<p>China’s top military body has come out with a code of conduct for the serving and retired professionals of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) that seemingly controls their social lives.</p>

<p>This set of rules was passed by Central Military Commission chaired by President Xi Jinping in an effort to further tighten control, the state-run PLA Daily newspaper reported on Monday.</p>

<p>Though little is known about these guidelines, the newspaper reports that the rules included “specific requirements and concrete demands in eight areas”.</p>

<p>“Political and disciplinary bodies will carry out their supervisory responsibilities, look out for and correct any problems that are in violation of the rules or the law,” the PLA Daily report said.</p>

<p>These rules will deal with Communist Party officials, government bodies and state-owned enterprises, social organisations, the media, academic and research bodies, ethnic minority and religious groups, foreign institutions, and family members, as well as people they meet online.</p>

<p>“[They will] hold any of the leading cadres who have been found responsible for dereliction of duty and instil a strong sense of party spirit among them and encourage them to practice self-discipline so that [the leading cadres] will live a clean social life publicly, and among their families and friends,” it said.</p>

<p>“[The goal] is that their social life is principled, has boundaries and is based upon rules.”</p>

<h2><strong>Unprecedented</strong></h2>

<p>Experts noted that these codes were “unprecedented” which was not even done during the “Mao Zedong’s times".</p>

<p>“This is an unprecedented move [for the PLA] to have a set of codes on social life for the senior cadres,” said Ni Lexiong, a professor of political science at Shanghai University of Political Science and Law told South China Morning Post (SCMP).</p>

<p>“But it has become necessary now [for the PLA] to keep up with changing times. Corruption has remained a problem for the military,” he was quoted as saying.</p>

<p>He said that these rules were necessitated due to the growing influence of PLA generals and retired officers on the local party and government leaders, businesses, and social bodies.</p>

<p>“For example, the consumption of heavy liquor was a tradition among some senior officers although it was banned after Xi became the head of the Central Military Commission in 2012,” he said.</p>

<p>“I believe it will be spelt out in the new rules again that this is not allowed.”</p>

<p>A professor from Guangzhou College of Commerce, Zeng Zhiping, told SCMP newspaper that the PLA has to implement the rules transparently or else it could face resistance from the generals.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China’s top military body has come out with a code of conduct for the serving and retired professionals of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) that seemingly controls their social lives.

China’s top military body has come out with a code of conduct for the serving and retired professionals of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) that seemingly controls their social lives. This set of rules was passed by Central Military Commission chaired by President Xi Jinping in an effort to further tighten control, the state-run PLA Daily newspaper reported on Monday. Though little is known about these guidelines, the newspaper reports that the rules included “specific requirements and concrete demands in eight areas”. “Political and disciplinary bodies will carry out their supervisory responsibilities, look out for and correct any problems that are in violation of the rules or the law,” the PLA Daily report said. These rules will deal with Communist Party officials, government bodies and state-owned enterprises, social organisations, the media, academic and research bodies, ethnic minority and religious groups, foreign institutions, and family members, as well as people they meet online. “[They will] hold any of the leading cadres who have been found responsible for dereliction of duty and instil a strong sense of party spirit among them and encourage them to practice self-discipline so that [the leading cadres] will live a clean social life publicly, and among their families and friends,” it said. “[The goal] is that their social life is principled, has boundaries and is based upon rules.” Unprecedented Experts noted that these codes were “unprecedented” which was not even done during the “Mao Zedong’s times". “This is an unprecedented move [for the PLA] to have a set of codes on social life for the senior cadres,” said Ni Lexiong, a professor of political science at Shanghai University of Political Science and Law told South China Morning Post (SCMP). “But it has become necessary now [for the PLA] to keep up with changing times. Corruption has remained a problem for the military,” he was quoted as saying. He said that these rules were necessitated due to the growing influence of PLA generals and retired officers on the local party and government leaders, businesses, and social bodies. “For example, the consumption of heavy liquor was a tradition among some senior officers although it was banned after Xi became the head of the Central Military Commission in 2012,” he said. “I believe it will be spelt out in the new rules again that this is not allowed.” A professor from Guangzhou College of Commerce, Zeng Zhiping, told SCMP newspaper that the PLA has to implement the rules transparently or else it could face resistance from the generals. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese military comes out with new rules to control social lives of top generals

China's top military body has come out with a code of conduct for the serving and retired professionals of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) that seemingly controls their social lives. This set of rules was passed by Central Military Commission chaired by President Xi Jinping in an effort to further tighten control.

Chinese military issues 'unprecedented' rules for top commanders

China's Xi Jinping healed progress in talks with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Beijing. The final engagement of a rare trip aimed at ensuring disputes between the superpowers do not spiral into conflict. The US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has wrapped up his two-day visit to China. Know more in this interview with the Director of the Nuclear Studies Institute at the American University, Peter Kuznick.

Blinken in China: The US supports a peaceful resolution of Taiwan Conflict

The US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg who is in Japan is pushing forward to establish green shipping corridors to reduce carbon emissions from the shipping industry. Now according to him, the the green shipping corridor is key to the decarbonization of the shipping industry and developing and strengthening partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.

Blinken in China: Xi Jinping says 'very good' progress made between the US and China

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed some thorny issues with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Describing the current state of the relationship Blinken said that there were no illusions about the US-China relations, which remained difficult but consequential. Blinken reiterated that the US was not de-coupling but de-risking from China while to allay suspicions over America's Taiwan relationship- the US Secy of State said that America was committed to the one China policy. Although both nations stressed on the importance of having good ties, despite multiple talks, nothing concrete seems to have materialised.

Antony Blinken wraps up rare 2-day China visit after talks with Xi Jinping

The American Secretary of State Antony Blinken is wrapping up his two-day visit to China today. On Monday Blinken held delegation-level talks with Xi Jinping. Xi Jinping has said China and the US have made more progress on a number of different issues and Blinken before departing for Washington said both nations need to stabilise their ties.

