The Chinese internet is flooded with videos and posts about protests that took place this week after a delivery driver was made to kneel in front of security guards. Some reports said it was a female rider, but that could not be verified as the person had a helmet and mask on.

Incidentally, the whole episode happened as a Chinese movie about the life of gig workers becoming a big hit in the country.

The incident that took place in the eastern city of Hangzhou exposed chinks in the Chinese gig worker economy, where delivery drivers for apps are made to work long hours for poor pay, and virtually no medical or social protections.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/foreign-investors-withdraw-record-amounts-from-china-in-june-quarter-749772">Foreign investors withdraw record amounts from China in June quarter</a>

<h2>What happened with the delivery driver in China?</h2>

The incident happened on Monday (Aug 12) when the delivery driver was caught by security guards, apparently after damaging a fence of a compound while delivering a food order.

The driver was held back by the security guards, who asked for payment for the damaged fence.

The rider kneeled before the guards, pleading to be allowed to go as other deliveries were getting delayed, according to local police.&nbsp;

Other delivery drivers in the area gathered, demanding the release of their fellow driver.

The whole thing was caught on camera.

Watch it here: 
 
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of content shared on social media

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On August 12th in Hangzhou, China, a food delivery worker was forced to kneel, which triggered widespread dissatisfaction among delivery workers in the area, leading to a protest event. <a href="https://t.co/66Ly94UqPM">pic.twitter.com/66Ly94UqPM</a>
— Real video from China. (@cz8921469_z) <a href="https://twitter.com/cz8921469_z/status/1823183253613814267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Soon, the episode snowballed into a larger protest in the city, with scores of gig workers taking to the streets and shouting slogans like 'apologise'.

<h2>China gig worker kneeling incident sparks online discussion</h2>

The incident led to a major discussion on China's much-censored internet on the economic woes of workers, and the rise in protests against President Xi Jinping's regime.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/navigating-chinas-economic-crossroads-challenges-and-opportunities-ahead-737301">Navigating China's economic crossroads: challenges and opportunities ahead</a> 
 
"A massive protest broke out today in Hangzhou City, China, after a security guard forced a female delivery worker to kneel and pay a fine of 200 yuan," wrote Jennifer Zeng on X.

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A massive protest broke out today in Hangzhou City, China, after a security guard forced a female delivery worker to kneel and pay a fine of 200 yuan. 
 
Hundreds of fellow delivery workers gathered to support her. 
 
In China's current economic downturn, the survival conditions… <a href="https://t.co/VtRl1YUOgA">pic.twitter.com/VtRl1YUOgA</a>
— Inconvenient Truths by Jennifer Zeng (@jenniferzeng97) <a href="https://twitter.com/jenniferzeng97/status/1823031323843272885?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Another X user with the handle @DeepChinaDive wrote: "Bottled-up anger finally erupts. Delivery workers' protest reveals deeper issues: economic pressure, harsh working conditions, power imbalances. Is this just the beginning? Social tensions have been brewing for a while. More to come?"

One of the X users pointed out that amid the current economic downturn, delivery workers are facing tough living conditions.

They are forced to work desperately to ensure timely deliveries amid intense competition.

"They are also often bullied by the police or security guards. &nbsp;As a result, their resentment has been building up for a long time," wrote the social media user.

Watch: China grapples with ageing population, 94 million workers above the age of 60

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<h2>Upstream, a Chinese film on gig worker life, is a top hit</h2>

The incident happened around the same time as Upstream, a Chinese film on the lives of gig workers, has emerged as a top hit.

Upstream tackles several of China's biggest economic pain points, an uncertain job market, downward mobility and the hardscrabble life of millions working gig jobs, Reuters said in a report.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese internet is flooded with videos and posts about protests that took place this week after a delivery driver was made to kneel in front of security guards.

The Chinese internet is flooded with videos and posts about protests that took place this week after a delivery driver was made to kneel in front of security guards. Some reports said it was a female rider, but that could not be verified as the person had a helmet and mask on. Incidentally, the whole episode happened as a Chinese movie about the life of gig workers becoming a big hit in the country. The incident that took place in the eastern city of Hangzhou exposed chinks in the Chinese gig worker economy, where delivery drivers for apps are made to work long hours for poor pay, and virtually no medical or social protections. Also Read: Foreign investors withdraw record amounts from China in June quarter What happened with the delivery driver in China? The incident happened on Monday (Aug 12) when the delivery driver was caught by security guards, apparently after damaging a fence of a compound while delivering a food order. The driver was held back by the security guards, who asked for payment for the damaged fence. The rider kneeled before the guards, pleading to be allowed to go as other deliveries were getting delayed, according to local police. Other delivery drivers in the area gathered, demanding the release of their fellow driver. The whole thing was caught on camera. Watch it here: Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of content shared on social media On August 12th in Hangzhou, China, a food delivery worker was forced to kneel, which triggered widespread dissatisfaction among delivery workers in the area, leading to a protest event. pic.twitter.com/66Ly94UqPM — Real video from China. (@cz8921469_z) August 13, 2024 × Soon, the episode snowballed into a larger protest in the city, with scores of gig workers taking to the streets and shouting slogans like 'apologise'. China gig worker kneeling incident sparks online discussion The incident led to a major discussion on China's much-censored internet on the economic woes of workers, and the rise in protests against President Xi Jinping's regime. Also read : Navigating China's economic crossroads: challenges and opportunities ahead "A massive protest broke out today in Hangzhou City, China, after a security guard forced a female delivery worker to kneel and pay a fine of 200 yuan," wrote Jennifer Zeng on X. A massive protest broke out today in Hangzhou City, China, after a security guard forced a female delivery worker to kneel and pay a fine of 200 yuan. Hundreds of fellow delivery workers gathered to support her. In China's current economic downturn, the survival conditions… pic.twitter.com/VtRl1YUOgA — Inconvenient Truths by Jennifer Zeng (@jenniferzeng97) August 12, 2024 × Another X user with the handle @DeepChinaDive wrote: "Bottled-up anger finally erupts. Delivery workers' protest reveals deeper issues: economic pressure, harsh working conditions, power imbalances. Is this just the beginning? Social tensions have been brewing for a while. More to come?" One of the X users pointed out that amid the current economic downturn, delivery workers are facing tough living conditions. They are forced to work desperately to ensure timely deliveries amid intense competition. "They are also often bullied by the police or security guards. As a result, their resentment has been building up for a long time," wrote the social media user. Watch: China grapples with ageing population, 94 million workers above the age of 60 × Upstream, a Chinese film on gig worker life, is a top hit The incident happened around the same time as Upstream, a Chinese film on the lives of gig workers, has emerged as a top hit. Upstream tackles several of China's biggest economic pain points, an uncertain job market, downward mobility and the hardscrabble life of millions working gig jobs, Reuters said in a report. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Massive protests in China after delivery driver made to kneel for this reason

