sea may present a test for his leadership, although the two countries' overlapping claims there have not become a vociferous dispute as has unfolded in recent months between China and the Philippines.

Indonesia says the southern end of the South China Sea is part of its exclusive economic zone. China says the area is within its own territorial claim, marked by a U-shaped "nine-dash line" rejected by other regional states.

China is willing to continue to deepen maritime cooperation with Indonesia, Xi told&nbsp;Prabowo&nbsp;on Monday.

Indonesia's president-elect Prabowo Subianto visited Beijing on Monday on his first foreign trip since his election, and was quoted by Chinese state media as telling President Xi Jinping that he aimed to continue the close ties under his predecessor Joko Widodo.

Indonesia's president-elect Prabowo Subianto visited Beijing on Monday on his first foreign trip since his election, and was quoted by Chinese state media as telling President Xi Jinping that he aimed to continue the close ties under his predecessor Joko Widodo. Prabowo "fully supports the development of closer Indonesia-China relations and wishes to continue President Joko's policy of friendship with China," China's CCTV quoted Prabowo as saying. The new Indonesian government will promote the alignment of development strategies between the two countries and push for more results in cooperation in fields such as the economy, trade and poverty alleviation, he said. Also read: Iran alerted Russia to security threat before Moscow attack Xi described Prabowo as an "old friend of the Chinese people", and said China views its relations with Indonesia from a strategic and long-term perspective, standing ready to deepen all-round strategic cooperation. Prabowo, 72, was elected in February but will not be sworn in until October. A long-time rival of the outgoing leader popularly known as Jokowi, he is now widely seen as enjoying his predecessor's strong support, winning his decisive victory with Jokowi's son as his vice presidential running-mate. "The key to the valuable achievements of China-Indonesia relations lies in adherence to strategic autonomy, mutual trust and mutual assistance," CCTV quoted Xi as saying in the meeting. Prabowo's decision to visit China ahead of Indonesia's neighbours in the region underlines the close partnership built up in the past decade under Jokowi, when China became Indonesia's top trading partner, supplying natural resources including nickel and coal. Jokowi's first visit after his inauguration was to China, for an annual summit of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders in 2014. That was followed by six more visits. Also read: Jesus a Palestinian Jew? Uproar grows in US against false appropriation of holy figure China has also ploughed billions into Indonesian infrastructure and industrial projects, including the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway. It remains to be seen how Prabowo, now Indonesia's defence minister, will navigate issues including the jostling for influence between China and the United States in Southeast Asia. Prabowo has previously said Indonesia was committed to its policy of non-alignment and would keep good ties with both China and the United States. China's expansive claims in the South China Sea may present a test for his leadership, although the two countries' overlapping claims there have not become a vociferous dispute as has unfolded in recent months between China and the Philippines. Indonesia says the southern end of the South China Sea is part of its exclusive economic zone. China says the area is within its own territorial claim, marked by a U-shaped "nine-dash line" rejected by other regional states. China is willing to continue to deepen maritime cooperation with Indonesia, Xi told Prabowo on Monday.

New Indonesia leader visits China, promises close ties

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday (Apr 1) took a dig at China over its claims on Arunachal Pradesh stating that changing names would not have any impact on the fact that the northeastern state is, was and will always be a part of India.

"If today I change the name of your house, will it become mine? Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always be a state of India. Changing names does not have an effect," Jaishankar said while addressing a press conference in Gujarat.

"Our army is deployed at the Line of Actual Control...," added EAM.

Jaishankar's remarks came following China's claim where it dubbed the Indian State as Zangan and called it an "inherent part of China's territory".

"Zangnan has been China's territory since ancient times. This is an undeniable fact,"&nbsp;said Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defence.

The Chinese Defence Ministry released a statement saying that Beijing "never acknowledges and firmly opposes" the "so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally established by India."

After this, India rebuffed Beijing's "baseless arguments" and "absurd claims" and asserted that the northeastern state was an "integral and inalienable part of India."

