The German Foreign Minister has called Xi Jinping a dictator. This comes days after Italy called the BRI a 'wicked project'. Are European Nations distancing themselves from China? Here's what Molly Gambhir has to say.

Gravitas: 'He's a Dictator' German FM's remarks on Xi trigger firestorm

As Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasises rooting out foreign espionage threats that the country faces, the Chinese government and authorities in many parts of the country are encouraging and 'educating' people on how to catch spies, reported Bloomberg.

The efforts have also led universities to bring their students into focus in this apparent push to hunt foreign spies.

The Bloomberg report talked about a 'propaganda blitz' targeted at university students that was akin to a 'crash course' in catching spies.

Videos shown to students and faculty at government-run Tsinghua University reportedly urged them to be a “defence line” against foreign forces.

A 'national-security themed garden party' was thrown by the Beijing University of Technology, said the report.

What's more, the students at Beihang University were reportedly asked to play an interactive game called Who's the Spy. Beihang University is an aeronautics institute which is under US sanctions due to its links with the Chinese military.

The push to encourage people to catch spies around them is wider. Police in China's Henan Province have asked citizens to quiz 'suspicious' neighbours on popular culture in order to test their patriotism.

In the month of May this year, Xi Jinping chaired a National Security Council meeting. During the meeting, the importance of 'extreme-scenario thinking' was emphasised.

The use of this term in the context of national security is interesting as the term was previously used in the context of natural disaster preparedness. The push to encourage people to catch spies has followed the meeting.

This is not the first time Chinese people have been encouraged to 'tell on' others. Former Chinese leader Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution was a very violent period in China's history. During the period, the public was encouraged to report the slightest hint of a friend or a relative possibly being linked to those conspiring to topple the Communist Party.

Bloomberg report mentioned that China offers incentives for reporting on spies. For every genuine case of a spy being successfully reported, a citizen can get up to 500,000 yuan ($68,160).

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As Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasises rooting out foreign espionage threats that the country faces, the Chinese government and authorities in many parts of the country are encouraging and 'educating' people on how to catch spies, reported Bloomberg.

As Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasises rooting out foreign espionage threats that the country faces, the Chinese government and authorities in many parts of the country are encouraging and 'educating' people on how to catch spies, reported Bloomberg. The efforts have also led universities to bring their students into focus in this apparent push to hunt foreign spies. The Bloomberg report talked about a 'propaganda blitz' targeted at university students that was akin to a 'crash course' in catching spies. Videos shown to students and faculty at government-run Tsinghua University reportedly urged them to be a “defence line” against foreign forces. A 'national-security themed garden party' was thrown by the Beijing University of Technology, said the report. What's more, the students at Beihang University were reportedly asked to play an interactive game called Who's the Spy. Beihang University is an aeronautics institute which is under US sanctions due to its links with the Chinese military. The push to encourage people to catch spies around them is wider. Police in China's Henan Province have asked citizens to quiz 'suspicious' neighbours on popular culture in order to test their patriotism. In the month of May this year, Xi Jinping chaired a National Security Council meeting. During the meeting, the importance of 'extreme-scenario thinking' was emphasised. The use of this term in the context of national security is interesting as the term was previously used in the context of natural disaster preparedness. The push to encourage people to catch spies has followed the meeting. This is not the first time Chinese people have been encouraged to 'tell on' others. Former Chinese leader Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution was a very violent period in China's history. During the period, the public was encouraged to report the slightest hint of a friend or a relative possibly being linked to those conspiring to topple the Communist Party. Bloomberg report mentioned that China offers incentives for reporting on spies. For every genuine case of a spy being successfully reported, a citizen can get up to 500,000 yuan ($68,160). You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Xi Jinping's focus on security is turning students into spy hunters: Report

All eyes are on the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's four-day trip to Russia. The visit focuses on increasing bilateral cooperation between the two nations global geopolitics issues.

China FM Wang Yi in Russia, Foreign Ministers of both countries hold first of many meetings

Chinese President is obsessed with security. This obsession is turning the Chinese civilians into spy hunters. The latest addition to the students' syllabus in China is raising concerns - 'A crash course on how to catch spies'.

Why is China's Xi Jinping obsessed with turning civilians into spy hunters?

Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed his desire to lower the enduring tensions between his nation and the United States and has called for peaceful coexistence between the two world powers.&nbsp;

Responding to a letter from two&nbsp;US Flying Tigers veterans, Harry Moyer and Mel McMullen, who fought for China during World War II, Xi said the two nations "should and must" achieve peaceful co-existence.

<h2>A shared history&nbsp;</h2>

Emphasising the shared history shared by the US and China, Xi, as per Chinese media reports, made references to the two countries and how they fought a common enemy — Japan, during the World War II and said that this common enemy helped form a "profound" friendship during that time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-summons-german-ambassador-over-berlins-remarks-on-xi-637412">China summons German ambassador over foreign minister's 'dictator' remarks on Xi</a>

"Looking to the future, China and the United States, as two major countries, bear more important responsibilities for world peace, stability and development," said the Chinese president.

"They should and must achieve mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation," he added.

<h2>Attempts at peace</h2>

Xi's statement comes at a time when both countries have been engaged in ongoing efforts to reduce tensions and re-establish communication channels.

