US Prsident Joe Biden on Tuesday denied a media report that Chinese President Xi Jinping turned down an offer last week for a face-to-face meeting.

The Financial Times cited multiple people briefed on a 90-minute call between the two leaders last week as saying Xi did not take Biden up on the offer and instead insisted that Washington adopt a less strident tone toward Beijing.

"It's not true," Biden said when asked by reporters if he was disappointed that Xi did not want to meet with him.

Jake Sullivan, Biden's National Security Advisor said earlier on Tuesday that the report was "not an accurate portrayal of the call. Period"

A source who was among those briefed on the call confirmed the report was accurate.

"Xi apparently intimated that the tone and atmosphere of the relationship needed to be improved first," the source told Reuters.

There was no immediate response from Chinese embassy in Washington.

The Financial Times quoted one of its sources as saying Biden had floated the summit as one of several possibilities for follow-on engagement with Xi, and he had not expected an immediate response.

It cited one US official as saying that while Xi did not engage with the idea of a summit, the White House believed that was partly due to concerns about COVID-19.

The G20 summit in Italy in October has been talked about as a possible venue for a face-to-face meeting, but Xi has not left China since the outbreak of the pandemic early last year.

In his statement, Sullivan added: "As we’ve said, the Presidents discussed the importance of being able to have private discussions between the two leaders, and we’re going to respect that."

The call between Biden and Xi was their first in seven months and they discussed the need to ensure that competition between the world's two largest economies does not veer into conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Prsident Joe Biden on Tuesday denied a media report that Chinese President Xi Jinping turned down an offer last week for a face-to-face meeting. The Financial Times cited multiple people briefed on a 90-minute call between the two leaders last week as saying Xi did not take Biden up on the offer and instead insisted that Washington adopt a less strident tone toward Beijing.

US Prsident Joe Biden on Tuesday denied a media report that Chinese President Xi Jinping turned down an offer last week for a face-to-face meeting. The Financial Times cited multiple people briefed on a 90-minute call between the two leaders last week as saying Xi did not take Biden up on the offer and instead insisted that Washington adopt a less strident tone toward Beijing. "It's not true," Biden said when asked by reporters if he was disappointed that Xi did not want to meet with him. Jake Sullivan, Biden's National Security Advisor said earlier on Tuesday that the report was "not an accurate portrayal of the call. Period" A source who was among those briefed on the call confirmed the report was accurate. "Xi apparently intimated that the tone and atmosphere of the relationship needed to be improved first," the source told Reuters. There was no immediate response from Chinese embassy in Washington. The Financial Times quoted one of its sources as saying Biden had floated the summit as one of several possibilities for follow-on engagement with Xi, and he had not expected an immediate response. It cited one US official as saying that while Xi did not engage with the idea of a summit, the White House believed that was partly due to concerns about COVID-19. The G20 summit in Italy in October has been talked about as a possible venue for a face-to-face meeting, but Xi has not left China since the outbreak of the pandemic early last year. In his statement, Sullivan added: "As we’ve said, the Presidents discussed the importance of being able to have private discussions between the two leaders, and we’re going to respect that." The call between Biden and Xi was their first in seven months and they discussed the need to ensure that competition between the world's two largest economies does not veer into conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden says Xi Jinping did not turn down meeting offer

US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping got on a 90-minute call. The two were talking for the first time in 7 months, and for the 2nd time since Biden's inauguration. Reports say Biden requested the call. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: Biden dials Xi Jinping for the first time in 7 months

Strategic oil reserves are used to smoothen supply disruptions during emergencies. But China is using it to bring down oil prices. What explains Beijing's new policy? How did the markets react? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China announces sale of strategic oil reserves

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will&nbsp;attend&nbsp;the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO heads of state summit virtually.

The summit will take place from September 16&nbsp;to 17&nbsp;in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe and will be in hybrid mode.

It is expected that&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping will also be present virtually. Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Russian President Putin, and other central Asian countries will be present in person.&nbsp;

Tajikistan is chair of the grouping which has eight&nbsp;member states: Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and four&nbsp;central Asian countries, Tajikistan, &nbsp;Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan.&nbsp;

The meeting assumes significance since it happens in the backdrop of the Afghanistan crisis, which saw the American forces leaving the country after 20 years and the return of the Taliban.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The last two&nbsp;months have seen a number of meetings of SCO foreign, defence, and National security advisors meeting in Dushanbe.&nbsp;

Earlier, speaking to Khovar National News Agency, President Rahmon pointing out the key focus areas said, "the main task is to strengthen the potential and international position of our organization" and amid the covid pandemic "it is extremely important to build up trade and economic cooperation within the SCO space."&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see if there will be any Afghan participation, given Afghanistan is an observer member country of the grouping, and ideally, if a change of regime had not happened in Kabul, Ashraf Ghani would have represented the country.

