Amid the heightened tensions, the United States and China on Sunday will discuss the "phase one" of the trade deal signed earlier this year.&nbsp;

In January, Beijing and Washington halted a months-long trade war with a partial truce, but the arrival of coronavirus crisis and a number of issues that followed the pandemic, including China's new security law worsened the relations between both the countries.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-trumps-china-trade-deal-is-failing-badly-318457">Biden says Trump's China trade deal is 'failing' badly</a>

The purchases by China according to the deal have been lagging and US President Donald Trump has sharpened his attack towards China at a time when the US is less than 100 days away from the presidential elections.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-china-to-discuss-trade-deal-and-other-grievances-on-august-15-amid-spat-318255">United States, China to discuss trade deal and other grievances on August 15 amid spat</a>

"The outcome of the trade talk will signal if both sides are willing to continue to keep the deal, which will signal whether the relationship will deteriorate further," said Iris Pang, chief economist for greater China at ING, reported news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The world's two largest economies have so far not confirmed the talks, but the deal calls for a meeting after every six months, which would begin from Saturday.&nbsp;

In June, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said China would continue its commitments made in the deal and the US would be looking for a second deal, but in the same month, a Chinese State Council counsellor said the pandemic has had an "impact" on the agreement and that ties between the countries are "very unsatisfactory." 
&nbsp;

Amid the heightened tensions, the United States and China on Sunday will discuss the "phase one" of the trade deal signed earlier this year. In January, Beijing and Washington halted a months-long trade war with a partial truce, but the arrival of coronavirus crisis and a number of issues that followed the pandemic, including China's new security law worsened the relations between both the countries.

Amid the heightened tensions, the United States and China on Sunday will discuss the "phase one" of the trade deal signed earlier this year. In January, Beijing and Washington halted a months-long trade war with a partial truce, but the arrival of coronavirus crisis and a number of issues that followed the pandemic, including China's new security law worsened the relations between both the countries. Also read | Biden says Trump's China trade deal is 'failing' badly The purchases by China according to the deal have been lagging and US President Donald Trump has sharpened his attack towards China at a time when the US is less than 100 days away from the presidential elections. Also read | United States, China to discuss trade deal and other grievances on August 15 amid spat "The outcome of the trade talk will signal if both sides are willing to continue to keep the deal, which will signal whether the relationship will deteriorate further," said Iris Pang, chief economist for greater China at ING, reported news agency AFP. The world's two largest economies have so far not confirmed the talks, but the deal calls for a meeting after every six months, which would begin from Saturday. In June, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said China would continue its commitments made in the deal and the US would be looking for a second deal, but in the same month, a Chinese State Council counsellor said the pandemic has had an "impact" on the agreement and that ties between the countries are "very unsatisfactory."

Amid troubled ties, US, China to resume talks on trade deal

Pushing for cultivating a culture where "food waste is shameful and thriftiness is honourable", Chinese President Xi Jinping called for taking long-term measures to stop waste.&nbsp;

In his address on Tuesday, Xi said it's "shocking and distressing" the amount of food that is wasted in China. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-extends-anti-dumping-tariff-on-indian-fibre-optic-product-320095">China extends anti-dumping tariff on Indian fibre optic product</a>

"We should still maintain a sense of crisis about food security. The impact of this year’s COVID-19 pandemic has sounded the alarm," the Chinese president said, according to state news agency Xinhua.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-nepal-should-support-each-others-core-interests-chinese-official-320051">China, Nepal should support each other's core interests: Chinese official</a>

Xi's comments came after massive floods across the country have destroyed vast swathes of crops leading to a rise in food prices, which were already high due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

He said public awareness related to the issue needs to be enhanced and called for improving legislation, taking effective measures and creating a long-term mechanism to stop food waste.

Xi suggested specific steps required to reduce food waste in schools and promote students awareness, including inculcating habits of being thrifty.&nbsp;

Several restaurants in China have started reminding their customers to avoid ordering an amount that is likely to get wasted.&nbsp;

"As the generation post-1980s, we have not had rough time, but we still hope our children can contrast past misery with present happiness, and do not waste food, as it is not a good habit to do so," said a local resident. 
&nbsp;

Pushing for cultivating a culture where "food waste is shameful and thriftiness is honourable", Chinese President Xi Jinping called for taking long-term measures to stop waste.

Pushing for cultivating a culture where "food waste is shameful and thriftiness is honourable", Chinese President Xi Jinping called for taking long-term measures to stop waste. In his address on Tuesday, Xi said it's "shocking and distressing" the amount of food that is wasted in China. Also read | China extends anti-dumping tariff on Indian fibre optic product "We should still maintain a sense of crisis about food security. The impact of this year’s COVID-19 pandemic has sounded the alarm," the Chinese president said, according to state news agency Xinhua. Also read | China, Nepal should support each other's core interests: Chinese official Xi's comments came after massive floods across the country have destroyed vast swathes of crops leading to a rise in food prices, which were already high due to the coronavirus pandemic. He said public awareness related to the issue needs to be enhanced and called for improving legislation, taking effective measures and creating a long-term mechanism to stop food waste. Xi suggested specific steps required to reduce food waste in schools and promote students awareness, including inculcating habits of being thrifty. Several restaurants in China have started reminding their customers to avoid ordering an amount that is likely to get wasted. "As the generation post-1980s, we have not had rough time, but we still hope our children can contrast past misery with present happiness, and do not waste food, as it is not a good habit to do so," said a local resident.

'Food waste is shameful': Xi Jinping underscores new priority

As the rift between Saudi Arabia & Pakistan widens, the Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to travel to Islamabad in the coming months.WION's Palki gets you a report on the significance of this visit.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping likely to visit Islamabad

In a few months, Islamabad will be rolling out the red carpet for the most significant visit by a foreign leader Xi Jinping. The Chinese president is planning to visit Pakistan later this year.