US Secretary of State meets Chinese leaders | Blinken in China

The American Secretary of State Antony Blinken is wrapping up his two-day visit to China today. On Monday Blinken held delegation-level talks with Xi Jinping. Xi Jinping has said China and the US have made more progress on a number of different issues and Blinken before departing for Washington said both nations need to stabilise their ties. Watch to know more in this interview with Foreign Policy Analyst Edward P Joseph.

Top diplomat's rare visit to China | Blinken in China

Today is the final day of the rare visit to Beijing, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Blinken earlier held a more than seven-and-a-half-hour talk with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi as tensions rise between the world's two largest economies, especially on Taiwan, trade, and human rights. Here are updates on the same from a news conference by the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken at the US Embassy in Beijing.

Breaking: 'We both need to stabilise our ties' | Blinken in China

Breaking: Blinken gives remarks after meeting President Xi Jinping | Latest

Today is the final day of the rare visit to Beijing, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Blinken earlier held a more than seven-and-a-half-hour talk with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi as tensions rise between the world's two largest economies, especially on Taiwan, trade and human rights.

Rare Beijing visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken | China Latest News

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has embarked on a new campaign to educate its members and leaders on Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.

China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping met Microsoft co-founder and billionaire business magnate Bill Gates in Beijing on Friday (June 16) in Beijing. Calling&nbsp;Gates an 'old friend', Xi told him that China had always placed its hopes in the American people. Notably, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has pledged $50 million to help China's efforts to battle certain diseases.</p>

<p>Bill Gates is one of the world's richest men and he is the latest in a string of Western business leaders to visit China after the country ended stringent Covid controls. These controls largely closed it off to the world for almost three years.</p>

<p>The visit is Gates' first to China in four years. The meeting included a rare sit-down between the Chinese head of state and a foreign business leader.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas: China's Xi Jinping plots a war against India over the Himalayas</strong></p>

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<p>"You are the first American friend I have met in Beijing this year," Xi told Gates in Beijing, according to the state-run People's Daily. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have always placed our hopes on the American people, and hoped for continued friendship between the peoples of the two countries," Xi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gates, in turn, said he was "very honoured to have this chance to meet", according to a recording shared by state broadcaster CCTV.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We've always had great conversations and we'll have a lot of important topics to discuss today," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was very disappointed I couldn't come during these last four years, and so it's very exciting to be back."&nbsp;</p>

<p>A state media readout also quoted Gates as praising China's efforts in "tackling the COVID-19 pandemic, setting a good example for the world".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting between Xi Jinping and Bill Gates came ahead of a visit to China by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The top US diplomat is going to China on Sunday. Beijing has said that during Blinken's China visit, the two countries "will exchange views on China-US relations and major international and regional issues of common interest".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China will state its position and concerns on China-US relations and resolutely safeguard its interests," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular briefing on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>USD 50 million to tackle diseases</strong></p>

<p>The meeting follows an announcement by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation on Thursday that it would give $50 million to support Chinese efforts to fight malaria and tuberculosis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-alleged-russian-lover-was-in-contact-with-kremlin-spy-report-597064">Bill Gates’ alleged Russian lover was in contact with a Kremlin spy: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The foundation has announced that it will renew a collaboration with Global Health Drug Discovery Institute (GHDDI). It is a Beijing-based group set up by Gates, the Beijing municipal government and Tsinghua University.</p>

<p>The Gates Foundation said in a statement that the money will support "efforts to improve health outcomes worldwide through lifesaving therapies for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria, which disproportionately affect the world's poorest"</p>

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Chinese President Xi Jinping met Microsoft co-founder and billionaire business magnate Bill Gates in Beijing on Friday (June 16) in Beijing. Calling Gates an 'old friend', Xi told him that China had always placed its hopes in the American people.

Chinese President Xi Jinping met Microsoft co-founder and billionaire business magnate Bill Gates in Beijing on Friday (June 16) in Beijing. Calling Gates an 'old friend', Xi told him that China had always placed its hopes in the American people. Notably, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has pledged $50 million to help China's efforts to battle certain diseases. Bill Gates is one of the world's richest men and he is the latest in a string of Western business leaders to visit China after the country ended stringent Covid controls. These controls largely closed it off to the world for almost three years. The visit is Gates' first to China in four years. The meeting included a rare sit-down between the Chinese head of state and a foreign business leader. Gravitas: China's Xi Jinping plots a war against India over the Himalayas × "You are the first American friend I have met in Beijing this year," Xi told Gates in Beijing, according to the state-run People's Daily.  "We have always placed our hopes on the American people, and hoped for continued friendship between the peoples of the two countries," Xi added. Gates, in turn, said he was "very honoured to have this chance to meet", according to a recording shared by state broadcaster CCTV. "We've always had great conversations and we'll have a lot of important topics to discuss today," he said. "I was very disappointed I couldn't come during these last four years, and so it's very exciting to be back." A state media readout also quoted Gates as praising China's efforts in "tackling the COVID-19 pandemic, setting a good example for the world". The meeting between Xi Jinping and Bill Gates came ahead of a visit to China by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The top US diplomat is going to China on Sunday. Beijing has said that during Blinken's China visit, the two countries "will exchange views on China-US relations and major international and regional issues of common interest". "China will state its position and concerns on China-US relations and resolutely safeguard its interests," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular briefing on Friday. USD 50 million to tackle diseases The meeting follows an announcement by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation on Thursday that it would give $50 million to support Chinese efforts to fight malaria and tuberculosis. Also Read | Bill Gates’ alleged Russian lover was in contact with a Kremlin spy: Report The foundation has announced that it will renew a collaboration with Global Health Drug Discovery Institute (GHDDI). It is a Beijing-based group set up by Gates, the Beijing municipal government and Tsinghua University. The Gates Foundation said in a statement that the money will support "efforts to improve health outcomes worldwide through lifesaving therapies for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria, which disproportionately affect the world's poorest" 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 meets Bill Gates, addresses him as an 'old friend'