Ghani had given confirmation of his presence, sources told WION. Ashraf Ghani, President of Afghanistan had left the country on&nbsp;August 15 after the national capital Kabul fell to the Taliban. A Taliban delegation's presence at the multilateral event could see further movement towards the recognition of the group in Kabul.

SCO as a grouping occupies 60 per cent of the Eurasian continent, which is over 34 million square kilometers on which three&nbsp;billion people,&nbsp;&nbsp;that is almost half of the world's population.

Mongolia, Belarus, Afghanistan, and Iran are its observers in the grouping, while, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Cambodia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka received dialogue partner status.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO heads of state summit virtually. The summit will take place from September 16 to 17 in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe and will be in hybrid mode.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO heads of state summit virtually. The summit will take place from September 16 to 17 in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe and will be in hybrid mode. It is expected that Chinese President Xi Jinping will also be present virtually. Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Russian President Putin, and other central Asian countries will be present in person. Tajikistan is chair of the grouping which has eight member states: Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and four central Asian countries, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. The meeting assumes significance since it happens in the backdrop of the Afghanistan crisis, which saw the American forces leaving the country after 20 years and the return of the Taliban. The last two months have seen a number of meetings of SCO foreign, defence, and National security advisors meeting in Dushanbe. Earlier, speaking to Khovar National News Agency, President Rahmon pointing out the key focus areas said, "the main task is to strengthen the potential and international position of our organization" and amid the covid pandemic "it is extremely important to build up trade and economic cooperation within the SCO space." It will be interesting to see if there will be any Afghan participation, given Afghanistan is an observer member country of the grouping, and ideally, if a change of regime had not happened in Kabul, Ashraf Ghani would have represented the country. Ghani had given confirmation of his presence, sources told WION. Ashraf Ghani, President of Afghanistan had left the country on August 15 after the national capital Kabul fell to the Taliban. A Taliban delegation's presence at the multilateral event could see further movement towards the recognition of the group in Kabul. SCO as a grouping occupies 60 per cent of the Eurasian continent, which is over 34 million square kilometers on which three billion people, that is almost half of the world's population. Mongolia, Belarus, Afghanistan, and Iran are its observers in the grouping, while, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Cambodia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka received dialogue partner status.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend SCO summit virtually

They say children should be taught all the essential basics from the primary level. While experts usually mean basic etiquettes and moral, China has interpreted this as teaching the basics of 'socialism'.<o:p></o:p>

As Chinese students returned to schools on Wednesday, they were introduced to new textbooks that have 'Xi Jinping thought'. The new textbooks are an attempt by the Communist party to shape the minds of small children in such a manner that local schools produce patriots.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/what-are-recommendation-algorithms-that-china-is-cracking-down-on-and-how-do-they-affect-internet-users-408781">What are recommendation algorithms that China is cracking down on, and how do they affect internet users?</a></o:p>

"Grandpa <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/xi-jinping?page=1">Xi Jinping</a> is very busy with work, but no matter how busy he is, he still joins our activities and cares about our growth," a textbook read.<o:p></o:p>

The government school teachers have been directed to "plant the seeds of loving the party, the country and socialism in young hearts,"&nbsp;a government notice about the new school curriculum instructed. The Ministry of Education has introduced the "Xi Jinping thought" to "cultivate the builders and successors of socialism with an all-round moral, intellectual, physical and aesthetic grounding," the ministry explained.<o:p></o:p>

Some quotes by the Chinese President Xi Jinping and images of his smiling face&nbsp;have been placed in the textbooks. In addition to this, elementary students will also be given lessons on the achievements of the Chinese civilisation, Communist party's work in poverty alleviation and the party’s fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-xi-jinpings-thought-to-be-taught-at-chinese-schools-408386">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-xi-jinpings-thought-to-be-taught-at-chinese-schools-408386/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The new "Xi Jinping Thought" comprises 14 principles that will promote Communist ideals. The Communist Party is hoping for a "complete and deep reform" while motivating children for developing new ideas. It will also stress the importance of "one country two systems' and reunification with the motherland".<o:p></o:p>

However, China is also claiming that the new system will be an 'extensive roll-out' which will be divided among different levels of schooling.<o:p></o:p>

"Primary schools will focus on cultivating love for the country, the Communist Party of China, and socialism. In middle schools, the focus will be on a combination of perceptual experience and knowledge study, to help students form basic political judgments and opinions,"&nbsp;China’s mouthpiece, Global Times, had reported. "In college, there will be more emphasis on the establishment of theoretical thinking."<o:p></o:p>

They say children should be taught all the essential basics from the primary level. While experts usually mean basic etiquettes and moral, China has interpreted this as teaching the basics of 'socialism'.