Recent months have witnessed a series of meetings and talks between US and Chinese officials, where the two nations have aimed at reducing tensions and addressing various challenges in the bilateral relationship. This includes contact between the two military and the restoration of communication channels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-meets-chinas-vp-han-to-set-stage-for-future-xi-biden-meeting-637323">Blinken meets China's VP Han to set stage for future Xi-Biden meeting</a>

On Monday, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, while talking to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, said: "Currently, China-US relations face many difficulties and challenges."

"The world needs stable and healthy China-US relations," said the Chinese vice president, as reported by Reuters.

The Flying Tigers were an American Volunteer Group hired by the Republic of China to assist the nation in its fight against Japanese forces during World War II. The fighter group, known for their distinctive shark-faced planes, played a vital role in the war and are remembered in China for their bravery in defending against the Japanese.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed his desire to lower the enduring tensions between his nation and the United States and has called for peaceful coexistence between the two world powers.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed his desire to lower the enduring tensions between his nation and the United States and has called for peaceful coexistence between the two world powers. Responding to a letter from two US Flying Tigers veterans, Harry Moyer and Mel McMullen, who fought for China during World War II, Xi said the two nations "should and must" achieve peaceful co-existence. A shared history Emphasising the shared history shared by the US and China, Xi, as per Chinese media reports, made references to the two countries and how they fought a common enemy — Japan, during the World War II and said that this common enemy helped form a "profound" friendship during that time. Also read | China summons German ambassador over foreign minister's 'dictator' remarks on Xi "Looking to the future, China and the United States, as two major countries, bear more important responsibilities for world peace, stability and development," said the Chinese president. "They should and must achieve mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation," he added. Attempts at peace Xi's statement comes at a time when both countries have been engaged in ongoing efforts to reduce tensions and re-establish communication channels. Recent months have witnessed a series of meetings and talks between US and Chinese officials, where the two nations have aimed at reducing tensions and addressing various challenges in the bilateral relationship. This includes contact between the two military and the restoration of communication channels. Also read | Blinken meets China's VP Han to set stage for future Xi-Biden meeting On Monday, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, while talking to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, said: "Currently, China-US relations face many difficulties and challenges." "The world needs stable and healthy China-US relations," said the Chinese vice president, as reported by Reuters. The Flying Tigers were an American Volunteer Group hired by the Republic of China to assist the nation in its fight against Japanese forces during World War II. The fighter group, known for their distinctive shark-faced planes, played a vital role in the war and are remembered in China for their bravery in defending against the Japanese. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese President Xi says US and China 'should and must' achieve peaceful co-existence

China is offering crash courses on how to catch spies to its students. Is this vigilance or paranoia? What is Xi Jinping afraid of? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Xi's China obsessed with spies: Why is Beijing turning students into spy hunters?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Monday (September 18) on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the latest in a series of meetings aimed at reducing tensions between the world's two largest economies.

In a statement after the meeting, the US State Department said the talks involved "a candid and constructive discussion".&nbsp;The two agreed to maintain open lines of communication and discussed Russia's invasion of Ukraine, North Korea and the Taiwan Strait, the department added.

The talks between Blinken and Han could help set the stage for a meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year.

They followed 12 hours of meetings last weekend between White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Malta.

"The world expects us to responsibly manage our relationship," Blinken said in brief remarks at the beginning of his meeting with Han. "The United States is committed to doing just that," he added. 
"

From the perspective of the United States, face-to-face diplomacy is the best way to deal with areas where we disagree, and also the best way to explore areas of cooperation between us," Blinken said.

Blinken, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Biden climate envoy John Kerry have travelled to China this year to thaw relations and ensure continued communication between the two countries amid tensions that flared after the US military shot down a Chinese surveillance balloon that travelled over the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yellen-stresses-importance-of-us-china-ties-says-decoupling-economies-impossible-612979">Also read |&nbsp;Yellen criticises China's 'punitive' measures against US companies, but says decoupling 'impossible'</a>

Biden this month expressed disappointment that Xi had skipped a summit of Group of 20 leaders in India, but said he would "get to see him."

The next likely opportunity for Biden to hold talks with Xi is an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco in November, where US aides for months have hoped to stage such a meeting.

Neither Blinken nor Han in their remarks explicitly mentioned whether such a meeting would materialise.

"Currently, China-US relations face many difficulties and challenges," Han told Blinken, noting that China hoped the US would make efforts to implement the consensus reached by the two countries' leaders and promote the stable development of relations.

"The world needs stable and healthy China-US relations," Han said.

The US and China are at odds over issues ranging from Taiwan to trade, fentanyl and human rights. Critics of the Biden administration have questioned its strategy of engaging China, warning that a failure to push back on provocations, including the recent China-linked hacking of senior US officials' email, could embolden Beijing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-sees-shift-in-us-china-relationship-594858">Watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden sees shift in US-China relationship</a>

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Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Wray told a conference on Monday that China has a cyberespionage program so vast that it is bigger than all of its major competitors combined.

Ryan Hass, a China expert at the Brookings Institution, said the pace of high-level exchanges between Washington and Beijing suggested that efforts were "purposeful" and not just part of relationship management.