<p>Microsoft’s co-founder Bill Gates on Wednesday arrived in China first time since 2019 and is expected to have a one-on-one meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The meeting could take place on Friday, and the agenda of the meeting is still unknown. Gates on Wednesday tweeted that he would meet with partners who had been working on global health and development challenges with the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation.</p>

<p>Gates quit Microsoft’s board in 2020 to focus on philanthropic works related to global health, education and climate change. He had earlier quit his executive role at the company in 2008.</p>

<h2><strong>Xi’s first meeting with foreign entrepreneur after&nbsp;long time</strong></h2>

<p>The meeting between Gates and Xi Jinping would mark the end of a prolonged period during which Xi refrained from meeting foreign private entrepreneurs and business leaders, mainly due to travel restrictions imposed by China amid the pandemic.</p>

<p>The last reported meeting between Xi and Gates took place in 2015 at the Boao Forum in Hainan province. However, in early 2020, Xi expressed his gratitude to Gates and the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation for their pledge of assistance to China in its fight against COVID-19, which included a $5 million donation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Was Bill Gates blackmailed?</strong></p>

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<p>While several foreign CEOs have visited China since its reopening earlier this year, their meetings have primarily been with government officials. For instance, Premier Li Qiang met with a group of foreign CEOs, including Apple's Tim Cook, in March, and Tesla's Elon Musk reportedly met with Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang last month.</p>

<h2><strong>White House not kept in loop?</strong></h2>

<p>Regarding Gates's visit, the White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, stated that she had limited information and was uncertain whether Gates had been in contact with the US administration or vice versa. She mentioned that Gates would provide details about his trip himself.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-alleged-russian-lover-was-in-contact-with-kremlin-spy-report-597064"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Bill Gates’ alleged Russian lover was in contact with a Kremlin spy: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Gates'&nbsp;visit precedes a long-awaited trip by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to China, scheduled for June 18-19. The purpose of Blinken's visit is to stabilise relations between the two largest economies in the world, which also happen to be strategic rivals. During a tense call between Blinken and China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Wednesday, Qin urged the United States to refrain from meddling in China's affairs and undermining its security.<br />
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Microsoft’s co-founder Bill Gates on Wednesday arrived in China first time since 2019 and is expected to have a one-on-one meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Microsoft’s co-founder Bill Gates on Wednesday arrived in China first time since 2019 and is expected to have a one-on-one meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The meeting could take place on Friday, and the agenda of the meeting is still unknown. Gates on Wednesday tweeted that he would meet with partners who had been working on global health and development challenges with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Gates quit Microsoft’s board in 2020 to focus on philanthropic works related to global health, education and climate change. He had earlier quit his executive role at the company in 2008. Xi’s first meeting with foreign entrepreneur after long time The meeting between Gates and Xi Jinping would mark the end of a prolonged period during which Xi refrained from meeting foreign private entrepreneurs and business leaders, mainly due to travel restrictions imposed by China amid the pandemic. The last reported meeting between Xi and Gates took place in 2015 at the Boao Forum in Hainan province. However, in early 2020, Xi expressed his gratitude to Gates and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for their pledge of assistance to China in its fight against COVID-19, which included a $5 million donation. Watch: Gravitas: Was Bill Gates blackmailed? × While several foreign CEOs have visited China since its reopening earlier this year, their meetings have primarily been with government officials. For instance, Premier Li Qiang met with a group of foreign CEOs, including Apple's Tim Cook, in March, and Tesla's Elon Musk reportedly met with Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang last month. White House not kept in loop? Regarding Gates's visit, the White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, stated that she had limited information and was uncertain whether Gates had been in contact with the US administration or vice versa. She mentioned that Gates would provide details about his trip himself. Also read: Bill Gates’ alleged Russian lover was in contact with a Kremlin spy: Report Gates' visit precedes a long-awaited trip by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to China, scheduled for June 18-19. The purpose of Blinken's visit is to stabilise relations between the two largest economies in the world, which also happen to be strategic rivals. During a tense call between Blinken and China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Wednesday, Qin urged the United States to refrain from meddling in China's affairs and undermining its security. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Bill Gates to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday

<p>The government of Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly been exerting pressure&nbsp;to boost the country's economy as Beijing is mulling a broad package of stimulus measures, Bloomberg reported citing people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Bloomberg quoted sources to report that after existing policies failed to sustain a rebound in the property market, China aimed at introducing a set of measures to support the ailing sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking on the condition of anonymity, the sources told the outlet that the measures are designed to support areas such as real estate and domestic demand. They also mentioned that interest rate reductions, supporting the real estate market, and more key areas are under consideration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, one person said that regulators are seeking to lower costs on outstanding residential mortgages and boost re-lending through the nation's policy banks. They want to ensure homes are delivered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as the news agency Reuters reported that China's central bank cut short-term borrowing costs on Tuesday to help restore confidence. The move signalled possible easing for longer-term rates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The plan is not final yet, and the State Council may discuss the policies as soon as this Friday. They might make some amends in the policies during the discussion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Larry Hu, who is the head of China economics at Macquarie Group Ltd, the rate cut signals Beijing's stance is turning more supportive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-samsung-electronics-executive-accused-of-stealing-secrets-for-china-chip-factory-603612">Former Samsung Electronics executive accused of stealing secrets for China chip factory</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by Bloomberg, Hu said that "policy is the only game changer" in the face of weak consumer and business confidence in the economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hu added, "The rate cut today sent a clear signal that policy would turn more supportive in the coming months, a significant shift from the tapering in stimulus since April."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>China's new loans in May miss forecasts</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters mentioned in its report that China's new bank loans picked up in May from the previous month, amid an economy-friendy policy being accommodated by the central bank. However, the signs of slowing momentum have raised expectations that more stimulus may be needed to sustain the recovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Analysts have said that the weaker-than-expected credit data could strengthen the case for policymakers to roll out more support steps, including a cut in the benchmark lending rate this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-searching-waters-where-north-korean-satellite-crashed-south-korea-603520">China searching waters where North Korean satellite crashed: South Korea</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: India-China relations hit an all-time low. Here's why&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>New bank lending rose to $190.18 billion in May, data from the People's Bank of China (PBOC) showed on Tuesday. The figures are up from April but missed analysts' estimates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the economists polled by Reuters, it was expected that new yuan loans would jump to 1.6 trillion yuan last month, versus 718.8 billion yuan in April and against 1.89 trillion yuan a year earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the news agency, Zhiwei Zhang, chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management, said in a note: "The credit growth is weak, which is not surprising as other economic indicators such as PMI and exports also sent consistent signals."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This explains why the PBOC cut the reverse repo rate this morning. It is a small step in the right direction. I expect more policy actions to follow in coming weeks," Zhang added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The government of Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly been exerting pressure to boost the country's economy as Beijing is mulling a broad package of stimulus measures, Bloomberg reported citing people familiar with the matter.