They say children should be taught all the essential basics from the primary level. While experts usually mean basic etiquettes and moral, China has interpreted this as teaching the basics of 'socialism'. As Chinese students returned to schools on Wednesday, they were introduced to new textbooks that have 'Xi Jinping thought'. The new textbooks are an attempt by the Communist party to shape the minds of small children in such a manner that local schools produce patriots. Also read | What are recommendation algorithms that China is cracking down on, and how do they affect internet users? "Grandpa Xi Jinping is very busy with work, but no matter how busy he is, he still joins our activities and cares about our growth," a textbook read. The government school teachers have been directed to "plant the seeds of loving the party, the country and socialism in young hearts," a government notice about the new school curriculum instructed. The Ministry of Education has introduced the "Xi Jinping thought" to "cultivate the builders and successors of socialism with an all-round moral, intellectual, physical and aesthetic grounding," the ministry explained. Some quotes by the Chinese President Xi Jinping and images of his smiling face have been placed in the textbooks. In addition to this, elementary students will also be given lessons on the achievements of the Chinese civilisation, Communist party's work in poverty alleviation and the party’s fight against the coronavirus pandemic. WATCH | The new "Xi Jinping Thought" comprises 14 principles that will promote Communist ideals. The Communist Party is hoping for a "complete and deep reform" while motivating children for developing new ideas. It will also stress the importance of "one country two systems' and reunification with the motherland". However, China is also claiming that the new system will be an 'extensive roll-out' which will be divided among different levels of schooling. "Primary schools will focus on cultivating love for the country, the Communist Party of China, and socialism. In middle schools, the focus will be on a combination of perceptual experience and knowledge study, to help students form basic political judgments and opinions," China’s mouthpiece, Global Times, had reported. "In college, there will be more emphasis on the establishment of theoretical thinking."

Chinese students greeted with 'Grandpa Xi Jinping thought' in classrooms

China&nbsp;has issued draft guidelines on regulating the algorithms used by internet service providers to make recommendations to users, part of efforts to protect the privacy and data security of users, the internet regulator said on Friday.

Service providers must abide by business ethics and principles of fairness and should not set up algorithm models that entice users to spend large amounts of money or spend money in a way that may disrupt public order, the Cyberspace Administration of&nbsp;China&nbsp;said in a statement.

Algorithms should not be used to create fake user accounts and users should be given the option to easily turn off algorithm recommendation services, it said, adding that the draft is open for public feedback until September&nbsp;26.

The move comes amid a wide-ranging&nbsp;crackdown&nbsp;by Beijing on its internet sector, which has seen authorities target and punish companies on issues ranging from monopolistic behaviour to consumer privacy.

Earlier this year, the Chinese Consumer Association criticised internet companies&nbsp;for misusing personal data and "bullying" people into purchases and promotions. State media have since issued multiple calls for regulating the use of such algorithms.

Internet companies globally use algorithms to predict user preferences and make recommendations. In&nbsp;China, this would include firms such as e-commerce giant Alibaba Group, ride-hailing firm Didi Global and TikTok owner ByteDance.

China&nbsp;recently passed a data security law&nbsp;that will go into effect on September&nbsp;1 to protect internet users' rights in cyberspace and impose curbs on its fast-growing internet industry.

China has issued draft guidelines on regulating the algorithms used by internet service providers to make recommendations to users, part of efforts to protect the privacy and data security of users, the internet regulator said on Friday.

China has issued draft guidelines on regulating the algorithms used by internet service providers to make recommendations to users, part of efforts to protect the privacy and data security of users, the internet regulator said on Friday. Service providers must abide by business ethics and principles of fairness and should not set up algorithm models that entice users to spend large amounts of money or spend money in a way that may disrupt public order, the Cyberspace Administration of China said in a statement. Algorithms should not be used to create fake user accounts and users should be given the option to easily turn off algorithm recommendation services, it said, adding that the draft is open for public feedback until September 26. The move comes amid a wide-ranging crackdown by Beijing on its internet sector, which has seen authorities target and punish companies on issues ranging from monopolistic behaviour to consumer privacy. Earlier this year, the Chinese Consumer Association criticised internet companies for misusing personal data and "bullying" people into purchases and promotions. State media have since issued multiple calls for regulating the use of such algorithms. Internet companies globally use algorithms to predict user preferences and make recommendations. In China, this would include firms such as e-commerce giant Alibaba Group, ride-hailing firm Didi Global and TikTok owner ByteDance. China recently passed a data security law that will go into effect on September 1 to protect internet users' rights in cyberspace and impose curbs on its fast-growing internet industry.

China issues draft guidelines for internet recommendation algorithms

Gravitas | If you're from China & have graduated, be thankful. The Chinese regime is taking over schools & rewriting textbooks to match the vision of Xi Jinping. It plans to incorporate 'Xi Jinping's thought', a political doctrine in its national curriculum. WION's Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: 'Xi Jinping's thought' to be taught at Chinese schools

China will incorporate "Xi Jinping Thought" into its national curriculum to help "establish Marxist belief" in the country's youth, the education ministry said in new guidelines published on Tuesday. 
 