Global Times, the Chinese-state-owned tabloid, is one of the most nationalist supporters of President Xi Jinping's regime, but one of its editors has now been 'banned' from social media, according to reports.

There is no official reason given on why Hu Xijin, the former editor-in-chief of Global Times and an online influencer who defends China, suddenly disappeared from social media since last posting on Saturday (Jul 27). But Hu's silence appears to be in the wake of the backlash he faced for an article he had written on the economic reforms of China.

A report by Bloomberg news agency citing a person familiar with the matter said that he has been "banned from posting on social media" after writing controversial comments about the Chinese economy. His account on Weibo has been suspended, as per the source who was not named in the report.&nbsp;

Hu has some 25 million followers on Weibo, the X-like microblogging platform on the Chinese internet. He is also active on WeChat and X, which is banned in China, where he has half a million followers.

After retiring from Global Times in 2021, He wrote a newspaper column, Hu Says, and appeared on television channels and online to offer a strident defence of Chinese policies.

<h2>What did Hu write that angered Chinese state media?</h2>

In an article on Chinese economic reforms, Hu suggested that the private sector in the country may become equal to the public sector. The article has since been deleted.

In the piece posted on his WeChat account on July 22, Hu also wrote about the recent plenum of China’s Communist Party (CCP).

The resolution document of that event, Hu wrote, left out a phrase that had been used to stress the role of the state sector in the country’s economy, according to a report in the South China Morning Post.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjl3fDPptaHAxXXzzgGHS-5FkMQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agree-to-uphold-peace-and-tranquility-along-line-of-actual-control-746045" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agree-to-uphold-peace-and-tranquility-along-line-of-actual-control-746045&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjl3fDPptaHAxXXzzgGHS-5FkMQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">India, China agree to ‘uphold peace and tranquility’ along Line of Actual Control</a>

The phrase in question is related to the Chinese public ownership playing a dominant role in its economy. Hu said it was a “historic change” that showed China hoped to “achieve true equality between the private and the state-owned economy”.

<h2>Backlash for Hu's article</h2>

The article garnered backlash from nationalist writers, bloggers and even state media. They accused him of “blatantly violating the political discipline of the party”, noting that the “dominant role” of public ownership was enshrined in the constitutions of both the ruling party and the country, the SCMP report said.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: India boosting security along China border

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The Chinese Communist Party's official paper, the People’s Daily, wrote a commentary that China’s basic stand on the state and private sectors “hasn’t changed and won’t change in the future”, the report said.

Hu's sudden silence on social media appears to have followed this.

(With inputs from agencies)

Global Times, the Chinese-state-owned tabloid, is one of the most nationalist supporters of President Xi Jinping's regime, but one of its editors has now been 'banned' from social media, according to reports.

Global Times, the Chinese-state-owned tabloid, is one of the most nationalist supporters of President Xi Jinping's regime, but one of its editors has now been 'banned' from social media, according to reports. There is no official reason given on why Hu Xijin, the former editor-in-chief of Global Times and an online influencer who defends China, suddenly disappeared from social media since last posting on Saturday (Jul 27). But Hu's silence appears to be in the wake of the backlash he faced for an article he had written on the economic reforms of China. A report by Bloomberg news agency citing a person familiar with the matter said that he has been "banned from posting on social media" after writing controversial comments about the Chinese economy. His account on Weibo has been suspended, as per the source who was not named in the report. Hu has some 25 million followers on Weibo, the X-like microblogging platform on the Chinese internet. He is also active on WeChat and X, which is banned in China, where he has half a million followers. After retiring from Global Times in 2021, He wrote a newspaper column, Hu Says, and appeared on television channels and online to offer a strident defence of Chinese policies. What did Hu write that angered Chinese state media? In an article on Chinese economic reforms, Hu suggested that the private sector in the country may become equal to the public sector. The article has since been deleted. In the piece posted on his WeChat account on July 22, Hu also wrote about the recent plenum of China’s Communist Party (CCP). The resolution document of that event, Hu wrote, left out a phrase that had been used to stress the role of the state sector in the country’s economy, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. Also read: India, China agree to ‘uphold peace and tranquility’ along Line of Actual Control The phrase in question is related to the Chinese public ownership playing a dominant role in its economy. Hu said it was a “historic change” that showed China hoped to “achieve true equality between the private and the state-owned economy”. Backlash for Hu's article The article garnered backlash from nationalist writers, bloggers and even state media. They accused him of “blatantly violating the political discipline of the party”, noting that the “dominant role” of public ownership was enshrined in the constitutions of both the ruling party and the country, the SCMP report said. Watch: Gravitas: India boosting security along China border × The Chinese Communist Party's official paper, the People’s Daily, wrote a commentary that China’s basic stand on the state and private sectors “hasn’t changed and won’t change in the future”, the report said. Hu's sudden silence on social media appears to have followed this. (With inputs from agencies)

Hu Xijin: China 'bans' ex-editor of nationalist tabloid Global Times from social media, but why?