The government of Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly been exerting pressure to boost the country's economy as Beijing is mulling a broad package of stimulus measures, Bloomberg reported citing people familiar with the matter. Earlier this month, Bloomberg quoted sources to report that after existing policies failed to sustain a rebound in the property market, China aimed at introducing a set of measures to support the ailing sector. While speaking on the condition of anonymity, the sources told the outlet that the measures are designed to support areas such as real estate and domestic demand. They also mentioned that interest rate reductions, supporting the real estate market, and more key areas are under consideration. As quoted, one person said that regulators are seeking to lower costs on outstanding residential mortgages and boost re-lending through the nation's policy banks. They want to ensure homes are delivered. This comes as the news agency Reuters reported that China's central bank cut short-term borrowing costs on Tuesday to help restore confidence. The move signalled possible easing for longer-term rates. The plan is not final yet, and the State Council may discuss the policies as soon as this Friday. They might make some amends in the policies during the discussion. According to Larry Hu, who is the head of China economics at Macquarie Group Ltd, the rate cut signals Beijing's stance is turning more supportive. Also read: Former Samsung Electronics executive accused of stealing secrets for China chip factory As quoted by Bloomberg, Hu said that "policy is the only game changer" in the face of weak consumer and business confidence in the economy. Hu added, "The rate cut today sent a clear signal that policy would turn more supportive in the coming months, a significant shift from the tapering in stimulus since April." China's new loans in May miss forecasts Reuters mentioned in its report that China's new bank loans picked up in May from the previous month, amid an economy-friendy policy being accommodated by the central bank. However, the signs of slowing momentum have raised expectations that more stimulus may be needed to sustain the recovery. Analysts have said that the weaker-than-expected credit data could strengthen the case for policymakers to roll out more support steps, including a cut in the benchmark lending rate this month. Also read: China searching waters where North Korean satellite crashed: South Korea Watch: Gravitas: India-China relations hit an all-time low. Here's why × New bank lending rose to $190.18 billion in May, data from the People's Bank of China (PBOC) showed on Tuesday. The figures are up from April but missed analysts' estimates. According to the economists polled by Reuters, it was expected that new yuan loans would jump to 1.6 trillion yuan last month, versus 718.8 billion yuan in April and against 1.89 trillion yuan a year earlier. As quoted by the news agency, Zhiwei Zhang, chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management, said in a note: "The credit growth is weak, which is not surprising as other economic indicators such as PMI and exports also sent consistent signals." "This explains why the PBOC cut the reverse repo rate this morning. It is a small step in the right direction. I expect more policy actions to follow in coming weeks," Zhang added. (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 mulling broad stimulus to prop ailing real estate sector, boost economy: Report

Move over China, it is India which is the new superstar of the global economy. India is expected to be the fastest growing economy in this decade, that's what's the latest Nomura report said that its expects India to maintain a 6.6% average growth till 2030.

India: Leading light of the global economy, to replace China as World's growth engine

After the brutal clash at the Line of Actual Control in 2020 it's been four years since the military standoff on paper. India and China have completed disengagement and there have been a series of diplomatic talks. The 19th one took place in New Delhi on Wednesday there were demands and counter demands both sides showing intention to restore peace at the bottom. A day later Xi Jinping made comments that are making heads scratch in Washington Taipei and New Delhi.

China: We need to prepare for the worst-case scenarios

<p>Chinese leader Xi Jinping warned his top national security officials about "worst case" scenarios and asked them to prepare for "stormy seas" in Communist Party's effort to counter internal and "external threats". He also called for a greater state oversight on&nbsp;artificial intelligence as the technology becomes increasingly sentient.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The complexity and difficulty of the national security issues we now face have increased significantly," Xi said on Tuesday at a meeting of the party’s National Security Commission, Xinhua reported.</p>

<p>"We must adhere to bottom-line thinking and worst-case-scenario thinking, and get ready to undergo the major tests of high winds and rough waves, and even perilous, stormy seas," he added.</p>

<p>The developments come as Beijing faces a struggling economy and a perceived hostile international environment.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;World leaders lining up to meet Xi Jinping</strong></p>

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<p>Xi said that in the face of a "complex and grave" situation Beijing must accelerate the modernisation of its national security system and capabilities for "actual combat and practical use".</p>

<p>He also called for a push to the construction of a national security risk monitoring and early warning system.</p>

<p>The Chinese leader has made national security a key issue which embeds into almost every aspect of China’s governance.</p>

<p>He has expanded the concept of national security to cover everything from politics, economy, defence, culture and ecology to cyberspace. It extends from the deep sea and the polar regions to space, as well as big data and artificial intelligence.</p>

<p>At Tuesday’s meeting, Xi said China must proactively shape a "secured external environment" to better maintain the security of the country’s "opening up" and "promote the deep integration of development and security."</p>

<p>China has been tightening national security measures and putting more scrutiny on technology like generative artificial intelligence services.</p>

<p>Xi said the country needs to improve the level of network data and artificial intelligence security governance.</p>

<p>China under Xi has seen the almost-total eradication of civil society, scores of activists have fled the country and opposition to the government has been all but snuffed out.</p>

<p>In the far-western region of Xinjiang, human rights groups say more than a million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities are detained in what the United States and lawmakers in some Western countries have said amounts to genocide.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Chinese leader Xi Jinping warned his top national security officials about "worst case" scenarios and asked them to prepare for "stormy seas" in Communist Party's effort to counter internal and "external threats".