The Ministry of Education said Chinese President Xi Jinping's "thought on socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era" would be taught from primary school level all the way to university.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia, China, US ready to serve as mediators in Afghanistan says Sergey Lavrov

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The move is aimed at strengthening "resolve to listen to and follow the Party" and new teaching materials must "cultivate patriotic feelings", the guidelines said. 
 
Since coming to power in 2012, the Chinese President has sought to strengthen the ruling Chinese Communist Party's role in all areas of society, including its businesses, schools and cultural institutions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-governors-concerned-over-bolsonaro-support-among-military-police-408175" hreflang="en">Brazil governors concerned over Bolsonaro support among military police</a> 
 
"Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism With Chinese Characteristics for a New Era" was formally enshrined in the country`s constitution in 2018. Xi's personal power has also been strengthened by the abolition of presidential term limits. 
 
In a speech to mark the centenary of the Communist Party celebrated in July, Xi vowed to "enhance" the Party's leadership, uphold his own "core" leadership and strengthen the unity of the Chinese people.

China will incorporate "Xi Jinping Thought" into its national curriculum to help "establish Marxist belief" in the country's youth, the education ministry said in new guidelines published on Tuesday.

China will incorporate "Xi Jinping Thought" into its national curriculum to help "establish Marxist belief" in the country's youth, the education ministry said in new guidelines published on Tuesday. The Ministry of Education said Chinese President Xi Jinping's "thought on socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era" would be taught from primary school level all the way to university. Watch: Russia, China, US ready to serve as mediators in Afghanistan says Sergey Lavrov × The move is aimed at strengthening "resolve to listen to and follow the Party" and new teaching materials must "cultivate patriotic feelings", the guidelines said. Since coming to power in 2012, the Chinese President has sought to strengthen the ruling Chinese Communist Party's role in all areas of society, including its businesses, schools and cultural institutions. Also Read: Brazil governors concerned over Bolsonaro support among military police "Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism With Chinese Characteristics for a New Era" was formally enshrined in the country`s constitution in 2018. Xi's personal power has also been strengthened by the abolition of presidential term limits. In a speech to mark the centenary of the Communist Party celebrated in July, Xi vowed to "enhance" the Party's leadership, uphold his own "core" leadership and strengthen the unity of the Chinese people.

China to add 'Xi Jinping Thought' to national curriculum

An unsettled Xi Jinping has set his eyes on Chinese schools. His regime is taking over private schools and banning foreign textbooks. Palki Sharma tells you how Xi Jinping is planning to control China's future with Cultural revolution 2.0.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping unleashes the new purge

China has opened the doors on what it bills as the world's largest planetarium in its latest space&nbsp;propaganda.

The&nbsp;slick new Shanghai facility showcases&nbsp;the nation's recent extra-terrestrial exploits while notably downplaying those of space pioneers like the United States.

Beijing has spent much of this year bombarding the public with news of the country's rising space prowess, part of a larger propaganda blitz highlighting Chinese achievements under the ruling Communists to mark the party's 100th anniversary.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/milestones-chinas-space-dreams-from-ground-zero-upwards-392152" hreflang="en">'Milestones': China's space dreams from ground zero upwards</a>

In recent months, China has landed a spacecraft on Mars, set loose a rover to explore it, and sent the first astronauts to a Chinese space station.

Scale-model replicas of spaceships from these and other missions figure prominently at the new Shanghai Planetarium, along with paeons to China's rapid scientific advancement, and clips of President Xi Jinping addressing the nation's taikonauts.

By contrast, the pioneering space-travel efforts of the then-Soviet Union and China's geopolitical rival the United States get only passing mention, if at all.

The 1969 US landing on the moon is referenced only briefly in a small, dryly-worded display, and a section entitled "Space Heroes" lists only two Russian cosmonauts along with Yang Liwei, the first person sent into space by the Chinese space programme.

The planetarium features working telescopes and a range of interactive exhibits on the origins of the universe and history of&nbsp;astronomy, including Chinese-speaking versions of Copernicus and other luminaries explaining their theoretical breakthroughs.

The building was designed by New York's Ennead Architects and resembles a union of swirling galaxies.

It covers 38,000 square metres, (420,000-square feet) of floor space, roughly equal to five football fields,&nbsp;and cost 600 million yuan ($93 million), according to Chinese media.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has opened the doors on what it bills as the world's largest planetarium in its latest space propaganda. The slick new Shanghai facility showcases the nation's recent extra-terrestrial exploits while notably downplaying those of space pioneers like the United States.