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-jaishankar-responds-to-us-ambassadors-red-line-remarks-on-pannun-case-706496">WATCH: India's Jaishankar responds to US ambassador's 'red line' remarks on Pannun case</a>

<h2>US opposes China's claims on Arunachal Pradesh</h2>

Earlier, the United States had condemned China over its claims on the northeastern state and said that it "strongly opposes" any attempts made by Beijing to advance territorial claims across the Line of Actual Control.

“The United States recognises Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory and we strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions or encroachments, military or civilian, across the Line of Actual Control,” said State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel.

The Ministry of External Affairs in an official statement also noted that the people of Arunachal Pradesh will “continue to benefit” from India’s development programmes and infrastructure projects.

“We have noted the comments made by the Spokesperson of the Chinese Defence Ministry advancing absurd claims over the territory of the Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh. Repeating baseless arguments in this regard does not lend such claims any validity,” said the official spokesperson of MEA, Randhir Jaiswal.

“Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. Its people will continue to benefit from our development programmes and infrastructure projects,” the statement added.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday (Apr 1) took a dig at China over its claims on Arunachal Pradesh stating that changing names would not have any impact on the fact that the northeastern state is, was and will always be a part of India.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday (Apr 1) took a dig at China over its claims on Arunachal Pradesh stating that changing names would not have any impact on the fact that the northeastern state is, was and will always be a part of India. "If today I change the name of your house, will it become mine? Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always be a state of India. Changing names does not have an effect," Jaishankar said while addressing a press conference in Gujarat. "Our army is deployed at the Line of Actual Control...," added EAM. Jaishankar's remarks came following China's claim where it dubbed the Indian State as Zangan and called it an "inherent part of China's territory". "Zangnan has been China's territory since ancient times. This is an undeniable fact," said Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defence. The Chinese Defence Ministry released a statement saying that Beijing "never acknowledges and firmly opposes" the "so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally established by India." After this, India rebuffed Beijing's "baseless arguments" and "absurd claims" and asserted that the northeastern state was an "integral and inalienable part of India." #WATCH | Surat, Gujarat: On China's claim regarding Arunachal Pradesh, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, "If today I change the name of your house, will it become mine? Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always be a state of India. Changing names does not have an effect...Our army is… pic.twitter.com/EaN66BfNFj — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2024 × Also read: WATCH: India's Jaishankar responds to US ambassador's 'red line' remarks on Pannun case US opposes China's claims on Arunachal Pradesh Earlier, the United States had condemned China over its claims on the northeastern state and said that it "strongly opposes" any attempts made by Beijing to advance territorial claims across the Line of Actual Control. “The United States recognises Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory and we strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions or encroachments, military or civilian, across the Line of Actual Control,” said State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel. The Ministry of External Affairs in an official statement also noted that the people of Arunachal Pradesh will “continue to benefit” from India’s development programmes and infrastructure projects. “We have noted the comments made by the Spokesperson of the Chinese Defence Ministry advancing absurd claims over the territory of the Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh. Repeating baseless arguments in this regard does not lend such claims any validity,” said the official spokesperson of MEA, Randhir Jaiswal. “Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. Its people will continue to benefit from our development programmes and infrastructure projects,” the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s Jaishankar hits back at China over ‘baseless’ Arunachal Pradesh claims; ‘changing name doesn’t....’

Hundreds of dual toned water lilies have attracted many visitors to the Xiamen Bay Park in East China. Watch in for more details!

China's multi-coloured water lilies in bloom

Over the weekend Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena wrapped up his official visit to China. It was the first trip by a top Lankan leader to Beijing after Colombo put a moratorium on recovering visits by Chinese research ships. Watch to know more.

Sri Lanka NSA meets Indian foreign secretary

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has ordered his government to strengthen its coordination on maritime security to confront "a range of serious challenges" to territorial integrity and peace, as a dispute with China escalates.

South China Sea tensions: Philippines boosts maritime security amid rising threats

China is the largest bilateral creditor to Sri Lanka, which in May 2022 became the first Asian lower-middle income country to default on its sovereign debt in two decades. Watch to know more.

Decoded: China's debt-trap diplomacy

Explained: China's debt-trap diplomacy

Eight Chinese migrants were found dead on a beach in southern Mexico after the boat they were on capsized, officials told media on Saturday (Mar 30). Those who died include seven women and a man.