China is all set to revolutionise its Armed Forces, President Xi Jinping has called for greater use of technology. He stressed that new methods for border maritime and air defence be developed with a focus on a comprehensive and smart management.

China: Xi Jinping calls hi-tech 'smart system' to boost China's borders

Leaders of the Chinese communist party are gathering in Beijing for the third plenum, a crucial meeting that sets the country's economic direction for the next five years. This comes as china posted a lower than expected growth of 4.7 percent in the second quarter.

Economic distress overshadows China's Third Plenum

China’s Communist Party will begin a key meeting on Monday that may determine the country’s course for the next decade. The Communist Party gathering is expected to outline the general course of economic policy when the country faces major challenges.

China's Third Plenum: Innovation or growth

Leaders of the Chinese communist party are meeting today for the Third Plenum, a meeting that aims to set the economic direction for the next five years.

What is the third plenum?

It's a key policy meeting held every five years to determine the country's long-term social and economic policies. The party holds a major congress twice a decade. Members of the central committee are elected at each congress. The 20th central committee was chosen at the last congress in October 2022.

Out of the seven plenums, the first, second, and seventh plenums typically focus on power transitions between central committees. The fourth and sixth plenums generally focus on party ideology. The third plenum generally focuses on long-term economic reforms. The third plenum in November 2013 focused on strengthening market forces to allocate resources. In February 2018, the party was urged to closely unite around the central committee with 'Xi' at its core.

However, China is at an economic crossroads as it hosts the third plenum meeting in Beijing, starting July 15.

What's at stake?

This key policy meeting comes amid the backdrop of lower-than-expected GDP numbers for the June quarter of 2024. China's growth engine is sputtering and needs a reform push to navigate the multi-faceted economic issues plaguing the country.

According to reports, Chinese policymakers are prioritising innovation over growth. The meeting is set to unveil a strategy to build a 'new quality productive force'. The strategy aims to focus on building cutting-edge technologies like AI &amp; semiconductors. This focus underlines China's quest for AI supremacy amid rising trade tensions with the US and Europe.&nbsp;

Apart from long-term planning, China also needs to focus on short-term economic issues. Growth is slowing, youth unemployment is surging, and a property market crisis is fuelling worries for the second-largest economy in the world.

‘We bought our house for around 870,000 yuan, but now it's just over 600,000 yuan if we sell it, because one of our neighbours just bought a flat which only costs around 600,000 yuan. it's the lowest the price has been in the last 10 years,’ Wang Dongmei, a Tianjin resident, told AFP on the rising property pressures.

In addition to promoting tech, the plenum will also tackle fiscal and tax reforms to support heavily indebted local governments. China's recent stimulus packages have failed to ignite demand and increase liquidity. The country is also pushing for a high-level socialist market economy that's more 'open'.

Xi Jinping announced his plans a month earlier. 'China's doors will only open wider and wider and will never be closed. We are planning and implementing major measures to further deepen reform comprehensively, further expand systematic opening up, and create a more market-oriented and international business environment.' he said at an event cited by AFP.

Leaders of the Chinese communist party are meeting today for the Third Plenum, a meeting that aims to set the economic direction for the next five years. What is the third plenum?

Leaders of the Chinese communist party are meeting today for the Third Plenum, a meeting that aims to set the economic direction for the next five years. What is the third plenum? It's a key policy meeting held every five years to determine the country's long-term social and economic policies. The party holds a major congress twice a decade. Members of the central committee are elected at each congress. The 20th central committee was chosen at the last congress in October 2022. Out of the seven plenums, the first, second, and seventh plenums typically focus on power transitions between central committees. The fourth and sixth plenums generally focus on party ideology. The third plenum generally focuses on long-term economic reforms. The third plenum in November 2013 focused on strengthening market forces to allocate resources. In February 2018, the party was urged to closely unite around the central committee with 'Xi' at its core. However, China is at an economic crossroads as it hosts the third plenum meeting in Beijing, starting July 15. What's at stake? This key policy meeting comes amid the backdrop of lower-than-expected GDP numbers for the June quarter of 2024. China's growth engine is sputtering and needs a reform push to navigate the multi-faceted economic issues plaguing the country. According to reports, Chinese policymakers are prioritising innovation over growth. The meeting is set to unveil a strategy to build a 'new quality productive force'. The strategy aims to focus on building cutting-edge technologies like AI & semiconductors. This focus underlines China's quest for AI supremacy amid rising trade tensions with the US and Europe. Apart from long-term planning, China also needs to focus on short-term economic issues. Growth is slowing, youth unemployment is surging, and a property market crisis is fuelling worries for the second-largest economy in the world. ‘We bought our house for around 870,000 yuan, but now it's just over 600,000 yuan if we sell it, because one of our neighbours just bought a flat which only costs around 600,000 yuan. it's the lowest the price has been in the last 10 years,’ Wang Dongmei, a Tianjin resident, told AFP on the rising property pressures. In addition to promoting tech, the plenum will also tackle fiscal and tax reforms to support heavily indebted local governments. China's recent stimulus packages have failed to ignite demand and increase liquidity. The country is also pushing for a high-level socialist market economy that's more 'open'. Xi Jinping announced his plans a month earlier. 'China's doors will only open wider and wider and will never be closed. We are planning and implementing major measures to further deepen reform comprehensively, further expand systematic opening up, and create a more market-oriented and international business environment.' he said at an event cited by AFP.

China's third plenum: what is it and what's at stake?