Chinese leader Xi Jinping warned his top national security officials about "worst case" scenarios and asked them to prepare for "stormy seas" in Communist Party's effort to counter internal and "external threats". He also called for a greater state oversight on artificial intelligence as the technology becomes increasingly sentient. "The complexity and difficulty of the national security issues we now face have increased significantly," Xi said on Tuesday at a meeting of the party’s National Security Commission, Xinhua reported. "We must adhere to bottom-line thinking and worst-case-scenario thinking, and get ready to undergo the major tests of high winds and rough waves, and even perilous, stormy seas," he added. The developments come as Beijing faces a struggling economy and a perceived hostile international environment. ALSO WATCH | World leaders lining up to meet Xi Jinping × Xi said that in the face of a "complex and grave" situation Beijing must accelerate the modernisation of its national security system and capabilities for "actual combat and practical use". He also called for a push to the construction of a national security risk monitoring and early warning system. The Chinese leader has made national security a key issue which embeds into almost every aspect of China’s governance. He has expanded the concept of national security to cover everything from politics, economy, defence, culture and ecology to cyberspace. It extends from the deep sea and the polar regions to space, as well as big data and artificial intelligence. At Tuesday’s meeting, Xi said China must proactively shape a "secured external environment" to better maintain the security of the country’s "opening up" and "promote the deep integration of development and security." China has been tightening national security measures and putting more scrutiny on technology like generative artificial intelligence services. Xi said the country needs to improve the level of network data and artificial intelligence security governance. China under Xi has seen the almost-total eradication of civil society, scores of activists have fled the country and opposition to the government has been all but snuffed out. In the far-western region of Xinjiang, human rights groups say more than a million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities are detained in what the United States and lawmakers in some Western countries have said amounts to genocide. (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.

Xi Jinping tells national security team to prepare for ‘worst case scenarios’, warns of ‘stormy seas’

China is facing a more complex and difficult security concern, President Xi Jinping has said this as he warns citizens to prepare for worst case and extreme scenarios.

China: Xi Jinping warns state security becoming complex, says 'more security challenges lie ahead'

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned that Beijing is facing more complex and difficult security concerns. He warned the citizens to prepare for worst-case and extreme scenarios amid deepening tensions with the United States and the European Union.

US-China flashpoints | World News | WION

<p>Chinese authoritarian impact forced one of the last remaining pro-democracy parties in Hong Kong to dissolve itself on Saturday. The Civic Party joined a growing list of organisations that have been disbanded as pro-Chinese elements in Hong Kong’s administrative set-up continue to crack down on dissent and democratic values in the polity.</p>

<p>Civic Party chairman Alan Leong told reporters that the dissolution of the party was a “writing on the wall” as there was no one to take over. No members of the Civic Party nominated themselves for the executive positions effectively making the outfit disbanded.</p>

<p>Thirty of the 31 members voted to disband, while one person chose to &nbsp;abstain.</p>

<h2><strong>Hong Kong’s Civic Party: Who were they?</strong></h2>

<p>The party was founded in 2006. It was composed mostly of professionals, lawyers and academics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Civic Party’s peak came in 2012 elections when it won six seats in the Hong Kong legislature. It was the city’s second-largest pro-democracy party after the Democratic Party.</p>

<h2><strong>Civic Party disbanded: Beijing’s crackdown after 2019 protests in spotlight</strong></h2>

<p>Several members of the Civic Party were charged with subversion under the sweeping national security law that was imposed by Beijing following massive 2019 protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 2019 protests called for political freedoms that were promised to the semi-autonomous territory after its handover from Britain in 1997.</p>

<p>The members of the party were accused of participating in an unofficial primary to pick up the best candidates for the legislative elections that would allow the pro-democracy camp to win a majority of seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities, however, claimed that the primary was aimed at subverting the government.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Hong Kong marks 25 years under China. But how did it come under British control?</strong></p>

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<p>In a written statement, party chairman Alan Leong thanked "all like-minded people who joined our long walk to democracy for different parts of the journey."</p>

<p>"Today, the Civic Party is bidding Hong Kong farewell,"&nbsp;he wrote. "We hope Hong Kong people will live in the moment with a hopeful and not too heavy heart. Live in truth and believe in tomorrow."</p>

<p>Since the national security law was passed, the city has undergone major changes to its political landscape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An overhaul of Hong Kong’s electoral system was made to ensure that only "patriots" loyal to China would be able to take office.</p>

<p>More than 200 people have been arrested for allegedly committing acts that Beijing claims endanger its national security.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-hammer-and-sickle-effect-in-hong-kong-517733">The hammer and sickle effect in Hong Kong</a></strong></p>

<p>Many pro-democracy political organisations in Hong Kong have already been disbanded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They include the 2019 protest organiser Civil Human Rights Front and the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, which was behind the annual Tiananmen Square vigil to mark the 1989 massacre in Beijing of pro-democracy activists by Chinese soldiers. The vigil has been banned for the last three years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Chinese authoritarian impact forced one of the last remaining pro-democracy parties in Hong Kong to dissolve itself on Saturday. The Civic Party joined a growing list of organisations that have been disbanded as pro-Chinese elements in Hong Kong’s administrative set-up continue to crack down on dissent and democratic values in the polity.