According to reports, the announcement has been made and the preparations have begun. Only the dates haven't been finalised. The Chinese president was scheduled to travel to Pakistan way back in June but thanks to the Wuhan virus, he could not.

This will be his second visit to Pakistan in 5 years. Xi Jinping last travelled to Islamabad in 2015. Another prime minister was in power Nawaz sharif. Nonetheless, a total of 51 CPEC projects were signed during this visit. Now Imran Khan is in power. One can only imagine the kind of deals that will be struck this time.

The&nbsp;visit comes at a time when Pakistan's ties with its other allies are at their worst. Saudi Arabia, the fiercest and foremost Muslim brother of Pakistan. The rift between Riyadh and Islamabad is widening. First, it made Pakistan repay 1 billion dollars from the 3 billion dollar cash loan it had borrowed in 2018. Chinese cheque-books helped Imran Khan pay back this EMI. But then Saudi Arabia also shut the oil tap for Pakistan --- it decided to not renew a 3.2 billion dollar 'oil on loan' provision.

What did the Imran Khan govt do in return?. It approved the most expensive cpec project to date. Last week, Pakistan gave the go-ahead for a 6.8 billion dollar project to update its railway lines under the cpec agreement. 
Saudi Arabia's apprehension and China's willingness to raise the Kashmir issue on global platforms. The Organisation of Islamic Countries has repeatedly refused to convene a meeting on Kashmir.

The OIC's de facto leader Saudi Arabia has run out of patience with Imran Khan's Kashmir obsession. This is where China has trumped the Saudis. Last week China convened a UNSC meeting to discuss Kashmir at Pakistan's behest but almost every security council member made it clear that Kashmir was not a matter for the un body to discuss.

China's attempts may have failed. It may have been embarrassed. But its relations with Pakistan haven't changed a bit. The China-Pak partnership remains as strong as ever and Xi Jinping's visit to Pakistan is an attempt to remind the world of this reality.&nbsp;

That Islamabad may be losing its friends in the Islamic world but it will forever have the support of communist China. That it will continue to get Chinese loans, Chinese projects and Chinese labourers who don't hesitate in thrashing Pakistanis over the slightest of disagreement.

In a few months, Islamabad will be rolling out the red carpet for the most significant visit by a foreign leader Xi Jinping. The Chinese president is planning to visit Pakistan later this year.

In a few months, Islamabad will be rolling out the red carpet for the most significant visit by a foreign leader Xi Jinping. The Chinese president is planning to visit Pakistan later this year. According to reports, the announcement has been made and the preparations have begun. Only the dates haven't been finalised. The Chinese president was scheduled to travel to Pakistan way back in June but thanks to the Wuhan virus, he could not. This will be his second visit to Pakistan in 5 years. Xi Jinping last travelled to Islamabad in 2015. Another prime minister was in power Nawaz sharif. Nonetheless, a total of 51 CPEC projects were signed during this visit. Now Imran Khan is in power. One can only imagine the kind of deals that will be struck this time. The visit comes at a time when Pakistan's ties with its other allies are at their worst. Saudi Arabia, the fiercest and foremost Muslim brother of Pakistan. The rift between Riyadh and Islamabad is widening. First, it made Pakistan repay 1 billion dollars from the 3 billion dollar cash loan it had borrowed in 2018. Chinese cheque-books helped Imran Khan pay back this EMI. But then Saudi Arabia also shut the oil tap for Pakistan --- it decided to not renew a 3.2 billion dollar 'oil on loan' provision. What did the Imran Khan govt do in return?. It approved the most expensive cpec project to date. Last week, Pakistan gave the go-ahead for a 6.8 billion dollar project to update its railway lines under the cpec agreement. Saudi Arabia's apprehension and China's willingness to raise the Kashmir issue on global platforms. The Organisation of Islamic Countries has repeatedly refused to convene a meeting on Kashmir. The OIC's de facto leader Saudi Arabia has run out of patience with Imran Khan's Kashmir obsession. This is where China has trumped the Saudis. Last week China convened a UNSC meeting to discuss Kashmir at Pakistan's behest but almost every security council member made it clear that Kashmir was not a matter for the un body to discuss. China's attempts may have failed. It may have been embarrassed. But its relations with Pakistan haven't changed a bit. The China-Pak partnership remains as strong as ever and Xi Jinping's visit to Pakistan is an attempt to remind the world of this reality. That Islamabad may be losing its friends in the Islamic world but it will forever have the support of communist China. That it will continue to get Chinese loans, Chinese projects and Chinese labourers who don't hesitate in thrashing Pakistanis over the slightest of disagreement.

Islamabad all set to roll out the red carpet for Chinese President Xi Jinping

China and Nepal should firmly support each other's core interests and major concerns, a senior Chinese official said on Wednesday as the two countries held their annual diplomatic consultations.

The 13th round of diplomatic consultations between China's Vice Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui and Nepal's Foreign Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi via video conferencing came amidst Beijing's deepening political and diplomatic influence in the Himalayan nation, including shoring-up support for pro-China Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli in the backdrop of intra-party feud in the ruling communist party.

Luo said that the two sides should focus on implementing the outcomes of last year's Nepal visit of President Xi Jinping, strengthening cooperation in fighting COVID-19 and jointly building the "One Belt One Road" initiative.

A pet project of Xi, the initiative focuses on improving connectivity and cooperation among Asian countries, Africa, China and Europe.

The two sides should firmly support each other's core interests and major concerns, strengthen coordination in international and regional affairs, and promote greater development of bilateral relations in such areas as connectivity, development assistance, defence, law enforcement and security, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

China's investments under its multibillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) include the building of the Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network through Tibet.