China has opened the doors on what it bills as the world's largest planetarium in its latest space propaganda. The slick new Shanghai facility showcases the nation's recent extra-terrestrial exploits while notably downplaying those of space pioneers like the United States. Beijing has spent much of this year bombarding the public with news of the country's rising space prowess, part of a larger propaganda blitz highlighting Chinese achievements under the ruling Communists to mark the party's 100th anniversary. Also see| 'Milestones': China's space dreams from ground zero upwards In recent months, China has landed a spacecraft on Mars, set loose a rover to explore it, and sent the first astronauts to a Chinese space station. Scale-model replicas of spaceships from these and other missions figure prominently at the new Shanghai Planetarium, along with paeons to China's rapid scientific advancement, and clips of President Xi Jinping addressing the nation's taikonauts. By contrast, the pioneering space-travel efforts of the then-Soviet Union and China's geopolitical rival the United States get only passing mention, if at all. The 1969 US landing on the moon is referenced only briefly in a small, dryly-worded display, and a section entitled "Space Heroes" lists only two Russian cosmonauts along with Yang Liwei, the first person sent into space by the Chinese space programme. The planetarium features working telescopes and a range of interactive exhibits on the origins of the universe and history of astronomy, including Chinese-speaking versions of Copernicus and other luminaries explaining their theoretical breakthroughs. The building was designed by New York's Ennead Architects and resembles a union of swirling galaxies. It covers 38,000 square metres, (420,000-square feet) of floor space, roughly equal to five football fields, and cost 600 million yuan ($93 million), according to Chinese media. (With inputs from agencies)

Space propaganda: China opens doors to world's largest planetarium

Chinese citizens are fleeing Chinese President Xi Jinping's rule. Since Xi Jinping took power at the end of 2012, more than 600,000 Chinese citizens have applied for asylum in another country. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Chinese citizens are fleeing Xi Jinping's rule

China has blocked&nbsp;paid after-school tutoring services provided by teachers working for public primary and middle schools.

The country's&nbsp;Ministry of Education&nbsp;issued sweeping rules last week that bar for-profit after-school tutoring in core school subjects, in an effort to boost the birth rate by lowering family living costs. The policy also restricts foreign investment in the sector.

The ministry said in a statement on its website that it would also tackle teachers illegally receiving bribes, and show "zero tolerance" towards teachers who "teach only after classes but not during classes".

The new rules threaten to decimate China's $120 billion private tutoring industry and triggered a heavy selloff in shares of tutoring companies traded in Hong Kong and New York, including New Oriental Education and&nbsp;Technology Group and Koolearn Technology Holding Ltd.

Under the new rules, all institutions offering tutoring on the school curriculum will be registered as non-profit organisations.

This change drastically affects China's public education scene, where at least 75 percent (as of 2016) of school students attend tuition classes outside of school hours. Compounding the situation is the ban placed on tuition businesses from raising funds via public channels such as initial public offerings (IPOs) and foreign investments.

In 2016&nbsp;China&nbsp;relaxed its "one-child policy,"&nbsp;one of the world's strictest family planning regulations,&nbsp;allowing couples to have two children as concerns mounted over an ageing workforce and economic stagnation.

But annual births have continued to plummet to a record low of 12 million in 2020, Beijing's National Bureau of Statistics said this month, as the cost of living rises and women increasingly make their own family planning choices.

China's fertility&nbsp;rate&nbsp;stands at 1.3, below the level needed to maintain a stable population, the figures revealed.

The slump threatens a demographic crisis that has alarmed President Xi Jinping's ruling Communist Party, risking a shortage of young workers to drive an economy experts say will have to support hundreds of millions of elderly by 2050.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has blocked paid after-school tutoring services provided by teachers working for public primary and middle schools. The country's Ministry of Education issued sweeping rules last week that bar for-profit after-school tutoring in core school subjects, in an effort to boost the birth rate by lowering family living costs.

China has blocked paid after-school tutoring services provided by teachers working for public primary and middle schools. The country's Ministry of Education issued sweeping rules last week that bar for-profit after-school tutoring in core school subjects, in an effort to boost the birth rate by lowering family living costs. The policy also restricts foreign investment in the sector. The ministry said in a statement on its website that it would also tackle teachers illegally receiving bribes, and show "zero tolerance" towards teachers who "teach only after classes but not during classes". The new rules threaten to decimate China's $120 billion private tutoring industry and triggered a heavy selloff in shares of tutoring companies traded in Hong Kong and New York, including New Oriental Education and Technology Group and Koolearn Technology Holding Ltd. Under the new rules, all institutions offering tutoring on the school curriculum will be registered as non-profit organisations. This change drastically affects China's public education scene, where at least 75 percent (as of 2016) of school students attend tuition classes outside of school hours. Compounding the situation is the ban placed on tuition businesses from raising funds via public channels such as initial public offerings (IPOs) and foreign investments. In 2016 China relaxed its "one-child policy," one of the world's strictest family planning regulations, allowing couples to have two children as concerns mounted over an ageing workforce and economic stagnation. But annual births have continued to plummet to a record low of 12 million in 2020, Beijing's National Bureau of Statistics said this month, as the cost of living rises and women increasingly make their own family planning choices. China's fertility rate stands at 1.3, below the level needed to maintain a stable population, the figures revealed. The slump threatens a demographic crisis that has alarmed President Xi Jinping's ruling Communist Party, risking a shortage of young workers to drive an economy experts say will have to support hundreds of millions of elderly by 2050. (With inputs from agencies)

China blocks paid after-school tutoring by public-school teachers

Mao Zedong once called Arunachal Pradesh - one of the 5 fingers of Tibet. How serious is China's claim over the Indian state? Is Xi Jinping's visit a sign of things to come?