"I expect both sides are working to set the stage for a productive meeting between both leaders in November," Hass said. 
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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Monday (September 18) on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the latest in a series of meetings aimed at reducing tensions between the world's two largest economies.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Monday (September 18) on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the latest in a series of meetings aimed at reducing tensions between the world's two largest economies. In a statement after the meeting, the US State Department said the talks involved "a candid and constructive discussion". The two agreed to maintain open lines of communication and discussed Russia's invasion of Ukraine, North Korea and the Taiwan Strait, the department added. The talks between Blinken and Han could help set the stage for a meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year. They followed 12 hours of meetings last weekend between White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Malta. "The world expects us to responsibly manage our relationship," Blinken said in brief remarks at the beginning of his meeting with Han. "The United States is committed to doing just that," he added. " From the perspective of the United States, face-to-face diplomacy is the best way to deal with areas where we disagree, and also the best way to explore areas of cooperation between us," Blinken said. Blinken, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Biden climate envoy John Kerry have travelled to China this year to thaw relations and ensure continued communication between the two countries amid tensions that flared after the US military shot down a Chinese surveillance balloon that travelled over the United States. Also read | Yellen criticises China's 'punitive' measures against US companies, but says decoupling 'impossible' Biden this month expressed disappointment that Xi had skipped a summit of Group of 20 leaders in India, but said he would "get to see him." The next likely opportunity for Biden to hold talks with Xi is an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco in November, where US aides for months have hoped to stage such a meeting. Neither Blinken nor Han in their remarks explicitly mentioned whether such a meeting would materialise. "Currently, China-US relations face many difficulties and challenges," Han told Blinken, noting that China hoped the US would make efforts to implement the consensus reached by the two countries' leaders and promote the stable development of relations. "The world needs stable and healthy China-US relations," Han said. The US and China are at odds over issues ranging from Taiwan to trade, fentanyl and human rights. Critics of the Biden administration have questioned its strategy of engaging China, warning that a failure to push back on provocations, including the recent China-linked hacking of senior US officials' email, could embolden Beijing. Watch | US President Joe Biden sees shift in US-China relationship × Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Wray told a conference on Monday that China has a cyberespionage program so vast that it is bigger than all of its major competitors combined. Ryan Hass, a China expert at the Brookings Institution, said the pace of high-level exchanges between Washington and Beijing suggested that efforts were "purposeful" and not just part of relationship management. "I expect both sides are working to set the stage for a productive meeting between both leaders in November," Hass said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Blinken meets China's VP Han to set stage for future Xi-Biden meeting

China has summoned its German ambassador after the country's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called Chinese President Xi Jinping a dictator, Berlin has confirmed.

China has summoned its German ambassador after the country's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called Chinese President Xi Jinping a dictator, Berlin has confirmed. On September 14, Foreign Minister Baerbock spoke to Fox News where she talked about the ongoing war in Ukraine. "If Putin were to win this war, what sign would that be for other dictators in the world, like Xi, like the Chinese president? So therefore Ukraine has to win this war," Baerbock told the network. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a foreign ministry spokesman in Berlin confirmed that the envoy was summoned to the Chinese foreign ministry last Sunday over Baerbock's remarks. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's view on the remarks is not yet known. 'Strongly dissatisfied': China on Baerbock's remarks On Monday, the Chinese foreign minister said that it was "strongly dissatisfied" with Baerbock's remarks. "(The comments) are extremely absurd and are a serious infringement of China's political dignity and an open political provocation," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a daily news conference. Even though Germany and China are major trade partners, their ties have been affected as some officials in the German government have taken a harder line over issues ranging from human rights to Taiwan. Foreign Minister Baerbock has pushed for a more hawkish line and has called for a tougher stance and greater emphasis on human rights. On being asked about China's protests over her remarks during a visit to New York, Baerbock replied that she had "taken note" of them. Third time China summoned German envoy This was the third time that China summoned Germany's ambassador, AFP reported. In March this year, Beijing summoned the ambassador over German Education Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger's visit to Taiwan, the first cabinet-level German visit to the island in 26 years. In addition to this, Beijing summoned the German envoy following a G7 foreign ministers' statement about Taiwan in August last year, when Germany was holding the presidency of the group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China summons German ambassador over foreign minister's 'dictator' remarks on Xi

President Vladimir Putin will meet China's Xi Jinping for talks in Beijing in October, Russia said on Tuesday, Putin's first known trip abroad since an arrest warrant was issued against him over the deportation of children from Ukraine.

Nikolai Patrushev, a close Putin ally and the secretary of Russia's Security Council, said Russia and China should deepen cooperation in the face of the West's attempt to contain them both.

He was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying that the talks in Beijing would be "thorough", at a meeting in Moscow with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi.

Putin will attend the third Belt and Road Forum after an invitation by Xi during a high-profile visit to Moscow in March.

Days before that visit, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for Putin's arrest on suspicion of illegally deporting hundreds of children or more from Ukraine.

Moscow denies the allegations, and the Kremlin said the warrant was evidence of the West's hostility to Russia, which opened a criminal case against the ICC prosecutor and the judges who issued the warrant.

Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine early last year has triggered one of the deadliest European conflicts since World War Two and the biggest confrontation between Moscow and the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

Putin has pivoted towards China, and Xi has stood by him.

Chinese-Russian trade has soared since the invasion, and Russia has sold Asian powers, including China's greater volumes of the oil it can no longer sell to the West because of sanctions.

Putin last visited Beijing in February 2022, days before the invasion, where he and Xi announced a 'no limits' partnership. Moscow says this does not mean a military alliance, however.

<h2>China and Russia share outlook, boost trade</h2>

Putin and Xi share a broad world view, which sees the West as decadent and in decline, just as China challenges US&nbsp;supremacy in everything from technology to espionage and military power.