China's high-profile projects include the construction of tunnels along the road from Jilong in Tibet to Kathmandu, establishment of a science and technology university in Nepal, development of the three North-South corridors in Nepal and the Nepal-China electric power cooperation.

According to a recent article by Nepal's ambassador to China Mahendra Bahadur Pandey in Chinese official media, plans are afoot on some of the landmark projects in the areas of infrastructure, industry and education that were agreed to be initiated in Nepal during Xi's visit.

Last month for the first-time, China held its first foreign ministers level meeting with Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal during which they discussed cooperation to contain COVID-19, economic recovery and resumption of the BRI projects.

Bairagi said Nepal will continue to firmly adhere to the ?One-China' policy and support China's positions on issues concerning Taiwan, Tibet and Hong Kong, the statement added.&nbsp;

China and Nepal should firmly support each other's core interests and major concerns, a senior Chinese official said on Wednesday as the two countries held their annual diplomatic consultations.

China and Nepal should firmly support each other's core interests and major concerns, a senior Chinese official said on Wednesday as the two countries held their annual diplomatic consultations. The 13th round of diplomatic consultations between China's Vice Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui and Nepal's Foreign Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi via video conferencing came amidst Beijing's deepening political and diplomatic influence in the Himalayan nation, including shoring-up support for pro-China Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli in the backdrop of intra-party feud in the ruling communist party. Luo said that the two sides should focus on implementing the outcomes of last year's Nepal visit of President Xi Jinping, strengthening cooperation in fighting COVID-19 and jointly building the "One Belt One Road" initiative. A pet project of Xi, the initiative focuses on improving connectivity and cooperation among Asian countries, Africa, China and Europe. The two sides should firmly support each other's core interests and major concerns, strengthen coordination in international and regional affairs, and promote greater development of bilateral relations in such areas as connectivity, development assistance, defence, law enforcement and security, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement. China's investments under its multibillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) include the building of the Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network through Tibet. China's high-profile projects include the construction of tunnels along the road from Jilong in Tibet to Kathmandu, establishment of a science and technology university in Nepal, development of the three North-South corridors in Nepal and the Nepal-China electric power cooperation. According to a recent article by Nepal's ambassador to China Mahendra Bahadur Pandey in Chinese official media, plans are afoot on some of the landmark projects in the areas of infrastructure, industry and education that were agreed to be initiated in Nepal during Xi's visit. Last month for the first-time, China held its first foreign ministers level meeting with Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal during which they discussed cooperation to contain COVID-19, economic recovery and resumption of the BRI projects. Bairagi said Nepal will continue to firmly adhere to the ?One-China' policy and support China's positions on issues concerning Taiwan, Tibet and Hong Kong, the statement added.

China, Nepal should support each other's core interests: Chinese official

After taking power, Chinese President Xi Jinping has elevated his friends and family to top positions in China. A new assessment has claimed that almost 60% of the members of China's Communist Party have direct ties to Xi Jinping.

Gravitas: Friends and Family get top positions in Xi Jinping's China

Chinese President Xi Jinping is all set to visit Pakistan soon. The meet will be part of Pakistan China yearly high-level strategic council meeting.

The details of the visit are still being finalised and dates are also being decided.

The Chinese President's visit was scheduled for earlier this year, in the month of June, but could not happen due to COVID pandemic.

This will be the second visit of the Chinese President outside the country amidst COVID in 2020, the first being to Myanmar in January of this year.

Chinese President Xi Jinping last visited Pakistan in 2015 and around 51 projects being signed under the China Pakistan Economic corridor.

That was also his first state visit of the Chinese leadership to Pakistan. Both Islamabad and Beijing have close ties, and have termed it as "all-weather friendship".

The visit by Chinese president comes amidst growing influence of Beijing in south Asia and deteriorating ties with New Delhi. &nbsp;Chinese forces were involved in a violent face-off with the Indian forces at the Line of

Actual Control or LAC in eastern Ladakh. 20 Indian soldiers died in the face-off, while the Chinese side also suffered casualties they did not come with the numbers.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is all set to visit Pakistan soon. The meet will be part of Pakistan China yearly high-level strategic council meeting. The details of the visit are still being finalised and dates are also being decided.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is all set to visit Pakistan soon. The meet will be part of Pakistan China yearly high-level strategic council meeting. The details of the visit are still being finalised and dates are also being decided. The Chinese President's visit was scheduled for earlier this year, in the month of June, but could not happen due to COVID pandemic. This will be the second visit of the Chinese President outside the country amidst COVID in 2020, the first being to Myanmar in January of this year. Chinese President Xi Jinping last visited Pakistan in 2015 and around 51 projects being signed under the China Pakistan Economic corridor. That was also his first state visit of the Chinese leadership to Pakistan. Both Islamabad and Beijing have close ties, and have termed it as "all-weather friendship". The visit by Chinese president comes amidst growing influence of Beijing in south Asia and deteriorating ties with New Delhi. Chinese forces were involved in a violent face-off with the Indian forces at the Line of Actual Control or LAC in eastern Ladakh. 20 Indian soldiers died in the face-off, while the Chinese side also suffered casualties they did not come with the numbers.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Pakistan

Journalists who have faced China's wrath for defending liberties

Xi Jinping tightened his grip on power by promising a corruption-free China. More than one million officials were sacked and they were Xi Jinping loyalists.

In 2017, the Communist Party unveiled its leadership team - the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China. It's the highest decision-making body of the Chinese government and&nbsp;at the centre is Xi Jinping.&nbsp;

The faces around him have one thing in common --- they pose no challenge to the Chinese president.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-friends-and-family-get-top-positions-in-xi-jinpings-china-319583/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It's customary for a Chinese president to appoint a potential successor on the Standing Committee in his second term.

However, Xi Jinping has not appointed a successor. He has removed presidential term limits and made himself the de facto ruler for life.