In a setback to China's strategic motives in the Indo-Pacific and Bay of Bengal region, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina cut short her trip to Beijing this week and returned to Dhaka. While officially, Hasina cut short her visit on account of attending to her daughter's health, reports say that the development points out that Dhaka and Beijing did not achieve the desired objective of Hasina's visit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-edges-past-china-over-bangladeshs-teesta-water-management-project-734190">India edges past China over Bangladesh's Teesta water management project</a>

But substantively, Prime Minister Hasina met Chinese leader Xi and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing as the two countries signed 21 agreements and announced seven more projects. Among the new projects announced were the 'Conclusion of Joint Feasibility Study on China-Bangladesh Free Trade Agreement' and 'Commencement of Negotiation on the Optimisation of China-Bangladesh Bilateral Investment Treaty'.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

According to a report in the Economic Times, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina may have been upset over China not fulfilling its promise of financial support and extending appropriate protocol to her. Notably, Beijing promised $5 billion loan assistance to Dhaka ahead of the visit. But it finally assured a package of only about $100 million during the trip, according to people aware of the matter cited by the Economic Times.

Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina in China: Bilateral talks feature Rohingya issue, trade &amp; investments

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Hasina was previously expected to hold a lengthy bilateral meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping but their meeting was brief. Even the foreign minister Wang Yi did not call on the visiting Bangladeshi prime minister.&nbsp;

Besides, unusual enough, the state-run Chinese media did not adequately cover Hasina's visit, the&nbsp;Economic Times added.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in India, visit to boost bilateral partnership

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Hasina was scheduled to return from Beijing on Thursday (Jul&nbsp;11), cut short her visit by a day and took a return flight on Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;10) night.

Previously, Hasina resisted pressure from Beijing and visited India twice within the course of one month in June.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a setback to China's strategic motives in the Indo-Pacific and Bay of Bengal region, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina cut short her trip to Beijing this week and returned to Dhaka.

In a setback to China's strategic motives in the Indo-Pacific and Bay of Bengal region, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina cut short her trip to Beijing this week and returned to Dhaka. While officially, Hasina cut short her visit on account of attending to her daughter's health, reports say that the development points out that Dhaka and Beijing did not achieve the desired objective of Hasina's visit. Also read | India edges past China over Bangladesh's Teesta water management project But substantively, Prime Minister Hasina met Chinese leader Xi and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing as the two countries signed 21 agreements and announced seven more projects. Among the new projects announced were the 'Conclusion of Joint Feasibility Study on China-Bangladesh Free Trade Agreement' and 'Commencement of Negotiation on the Optimisation of China-Bangladesh Bilateral Investment Treaty'. What does it mean? According to a report in the Economic Times, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina may have been upset over China not fulfilling its promise of financial support and extending appropriate protocol to her. Notably, Beijing promised $5 billion loan assistance to Dhaka ahead of the visit. But it finally assured a package of only about $100 million during the trip, according to people aware of the matter cited by the Economic Times. Also watch | Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina in China: Bilateral talks feature Rohingya issue, trade & investments × Hasina was previously expected to hold a lengthy bilateral meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping but their meeting was brief. Even the foreign minister Wang Yi did not call on the visiting Bangladeshi prime minister. Besides, unusual enough, the state-run Chinese media did not adequately cover Hasina's visit, the Economic Times added. Also watch | Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in India, visit to boost bilateral partnership × Hasina was scheduled to return from Beijing on Thursday (Jul 11), cut short her visit by a day and took a return flight on Wednesday (Jul 10) night. Previously, Hasina resisted pressure from Beijing and visited India twice within the course of one month in June. (With inputs from agencies)

Setback to Xi Jinping's China? Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina cuts short Beijing visit

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday, state media reported, in a visit the European leader has branded as a "Peace mission 3.0" after recent trips to Moscow and Kyiv.

The unannounced visit comes a day before NATO is due to hold a summit to mark its 75th anniversary, with setbacks in Ukraine set to dominate discussions, and follows Orban's surprise trips to Russia and Ukraine in the past week.

Orban, the friendliest EU leader towards Moscow, held talks with President Vladimir Putin on Friday about the war in Ukraine during a trip criticised by both Kyiv and the EU, which said it threatened to undermine the bloc's stance on the conflict.

Putin told Orban that Ukraine must withdraw its troops from regions that Moscow has annexed if it wants peace.

Hungary took over the European Union's rotating presidency at the start of July, and the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Orban's trip to Russia was purely a bilateral affair and he "has not received any mandate from the EU Council to visit Moscow".

In a short statement earlier, the Chinese foreign ministry said the Hungarian leader would meet Xi "for in-depth communication on issues of mutual interest".

Close to both Xi and the Kremlin, Orban has refused to send weapons to Kyiv, unlike his fellow EU leaders.

China and Russia's strategic partnership has grown closer since the invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Beijing presents itself as a neutral party in the war and says it is not sending lethal assistance to either side, unlike the United States and other Western nations.

It has however offered a critical lifeline to Russia's isolated economy, with trade booming since the conflict began.

Orban was greeted at the airport by Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, according to a photo the nationalist leader posted on social media platform X.

<h2>Major investment&nbsp;</h2>

Xi visited Hungary in May this year, for the final leg of a European tour that also led him to France and Serbia.

Following a meeting with Orban, Xi said Beijing placed "great importance" on its relations with the EU.

Despite its small size, the Central European country of 9.6 million people has attracted a flood of major Chinese projects in recent years, mostly related to battery and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.

The Hungarian government boasted about having around 15 billion euros ($16 billion) worth of ongoing projects originating from the Asian country.

Orban has been championing an "Eastern opening" foreign policy since his return to power in 2010, seeking closer economic ties to China, Russia and other Asian countries.