Trade between Russia and China soared 30 per cent&nbsp;in the first half of this year and will rise to more than $200 billion in 2023, Russian Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov said on a visit to China.

"We are actively developing investments, including in our large gas and petrochemical projects, where we actively use Chinese technologies," Reshetnikov said.

"We are strongly interested in transforming technological cooperation into investment cooperation, so that Chinese companies actively enter into these projects, invest in capital, and lend money, because the projects are capital-intensive and not all of them can be fully provided for by the Russian financial system."

The United States sees China as its gravest long-term "strategic competitor" and Russia as an "acute threat".

China has refrained from condemning Russia's operation against Ukraine or calling it an invasion, in line with the Kremlin, which casts the war as a "special military operation".

Earlier this year, CIA Director William Burns said Russia was becoming more and more dependent on China and was even at risk of becoming its "economic colony" in time.

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President Vladimir Putin will meet China's Xi Jinping for talks in Beijing in October, Russia said on Tuesday, Putin's first known trip abroad since an arrest warrant was issued against him over the deportation of children from Ukraine.

President Vladimir Putin will meet China's Xi Jinping for talks in Beijing in October, Russia said on Tuesday, Putin's first known trip abroad since an arrest warrant was issued against him over the deportation of children from Ukraine. Nikolai Patrushev, a close Putin ally and the secretary of Russia's Security Council, said Russia and China should deepen cooperation in the face of the West's attempt to contain them both. He was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying that the talks in Beijing would be "thorough", at a meeting in Moscow with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi. Putin will attend the third Belt and Road Forum after an invitation by Xi during a high-profile visit to Moscow in March. Days before that visit, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for Putin's arrest on suspicion of illegally deporting hundreds of children or more from Ukraine. Moscow denies the allegations, and the Kremlin said the warrant was evidence of the West's hostility to Russia, which opened a criminal case against the ICC prosecutor and the judges who issued the warrant. Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine early last year has triggered one of the deadliest European conflicts since World War Two and the biggest confrontation between Moscow and the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. Putin has pivoted towards China, and Xi has stood by him. Chinese-Russian trade has soared since the invasion, and Russia has sold Asian powers, including China's greater volumes of the oil it can no longer sell to the West because of sanctions. Putin last visited Beijing in February 2022, days before the invasion, where he and Xi announced a 'no limits' partnership. Moscow says this does not mean a military alliance, however. China and Russia share outlook, boost trade Putin and Xi share a broad world view, which sees the West as decadent and in decline, just as China challenges US supremacy in everything from technology to espionage and military power. Trade between Russia and China soared 30 per cent in the first half of this year and will rise to more than $200 billion in 2023, Russian Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov said on a visit to China. "We are actively developing investments, including in our large gas and petrochemical projects, where we actively use Chinese technologies," Reshetnikov said. "We are strongly interested in transforming technological cooperation into investment cooperation, so that Chinese companies actively enter into these projects, invest in capital, and lend money, because the projects are capital-intensive and not all of them can be fully provided for by the Russian financial system." The United States sees China as its gravest long-term "strategic competitor" and Russia as an "acute threat". China has refrained from condemning Russia's operation against Ukraine or calling it an invasion, in line with the Kremlin, which casts the war as a "special military operation". Earlier this year, CIA Director William Burns said Russia was becoming more and more dependent on China and was even at risk of becoming its "economic colony" in time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin and Xi to meet in Beijing in October, Russia says

China reacted angrily to the German foreign minister's Monday characterization of President Xi Jinping as a "dictator," calling the remark "an open political provocation" and "extremely absurd." Beijing is Berlin's main trading partner, but after months of internal debate about its policy, Germany released a new document in July to counter a more "assertive" China.

China lodges complaint over German FM's remarks on President Xi Jinping

China's top diplomat Wang Yi is in Russia for security talks. His visit comes after Vladimir Putin's meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un. Earlier this month, President Putin also said that he is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Russia Ukraine War: China sends Wang Yi on 4-day Russia visit for security talks

Russia Ukraine War: Xi pursuing settlement to Ukraine crisis with renewed vigour?

China's Defence Minister Li Shangfu is missing. He has not been seen in public since August 29. What explains his continued absence from the public? Watch the video to know more.

China | Li Shangfu, China's Defence Minister, facing investigation: Reports

The disappearance of China's defence minister, the latest in a string of&nbsp;upheavals in the country's top ranks, is stoking uncertainty about President Xi Jinping's rule as an internal security clampdown trumps international engagement.

The growing unpredictability could affect the confidence other countries place in the leadership of the world's second-biggest economy, diplomats and analysts say.

Defence Minister Li Shangfu, who has missed meetings including with at least one foreign counterpart since he was last seen in late August, is under investigation in a corruption probe into military procurement, Reuters reported on Friday.

Newly installed Foreign Minister Qin Gang vanished with scant explanation in July, the same month as an abrupt shake-up of the military's elite Rocket Force, which oversees China's nuclear arsenal.

As Xi, China's commander-in-chief has focussed inward, he caused concern among foreign diplomats this month by missing a Group of 20 summit in India, the first time he has skipped the global leaders' gathering in his decade in power.

Faced with the growing uncertainties, some diplomats and analysts are calling for a hard look at the true nature of Xi's regime.

"Clear-eyed assessments are needed - this isn't just a question of whether China is a partner or a competitor, it is a source of economic, political and military risk," said Drew Thompson, a former Pentagon official who is now a scholar at the National University of Singapore.