An American think tank has come up with this assessment of China’s leadership.&nbsp;According to the assessment, Xi Jinping promoted and elevated his comrades in the Politburo.

The Politburo has 25 members and it runs the affairs of the country. &nbsp;Almost 60 per cent of this team has direct ties to Xi Jinping. Many have worked under him before. Other members include loyal advisers, a childhood friend and even family associates.

Xi made room for them by carrying out the great purge or&nbsp;what he called an anti-corruption campaign. More than one million officials were disciplined in this drive.&nbsp;China hasn’t seen a campaign so vast and ruthless since the days of Mao Zedong.

According to a report in 2017, over 170 ministers and deputy minister-level officials were either sacked or jailed.&nbsp;They were charged with crimes like corruption, misconduct and violation of party discipline.

By 2017, nearly 70 per cent of the party’s central committee was reportedly replaced. China’s centre of power has dramatically been altered and Xi Jinping has surrounded himself with loyalists and "yes men".

Eight years and a massive anti-corruption campaign later, has China defeated corruption?&nbsp;China ranks 80th on a list of 198 countries in terms of transparency.&nbsp;

&nbsp;According to the annual corruption perceptions index of transparency international,&nbsp;China scored 41 out of 100.

Xi Jinping tightened his grip on power by promising a corruption-free China. More than one million officials were sacked and they were Xi Jinping loyalists. In 2017, the Communist Party unveiled its leadership team - the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China.

Xi Jinping tightened his grip on power by promising a corruption-free China. More than one million officials were sacked and they were Xi Jinping loyalists. In 2017, the Communist Party unveiled its leadership team - the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China. It's the highest decision-making body of the Chinese government and at the centre is Xi Jinping. The faces around him have one thing in common --- they pose no challenge to the Chinese president. It's customary for a Chinese president to appoint a potential successor on the Standing Committee in his second term. However, Xi Jinping has not appointed a successor. He has removed presidential term limits and made himself the de facto ruler for life. An American think tank has come up with this assessment of China’s leadership. According to the assessment, Xi Jinping promoted and elevated his comrades in the Politburo. The Politburo has 25 members and it runs the affairs of the country. Almost 60 per cent of this team has direct ties to Xi Jinping. Many have worked under him before. Other members include loyal advisers, a childhood friend and even family associates. Xi made room for them by carrying out the great purge or what he called an anti-corruption campaign. More than one million officials were disciplined in this drive. China hasn’t seen a campaign so vast and ruthless since the days of Mao Zedong. According to a report in 2017, over 170 ministers and deputy minister-level officials were either sacked or jailed. They were charged with crimes like corruption, misconduct and violation of party discipline. By 2017, nearly 70 per cent of the party’s central committee was reportedly replaced. China’s centre of power has dramatically been altered and Xi Jinping has surrounded himself with loyalists and "yes men". Eight years and a massive anti-corruption campaign later, has China defeated corruption? China ranks 80th on a list of 198 countries in terms of transparency. According to the annual corruption perceptions index of transparency international, China scored 41 out of 100.

Xi Jinping tries to secure his throne with anti-corruption drive

The opposition party in Taiwan demanded clarification on Monday on US envoy's pronunciation, which appeared to wrongly spell the name of the president, which sounded closer to her arch-rival Chinese counterpart.

US Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar met President Tsai Ing-wen earlier on Monday and in his opening statement pronounced the name as "shee", which is how Chinese President Xi Jinping's name is spelt, instead of "ts-eye".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-jets-spotted-in-taiwan-strait-during-us-health-chief-visit-319442">Chinese jets spotted in Taiwan Strait during US health chief visit</a>

However, a few sentences later, Azar corrected himself and pronounced President Tsai's as it is generally is spoken.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ongoing-historic-visit-to-taiwan-a-true-honour-for-trump-administration-319305">Ongoing historic visit to Taiwan a 'true honour' for Trump administration</a>

For opposition Kuomintang party (KMT), the glitch came as a "shock and disapproval" as they demanded clarification from the US.&nbsp;

"The KMT expresses shock and disapproval while urging the presidential office to sternly protest to the US side and clarify that the president of the Republic of China is surnamed Tsai, not Xi," said KMT in a statement.

However, Taiwan president brushed aside the opposition party's demand.

"There is no doubt Secretary Azar was addressing (her) as President Tsai," said Xavier Chang, Tsai's spokesman, in a statement.

"We suggest all sides to focus on (Taiwan's) diplomatic accomplishments and anti-pandemic cooperation. Closer Taiwan-US relations is the joint fruit of the efforts made by all people."

Tsai's party is at loggerheads with the Chinese administration, which is based on the autonomy of Taiwan, which Beijing considers as its own territory.&nbsp;

Also, US health secretary's visit to Taiwan has already raised eyebrows in China as for long several countries refused to consider Taiwan as an independent country separate from mainland China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

The opposition party in Taiwan demanded clarification on Monday on US envoy's pronunciation, which appeared to wrongly spell the name of the president, which sounded closer to her arch-rival Chinese counterpart.