Last October, the Hungarian premier was the sole EU leader to attend the summit for Xi's flagship Belt and Road initiative in Beijing.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday, state media reported, in a visit the European leader has branded as a "Peace mission 3.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday, state media reported, in a visit the European leader has branded as a "Peace mission 3.0" after recent trips to Moscow and Kyiv. The unannounced visit comes a day before NATO is due to hold a summit to mark its 75th anniversary, with setbacks in Ukraine set to dominate discussions, and follows Orban's surprise trips to Russia and Ukraine in the past week. Orban, the friendliest EU leader towards Moscow, held talks with President Vladimir Putin on Friday about the war in Ukraine during a trip criticised by both Kyiv and the EU, which said it threatened to undermine the bloc's stance on the conflict. Putin told Orban that Ukraine must withdraw its troops from regions that Moscow has annexed if it wants peace. Hungary took over the European Union's rotating presidency at the start of July, and the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Orban's trip to Russia was purely a bilateral affair and he "has not received any mandate from the EU Council to visit Moscow". In a short statement earlier, the Chinese foreign ministry said the Hungarian leader would meet Xi "for in-depth communication on issues of mutual interest". Close to both Xi and the Kremlin, Orban has refused to send weapons to Kyiv, unlike his fellow EU leaders. China and Russia's strategic partnership has grown closer since the invasion of Ukraine. Beijing presents itself as a neutral party in the war and says it is not sending lethal assistance to either side, unlike the United States and other Western nations. It has however offered a critical lifeline to Russia's isolated economy, with trade booming since the conflict began. Orban was greeted at the airport by Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying, according to a photo the nationalist leader posted on social media platform X. Major investment Xi visited Hungary in May this year, for the final leg of a European tour that also led him to France and Serbia. Following a meeting with Orban, Xi said Beijing placed "great importance" on its relations with the EU. Despite its small size, the Central European country of 9.6 million people has attracted a flood of major Chinese projects in recent years, mostly related to battery and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing. The Hungarian government boasted about having around 15 billion euros ($16 billion) worth of ongoing projects originating from the Asian country. Orban has been championing an "Eastern opening" foreign policy since his return to power in 2010, seeking closer economic ties to China, Russia and other Asian countries. Last October, the Hungarian premier was the sole EU leader to attend the summit for Xi's flagship Belt and Road initiative in Beijing.

Hungary PM Orban meets President Xi Jinping in Beijing on 'Peace mission 3.0'

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has made an unexpected visit to China, following his trips to both Ukraine and Russia to discuss a peace settlement for Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Hungarian PM Viktor Orban makes a surprise visit to China

Headlines of the hour: - PM Modi en route Moscow - 3 Russian cruise missiles shot down: Ukraine - Enable direct Russia-Ukraine talks: Xi Jinping - Mumbai battles severe waterlogging due to rain - Mid-day market check: Indian stocks

Enable direct Russia-Ukraine talks: Xi | PM Modi en route Moscow

Headlines of the hour: - India: 4th case of brain-eating Amoeba in Kerala - Xi congratulates Pezeshkian on win - Hathras stampede: Main accused held - Calls for exit grow, Biden won't budge - India's PM Modi invites Starmer to visit India - PM Modi Russia visit: Focus of defence ties - India: Union Budget on July 23 - Gold regains its shine this week

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With the world increasingly mired in conflicts, more and more leaders are reaching out to find common ground. Joining this list is Italian Prime Minister Meloni, who is all set to embark on a high-stakes visit to China.

Gravitas: Italy PM Meloni likely to visit China this month, aims for economic stability with China

An armed attack in the Democratic Republic of Congo has left several of the Chinese nationals dead and missing. The Chinese government has issued statement raising concerns for the armed attack on a mining site.

China says several nationals killed & missing in DR Congo, demands to hunt down killers | WION

Russian President Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping met Wednesday for the second time in two months. Markus Garlauskas, director of the Atlantic Council's Indo-Pacific Security Initiative, joins to discuss.

SCO Summit: China, Russia hail expanding SCO membership, China to get Presidency after seven years

Wavering consumer demand in China is spilling to the plates. Beef prices in the country are at a five-year low amid a slowing economy. This comes as the government pushes farmers to raise production and open the door for more imports.

According to Bloomberg, the wholesale prices have dropped 18 per cent from last year's peak to around $8.53 a kilogram. The industry is urging local authorities to provide subsidies to boost the market.&nbsp;

Food security is a major concern for the government, which is facing a multi-faceted economic slowdown. A spiralling property crisis, falling domestic demand and trade tensions with the US and the EU have halted China's economic juggernaut.

Economic pressures have pushed the Chinese government to speed up stimulus. In agriculture, the government is supporting a variety of sectors from livestock to grains. China faces the tricky challenge of stabilising production and helping farmers as imports rise.&nbsp;

China's 'beef' diplomacy

Bloomberg data shows that China's beef imports advanced 23 per cent in the first five months of 2024. This is reportedly to boost relations with countries including Spain and Brazil by giving them more market access to luxury products. Beef is a relatively luxurious eating option in China. It costs almost thrice as much as pork and is the usual choice of meat.&nbsp;

China's beef market has been growing in output and consumption. In 2023, China produced 7.5 million tonnes of beef and increased imports to match the growing demand (11 million tonnes). Now, the demand is easing, expected to be just 0.4 per cent in 2024.

Demand woes in China go beyond beef. The second-largest economy in the world is facing a demand slump post-COVID. Major food retailers have reported a drop in sales as frozen stockpiles flood&nbsp;godowns. This production glut is across industries, with major nations currently probing the influx of 'cheap Chinese goods'. Indonesia is reportedly planning tariffs to protect its textile industry from Chinese imports.&nbsp;

Wavering consumer demand in China is spilling to the plates. Beef prices in the country are at a five-year low amid a slowing economy. This comes as the government pushes farmers to raise production and open the door for more imports.