Due to a lack of transparency surrounding the changes, various explanations were plausible "and this feeds the crisis of confidence that is brewing around China," Thompson said.

China's Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Saturday.

<h2>Proximity isn't patronage</h2>

Regarding Defence Minister Li's disappearance and investigation, a ministry spokeswoman told reporters on Friday she was not aware of the situation. The State Council and Defence Ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

Since his appointment in March, Li has been the public face of China’s expanding military diplomacy, expressing concern over US&nbsp;military operations during a high-profile security conference in June and visiting Russia and Belarus in August.

He had been expected to host an international security meeting in Beijing in October and represent the People's Liberation Army (PLA) at a meeting in November of regional defence chiefs in Jakarta.

With corruption long permeating China's military and state institutions, some analysts and diplomats believe Xi's anti-graft crackdowns mark political purges across the Communist Party.

"Regardless of the reason... the sense that this could keep happening could have an impact on foreign actors' confidence in engaging with their Chinese counterparts," said Helena Legarda, lead analyst with the Mercator Institute for China Studies in Berlin.

The Li&nbsp;upheaval&nbsp;is unusual for its speed and its reach into Xi's hand-picked elites.

"This is all so sudden and opaque. One thing we can now see is that proximity does not equate to patronage in Xi's world," said Singapore-based security analyst Alexander Neill, an adjunct fellow with Hawaii's Pacific Forum think-tank.

<h2>Continuity risk</h2>

Although not in a direct command position, Li serves on Xi's seven-person Central Military Commission and is one of China's five state councillors, a cabinet position that outranks regular ministers. Some scholars believe he is close to General Zhang Youxia, who sits above him on the commission and is Xi's closest ally in the PLA.

Li, sanctioned by Washington in 2018 for an arms deal with Russia, shunned a meeting with US&nbsp;Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at Singapore's Shangri-la Dialogue security conference in June, where a handshake marked their closest interaction.

Austin and other US&nbsp;officials are keen to resume high-level talks between the two militaries regional tensions roil. But Beijing counters that it wants Washington to be less assertive in the Asia-Pacific.

Regional envoys say deeper Chinese military diplomacy is vital, particularly with the US&nbsp;but also with other powers, as China increasingly deploys forces around Taiwan - the democratically governed island it claims - and across disputed parts of the East and South China Seas.

If Li's fate "reflects Xi's increasingly inward focus, it is not good for those of us who want greater openness and lines of communications with China's military," said one Asian diplomat.

As the PLA has an unprecedented level of military engagements with Southeast Asian forces this year, the recent swift changes back in Beijing "spur speculation and some concern about the continuity of policy", said political scientist Ja Ian Chong at the National University of Singapore.

"A shake-up of the military at this time is likely to draw attention, given the heightened activity of the PLA near Taiwan and the East China Sea, as well as stepped-up paramilitary activity in the South China Sea, since such actions create a potential risk of accidents, escalation and crises," Chong said. 
&nbsp;

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The disappearance of China's defence minister, the latest in a string of upheavals in the country's top ranks, is stoking uncertainty about President Xi Jinping's rule as an internal security clampdown trumps international engagement.

The disappearance of China's defence minister, the latest in a string of upheavals in the country's top ranks, is stoking uncertainty about President Xi Jinping's rule as an internal security clampdown trumps international engagement. The growing unpredictability could affect the confidence other countries place in the leadership of the world's second-biggest economy, diplomats and analysts say. Defence Minister Li Shangfu, who has missed meetings including with at least one foreign counterpart since he was last seen in late August, is under investigation in a corruption probe into military procurement, Reuters reported on Friday. Newly installed Foreign Minister Qin Gang vanished with scant explanation in July, the same month as an abrupt shake-up of the military's elite Rocket Force, which oversees China's nuclear arsenal. As Xi, China's commander-in-chief has focussed inward, he caused concern among foreign diplomats this month by missing a Group of 20 summit in India, the first time he has skipped the global leaders' gathering in his decade in power. Faced with the growing uncertainties, some diplomats and analysts are calling for a hard look at the true nature of Xi's regime. "Clear-eyed assessments are needed - this isn't just a question of whether China is a partner or a competitor, it is a source of economic, political and military risk," said Drew Thompson, a former Pentagon official who is now a scholar at the National University of Singapore. Due to a lack of transparency surrounding the changes, various explanations were plausible "and this feeds the crisis of confidence that is brewing around China," Thompson said. China's Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Saturday. Proximity isn't patronage Regarding Defence Minister Li's disappearance and investigation, a ministry spokeswoman told reporters on Friday she was not aware of the situation. The State Council and Defence Ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Since his appointment in March, Li has been the public face of China’s expanding military diplomacy, expressing concern over US military operations during a high-profile security conference in June and visiting Russia and Belarus in August. He had been expected to host an international security meeting in Beijing in October and represent the People's Liberation Army (PLA) at a meeting in November of regional defence chiefs in Jakarta. With corruption long permeating China's military and state institutions, some analysts and diplomats believe Xi's anti-graft crackdowns mark political purges across the Communist Party. "Regardless of the reason... the sense that this could keep happening could have an impact on foreign actors' confidence in engaging with their Chinese counterparts," said Helena Legarda, lead analyst with the Mercator Institute for China Studies in Berlin. The Li upheaval is unusual for its speed and its reach into Xi's hand-picked elites. "This is all so sudden and opaque. One thing we can now see is that proximity does not equate to patronage in Xi's world," said Singapore-based security analyst Alexander Neill, an adjunct fellow with Hawaii's Pacific Forum think-tank. Continuity risk Although not in a direct command position, Li serves on Xi's seven-person Central Military Commission and is one of China's five state councillors, a cabinet position that outranks regular ministers. Some scholars believe he is close to General Zhang Youxia, who sits above him on the commission and is Xi's closest ally in the PLA. Li, sanctioned by Washington in 2018 for an arms deal with Russia, shunned a meeting with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at Singapore's Shangri-la Dialogue security conference in June, where a handshake marked their closest interaction. Austin and other US officials are keen to resume high-level talks between the two militaries regional tensions roil. But Beijing counters that it wants Washington to be less assertive in the Asia-Pacific. Regional envoys say deeper Chinese military diplomacy is vital, particularly with the US but also with other powers, as China increasingly deploys forces around Taiwan - the democratically governed island it claims - and across disputed parts of the East and South China Seas. If Li's fate "reflects Xi's increasingly inward focus, it is not good for those of us who want greater openness and lines of communications with China's military," said one Asian diplomat. As the PLA has an unprecedented level of military engagements with Southeast Asian forces this year, the recent swift changes back in Beijing "spur speculation and some concern about the continuity of policy", said political scientist Ja Ian Chong at the National University of Singapore. "A shake-up of the military at this time is likely to draw attention, given the heightened activity of the PLA near Taiwan and the East China Sea, as well as stepped-up paramilitary activity in the South China Sea, since such actions create a potential risk of accidents, escalation and crises," Chong said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Upheavals in Xi Jinping's world spread concern about China's diplomacy, erode confidence