Chinese authoritarian impact forced one of the last remaining pro-democracy parties in Hong Kong to dissolve itself on Saturday. The Civic Party joined a growing list of organisations that have been disbanded as pro-Chinese elements in Hong Kong’s administrative set-up continue to crack down on dissent and democratic values in the polity. Civic Party chairman Alan Leong told reporters that the dissolution of the party was a “writing on the wall” as there was no one to take over. No members of the Civic Party nominated themselves for the executive positions effectively making the outfit disbanded. Thirty of the 31 members voted to disband, while one person chose to abstain. Hong Kong’s Civic Party: Who were they? The party was founded in 2006. It was composed mostly of professionals, lawyers and academics. Civic Party’s peak came in 2012 elections when it won six seats in the Hong Kong legislature. It was the city’s second-largest pro-democracy party after the Democratic Party. Civic Party disbanded: Beijing’s crackdown after 2019 protests in spotlight Several members of the Civic Party were charged with subversion under the sweeping national security law that was imposed by Beijing following massive 2019 protests. The 2019 protests called for political freedoms that were promised to the semi-autonomous territory after its handover from Britain in 1997. The members of the party were accused of participating in an unofficial primary to pick up the best candidates for the legislative elections that would allow the pro-democracy camp to win a majority of seats. Authorities, however, claimed that the primary was aimed at subverting the government. ALSO WATCH | Hong Kong marks 25 years under China. But how did it come under British control? × In a written statement, party chairman Alan Leong thanked "all like-minded people who joined our long walk to democracy for different parts of the journey." "Today, the Civic Party is bidding Hong Kong farewell," he wrote. "We hope Hong Kong people will live in the moment with a hopeful and not too heavy heart. Live in truth and believe in tomorrow." Since the national security law was passed, the city has undergone major changes to its political landscape. An overhaul of Hong Kong’s electoral system was made to ensure that only "patriots" loyal to China would be able to take office. More than 200 people have been arrested for allegedly committing acts that Beijing claims endanger its national security. ALSO READ | The hammer and sickle effect in Hong Kong Many pro-democracy political organisations in Hong Kong have already been disbanded. They include the 2019 protest organiser Civil Human Rights Front and the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, which was behind the annual Tiananmen Square vigil to mark the 1989 massacre in Beijing of pro-democracy activists by Chinese soldiers. The vigil has been banned for the last three years. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese repression forces Hong Kong’s last pro-democracy parties to disband itself

Russia's prime minister signed a set of agreements with China on Wednesday during a trip to Beijing, describing bilateral ties at an unprecedented high, despite criticism of their relationship in the West as the war in Ukraine drags on.

Russian PM: We stand together against West's agenda

<p>Even as the West disapproves of the flourishing ties between Russia and China, the two countries on Wednesday further deepened their strategic relationship during a visit by the Russian Prime Minister to Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping also took the opportunity to promise Beijing’s official support for Moscow’s “core interests.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a readout published by China’s Xinhua news agency, President Xi said that the two nations will “continue to provide each other with firm support on issues concerning each other's core interests and strengthen collaboration in multilateral arenas."</p>

<p>Russian PM Mikhail Mishustin is the highest-ranking Russian official visiting Beijing since the conflict in Ukraine started.</p>

<h2><strong>Ties with China at ‘unprecedented high level’: Russian PM</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian PM on Tuesday said that despite Western pushback, the ties between China and Russia were at an ‘unprecedented high level.’ The Russian leader also claimed that the two nations will reach the $200 billion annual trade turnover milestone ahead of schedule, an indication of the steep rise in Russia’s economic engagement with China in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.</p>

<p>The conflict has put the Russian economy under tremendous pressure, making Moscow economically more dependent on China than ever. Moscow is now counting on massive Asian oil markets in China and India to keep its economy up and running even as Western nations further pile sanctions on Russia-affiliated companies.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Jinping's proposal to Putin to block YouTube in Russia</strong></p>

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<p>"As our Chinese friends say, unity makes it possible to move mountains," the Russian PM said Wednesday. Talking about ties between Russia and China, he added, "They are characterised by mutual respect of each other's interests, the desire to jointly respond to challenges, which is associated with increased turbulence in the international arena and the pressure of illegitimate sanctions from the collective West."</p>

<h2><strong>New pacts signed between Russia and China</strong></h2>

<p>Several bilateral pacts were signed during the visit of the Russian PM to Beijing. Of many memorandums of understanding signed between the two parties, one was about deepening investment cooperation in trade services. Another pact was about the export of agricultural products to China, along with a separate pact on sports cooperation.</p>

<p>The bilateral trade has boomed between Russia and China since the conflict broke out in Ukraine, and the trend is expected to continue in 2023 as well. As per Reuters, Russia’s energy shipments to China are expected to further rise 40 per cent this year. In April, China’s exports to Russia also hit a record high, jumping 153 per cent&nbsp;from a year earlier to $9.6 billion.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-lavrov-says-g7-is-bent-on-double-containment-of-russia-and-china-594604"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;Russia's Lavrov says G7 is bent on "double containment" of Russia and China</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, China has also stepped up its engagement with European partners as it seeks to walk a fine line between Moscow and Brussels. Xi recently dispatched his special envoy to Ukraine and other European nations. China has also hosted top EU leaders over the past few months in order to boost economic ties with the EU amidst growing hostility with Washington DC.</p>

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Even as the West disapproves of the flourishing ties between Russia and China, the two countries on Wednesday further deepened their strategic relationship during a visit by the Russian Prime Minister to Beijing.