Wavering consumer demand in China is spilling to the plates. Beef prices in the country are at a five-year low amid a slowing economy. This comes as the government pushes farmers to raise production and open the door for more imports. According to Bloomberg, the wholesale prices have dropped 18 per cent from last year's peak to around $8.53 a kilogram. The industry is urging local authorities to provide subsidies to boost the market. Food security is a major concern for the government, which is facing a multi-faceted economic slowdown. A spiralling property crisis, falling domestic demand and trade tensions with the US and the EU have halted China's economic juggernaut. Economic pressures have pushed the Chinese government to speed up stimulus. In agriculture, the government is supporting a variety of sectors from livestock to grains. China faces the tricky challenge of stabilising production and helping farmers as imports rise. China's 'beef' diplomacy Bloomberg data shows that China's beef imports advanced 23 per cent in the first five months of 2024. This is reportedly to boost relations with countries including Spain and Brazil by giving them more market access to luxury products. Beef is a relatively luxurious eating option in China. It costs almost thrice as much as pork and is the usual choice of meat. China's beef market has been growing in output and consumption. In 2023, China produced 7.5 million tonnes of beef and increased imports to match the growing demand (11 million tonnes). Now, the demand is easing, expected to be just 0.4 per cent in 2024. Demand woes in China go beyond beef. The second-largest economy in the world is facing a demand slump post-COVID. Major food retailers have reported a drop in sales as frozen stockpiles flood godowns. This production glut is across industries, with major nations currently probing the influx of 'cheap Chinese goods'. Indonesia is reportedly planning tariffs to protect its textile industry from Chinese imports.

Beef prices plunge in China as demand wavers

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met Wednesday for the second time in as many months as they visited Kazakhstan for SCO summit. Watch in for more details!

SCO Summit Day 1: Putin Xi meet on sidelines of SCO summit

The leaders of Russia and China were in Kazakhstan on Wednesday for a regional summit, seeking to harden anti-Western alliances and press their influence in the strategic Central Asian region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin touched down in the Kazakh capital of Astana Wednesday morning for a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) -- a Beijing-led regional bloc that covers Central Asia, India and Iran.

Moscow and Beijing have deepened their political, military and economic ties since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-using-relatives-to-conceal-7072mn-wealth-says-report-730561" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-using-relatives-to-conceal-7072mn-wealth-says-report-730561&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjwkK6t04qHAxXfbmwGHaNZBwIQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0AydVFDwDKc7z_GFbD9ehM&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-using-relatives-to-conceal-7072mn-wealth-says-report-730561" target="_blank">Xi Jinping&nbsp;using relatives to conceal $707.2mn wealth, says report</a>

Alongside Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who arrived in Kazakhstan on Tuesday, the pair sees the SCO as a key forum for advancing their strategic interests across Eurasia.

"We attach great importance to partnership cooperation within this organisation," Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov told Russian state media outlets ahead of Putin's arrival.

"We believe that the SCO, as well as the second major association of BRICS, are the main pillars of the new world order, a locomotive in the context of establishing genuine multilateralism in world affairs," he added.

Both Russia and China have railed against what they call a US-led "hegemony" on the world stage.

China's Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said earlier this week that Beijing believed the SCO summit would "help build more consensus among all parties and make contributions to promoting security, stability and development of member countries", and advance "lasting peace and common prosperity in the world".&nbsp;

<h2>- Rivalry -</h2>

Despite inking a "no limits" strategic partnership just days before Russia invaded Ukraine, Moscow and Beijing have been historic rivals for influence in the Central Asian region.

The five countries -- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan -- are ex-Soviet republics and have historic cultural, linguistic and economic ties to Russia.

But China's rising economic power and sprawling investment in the region has challenged Russian influence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/with-xi-jinping-in-europe-china-plays-geopolitics-720020" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/with-xi-jinping-in-europe-china-plays-geopolitics-720020&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjwkK6t04qHAxXfbmwGHaNZBwIQFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3N8i6QFpBtUHDFyn7Y3hc9&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/with-xi-jinping-in-europe-china-plays-geopolitics-720020" target="_blank">With&nbsp;Xi Jinping&nbsp;in Europe, China plays geopolitics</a>

Central Asia is crucial to China's flagship Belt and Road international infrastructure development project.

The region is rich in natural resources and crucial for the overland transport of goods between China and Europe.

Russia's war on Ukraine has also been seen as creating an opening for other powers to swoop into regions that have been traditionally aligned with Moscow.

The ultra-closed Turkmenistan is not a member of the SCO, but the four others are, alongside India, Iran and Pakistan.

The nine-member bloc is complemented by 14 "dialogue partners", such as Turkey and several Gulf states.

Alongside the forum's main sessions, the Kremlin said Putin planned to meet bilaterally with a number of leaders at the summit, probably to include Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

NATO member Turkey is positioning itself as a possible mediator in the Ukraine war.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-xi-jinpings-common-prosperity-campaign-in-focus-735886" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-xi-jinpings-common-prosperity-campaign-in-focus-735886&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjwkK6t04qHAxXfbmwGHaNZBwIQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0VaKECriIsY0bTN5TCrwvT&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-xi-jinpings-common-prosperity-campaign-in-focus-735886" target="_blank">President&nbsp;Xi Jinping's&nbsp;'common prosperity' campaign in focus</a>

Russia's close ally Belarus is expected to join the SCO at the meeting after being told at the 2023 summit that it would become a member.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was also set to address the two-day summit on Thursday.

The leaders of Russia and China were in Kazakhstan on Wednesday for a regional summit, seeking to harden anti-Western alliances and press their influence in the strategic Central Asian region.