China's Defence Minister Li Shangfu is missing. He has not been seen in public since August 29. China says it is not aware of the situation. Vikram Chandra tells you what could possibly have happened to Li in Xi Jinping's China.

China: Defence Minsiter Li Shangfu missing, country says 'not aware of the situation'

China's Defence Minister Li Shangfu is missing; Here's what could have happened to Li | This World

The Chinese Foreign Minister then it was the PLA commanders and now it is China's Defence Minister. People in China commanding top posts can disappear anytime at the whims and fancies.

The tale of Xi Jinping's disappearing cabinet, Li Shangfu absent from military meeting

Has Xi Jinping fallen out favour within the CCP? The mysterious disappearances of his loyalists has led to speculation whether the CCP elite is trying to weaken the Chinese President. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping in trouble? Has CCP's top leadership turned against Xi?

Xi Jinping’s decision to skip the G20 Summit in India has sort of created a negative perception of the Chinese leader and the success of the meet has made Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi the clear winner, British economist Jim O'Neill, who coined the acronym BRIC (now BRICS), said.

He said that the successful completion of the summit, which culminated in the joint New Delhi declaration, has overshadowed G7 and the BRICS.

The economist further said that G20 declaration could be the first step in a stronger concerted effort to address global issues, asserting that Modi now looks more like a ''visionary statesman'' than Xi.

“The New Delhi Leaders' Declaration has offered further confirmation that the G20 is the only body with the scope and legitimacy to offer truly global solutions to global problems, and neither the BRICS nor the G7 has the credibility or the capacity to tackle these challenges ranging from climate change to the war in Ukraine and economic stability among other matters,” he said in a write-up on the 'Project Syndicate'.

<h2>China-India rift further deepened&nbsp;</h2>

Jim O'Neill noted that Xi’s absence at the New Delhi summit has further deepened the rift between China and India, and could possibly undermine the BRICS, which recently admitted new members.

“Many speculate that Xi skipped the summit in order to snub India – one of China’s longstanding rivals – and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Whatever the motive, his decision had the effect of undermining the significance of the recent BRICS meeting, which many saw as a victory for China,” he said.

He also noted that the lack of Indo-Chinese solidarity will be a major stumbling block for the new BRICS.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-geopolitics-of-g20-summit-635708">The Geopolitics of G20 Summit</a>

<h2>Xi has to reach out to Modi</h2>

“Now, Xi’s absence from the G20 summit has deepened the divide between the two countries. If Xi wants to convince us otherwise, he will need to reach out to Modi. As matters stand, the success of the G20 meeting makes Modi the clear winner in this season of summitry. Perceptions matter, and right now he looks more like a visionary statesman than Xi does,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-france-and-uk-refuse-to-lift-sanctions-on-iran-under-jcpoa-636069">Germany, France and UK refuse to lift sanctions on Iran under JCPOA</a>

The G20 Summit under India’s presidency was historic considering the fact that the African Union was included in the G20 fold, a move initiated by India, and the declaration of the ambitious India-Middle East-EU trade corridor which is being pegged as a countermeasure to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Xi Jinping’s decision to skip the G20 Summit in India has sort of created a negative perception of the Chinese leader and the success of the meet has made Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi the clear winner, British economist Jim O'Neill, who coined the acronym BRIC (now BRICS), said.