They were aboard a boat operated by a Mexican national that left Tapachula in Chapias state&nbsp;— over 1,100 km south of Mexico City but just a short distance away from Guatemala border&nbsp;— on Thursday (Mar 29), according to the prosecutor's office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-poverty-is-showing-up-at-mexico-us-border-in-the-form-of-thousands-of-chinese-migrants-642051">China's poverty is on display at the Mexico-US border in the form of thousands of Chinese migrants</a>

The bodies were discovered on Friday (Mar 29) in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, which falls along a route frequented by the people trying to reach the United States.

One individual survived the ordeal, South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;

It remains unclear what happened to the Mexican national operating the boat.

(With inputs from agencies)

Eight Chinese migrants were found dead on a beach in southern Mexico after the boat they were on capsized, officials told media on Saturday (Mar 30). Those who died include seven women and a man.

Eight Chinese migrants were found dead on a beach in southern Mexico after the boat they were on capsized, officials told media on Saturday (Mar 30). Those who died include seven women and a man. They were aboard a boat operated by a Mexican national that left Tapachula in Chapias state — over 1,100 km south of Mexico City but just a short distance away from Guatemala border — on Thursday (Mar 29), according to the prosecutor's office. Also read | China's poverty is on display at the Mexico-US border in the form of thousands of Chinese migrants The bodies were discovered on Friday (Mar 29) in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, which falls along a route frequented by the people trying to reach the United States. One individual survived the ordeal, South China Morning Post reported. It remains unclear what happened to the Mexican national operating the boat. (With inputs from agencies)

Eight Chinese migrants headed to the US found dead on Mexico beach after boat capsize

On Sunday (Mar 31), Japan announced that its specialists have engaged in discussions with Chinese officials to alleviate Beijing's worries regarding the release of treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean.

Fishing associations and nearby nations, particularly China, have opposed the discharge of treated radioactive wastewater. China's response, which involved stopping all imports of Japanese seafood, has significantly impacted Japanese scallop producers and exporters who rely on the Chinese market.

During the discussions in Dalian, a northeastern city in China, Japanese officials provided a "science-based" explanation of the safe execution of the wastewater discharges, as reported by the Japanese Foreign Ministry.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Japan pays tribute to victims of 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster

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<h2>Background: Fukushima disaster and wastewater accumulation</h2>

Following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant suffered damage to its power supply and reactor cooling systems, leading to meltdowns in three reactors.

Consequently, a large&nbsp;amount of radioactive wastewater accumulated on-site. After more than a decade of storage in tanks, occupying considerable space on the complex, the plant commenced the discharge of treated wastewater into the ocean on August 24, 2023. This process, which involves treating the water at least once and diluting it with seawater, is anticipated to continue for several decades.

During a summit meeting in November, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to have scientific discussions by experts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/high-radiation-level-detected-in-japans-fukushima-nuclear-plant-workers-nose-670069">Also read |&nbsp;Fukushima nuclear plant: High radiation level detected in nose of a worker</a>

Since then, there have been several informal meetings between the two countries. Sunday's statement from the Japanese Foreign Ministry was the first public acknowledgment of these talks.

Experts discussed technical matters related to the wastewater discharges, focussing on transparency. However, details, including what the Chinese side said and whether differences were resolved, were not disclosed due to the sensitivity of the issue.

This meeting followed a visit by Rafael Mariano Rafael, Chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency, to the plant in mid-March, where he confirmed the safe execution of the ongoing discharges as planned.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

On Sunday (Mar 31), Japan announced that its specialists have engaged in discussions with Chinese officials to alleviate Beijing's worries regarding the release of treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean.