Gravitas: How India must see Xi's Tibet visit

The spokesperson of the Tibetan government&nbsp;in exile (Central Tibetan Administration)&nbsp;Tenzin Lekshay has said that Chinese President Xi Jinping should understand the "aspirations of Tibetan people" and "resolve the sino-Tibet conflict".&nbsp;

His comments come in the backdrop of Xi Jinping's surprise visit to the region. It is after 30 years that a Chinese President has visited the troubled region, the last being&nbsp;Jiang Zemin in 1990.

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal,&nbsp;Lekshay called for the resumption of the "dialogue between representatives of his holiness Dalai Lama and the Chinese government."

State media showed Xi in Tibet's capital Lhasa being greeted by locals in ethnic clothes waving Chinese flags in what is expectedly a choreographed move.&nbsp;

The general secretary Communist Party of China Central Committee was also present at the Potala Palace Square. Potala Palace was the&nbsp;winter palace of the&nbsp;Dalai Lamas&nbsp;till 1959 when China occupied the region.

WION: Your reaction to Xi Jinping's Tibet visit?

Tenzin Lekshay: Xi Jinping's visit to Tibet just came in the news and was not highlighted before, was secretive. What we believe, is his first visit after becoming the President of China, which signifies that Tibet is still very important to China. So in spite of the fact, that so many problems happening inside China, he visited Tibet. Therefore, it shows, surely signifies Tibet still matters a lot to China.&nbsp;

WION: Any message in terms of the visit of Xi you think?

Tenzin Lekshay: As expected if u look back in 2011, when he was the vice president, he visited Tibet. 10 years after he is visiting again. This year again, China marks 70 years of the so-called peaceful liberation of Tibet, which Tibetans rejected. So, therefore, this year, they try to show to world everything inside Tibet is good.

But however taking this visit as a very significant thing, we believe Xi Jinping should understand&nbsp; aspirations of Tibetan people, and when he is in Tibet and to resolve the sino tibet conflict which is there since 1959, more than 50 years have gone. It is very important for him for the sake of future of China and Tibet we should resume the dialogue between representatives of his holiness Dalai lama and Chinese govt.

The spokesperson of the Tibetan government in exile (Central Tibetan Administration) Tenzin Lekshay has said that Chinese President Xi Jinping should understand the "aspirations of Tibetan people" and "resolve the sino-Tibet conflict".

The spokesperson of the Tibetan government in exile (Central Tibetan Administration) Tenzin Lekshay has said that Chinese President Xi Jinping should understand the "aspirations of Tibetan people" and "resolve the sino-Tibet conflict". His comments come in the backdrop of Xi Jinping's surprise visit to the region. It is after 30 years that a Chinese President has visited the troubled region, the last being Jiang Zemin in 1990. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lekshay called for the resumption of the "dialogue between representatives of his holiness Dalai Lama and the Chinese government." State media showed Xi in Tibet's capital Lhasa being greeted by locals in ethnic clothes waving Chinese flags in what is expectedly a choreographed move. The general secretary Communist Party of China Central Committee was also present at the Potala Palace Square. Potala Palace was the winter palace of the Dalai Lamas till 1959 when China occupied the region. WION: Your reaction to Xi Jinping's Tibet visit? Tenzin Lekshay: Xi Jinping's visit to Tibet just came in the news and was not highlighted before, was secretive. What we believe, is his first visit after becoming the President of China, which signifies that Tibet is still very important to China. So in spite of the fact, that so many problems happening inside China, he visited Tibet. Therefore, it shows, surely signifies Tibet still matters a lot to China. WION: Any message in terms of the visit of Xi you think? Tenzin Lekshay: As expected if u look back in 2011, when he was the vice president, he visited Tibet. 10 years after he is visiting again. This year again, China marks 70 years of the so-called peaceful liberation of Tibet, which Tibetans rejected. So, therefore, this year, they try to show to world everything inside Tibet is good. But however taking this visit as a very significant thing, we believe Xi Jinping should understand aspirations of Tibetan people, and when he is in Tibet and to resolve the sino tibet conflict which is there since 1959, more than 50 years have gone. It is very important for him for the sake of future of China and Tibet we should resume the dialogue between representatives of his holiness Dalai lama and Chinese govt.