Xi Jinping’s decision to skip the G20 Summit in India has sort of created a negative perception of the Chinese leader and the success of the meet has made Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi the clear winner, British economist Jim O'Neill, who coined the acronym BRIC (now BRICS), said. He said that the successful completion of the summit, which culminated in the joint New Delhi declaration, has overshadowed G7 and the BRICS. The economist further said that G20 declaration could be the first step in a stronger concerted effort to address global issues, asserting that Modi now looks more like a ''visionary statesman'' than Xi. “The New Delhi Leaders' Declaration has offered further confirmation that the G20 is the only body with the scope and legitimacy to offer truly global solutions to global problems, and neither the BRICS nor the G7 has the credibility or the capacity to tackle these challenges ranging from climate change to the war in Ukraine and economic stability among other matters,” he said in a write-up on the 'Project Syndicate'. China-India rift further deepened Jim O'Neill noted that Xi’s absence at the New Delhi summit has further deepened the rift between China and India, and could possibly undermine the BRICS, which recently admitted new members. “Many speculate that Xi skipped the summit in order to snub India – one of China’s longstanding rivals – and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Whatever the motive, his decision had the effect of undermining the significance of the recent BRICS meeting, which many saw as a victory for China,” he said. He also noted that the lack of Indo-Chinese solidarity will be a major stumbling block for the new BRICS. Also read | The Geopolitics of G20 Summit Xi has to reach out to Modi “Now, Xi’s absence from the G20 summit has deepened the divide between the two countries. If Xi wants to convince us otherwise, he will need to reach out to Modi. As matters stand, the success of the G20 meeting makes Modi the clear winner in this season of summitry. Perceptions matter, and right now he looks more like a visionary statesman than Xi does,” he added. Also read | Germany, France and UK refuse to lift sanctions on Iran under JCPOA The G20 Summit under India’s presidency was historic considering the fact that the African Union was included in the G20 fold, a move initiated by India, and the declaration of the ambitious India-Middle East-EU trade corridor which is being pegged as a countermeasure to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China’s Xi snubbing G20 Summit a costly mistake, makes India the clear winner: Economist who coined BRIC

Where is China's Defence Minister? Reports say Li Shangfu was last seen in public on August 29. This comes after PLA launched an inquiry into hardware procurement. Li was reportedly the head of equipment department from 2017 to 2022.

Gravitas: Is Xi Jinping eliminating his rivals? Where is China's Defence Minister Li Shangfu?

After the case of China's missing foreign minister, now reports of Chinese Defence minister missing are surfacing. The United States ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel raised concerns about how Li Shangfu has not been seen in public for the last two weeks.

First Foreign Minister, now Chinese Defence Minister goes missing

Chinese President Xi Jinping conducted an inspection of the 78th Group Army in the country's northeastern region, stressing the need to comprehensively enhance the combat readiness of China's armed forces. This inspection&nbsp;by Xi, who serves as the general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, points out several crucial aspects of China's military strategy and preparedness.

China has recently engaged in renewed military manoeuvres and demonstrations of strength in response to what it perceives are external threats, particularly from the United States and its allies.

As tensions rise, Beijing appears to be flexing its military muscle to convey political messages and assert its presence on the global stage.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-how-diplomacy-of-modis-bharat-pulled-off-african-unions-inclusion-634443">G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion</a>

During his visit to the 78th Group Army, President Xi took the opportunity to meet with representatives of the group army and commend the military and armed police forces for their swift and courageous involvement in disaster relief operations when floods struck the northern and northeastern regions of China.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-sherpas-herculean-effort-200-hours-300-meetings-culminate-in-delhi-consensus-634428">G20 sherpa's herculean effort: 200 hours, 300 meetings culminate in Delhi consensus</a>

<h2>Enhancing combat preparedness</h2>

President Xi also stressed on the necessity of improving the level of combat preparedness within the military. To achieve this goal, he called for intensified training in key and challenging subjects and the development of new combat capabilities.

Watch | G20 Summit 2023: How India forged consensus on declaration

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In addition to combat readiness, President Xi spoke of the significance of strengthening the Party building. He also laid emphasis on maintaining a high level of integrity and unity among military personnel for ensuring stability and security.

It is worth noting that these actions align with China's broader efforts to consolidate its military strength and cohesion.

<h2>China's pursuit of military modernisation</h2>

China has also been pushing for military modernisation. The country has been intensifying its military exercises and drills, showcasing its growing military capabilities.

"We need to push for new equipment and new forces to accelerate forming combat capabilities and integrate into the combat system," Xi told the Peoples Liberation Army Air Force's western theatre command earlier.

<h2>US-China rivalry&nbsp;</h2>

The United States has also been expanding its regional deployments and strengthening ties with allies. This has prompted calls from Chinese officials for caution near China's coasts. The new directives by Xi speak of China's commitment to enhancing its military preparedness and modernisation efforts, underscoring the evolving dynamics in the region.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping conducted an inspection of the 78th Group Army in the country's northeastern region, stressing the need to comprehensively enhance the combat readiness of China's armed forces.