On Sunday (Mar 31), Japan announced that its specialists have engaged in discussions with Chinese officials to alleviate Beijing's worries regarding the release of treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean. Fishing associations and nearby nations, particularly China, have opposed the discharge of treated radioactive wastewater. China's response, which involved stopping all imports of Japanese seafood, has significantly impacted Japanese scallop producers and exporters who rely on the Chinese market. During the discussions in Dalian, a northeastern city in China, Japanese officials provided a "science-based" explanation of the safe execution of the wastewater discharges, as reported by the Japanese Foreign Ministry. Also watch | Japan pays tribute to victims of 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster Background: Fukushima disaster and wastewater accumulation Following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant suffered damage to its power supply and reactor cooling systems, leading to meltdowns in three reactors. Consequently, a large amount of radioactive wastewater accumulated on-site. After more than a decade of storage in tanks, occupying considerable space on the complex, the plant commenced the discharge of treated wastewater into the ocean on August 24, 2023. This process, which involves treating the water at least once and diluting it with seawater, is anticipated to continue for several decades. During a summit meeting in November, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to have scientific discussions by experts. Also read | Fukushima nuclear plant: High radiation level detected in nose of a worker Since then, there have been several informal meetings between the two countries. Sunday's statement from the Japanese Foreign Ministry was the first public acknowledgment of these talks. Experts discussed technical matters related to the wastewater discharges, focussing on transparency. However, details, including what the Chinese side said and whether differences were resolved, were not disclosed due to the sensitivity of the issue. This meeting followed a visit by Rafael Mariano Rafael, Chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency, to the plant in mid-March, where he confirmed the safe execution of the ongoing discharges as planned. (With inputs from agencies)

Fukushima disaster: Japan says experts met in China to dispel concerns over radioactive water

In Mexico, where eight Chinese Nationals were found dead on the nation's southern coast after a vessel capsized. According to the prosecutor's office, seven women and one man were aboard.

Mexico: Eight Chinese national killed as boat capsize, one migrant survives tragedy

Mexico: Eight Chinese migrants found dead after boat capsize in Oaxaca

A team of Chinese investigators reached Pakistan on Friday (March 29) to probe a suicide attack that killed five of its nationals earlier this week in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;

Five Chinese nationals were among six people killed in a suicide attack on a convoy that was targeted by a suicide bomber who rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into them. This was the third major attack on Chinese interests in Pakistan in less than a week.

The slain Chinese engineers and workers were reportedly heading&nbsp;to the Dasu Dam, the biggest hydropower project in northwest Pakistan&nbsp;on Tuesday (March 29), when the suicide bombing took place.

A Pakistani driver was also killed during the&nbsp;attack in Shangla, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, over 270 km north of Islamabad.

Beijing condemned the attack and asked Pakistan to conduct a detailed investigation and ensure the protection of thousands of its nationals who work on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, part of Chinese leader Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative to revive the ancient Silk route for international trade.

Also watch |&nbsp;China calls for probe after five Chinese engineers killed in attack in Pakistan

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Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday (March 30)&nbsp;briefed the Chinese investigators about Pakistan’s probe into the attack, according to a government statement.

Earlier on Wednesday (March 27), Pakistani officials shared with the Chinese embassy the preliminary findings of their probe into the attack.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide bombing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-halts-work-on-two-projects-in-pakistan-following-suicide-bomb-attack-705523">China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack that killed 5 Chinese</a>

Chinese nationals working on projects related to China Pakistan Economic Corridor have been targeted by militants in recent years.

In July 2021, at least 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed when a suicide bomber detonated explosives in his vehicle near a bus carrying Chinese and Pakistani engineers and labourers, following which the Chinese companies suspended work for some time.

(With inputs from agencies)

A team of Chinese investigators reached Pakistan on Friday (March 29) to probe a suicide attack that killed five of its nationals earlier this week in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