The opposition party in Taiwan demanded clarification on Monday on US envoy's pronunciation, which appeared to wrongly spell the name of the president, which sounded closer to her arch-rival Chinese counterpart. US Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar met President Tsai Ing-wen earlier on Monday and in his opening statement pronounced the name as "shee", which is how Chinese President Xi Jinping's name is spelt, instead of "ts-eye". Also read | Chinese jets spotted in Taiwan Strait during US health chief visit However, a few sentences later, Azar corrected himself and pronounced President Tsai's as it is generally is spoken. Also read | Ongoing historic visit to Taiwan a 'true honour' for Trump administration For opposition Kuomintang party (KMT), the glitch came as a "shock and disapproval" as they demanded clarification from the US. "The KMT expresses shock and disapproval while urging the presidential office to sternly protest to the US side and clarify that the president of the Republic of China is surnamed Tsai, not Xi," said KMT in a statement. However, Taiwan president brushed aside the opposition party's demand. "There is no doubt Secretary Azar was addressing (her) as President Tsai," said Xavier Chang, Tsai's spokesman, in a statement. "We suggest all sides to focus on (Taiwan's) diplomatic accomplishments and anti-pandemic cooperation. Closer Taiwan-US relations is the joint fruit of the efforts made by all people." Tsai's party is at loggerheads with the Chinese administration, which is based on the autonomy of Taiwan, which Beijing considers as its own territory. Also, US health secretary's visit to Taiwan has already raised eyebrows in China as for long several countries refused to consider Taiwan as an independent country separate from mainland China. (With inputs from AFP)

Taiwan: Opposition party demands clarification of US envoy spelling President Tsai as 'Xi'

It's always better to serve one master at a time. If you start serving two, you are inviting trouble.

This is a lesson from the Bible and Pakistan has started to learn it finally.&nbsp;

The Imran Khan government made itself a slave of money by two masters: Saudi Arabia, its religious master with oil money and China, the mastermind with deep pockets.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-saudi-arabia-makes-pakistan-repay-1-billion-318705/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pakistan has borrowed billions of dollars from both these nations.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-approves-most-expensive-china-aided-project-to-date-318443">Pakistan approves most expensive China-aided project to date</a>

China's debt-trap diplomacy is well-known, but what about Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Islamabad secured a $3 billion loan from Riyadh in October 2018, assuming that they would not be asked to pay back.&nbsp;

The Pakistani PM tried hard to ensure this and even played chauffeur for the Saudi crown prince.&nbsp;

Earlier today, it was announced in Pakistani media that Islamabad has paid back $1 billion.&nbsp;

However, the Pakistani media has not put it correctly, and, in fact, Riyadh has forced it to pay.

This payback was due for a long time and let's just look at what really happened.

Ever since he came to power, Khan has been obsessed with Kashmir. Repeatedly, Khan has allowed this obsession to dominate Pakistan's foreign policy.&nbsp;

In February, Khan consistently pushed Saudi Arabia for the Organisation of Islamic Countries' (OIC) meeting on Kashmir. Saudi Arabia is the de facto leader of OIC and it refused to slam India on Kashmir.&nbsp;

The prime minister went all the way to Malaysia and said: "OIC can't come together on Kashmir, we are divided, we have no voice".&nbsp;

This tone of Imran was not appreciated by Saudi Arabia. Riyadh's message was clear: Domestic political narratives cannot drive foreign policy.&nbsp;

It has been a while since this episode and the world faced the pandemic in between.&nbsp;

But it seems that the Pakistani PM has not moved on and is once again asking Saudis to convene a meeting of Islamic countries on Kashmir.&nbsp;

Recently, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said: "OIC's leadership should stay away from this attitude of being careful and if they can't do this, then our prime minister will call the meeting".

These are strong words spoken by a country that is surviving on loans from Saudi Arabia.

Another question that remains is how did Pakistan afford to pay back a billion dollars, during a pandemic and when its economy is on a downfall.&nbsp;

The answer is China.

A Pakistani newspaper said, "Pakistan's time-tested friend, China, has immediately come forward and extended $1 billion in loan to help Islamabad avoid any adverse impact of the partial withdrawal of the Saudi lifeline."

China's modus operandi is this policy, give with one hand and take away with the other.&nbsp;

And once again China managed to do this.&nbsp;

At least 24 hours before China helped Pakistan with this aid, Pakistan's top economic body approved its costliest project ever: CPEC, a $6.8 billion project to upgrade Pakistan's railway lines.&nbsp;

Interestingly, Pakistan's entire developmental budget this financial year was $7.9 billion.

China's time-tested friendship has been a costly affair for Pakistan.

The harsh reality for Pakistan is that its obsession with Kashmir and attempts to please China has impacted its support from the Islamic world.&nbsp;

Imran Khan can drive all he likes, but he can't take the world for a ride.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

It's always better to serve one master at a time. If you start serving two, you are inviting trouble. This is a lesson from the Bible and Pakistan has started to learn it finally.

It's always better to serve one master at a time. If you start serving two, you are inviting trouble. This is a lesson from the Bible and Pakistan has started to learn it finally. The Imran Khan government made itself a slave of money by two masters: Saudi Arabia, its religious master with oil money and China, the mastermind with deep pockets. Watch | Pakistan has borrowed billions of dollars from both these nations. Also read | Pakistan approves most expensive China-aided project to date China's debt-trap diplomacy is well-known, but what about Saudi Arabia. Islamabad secured a $3 billion loan from Riyadh in October 2018, assuming that they would not be asked to pay back. The Pakistani PM tried hard to ensure this and even played chauffeur for the Saudi crown prince. Earlier today, it was announced in Pakistani media that Islamabad has paid back $1 billion. However, the Pakistani media has not put it correctly, and, in fact, Riyadh has forced it to pay. This payback was due for a long time and let's just look at what really happened. Ever since he came to power, Khan has been obsessed with Kashmir. Repeatedly, Khan has allowed this obsession to dominate Pakistan's foreign policy. In February, Khan consistently pushed Saudi Arabia for the Organisation of Islamic Countries' (OIC) meeting on Kashmir. Saudi Arabia is the de facto leader of OIC and it refused to slam India on Kashmir. The prime minister went all the way to Malaysia and said: "OIC can't come together on Kashmir, we are divided, we have no voice". This tone of Imran was not appreciated by Saudi Arabia. Riyadh's message was clear: Domestic political narratives cannot drive foreign policy. It has been a while since this episode and the world faced the pandemic in between. But it seems that the Pakistani PM has not moved on and is once again asking Saudis to convene a meeting of Islamic countries on Kashmir. Recently, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said: "OIC's leadership should stay away from this attitude of being careful and if they can't do this, then our prime minister will call the meeting". These are strong words spoken by a country that is surviving on loans from Saudi Arabia. Another question that remains is how did Pakistan afford to pay back a billion dollars, during a pandemic and when its economy is on a downfall. The answer is China. A Pakistani newspaper said, "Pakistan's time-tested friend, China, has immediately come forward and extended $1 billion in loan to help Islamabad avoid any adverse impact of the partial withdrawal of the Saudi lifeline." China's modus operandi is this policy, give with one hand and take away with the other. And once again China managed to do this. At least 24 hours before China helped Pakistan with this aid, Pakistan's top economic body approved its costliest project ever: CPEC, a $6.8 billion project to upgrade Pakistan's railway lines. Interestingly, Pakistan's entire developmental budget this financial year was $7.9 billion. China's time-tested friendship has been a costly affair for Pakistan. The harsh reality for Pakistan is that its obsession with Kashmir and attempts to please China has impacted its support from the Islamic world. Imran Khan can drive all he likes, but he can't take the world for a ride.