Chinese President Xi Jinping conducted an inspection of the 78th Group Army in the country's northeastern region, stressing the need to comprehensively enhance the combat readiness of China's armed forces. This inspection by Xi, who serves as the general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, points out several crucial aspects of China's military strategy and preparedness. China has recently engaged in renewed military manoeuvres and demonstrations of strength in response to what it perceives are external threats, particularly from the United States and its allies. As tensions rise, Beijing appears to be flexing its military muscle to convey political messages and assert its presence on the global stage. Also Read | G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion During his visit to the 78th Group Army, President Xi took the opportunity to meet with representatives of the group army and commend the military and armed police forces for their swift and courageous involvement in disaster relief operations when floods struck the northern and northeastern regions of China. Also Read | G20 sherpa's herculean effort: 200 hours, 300 meetings culminate in Delhi consensus Enhancing combat preparedness President Xi also stressed on the necessity of improving the level of combat preparedness within the military. To achieve this goal, he called for intensified training in key and challenging subjects and the development of new combat capabilities. Watch | G20 Summit 2023: How India forged consensus on declaration × In addition to combat readiness, President Xi spoke of the significance of strengthening the Party building. He also laid emphasis on maintaining a high level of integrity and unity among military personnel for ensuring stability and security. It is worth noting that these actions align with China's broader efforts to consolidate its military strength and cohesion. China's pursuit of military modernisation China has also been pushing for military modernisation. The country has been intensifying its military exercises and drills, showcasing its growing military capabilities. "We need to push for new equipment and new forces to accelerate forming combat capabilities and integrate into the combat system," Xi told the Peoples Liberation Army Air Force's western theatre command earlier. US-China rivalry The United States has also been expanding its regional deployments and strengthening ties with allies. This has prompted calls from Chinese officials for caution near China's coasts. The new directives by Xi speak of China's commitment to enhancing its military preparedness and modernisation efforts, underscoring the evolving dynamics in the region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Xi Jinping elevates military preparedness amid growing geopolitical tensions

Italy, the G7 member to join China's Belt and Road Initiative, is dumping Xi Jinping's dream project. It is the ultimate humiliation for Xi, also, what appears to be the start of the end of China's road to nowhere and its dream of global dominance. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: China's Xi Jinping snubbed as Italy dumps BRI

Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday (September 7) visited the flood-stricken regions in a rural part of the northeastern part of the nation, state-run CGTN reported, by sharing a video in which he can be seen speaking to the locals.&nbsp;

Xi met with the villagers in the city of Shangzhi, which is in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The state media reported that he visited the village of Longwangmiao and walked into the fields to check the impact of the floods on the rice crops. Longwangmiao was battered by remnants of the super typhoon Doksuri.&nbsp;

The Chinese leader also inspected the work on the restoration of damaged houses and infrastructure while walking along the streets. He pushed the villagers to bolster their confidence to overcome difficulties as he visited their homes to learn about their losses and the supply of daily necessities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/southern-china-drenched-many-flights-cancelled-as-rain-storms-pound-region-633371">Southern China drenched, many flights cancelled as rain storms pound region</a>&nbsp;

In the last few weeks, record rainfall battered vast swathes of northern China, flooding cities and farmlands unused to powerful storms more common in the south. Xi expressed the hope that they will soon be able to resume normal work and life.&nbsp;

Xi's visit attracted eyeballs as he has snubbed global summits this week. He skipped an Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Indonesia this week and also missed the G20 Summit in New Delhi, a chance to meet with US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

He, however, did attend a meeting in late August with leaders of the BRICS group of major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - in South Africa.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-delegation-led-by-vice-premier-to-visit-north-korea-state-media-says-633338">Chinese delegation led by vice premier to visit North Korea, state media says</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Can India amplify the voice of the global south?&nbsp;

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As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Alfred Wu, who is an associate professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, said that Xi's speed in visiting disaster-stricken areas in China has usually been much slower than his immediate predecessors Hu Jintao and Jiang Zemin, a possible consequence of Xi's centralisation of power.&nbsp;

"These delays are common in Xi's regime, it is not a good look for him. We know that the floods started in July, but he probably got the information late, and then in August he was busy with BRICS, so only now has his agenda cleared," Wu said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday (September 7) visited the flood-stricken regions in a rural part of the northeastern part of the nation, state-run CGTN reported, by sharing a video in which he can be seen speaking to the locals.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday (September 7) visited the flood-stricken regions in a rural part of the northeastern part of the nation, state-run CGTN reported, by sharing a video in which he can be seen speaking to the locals. Xi met with the villagers in the city of Shangzhi, which is in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The state media reported that he visited the village of Longwangmiao and walked into the fields to check the impact of the floods on the rice crops. Longwangmiao was battered by remnants of the super typhoon Doksuri. The Chinese leader also inspected the work on the restoration of damaged houses and infrastructure while walking along the streets. He pushed the villagers to bolster their confidence to overcome difficulties as he visited their homes to learn about their losses and the supply of daily necessities. Also read: Southern China drenched, many flights cancelled as rain storms pound region In the last few weeks, record rainfall battered vast swathes of northern China, flooding cities and farmlands unused to powerful storms more common in the south. Xi expressed the hope that they will soon be able to resume normal work and life. Xi's visit attracted eyeballs as he has snubbed global summits this week. He skipped an Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Indonesia this week and also missed the G20 Summit in New Delhi, a chance to meet with US President Joe Biden. He, however, did attend a meeting in late August with leaders of the BRICS group of major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - in South Africa. Also read: Chinese delegation led by vice premier to visit North Korea, state media says Watch: Can India amplify the voice of the global south? × As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Alfred Wu, who is an associate professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, said that Xi's speed in visiting disaster-stricken areas in China has usually been much slower than his immediate predecessors Hu Jintao and Jiang Zemin, a possible consequence of Xi's centralisation of power. "These delays are common in Xi's regime, it is not a good look for him. We know that the floods started in July, but he probably got the information late, and then in August he was busy with BRICS, so only now has his agenda cleared," Wu said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Snubbing global summits, Xi Jinping visits flood-stricken area in northeast China

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