A team of Chinese investigators reached Pakistan on Friday (March 29) to probe a suicide attack that killed five of its nationals earlier this week in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Five Chinese nationals were among six people killed in a suicide attack on a convoy that was targeted by a suicide bomber who rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into them. This was the third major attack on Chinese interests in Pakistan in less than a week. The slain Chinese engineers and workers were reportedly heading to the Dasu Dam, the biggest hydropower project in northwest Pakistan on Tuesday (March 29), when the suicide bombing took place. A Pakistani driver was also killed during the attack in Shangla, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, over 270 km north of Islamabad. Beijing condemned the attack and asked Pakistan to conduct a detailed investigation and ensure the protection of thousands of its nationals who work on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, part of Chinese leader Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative to revive the ancient Silk route for international trade. Also watch | China calls for probe after five Chinese engineers killed in attack in Pakistan × Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday (March 30) briefed the Chinese investigators about Pakistan’s probe into the attack, according to a government statement. Earlier on Wednesday (March 27), Pakistani officials shared with the Chinese embassy the preliminary findings of their probe into the attack. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide bombing. Also read | China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack that killed 5 Chinese Chinese nationals working on projects related to China Pakistan Economic Corridor have been targeted by militants in recent years. In July 2021, at least 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed when a suicide bomber detonated explosives in his vehicle near a bus carrying Chinese and Pakistani engineers and labourers, following which the Chinese companies suspended work for some time. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese team arrives in Pakistan to probe Shangla suicide bombing that killed six

TikTok is not the only Chinese app that you should be worried about. Many other Chinese-owned apps are gaining popularity among users. They could also pose similar challenges as TikTok. In this report, we tell you about one such Chinese app that is proving to be a hit in the U.S. Watch this story for more details.

Xiaohongshu: China's Instagram-like social media app

There is a Chinese hacking group that has a history of spying on politicians and their staff around the world. It has been linked to several high-profile cyberattacks. We get you more details in this report.

US, UK sanction China-linked hackers for espionage

Chinese investigators arrived in Pakistan to join a probe into the killing of five Chinese nationals in a suicide attack. On March 26, A suicide bomber rammed a vehicle into a convoy of Chinese engineers working on a dam project in northwest Pakistan. This was the third major attack in a week on China's projects, raising doubts on the safety of their interests along the CPEC and largely of the Belt and Road Initiative in Pakistan.

Pakistan-China ties strained? China joins probe into deadly suicide attack

Indoensia's President-elect Prabowo Subianto is all set to visit China next week. The Former General who will take office in October after his sweeping victory last week.

China President Xi Jinping invites Indonesia President-elect Prabowo Subianto to China

The Biden administration on Friday revised rules&nbsp;aimed at making it harder for China to access US&nbsp;artificial intelligence (AI) chips and chipmaking tools, part of an effort to hobble Beijing's chipmaking industry over national security concerns.

The rules, released in October, seek to halt shipments to China of more advanced&nbsp;AI&nbsp;chips designed by Nvidia and others as Washington cracks down on Beijing over concerns its advancing tech sector could help boost China's military.

The new rules, which run 166 pages in length, go into effect on Thursday. They clarify, for example, that restrictions on chip shipments to China also apply to laptops containing those chips.

The Commerce Department, which oversees export controls, has said it plans to continue updating its restrictions on technology shipments to China as it seeks to bolster and fine-tune the measures. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Biden administration on Friday revised rules aimed at making it harder for China to access US artificial intelligence (AI) chips and chipmaking tools, part of an effort to hobble Beijing's chipmaking industry over national security concerns.

The Biden administration on Friday revised rules aimed at making it harder for China to access US artificial intelligence (AI) chips and chipmaking tools, part of an effort to hobble Beijing's chipmaking industry over national security concerns. The rules, released in October, seek to halt shipments to China of more advanced AI chips designed by Nvidia and others as Washington cracks down on Beijing over concerns its advancing tech sector could help boost China's military. The new rules, which run 166 pages in length, go into effect on Thursday. They clarify, for example, that restrictions on chip shipments to China also apply to laptops containing those chips. The Commerce Department, which oversees export controls, has said it plans to continue updating its restrictions on technology shipments to China as it seeks to bolster and fine-tune the measures. (With inputs from agencies)

US updates export curbs on AI chips and tools to China

Chinese investigators are in Pakistan to probe the killing of five Chinese Nationals in a suicide attack. Earlier this week Pakistan's Interior Minister met the team at Beijing's Embassy in Islamabad.

Chinese team arrives in Pakistan for probe

President Muhammad Muizzu has again turned his guns on India Muizzu now says that his predecessor Ibrahim Muhammad Solih operated on orders from a foreign Diplomat. Muizzu further said that the main opposition party the Maldivian Democratic Party which was in power from 2018 to 2023 failed to protect Male's Independence.