The leaders of Russia and China were in Kazakhstan on Wednesday for a regional summit, seeking to harden anti-Western alliances and press their influence in the strategic Central Asian region. Russian President Vladimir Putin touched down in the Kazakh capital of Astana Wednesday morning for a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) -- a Beijing-led regional bloc that covers Central Asia, India and Iran. Moscow and Beijing have deepened their political, military and economic ties since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Also read: Xi Jinping using relatives to conceal $707.2mn wealth, says report Alongside Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who arrived in Kazakhstan on Tuesday, the pair sees the SCO as a key forum for advancing their strategic interests across Eurasia. "We attach great importance to partnership cooperation within this organisation," Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov told Russian state media outlets ahead of Putin's arrival. "We believe that the SCO, as well as the second major association of BRICS, are the main pillars of the new world order, a locomotive in the context of establishing genuine multilateralism in world affairs," he added. Both Russia and China have railed against what they call a US-led "hegemony" on the world stage. China's Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said earlier this week that Beijing believed the SCO summit would "help build more consensus among all parties and make contributions to promoting security, stability and development of member countries", and advance "lasting peace and common prosperity in the world". - Rivalry - Despite inking a "no limits" strategic partnership just days before Russia invaded Ukraine, Moscow and Beijing have been historic rivals for influence in the Central Asian region. The five countries -- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan -- are ex-Soviet republics and have historic cultural, linguistic and economic ties to Russia. But China's rising economic power and sprawling investment in the region has challenged Russian influence. Also read: With Xi Jinping in Europe, China plays geopolitics Central Asia is crucial to China's flagship Belt and Road international infrastructure development project. The region is rich in natural resources and crucial for the overland transport of goods between China and Europe. Russia's war on Ukraine has also been seen as creating an opening for other powers to swoop into regions that have been traditionally aligned with Moscow. The ultra-closed Turkmenistan is not a member of the SCO, but the four others are, alongside India, Iran and Pakistan. The nine-member bloc is complemented by 14 "dialogue partners", such as Turkey and several Gulf states. Alongside the forum's main sessions, the Kremlin said Putin planned to meet bilaterally with a number of leaders at the summit, probably to include Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. NATO member Turkey is positioning itself as a possible mediator in the Ukraine war. Also read: President Xi Jinping's 'common prosperity' campaign in focus Russia's close ally Belarus is expected to join the SCO at the meeting after being told at the 2023 summit that it would become a member. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was also set to address the two-day summit on Thursday.

Putin, Xi vie for influence at Central Asian summit

China is facing extreme weather. Floods and drought struck nation at the same time. Heavy rains have soaked vast areas of the country over the past week.

China faces dual catastrophe; struck by floods and drought at the same time

Shanghai Cooperation Organization or the SCO Summit is being held in Astana, Kazakhstan. China's President Xi Jinping will attend the 24th meeting of the Council of Heads of state from the 3rd of July until the 6th of July.

China to get SCO Presidency after seven years, President Xi Jinping arrives in Astana

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasised the importance of the ‘Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence’, which gained prominence with the Non-Aligned Movement, as a means to resolve current conflicts.

He also sought to expand China's influence in the Global South amid its ongoing tensions with the West.

Xi Jinping, invoked the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, termed as 'Panchsheel' by India, at a conference in Beijing to mark its 70th anniversary and also sought to juxtapose them with his new concept of Global Security Initiative envisaging a shared future for mankind.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-using-relatives-to-conceal-7072mn-wealth-says-report-730561" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-using-relatives-to-conceal-7072mn-wealth-says-report-730561&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj91Yi4qICHAxX7sVYBHd1pDgsQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1njOLy6ItmyhycDWEAVJUn&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-using-relatives-to-conceal-7072mn-wealth-says-report-730561" target="_blank">Xi Jinping&nbsp;using relatives to conceal $707.2mn wealth, says report</a>

According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the 'Panchsheel' principles were first formally outlined in the Agreement on Trade and Intercourse between the Tibet region of China and India, signed on April 29, 1954.

'Panchsheel' or The five principles were part of the legacy of then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and his Chinese counterpart Zhou Enlai, formed during their unsuccessful attempt to resolve the complex boundary issue.

"The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence answered the call of the times, and its commencement was an inevitable historic development. The Chinese leadership in the past specified the Five Principles in their entirety for the first time, namely, 'mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity', 'mutual non-aggression', 'mutual non-interference in each other's internal affairs', 'equality and mutual benefit', and 'peaceful coexistence'," Xi Jinping said.

"They included the Five Principles in the China-India and China-Myanmar joint statements, which collectively called for establishing them as basic norms for state-to-state relations," Xi added at the conference.

Invitees of the conference included former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa and several political leaders and officials from various countries associated with China over the years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/with-xi-jinping-in-europe-china-plays-geopolitics-720020" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/with-xi-jinping-in-europe-china-plays-geopolitics-720020&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj91Yi4qICHAxX7sVYBHd1pDgsQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_o259L5nMu0HR1a2DdY9g&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/opinions-blogs/with-xi-jinping-in-europe-china-plays-geopolitics-720020&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj91Yi4qICHAxX7sVYBHd1pDgsQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_o259L5nMu0HR1a2DdY9g&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" target="_blank">With&nbsp;Xi Jinping&nbsp;in Europe, China plays geopolitics</a>

Xi Jinping recalled in his address that 'Panchsheel', the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence were born in Asia (India) but in no time it rose up to the world stage. In 1955, more than 20 Asian and African countries attended the Bandung Conference.

The Non-Aligned Movement, founded by Jawaharlal Nehru, that rose in the 1960s adopted the 'Panchsheel' or Five Principles as its guiding principles.

"The Five Principles have set a historic benchmark for international relations and international rule of law," Xi said.

Xi, who began his unprecedented third five-year term in power last year, has been encouraging several initiatives, including his billion-dollar pet project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), to enhance China's global influence.

Under the BRI, Beijing has made huge investments in infrastructure projects in smaller countries which in coming years attracted allegations of debt diplomacy as many countries struggled to pay back loans taken from China.

“China will establish a Global South Research Centre to better support Global South-South cooperation,” Xi said.