Even as the West disapproves of the flourishing ties between Russia and China, the two countries on Wednesday further deepened their strategic relationship during a visit by the Russian Prime Minister to Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping also took the opportunity to promise Beijing’s official support for Moscow’s “core interests.” According to a readout published by China’s Xinhua news agency, President Xi said that the two nations will “continue to provide each other with firm support on issues concerning each other's core interests and strengthen collaboration in multilateral arenas." Russian PM Mikhail Mishustin is the highest-ranking Russian official visiting Beijing since the conflict in Ukraine started. Ties with China at ‘unprecedented high level’: Russian PM The Russian PM on Tuesday said that despite Western pushback, the ties between China and Russia were at an ‘unprecedented high level.’ The Russian leader also claimed that the two nations will reach the $200 billion annual trade turnover milestone ahead of schedule, an indication of the steep rise in Russia’s economic engagement with China in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The conflict has put the Russian economy under tremendous pressure, making Moscow economically more dependent on China than ever. Moscow is now counting on massive Asian oil markets in China and India to keep its economy up and running even as Western nations further pile sanctions on Russia-affiliated companies. Watch: Jinping's proposal to Putin to block YouTube in Russia × "As our Chinese friends say, unity makes it possible to move mountains," the Russian PM said Wednesday. Talking about ties between Russia and China, he added, "They are characterised by mutual respect of each other's interests, the desire to jointly respond to challenges, which is associated with increased turbulence in the international arena and the pressure of illegitimate sanctions from the collective West." New pacts signed between Russia and China Several bilateral pacts were signed during the visit of the Russian PM to Beijing. Of many memorandums of understanding signed between the two parties, one was about deepening investment cooperation in trade services. Another pact was about the export of agricultural products to China, along with a separate pact on sports cooperation. The bilateral trade has boomed between Russia and China since the conflict broke out in Ukraine, and the trend is expected to continue in 2023 as well. As per Reuters, Russia’s energy shipments to China are expected to further rise 40 per cent this year. In April, China’s exports to Russia also hit a record high, jumping 153 per cent from a year earlier to $9.6 billion. Also Read | Russia's Lavrov says G7 is bent on "double containment" of Russia and China Meanwhile, China has also stepped up its engagement with European partners as it seeks to walk a fine line between Moscow and Brussels. Xi recently dispatched his special envoy to Ukraine and other European nations. China has also hosted top EU leaders over the past few months in order to boost economic ties with the EU amidst growing hostility with Washington DC. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Xi Jinping offers support to Moscow on 'core interests' as Russian PM hails 'unprecedented' ties with China

<p>Nearly two years ago, the Xi Jinping government in China started a purge operation against the tech sector of the country. Big names and companies such as Jack Ma, Alibaba and Tencent felt the heat before falling in line and accepting CCP's mandate. Fast forward now and it's the turn of the entertainment industry to be at the receiving end of Xi's wrath.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is an unusual spate of sudden cancellations or&nbsp;shutdowns of movie shows, festivals and other events happening in China, according to a Bloomberg report. The genesis of the situation, according to experts, lies in the recent controversy where a Chinese stand-up comedian and his joke brought the company that represented him into the firing line.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Xiaoguo fined $2 million&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Li Haoshi, known by his stage name House, during his comedy set in Century Theater in Beijing&nbsp;used a phrase associated with the&nbsp;People’s Liberation Army (PLA). His statement immediately went viral and attracted the attention of authorities. As the backlash grew,&nbsp;&nbsp;Shanghai Xiaoguo Culture Media, the company representing Li was forced to issue an apology to calm the situation.</p>

<p>However, the Chinese authorities did not take lightly to the alleged offence and the&nbsp;Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism fined a subsidiary of the firm, nearly $2 million. Additionally,&nbsp;$189,000 made by the company through two live shows done by Li were deemed&nbsp;“illegal gains” and the payment was frozen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-billionaire-jack-ma-is-living-in-tokyo-since-beijings-crackdown-on-technology-sector-report-538670"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Chinese billionaire Jack Ma is living in Tokyo since Beijing's crackdown on technology sector: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Later, Beijing police filed a case and opened an investigation into Li's performance saying it had&nbsp;“seriously insulted” the military and caused “bad social impact.”</p>

<h2><strong>Xi's authoritarian empire</strong></h2>

<p>Since then, there has been a crackdown across the Chinese entertainment sector. According to the publication, organisers of the scrapped events are issuing apologies while remaining blank on&nbsp;details or providing brief variations of "unforeseen circumstances". In some cases, they are citing&nbsp;“force majeure,” a legal term to waive liability in the event of circumstances outside a supplier’s control.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-china-tech-tensions-continue-588792"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US-China tech tensions continue</strong></a></p>

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<p>Kissaquo, a Japanese chorus group, influenced by Buddhism cancelled its recent show in the southern city of Guangzhou. A statement released on the band's official Weibo (China's Twitter alternative) account said the cancellation was ordered by the administration out of force majeure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What the Folkstival” - an outdoor concert that was to kick off last Saturday in the capital city of Beijing was canned at the eleventh hour, just as when concert-goers and performers had arrived at the stalls. The police reached the stage and announced the event was being postponed because of unforeseen reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China is a highly authoritarian state where anything said against the military or&nbsp;President Xi is regarded as crossing the red line.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Nearly two years ago, the Xi Jinping government in China started a purge operation against the tech sector of the country. Big names and companies such as Jack Ma, Alibaba and Tencent felt the heat before falling in line and accepting CCP's mandate.