Imran Khan's proximity with China has distanced his other master

Xi Jinping has many dreams. The dreams to make China a superpower. Put the middle kingdom at the centre of global commerce and to take back the breakaway province of Taiwan.

Xi Jinping has another dream to win a football world cup but Chinese football team is a national humiliation and, therefore, Xi Jinping decided to take matters in&nbsp;his own hands.&nbsp;

Here is how the Chinese president is chasing the world cup glory.

Xi hopes to be the world’s most powerful football coach. Even better than the likes of Jose Mourinho or Zinedine Zidane. Xi Jinping is not quitting his day job. But, for quite some time now, the Chinese president has been on a mission. A mission to turn China into a superpower, on the football pitch.

The battle is a personal one. When President Xi was party chief in rural Hebei, he witnessed the trashing of the Chinese side by a British club Watford FC which defeated China’s national team 5-1 in 1983.&nbsp;

Xi hasn’t forgotten the humiliation. So, in 2011, he unveiled the great soccer dream. The Chinese president wants to not just host the football world cup but even lift the trophy one day. With China’s football ambition, the geopolitical power battle is now set to kick off in the stadium too.&nbsp;

With his world cup bid, Xi Jinping will be rubbing shoulders with his good friend Vladimir Putin. Russia had hosted the 2018 world cup with the Russian president attending every game to cheer his side.

The US is an adversary here too. The American women’s national team is the world’s most successful side. China may be able to push its weight around against Russia and the US. But on the football field, China is a non-starter.&nbsp;

The Chinese national side is ranked 76th in the world. It has qualified only once for the world cup, way back in 2002. The talent deficit is quite evident. But the dragon is desperate and is recruiting foreign players into its national side.

In 2019, Nico Yennaris gave up his British passport and moved to Beijing. Yennaris, now known as like, is now a member of the Chinese side.

Others players rejected in the West, are chasing stardom in China now. John Hou Saeter renounced his Norwegian passport to play in China.

Brazil-born strike Elkeson has joined the Chinese team too. Reports say, at least nine foreign footballers have switched their allegiance to be naturalized Chinese citizens. With the recruits, China is targeting world cup qualification once again.

The world is still gripped by the Wuhan virus but football has resumed in China with the national team starting practice. Xi Jinping wants to transform China into a great soccer nation but he must first know the score... Or he'll end up with more embarrassment.

Xi Jinping has many dreams. The dreams to make China a superpower. Put the middle kingdom at the centre of global commerce and to take back the breakaway province of Taiwan.

Xi Jinping has many dreams. The dreams to make China a superpower. Put the middle kingdom at the centre of global commerce and to take back the breakaway province of Taiwan. Xi Jinping has another dream to win a football world cup but Chinese football team is a national humiliation and, therefore, Xi Jinping decided to take matters in his own hands. Here is how the Chinese president is chasing the world cup glory. Xi hopes to be the world’s most powerful football coach. Even better than the likes of Jose Mourinho or Zinedine Zidane. Xi Jinping is not quitting his day job. But, for quite some time now, the Chinese president has been on a mission. A mission to turn China into a superpower, on the football pitch. The battle is a personal one. When President Xi was party chief in rural Hebei, he witnessed the trashing of the Chinese side by a British club Watford FC which defeated China’s national team 5-1 in 1983. Xi hasn’t forgotten the humiliation. So, in 2011, he unveiled the great soccer dream. The Chinese president wants to not just host the football world cup but even lift the trophy one day. With China’s football ambition, the geopolitical power battle is now set to kick off in the stadium too. With his world cup bid, Xi Jinping will be rubbing shoulders with his good friend Vladimir Putin. Russia had hosted the 2018 world cup with the Russian president attending every game to cheer his side. The US is an adversary here too. The American women’s national team is the world’s most successful side. China may be able to push its weight around against Russia and the US. But on the football field, China is a non-starter. The Chinese national side is ranked 76th in the world. It has qualified only once for the world cup, way back in 2002. The talent deficit is quite evident. But the dragon is desperate and is recruiting foreign players into its national side. In 2019, Nico Yennaris gave up his British passport and moved to Beijing. Yennaris, now known as like, is now a member of the Chinese side. Others players rejected in the West, are chasing stardom in China now. John Hou Saeter renounced his Norwegian passport to play in China. Brazil-born strike Elkeson has joined the Chinese team too. Reports say, at least nine foreign footballers have switched their allegiance to be naturalized Chinese citizens. With the recruits, China is targeting world cup qualification once again. The world is still gripped by the Wuhan virus but football has resumed in China with the national team starting practice. Xi Jinping wants to transform China into a great soccer nation but he must first know the score... Or he'll end up with more embarrassment.