Maldives opposition parties criticize Muizzu's 'anti-India' pivot

Has the Baloch Liberation Army exposed the importance of the Pakistan Army by successfully damaging Chinese interests and also destroying Chinese confidence in Pakistan's military? Are Chinese companies so terrified that they do not want to work in Pakistan? Keep watching to know more!

China-Pakistan diplomacy: Has the 'best friend' had enough?

China has opposed the United States' move to bar advanced chip-making factories from receiving crucial equipment. This clash comes amid Washington's ongoing efforts to curb Beijing's technological advancements over national security concerns.

China condemns US ban on advanced chip factories

Following the death of five Chinese engineers in a suicide attack, China has halted work at three dam sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In 10 days, there were three attacks on Chinese interests. Is China rethinking its investments in Pakistan? China has poured at least $65 Billion into Pakistan through CPEC.

Gravitas: Baloch Terror: Angry China snubs Pakistan, halts work at 3 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa dams

The recent attacks on Chinese infrastructure in Pakistan have once shed light on the challenge of Baloch insurgency that the country faces. But the insurgency began decades ago. What fuels BLA's attacks on Pakistani forces and Chinese-invested projects?

Gravitas: Pakistan's Balochistan problem: Why BLA targets China's CPEC projects

Chinese state media's use of AI reveals how Beijing is sowing divisions abroad, to manipulate voters in rival countries. Could China use AI to meddle in Indian polls?

Gravitas: China uses AI to sow divisions abroad | Beijing using AI to manipulate voters in US, India

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing.

The remarks by Marcos come amid an escalating row in the South China Sea following altercations between the two sides that wounded Filipino troops and also severely damaged vessels.

Marcos did not provide details about the countermeasures, however, said that they would be proportionate, deliberate and reasonable in response to what he described as open and unabating attacks.

He also said that the countermeasures would be implemented in the coming weeks.

"We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience," Marcos said on Facebook.

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The strained ties between the two countries come after Marcos sought to intensify the defence ties with the United States, advancing Washington's access to Philippine military bases and augmenting joint exercises so as to include sea and air patrols over the South China Sea, hence infuriating Beijing.

However, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian on Thursday (Mar 28) blamed the Philippines for the breakdown stating that it was relying on outside support and was invading China's sovereignty and spreading misinformation.

"It is straying further down a dangerous path. The Chinese side will not allow the Philippines to act willfully," Wu told a briefing.

"We have responded with legitimate, resolute and restrained actions. The Philippine side should realise that provocations will only do themselves more harm than good, and soliciting foreign support will lead nowhere."&nbsp;

The most recent flare-up happened last week when China made use of a water cannon to thwart a Philippine resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal for the troops deployed to monitor a warship purposefully grounded on a reef almost two decades ago.

China on Monday issued a warning to the Philippines to behave cautiously and seek dialogue stating that the relations between both countries were at a "crossroads".

Marcos said he met his defence and security officials and has been in communication with "friends in the international community".

"They have offered to help us on what the Philippines requires to protect and secure our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific," Marcos said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing. The remarks by Marcos come amid an escalating row in the South China Sea following altercations between the two sides that wounded Filipino troops and also severely damaged vessels. Marcos did not provide details about the countermeasures, however, said that they would be proportionate, deliberate and reasonable in response to what he described as open and unabating attacks. He also said that the countermeasures would be implemented in the coming weeks. "We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience," Marcos said on Facebook. Also read: Climate-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China The strained ties between the two countries come after Marcos sought to intensify the defence ties with the United States, advancing Washington's access to Philippine military bases and augmenting joint exercises so as to include sea and air patrols over the South China Sea, hence infuriating Beijing. However, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian on Thursday (Mar 28) blamed the Philippines for the breakdown stating that it was relying on outside support and was invading China's sovereignty and spreading misinformation. "It is straying further down a dangerous path. The Chinese side will not allow the Philippines to act willfully," Wu told a briefing. "We have responded with legitimate, resolute and restrained actions. The Philippine side should realise that provocations will only do themselves more harm than good, and soliciting foreign support will lead nowhere." The most recent flare-up happened last week when China made use of a water cannon to thwart a Philippine resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal for the troops deployed to monitor a warship purposefully grounded on a reef almost two decades ago. China on Monday issued a warning to the Philippines to behave cautiously and seek dialogue stating that the relations between both countries were at a "crossroads". Marcos said he met his defence and security officials and has been in communication with "friends in the international community". "They have offered to help us on what the Philippines requires to protect and secure our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific," Marcos said. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines vows countermeasures against attacks by Chinese coastguard; 'will not be cowed into silence'