China trying to show everything is good in Tibet, says government in exile

Europe is on the wrong side of history again. It is wooing Chinese President Xi Jinping in the middle of the Wuhan Virus pandemic and putting business over values.

Gravitas: Macron, Merkel hold summit with Xi Jinping

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a virtual meeting to discuss the status of relations between the European Union (EU) and China.

Xi Jinping holds virtual meeting with French and German leaders

Macron, Merkel hold video talks with China's Xi Jinping

As Xi Jinping cements his pre-eminence in party & country, WION's Palki takes a closer look at his track record. How robust is Xi's economy? Will China's restless middle-class rein in the New Helmsman?

Gravitas: The chinks in Xi Jinping's armour

Xi Jinping today claimed that China doesn't oppress anyone. But, the Chinese President warned that countries will "crack their heads and spill blood" if they come after China. WION's Palki decodes Xi Jinping's speech on the 100th birthday of the Communist Party.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping: Countries opposing China will "crack their heads and spill blood"

The Chinese Communist Party was secretly formed in 1921. Back then, It was meant to be a party of revolution. 100 years on, the CCP has become a party of repression. WION's Palki brings you the story of the Chinese Communist Party.

Gravitas: Story of the Chinese Communist Party

According to a new report published by Human Rights Watch, the Xi Jinping regime is monitoring Chinese students living in Australia. If the students make statements critical of the CCP or in support of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, then their families back home are threatened with dire consequences.

Beijing monitors Chinese students at Universities in Australia

Chinese President Xi Jinping&nbsp;on Thursday hailed an "irreversible" course from colonial humiliation to great-power status at the centenary celebrations for the Chinese Communist Party.

In a televised address from Tiananmen Square in the centre of Beijing, Xi&nbsp;said&nbsp;China had achieved its centenary goal of building a "moderately prosperous society", and emphasised its sense of nationalism.

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"The Chinese people will never allow any foreign forces to bully, oppress, or enslave us. Anyone who dares try to do that will have their heads bashed bloodied against the Great Wall of Steel forged by over 1.4 billion Chinese people," Xi told thousands of attendees who responded with claps and loud cheers.

Drawing a line from the subjugation of the Opium Wars to the struggle to establish a socialist revolution in China, Xi said the party had brought about "national rejuvenation" lifting tens of millions from poverty and "altered the landscape of world development".

Xi, wearing a Mao-style jacket, added the "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an irreversible historical course" and vowed to continue to build a "world-class" military to defend national interests.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/secret-society-what-chinese-communist-party-doesnt-want-you-to-know-395048" hreflang="en">Secret society: What Chinese Communist Party doesn't want you to know</a>

Jinping and the party are riding high as China recovers briskly from the COVID-19 outbreak and takes a more assertive stand on the global stage, although Beijing also faces criticism over its actions in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, and contends with a worsening demographic outlook that imperils long-term economic growth.

In the summer of 1921 Mao and a clutch of Marxist-Leninist thinkers in Shanghai founded the party which has since morphed into one of the world's most powerful political organisations.

It now counts around 95 million members, garnered over a century of war, famine and turmoil, and more recently a surge to superpower status butting up against Western rivals, led by the US.

In a ceremony of pomp and patriotism, thousands of singers, backed by a marching band, belted out stirring choruses including "We Are the Heirs of Communism" and "Without the Communist Party there would be no New China" as maskless invitees cheered and waved flags&nbsp;in a packed Tiananmen Square.

A fly-by of helicopters in formation spelling '100'&nbsp;a giant hammer and sickle flag trailing and a 100-gun salute followed while young communists in unison pledged allegiance to the party.

Xi, whose speech braided the economic miracle of China with the longevity of the party, has cemented his eight-year rule through a personality cult, ending presidential term limits and declining to anoint a successor.

He has purged rivals and crushed dissent, from Uyghur Muslims and online critics to pro-democracy protests on Hong Kong's streets.

The party has pivoted to new challenges; using tech to renew its appeal to younger generations, 12.55 million members are now aged 30 or younger,&nbsp;while giving a communist finish to a consumer economy decorated by billionaire entrepreneurs.

While the president did not mention himself in the speech, "it is quite clear that much of the credit for China's success belongs to Xi," said Willie Lam, China analyst at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Xi has presented a defiant face to overseas rivals, revving up nationalist sentiment. He has batted back criticism of his government's actions in Hong Kong, attitude towards Taiwan and treatment of the Uyghurs.

In its 100th year, the party has delivered a selective version of history through films, 'red tourism' campaigns and books, which dance over the mass violence of the Cultural Revolution, famines and the Tiananmen Square crackdown.

Instead, it has drawn attention to China's rebound from COVID-19, which first emerged in the central city of Wuhan but has been virtually extinguished inside the country.

But reminders linger of the risks to stability.

Thursday also marks the 24th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to Chinese rule, a date once met with mass demonstrations against Beijing inside the former British colony.