Why Xi Jinping's dream to conquer the soccer world will just fall short

A resistance movement against the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is getting bigger. Baloch and Sindhi groups have joined hands against Chinese investments. China is responding by asking Pakistan to declare some of its citizens as terrorists - who pose a threat to Chinese assets. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: China asks Pakistan to declare some of its citizens as terrorists

China promised development and employment when the China-Pakistan economic corridor was launched. But, broken promises are forcing the people in Gwadar to pick up arms against Chinese investments in Pakistan. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: Pakistan: How CPEC left behind the people of Gwadar

In Pakistan, a number of Islamic Journals are questioning Imran Khan's silence on the persecution of Uighurs. The Pak govt has been forced to make some 'recommendations' to China on treating minorities. What does China feel about Pakistan's assessments? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: China rejects Pak's advice on Uighur Muslims

Chinese President Xi Jinping said Saturday that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Nepal&nbsp;relations and is willing to work with his&nbsp;Nepali counterpart, Bidhya Devi Bhandari, to push for continued advancement of the bilateral relationship.

In an exchange of congratulatory messages with Bhandari on the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Xi also said he is ready to work with Bhandari to bring greater benefits to the two peoples and make positive contributions to regional stability and development.

He pointed out that the friendship between China and&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;has a long history and remained ever new over time, saying that since the establishment of diplomatic relations 65 years ago, the two countries have always respected each other, treated each other as equals, enhanced political mutual trust and deepened mutually beneficial cooperation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/allies-or-puppets-nepals-movement-around-border-raises-questions-about-its-friendship-with-china-307183">Allies or puppets? Nepal's movement around border raises questions about its friendship with China</a>

Noting that he and Bhandari exchanged visits last year and elevated the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership of cooperation featuring ever-lasting friendship for development and prosperity, Xi said the two sides have sticked together through thick and thin and stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak, and have written a new chapter of friendship between China and&nbsp;Nepal.

In her congratulatory message, Bhandari said that the&nbsp;Nepal-China friendship has a long history and a solid foundation.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/is-nepal-falling-into-chinas-debt-trap-302858">Is Nepal falling into China's debt trap?</a>

The Chinese President said that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Nepal relations and is willing to work with his Nepali counterpart Bhandari to push for the continued advancement of the bilateral relationship.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have developed and deepened significantly, she said, adding that&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;welcomes the China-proposed vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind and actively participates in the cooperation on the co-building of the Belt and Road.

Expressing&nbsp;Nepal's appreciation of China's effective measures to contain the COVID-19 epidemic and a sincere gratitude for China's invaluable support to&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;in its epidemic battle, Bhandari said&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;is ready to work with China to fully implement the broad consensus reached by the two heads of state so as to benefit the two countries and peoples.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and&nbsp;Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli also exchanged congratulatory messages.

Li said in his message that since this year, China and&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;have joined hands to fight the COVID-19 epidemic, and further enhanced their mutual trust and friendship.

China is willing to work with&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;to strengthen all-round cooperation in various fields and high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road, and constantly lift bilateral relations to new levels.

Oli, in his congratulatory message, said that since the establishment of diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have seen a sustained, stable and sound development.

Nepal&nbsp;appreciates China's support for its fight against COVID-19, and looks forward to working closely with China to realize economic recovery and push for greater development of bilateral relations, he said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said Saturday that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Nepal relations and is willing to work with his Nepali counterpart, Bidhya Devi Bhandari, to push for continued advancement of the bilateral relationship.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said Saturday that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Nepal relations and is willing to work with his Nepali counterpart, Bidhya Devi Bhandari, to push for continued advancement of the bilateral relationship. In an exchange of congratulatory messages with Bhandari on the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Xi also said he is ready to work with Bhandari to bring greater benefits to the two peoples and make positive contributions to regional stability and development. He pointed out that the friendship between China and Nepal has a long history and remained ever new over time, saying that since the establishment of diplomatic relations 65 years ago, the two countries have always respected each other, treated each other as equals, enhanced political mutual trust and deepened mutually beneficial cooperation. Also read: Allies or puppets? Nepal's movement around border raises questions about its friendship with China Noting that he and Bhandari exchanged visits last year and elevated the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership of cooperation featuring ever-lasting friendship for development and prosperity, Xi said the two sides have sticked together through thick and thin and stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak, and have written a new chapter of friendship between China and Nepal. In her congratulatory message, Bhandari said that the Nepal-China friendship has a long history and a solid foundation. Also read: Is Nepal falling into China's debt trap? The Chinese President said that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Nepal relations and is willing to work with his Nepali counterpart Bhandari to push for the continued advancement of the bilateral relationship. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have developed and deepened significantly, she said, adding that Nepal welcomes the China-proposed vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind and actively participates in the cooperation on the co-building of the Belt and Road. Expressing Nepal's appreciation of China's effective measures to contain the COVID-19 epidemic and a sincere gratitude for China's invaluable support to Nepal in its epidemic battle, Bhandari said Nepal is ready to work with China to fully implement the broad consensus reached by the two heads of state so as to benefit the two countries and peoples. On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli also exchanged congratulatory messages. Li said in his message that since this year, China and Nepal have joined hands to fight the COVID-19 epidemic, and further enhanced their mutual trust and friendship. China is willing to work with Nepal to strengthen all-round cooperation in various fields and high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road, and constantly lift bilateral relations to new levels. Oli, in his congratulatory message, said that since the establishment of diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have seen a sustained, stable and sound development. Nepal appreciates China's support for its fight against COVID-19, and looks forward to working closely with China to realize economic recovery and push for greater development of bilateral relations, he said.