“China will provide 1,000 'Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence Scholarship of Excellence,' 1,00,000 training opportunities to Global South countries in the next five years,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasised the importance of the ‘Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence’, which gained prominence with the Non-Aligned Movement, as a means to resolve current conflicts.

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasised the importance of the ‘Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence’, which gained prominence with the Non-Aligned Movement, as a means to resolve current conflicts. He also sought to expand China's influence in the Global South amid its ongoing tensions with the West. Xi Jinping, invoked the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, termed as 'Panchsheel' by India, at a conference in Beijing to mark its 70th anniversary and also sought to juxtapose them with his new concept of Global Security Initiative envisaging a shared future for mankind. Also read: Xi Jinping using relatives to conceal $707.2mn wealth, says report According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the 'Panchsheel' principles were first formally outlined in the Agreement on Trade and Intercourse between the Tibet region of China and India, signed on April 29, 1954. 'Panchsheel' or The five principles were part of the legacy of then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and his Chinese counterpart Zhou Enlai, formed during their unsuccessful attempt to resolve the complex boundary issue. "The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence answered the call of the times, and its commencement was an inevitable historic development. The Chinese leadership in the past specified the Five Principles in their entirety for the first time, namely, 'mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity', 'mutual non-aggression', 'mutual non-interference in each other's internal affairs', 'equality and mutual benefit', and 'peaceful coexistence'," Xi Jinping said. "They included the Five Principles in the China-India and China-Myanmar joint statements, which collectively called for establishing them as basic norms for state-to-state relations," Xi added at the conference. Invitees of the conference included former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa and several political leaders and officials from various countries associated with China over the years. Also read: With Xi Jinping in Europe, China plays geopolitics Xi Jinping recalled in his address that 'Panchsheel', the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence were born in Asia (India) but in no time it rose up to the world stage. In 1955, more than 20 Asian and African countries attended the Bandung Conference. The Non-Aligned Movement, founded by Jawaharlal Nehru, that rose in the 1960s adopted the 'Panchsheel' or Five Principles as its guiding principles. "The Five Principles have set a historic benchmark for international relations and international rule of law," Xi said. Xi, who began his unprecedented third five-year term in power last year, has been encouraging several initiatives, including his billion-dollar pet project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), to enhance China's global influence. Under the BRI, Beijing has made huge investments in infrastructure projects in smaller countries which in coming years attracted allegations of debt diplomacy as many countries struggled to pay back loans taken from China. “China will establish a Global South Research Centre to better support Global South-South cooperation,” Xi said. “China will provide 1,000 'Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence Scholarship of Excellence,' 1,00,000 training opportunities to Global South countries in the next five years,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Xi Jinping praises India's 'Panchsheel' agreement for ending global conflicts

The People's Liberation army is the armed wing of the Chinese Communist party and the military of the People's Republic of China. One of the largest military forces in the world, The People's Liberation army is led by the Central Military Commission, its top decision-making body whose chairman serves as the Commander-in-chief. What happens when the supreme leader casts aspersions on an institution, calling it corrupt? The Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is also the chairman of the Central Military Commission, besides holding the post of general secretary of the Communist Party of China central committee, said that there were deep-seated problems in the Chinese military's politics, ideology, work style and discipline. The statement came at a military-political work conference initiated by Xi himself that was held in Yan'an of northwest China's Shaanxi province from 16th to 19th June. What prompted the Chinese president to underscore the significance of enhancing political loyalty in the military in the new era besides the ramifications of this chiding? Jyotsna Kumar brings you the details.

Chinese Prez Xi Jinping admonishes PLA's top brass

Xi Jinping on Monday held talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda, who is on a state visit to China. Xi Jinping held a welcome ceremony for the Polish president outside the Great Hall of the People at the edge of Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Watch in for more details!

Polish President Andrzej Duda holds talks with Chinese President

China-Poland meet: Leader of NATO nation Poland visits China

China's Xi meets with Polish President Duda in Beijing

Poland President Andrzej Duda met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Monday for talks on Ukraine peace and expanding bilateral trade on a visit to Beijing. Watch in for more details!

The Vatican is reportedly set to renew a controversial deal with China that allows the Communist regime influence over the selection of Bishops in the country. This has sparked concerns from senior Catholics and campaigners that the deal will risk rewarding CCP's repression in the country.

Gravitas: What is the Vatican’s secret deal with China?

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Gallant in US; focus on arms supplies, Hezbollah - Crimea attack: Russia vows retaliation - Submarine purchase probe panel 'warns' Netanyahu - Beijing: Xi & Duda hold bilateral talks - Mauritius: INS Sunayna departs Port Louis - Yen hits new low against US Dollar

Crimea attack: Russia vows retaliation | Submarine probe panel 'warns' Netanyahu

Soon after Narendra Modi secured his third term as Indian Prime Minister, congratulatory messages started pouring in for PM Modi from all directions. World leaders including the Taiwan President congratulated PM Modi on his victory. However, China didn't seem to be happy with the trajectory of growing Taiwan-India relations. Day after the exchange of messages between PM Modi and Taiwan President, China released a statement.

Taiwan gives befitting reply as China questions Taiwan-India ties

China's third aircraft carrier Fujian has reportedly wrapped up its second sea trial now it was an expansive and intensive test that experts say reflects the smooth progress made by the warship.

China's 3rd aircraft carrier Fujian returns to Jiangnan shipyard in Shanghai after trial

China's property market struggles with a slew of unsold homes. The government has unveiled a $41 billion plan to convert them into affordable housing. But will it be enough to revive the ailing sector?

China: Beijing's affordable housing push faces challenges

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz has spoken out against the European Union's tariffs proposition on Chinese EVs. Scholz emphasized that trade barriers and isolation measures ultimately harm all parties involved, making goods more expensive and everyone poorer.

Germany urges against trade barriers as EU plans EV tariffs

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