Nearly two years ago, the Xi Jinping government in China started a purge operation against the tech sector of the country. Big names and companies such as Jack Ma, Alibaba and Tencent felt the heat before falling in line and accepting CCP's mandate. Fast forward now and it's the turn of the entertainment industry to be at the receiving end of Xi's wrath. There is an unusual spate of sudden cancellations or shutdowns of movie shows, festivals and other events happening in China, according to a Bloomberg report. The genesis of the situation, according to experts, lies in the recent controversy where a Chinese stand-up comedian and his joke brought the company that represented him into the firing line. Xiaoguo fined $2 million Li Haoshi, known by his stage name House, during his comedy set in Century Theater in Beijing used a phrase associated with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). His statement immediately went viral and attracted the attention of authorities. As the backlash grew, Shanghai Xiaoguo Culture Media, the company representing Li was forced to issue an apology to calm the situation. However, the Chinese authorities did not take lightly to the alleged offence and the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism fined a subsidiary of the firm, nearly $2 million. Additionally, $189,000 made by the company through two live shows done by Li were deemed “illegal gains” and the payment was frozen. ALSO READ | Chinese billionaire Jack Ma is living in Tokyo since Beijing's crackdown on technology sector: Report Later, Beijing police filed a case and opened an investigation into Li's performance saying it had “seriously insulted” the military and caused “bad social impact.” Xi's authoritarian empire Since then, there has been a crackdown across the Chinese entertainment sector. According to the publication, organisers of the scrapped events are issuing apologies while remaining blank on details or providing brief variations of "unforeseen circumstances". In some cases, they are citing “force majeure,” a legal term to waive liability in the event of circumstances outside a supplier’s control. WATCH | US-China tech tensions continue × Kissaquo, a Japanese chorus group, influenced by Buddhism cancelled its recent show in the southern city of Guangzhou. A statement released on the band's official Weibo (China's Twitter alternative) account said the cancellation was ordered by the administration out of force majeure. “What the Folkstival” - an outdoor concert that was to kick off last Saturday in the capital city of Beijing was canned at the eleventh hour, just as when concert-goers and performers had arrived at the stalls. The police reached the stage and announced the event was being postponed because of unforeseen reasons. China is a highly authoritarian state where anything said against the military or President Xi is regarded as crossing the red line. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Why are concerts, comedy shows and cultural events being cancelled in China?

<p>A British-Malaysian comedian was banned in China over the weekend after he made jokes about China and its censorship regime. Comedian Nigel Ng, popularly known as <strong>Uncle Roger</strong>, had his social media accounts banned on Chinese social media websites Weibo and Bilibili due to the “violation of relevant laws and regulations.” It is speculated that the ban was prompted by a promo of the show that Nigel Ng posted on YouTube and Twitter, which featured jokes about China’s surveillance state and its social credit score system.</p>

<h2><strong>Why did China&nbsp;ban&nbsp;Uncle Roger?</strong></h2>

<p>Ng shared the clip of his upcoming show on Tuesday with the caption, “Uncle Roger about to get cancelled.” The clip has so far generated views in millions across social media platforms. The video shows Ng saying “China is a good country,” upon learning that one of his audience members is from China’s southern Guangzhou province. He then says, “We have to say that now, correct? All their phones listening.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: China slams comedian for cracking a joke</strong></p>

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<p>He further says, “Long live President Xi”, before joking about his “credit score going up.” He then goes on to mention Taiwan, referring to it as “not a real country” and one which will “rejoin the motherland.” He then asks the Chinese member to heap praises upon him before the Chinese government, before saying, “Uncle Roger good comrades” and “Don’t make him disappear please.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interestingly, Ng’s full stand-up comedy show is scheduled to be released on June 4, the anniversary of the bloody 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, which is a highly politically sensitive date for Chinese authorities.</p>

<h2><strong>China’s ongoing crackdown on comics</strong></h2>

<p>Of late, the Chinese Communist Party seems to be closely watching&nbsp;comics,&nbsp;leading to a crackdown on individuals who are perceived to have breached political boundaries.</p>

<p><br />
Recently, Chinese comedian Li Haoshi faced severe consequences for a joke that vaguely alluded to the army, provoking a significant backlash from the authorities. As a result, the entertainment company he was affiliated with was fined over $2 million and prohibited from organising performances in major cities.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-no-joke-chinas-backlash-against-stand-up-stirs-fear-of-comedy-clampdown-594402"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;No joke: China`s backlash against stand-up stirs fear of comedy clampdown</strong></a></p>

<p>Furthermore, the police initiated an investigation into Li, which could potentially lead to his imprisonment. In response, Li has chosen to cancel all of his upcoming engagements, and his posting privileges on Weibo have been revoked.</p>

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A British-Malaysian comedian was banned in China over the weekend after he made jokes about China and its censorship regime. Comedian Nigel Ng, popularly known as Uncle Roger, had his social media accounts banned on Chinese social media websites Weibo and Bilibili due to the “violation of relevant laws and regulations.

A British-Malaysian comedian was banned in China over the weekend after he made jokes about China and its censorship regime. Comedian Nigel Ng, popularly known as Uncle Roger, had his social media accounts banned on Chinese social media websites Weibo and Bilibili due to the “violation of relevant laws and regulations.” It is speculated that the ban was prompted by a promo of the show that Nigel Ng posted on YouTube and Twitter, which featured jokes about China’s surveillance state and its social credit score system. Why did China ban Uncle Roger? Ng shared the clip of his upcoming show on Tuesday with the caption, “Uncle Roger about to get cancelled.” The clip has so far generated views in millions across social media platforms. The video shows Ng saying “China is a good country,” upon learning that one of his audience members is from China’s southern Guangzhou province. He then says, “We have to say that now, correct? All their phones listening.” Watch: Gravitas: China slams comedian for cracking a joke × He further says, “Long live President Xi”, before joking about his “credit score going up.” He then goes on to mention Taiwan, referring to it as “not a real country” and one which will “rejoin the motherland.” He then asks the Chinese member to heap praises upon him before the Chinese government, before saying, “Uncle Roger good comrades” and “Don’t make him disappear please.” Interestingly, Ng’s full stand-up comedy show is scheduled to be released on June 4, the anniversary of the bloody 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, which is a highly politically sensitive date for Chinese authorities. China’s ongoing crackdown on comics Of late, the Chinese Communist Party seems to be closely watching comics, leading to a crackdown on individuals who are perceived to have breached political boundaries. Recently, Chinese comedian Li Haoshi faced severe consequences for a joke that vaguely alluded to the army, provoking a significant backlash from the authorities. As a result, the entertainment company he was affiliated with was fined over $2 million and prohibited from organising performances in major cities. Also Read | No joke: China`s backlash against stand-up stirs fear of comedy clampdown Furthermore, the police initiated an investigation into Li, which could potentially lead to his imprisonment. In response, Li has chosen to cancel all of his upcoming engagements, and his posting privileges on Weibo have been revoked. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Comrade’ Uncle Roger gets banned on Chinese social media after making jokes on ‘good country’ China

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