One year ago, China imposed a draconian national security law on the city in response to huge, often violent, pro-democracy protests.

The measure has seen activists charged, anti-China slogans criminalised and even the closure of a critical newspaper as the law sinks the once freewheeling city into what Amnesty International calls a "human rights emergency".

Four activists marched with a banner near the official anniversary reception on Thursday,&nbsp;tailed by 200 police officers, a fraction of the thousands deployed across the city to deter pro-democracy groups from mobilising.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday hailed an "irreversible" course from colonial humiliation to great-power status at the centenary celebrations for the Chinese Communist Party.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday hailed an "irreversible" course from colonial humiliation to great-power status at the centenary celebrations for the Chinese Communist Party. In a televised address from Tiananmen Square in the centre of Beijing, Xi said China had achieved its centenary goal of building a "moderately prosperous society", and emphasised its sense of nationalism. "The Chinese people will never allow any foreign forces to bully, oppress, or enslave us. Anyone who dares try to do that will have their heads bashed bloodied against the Great Wall of Steel forged by over 1.4 billion Chinese people," Xi told thousands of attendees who responded with claps and loud cheers. Drawing a line from the subjugation of the Opium Wars to the struggle to establish a socialist revolution in China, Xi said the party had brought about "national rejuvenation" lifting tens of millions from poverty and "altered the landscape of world development". Xi, wearing a Mao-style jacket, added the "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an irreversible historical course" and vowed to continue to build a "world-class" military to defend national interests. Also see| Secret society: What Chinese Communist Party doesn't want you to know Jinping and the party are riding high as China recovers briskly from the COVID-19 outbreak and takes a more assertive stand on the global stage, although Beijing also faces criticism over its actions in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, and contends with a worsening demographic outlook that imperils long-term economic growth. In the summer of 1921 Mao and a clutch of Marxist-Leninist thinkers in Shanghai founded the party which has since morphed into one of the world's most powerful political organisations. It now counts around 95 million members, garnered over a century of war, famine and turmoil, and more recently a surge to superpower status butting up against Western rivals, led by the US. In a ceremony of pomp and patriotism, thousands of singers, backed by a marching band, belted out stirring choruses including "We Are the Heirs of Communism" and "Without the Communist Party there would be no New China" as maskless invitees cheered and waved flags in a packed Tiananmen Square. A fly-by of helicopters in formation spelling '100' a giant hammer and sickle flag trailing and a 100-gun salute followed while young communists in unison pledged allegiance to the party. Xi, whose speech braided the economic miracle of China with the longevity of the party, has cemented his eight-year rule through a personality cult, ending presidential term limits and declining to anoint a successor. He has purged rivals and crushed dissent, from Uyghur Muslims and online critics to pro-democracy protests on Hong Kong's streets. The party has pivoted to new challenges; using tech to renew its appeal to younger generations, 12.55 million members are now aged 30 or younger, while giving a communist finish to a consumer economy decorated by billionaire entrepreneurs. While the president did not mention himself in the speech, "it is quite clear that much of the credit for China's success belongs to Xi," said Willie Lam, China analyst at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Xi has presented a defiant face to overseas rivals, revving up nationalist sentiment. He has batted back criticism of his government's actions in Hong Kong, attitude towards Taiwan and treatment of the Uyghurs. In its 100th year, the party has delivered a selective version of history through films, 'red tourism' campaigns and books, which dance over the mass violence of the Cultural Revolution, famines and the Tiananmen Square crackdown. Instead, it has drawn attention to China's rebound from COVID-19, which first emerged in the central city of Wuhan but has been virtually extinguished inside the country. But reminders linger of the risks to stability. Thursday also marks the 24th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to Chinese rule, a date once met with mass demonstrations against Beijing inside the former British colony. One year ago, China imposed a draconian national security law on the city in response to huge, often violent, pro-democracy protests. The measure has seen activists charged, anti-China slogans criminalised and even the closure of a critical newspaper as the law sinks the once freewheeling city into what Amnesty International calls a "human rights emergency". Four activists marched with a banner near the official anniversary reception on Thursday, tailed by 200 police officers, a fraction of the thousands deployed across the city to deter pro-democracy groups from mobilising. (With inputs from agencies)

President Xi Jinping hails 'irreversible' rise of China on Communist Party centenary

President Xi Jinping has called for some comprehensive implementation of China's governance in Hong Kong as the Chinese Communist Party is celebrating its 100th founding anniversary which comes as Hong Kong for its part is marking 24 years since its handover.

Chinese Communist Party celebrates centenary of founding

Clocking in the centenary celebrations of the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from the balcony of Tiananmen Gate in Beijing, Xi Jinping highlighted the work that the party had done to transform China into a 'superpower' since its establishment in 1921 under Mao Zedong.

Xi Jinping says era of China being bullied is gone

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