China and Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic faced a number of issues that strained their bilateral relationship, including the imposition of tariffs on Australian wine by Beijing in 2020.&nbsp;Now, China, after a gap of three long years, announced on Thursday (Mar 28) that it is lifting the imposed tariffs on Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In April 2020, China imposed tariffs exceeding 200 per cent on Australian barley exports, accusing the country of dumping barley into the Chinese market and subsidising its farmers.

The move was seen by Australia as politically motivated in retaliation for Australia's call for an independent investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 virus. The call for investigation drew criticism from China and it accused Australia of being a 'puppet' of the United States.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Commerce in China has now stated that the removal of tariffs would come into effect from Friday (Mar 29).

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He Yadong, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce while&nbsp;highlighting the importance of trade between the two countries said,&nbsp;“We are willing to work with Australia to resolve each other’s concerns through dialogue and consultation and jointly promote the stable and healthy development of bilateral economic and trade relations."&nbsp;

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Prior to the tariffs, trade between Australia and China amounted to 1.1 billion Australian dollars annually. China was also the largest export destination for Australian wine.

<h2>Australia-China dispute over submarines&nbsp;</h2>

The other issue that made China impose tariffs&nbsp;was Canberra's decision to abandon a $90 billion deal with France's Naval Group to build a fleet of conventionally powered submarines.&nbsp;

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Instead, Australia opted to pursue nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS framework. This move blindsided France and drew swift condemnation from Beijing.

(With inputs from agencies)

China and Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic faced a number of issues that strained their bilateral relationship, including the imposition of tariffs on Australian wine by Beijing in 2020.

China and Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic faced a number of issues that strained their bilateral relationship, including the imposition of tariffs on Australian wine by Beijing in 2020. Now, China, after a gap of three long years, announced on Thursday (Mar 28) that it is lifting the imposed tariffs on Australia. In April 2020, China imposed tariffs exceeding 200 per cent on Australian barley exports, accusing the country of dumping barley into the Chinese market and subsidising its farmers. The move was seen by Australia as politically motivated in retaliation for Australia's call for an independent investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 virus. The call for investigation drew criticism from China and it accused Australia of being a 'puppet' of the United States. The Ministry of Commerce in China has now stated that the removal of tariffs would come into effect from Friday (Mar 29). Also Read | Sam Bankman-Fried jailed for 25 years for $8bn theft from FTX customers He Yadong, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce while highlighting the importance of trade between the two countries said, “We are willing to work with Australia to resolve each other’s concerns through dialogue and consultation and jointly promote the stable and healthy development of bilateral economic and trade relations." Also Read | Palestinian Authority PM announces new cabinet, calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza Prior to the tariffs, trade between Australia and China amounted to 1.1 billion Australian dollars annually. China was also the largest export destination for Australian wine. Australia-China dispute over submarines The other issue that made China impose tariffs was Canberra's decision to abandon a $90 billion deal with France's Naval Group to build a fleet of conventionally powered submarines. Watch | Houthi fight costs heavy to US - takes $2 million missile to shoot down $2000 drone × Instead, Australia opted to pursue nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS framework. This move blindsided France and drew swift condemnation from Beijing. (With inputs from agencies)

China-Australia ties thaw? Beijing to end tariffs on Australian wine after 3 years of bilateral strain

China now started sounding like a broken record. Repeatedly, China claims that Arunachal Pradesh is a part of their territory. Recently as well, China has rebuked the U.S. for its assertion that Arunachal Pradesh belongs to India.

India hits back at China's claim over Arunachal Pradesh

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