Want to push for continued advancement of China-Nepal ties: Xi Jinping

With more than 276 diplomatic posts, China is the world's largest diplomatic power.&nbsp;

US and China have an equal number of embassies, but, Beijing has more consulates than Washington.&nbsp;

China has 169 embassies, 96 consulates, eight permanent missions and three other missions.&nbsp;

Have you ever wondered why does China need so many diplomatic posts?&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-dismisses-accusations-of-hacking-attempt-on-us-vaccine-developer-moderna-317257">China dismisses accusations of hacking attempt on US vaccine developer Moderna</a>

Any diplomatic mission represents a nation's interest in a foreign land.&nbsp;

In the case of China, Chinese missions are fronts to snoop, influence and exert control.&nbsp;

Chinese embassies and consulates run surveillance operations, which are also used to track down Uighurs.&nbsp;

Let's understand how these missions operate.&nbsp;

Chinese missions abroad gather information about missing Uighurs and then try to secure their custody through extradition and diplomacy.&nbsp;

Consular officials reject any passport renewal requests from Uighurs. The Uighurs are forced to return to China for new papers.

Once they reach China, they are sent into mass internment camps.

Also, the presence of Chinese students abroad comes in handy. Chinese embassies and consulates keep a close tab on them.

When required, political directives are sent to mobilise supporters. This has happened frequently in America.&nbsp;

In 2015, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Washington where hundreds of Chinese students gave him a warm welcome.

Later, it turned out that the Chinese embassy had paid them 200 USD each to gather.&nbsp;

The purpose behind this mass-paid support is to show how large groups support the Communist Party leadership and crowd out any protest.&nbsp;

The main job is to campaign for political influence.&nbsp;

Now let's take a look at how China tries to influence a nation's politics.&nbsp;

A video conference between Nepal's ruling Communist Party and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Reportedly, the purpose of this conference was to "learn from China's ruling party".

But actually, this is how Beijing exports its communist ideology abroad.&nbsp;

In the last three months, we have seen how China's Ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi engages with senior Nepali leaders by playing peacemaker to feuding members of Nepal's ruling party.&nbsp;

The country has made similar attempts to influence Africa too.

Beijing has engaged with African political parties and leaders, developed party-to-party relations by offering training, created an exchange program for journalists to influence the press.

All this combined with the chequebook diplomacy makes China harder to ignore these regions.&nbsp;

The CCP has a special department called the United Front Work Department (UFWD).

This is the political influence arm of the Communist Party, whose job is to reach out and maintain ties with key Chinese interest groups.&nbsp;

Chinese diplomats posted abroad often assist in these operations.&nbsp;

They preside over the ceremonies and banquets held by organisations linked to the UPWD.

One such organisation is the National Association for China's peaceful reunification, which has branches in more than 30 American cities and issues statements of support for China's foreign policy moves.&nbsp;

In return, Chinese diplomats encourage their participation in America's domestic politics.&nbsp;

In hindsight, Chinese missions do more than just spying.

They are an extension of the CCP and its influence operations abroad.&nbsp;

With more than 276 diplomatic posts, China is the world's largest diplomatic power. US and China have an equal number of embassies, but, Beijing has more consulates than Washington.

With more than 276 diplomatic posts, China is the world's largest diplomatic power. US and China have an equal number of embassies, but, Beijing has more consulates than Washington. China has 169 embassies, 96 consulates, eight permanent missions and three other missions. Have you ever wondered why does China need so many diplomatic posts? Also read | China dismisses accusations of hacking attempt on US vaccine developer Moderna Any diplomatic mission represents a nation's interest in a foreign land. In the case of China, Chinese missions are fronts to snoop, influence and exert control. Chinese embassies and consulates run surveillance operations, which are also used to track down Uighurs. Let's understand how these missions operate. Chinese missions abroad gather information about missing Uighurs and then try to secure their custody through extradition and diplomacy. Consular officials reject any passport renewal requests from Uighurs. The Uighurs are forced to return to China for new papers. Once they reach China, they are sent into mass internment camps. Also, the presence of Chinese students abroad comes in handy. Chinese embassies and consulates keep a close tab on them. When required, political directives are sent to mobilise supporters. This has happened frequently in America. In 2015, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Washington where hundreds of Chinese students gave him a warm welcome. Later, it turned out that the Chinese embassy had paid them 200 USD each to gather. The purpose behind this mass-paid support is to show how large groups support the Communist Party leadership and crowd out any protest. The main job is to campaign for political influence. Now let's take a look at how China tries to influence a nation's politics. A video conference between Nepal's ruling Communist Party and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Reportedly, the purpose of this conference was to "learn from China's ruling party". But actually, this is how Beijing exports its communist ideology abroad. In the last three months, we have seen how China's Ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi engages with senior Nepali leaders by playing peacemaker to feuding members of Nepal's ruling party. The country has made similar attempts to influence Africa too. Beijing has engaged with African political parties and leaders, developed party-to-party relations by offering training, created an exchange program for journalists to influence the press. All this combined with the chequebook diplomacy makes China harder to ignore these regions. The CCP has a special department called the United Front Work Department (UFWD). This is the political influence arm of the Communist Party, whose job is to reach out and maintain ties with key Chinese interest groups. Chinese diplomats posted abroad often assist in these operations. They preside over the ceremonies and banquets held by organisations linked to the UPWD. One such organisation is the National Association for China's peaceful reunification, which has branches in more than 30 American cities and issues statements of support for China's foreign policy moves. In return, Chinese diplomats encourage their participation in America's domestic politics. In hindsight, Chinese missions do more than just spying. They are an extension of the CCP and its influence operations abroad.

How world's largest diplomatic power exerts its influence and control

An unexpected partnership is emerging between Germany & China. The US govt has decided to withdraw 12,00 troops from Germany. Reports say that Berlin could be at the frontline of the US-China cold war. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Germany | Next in China's trap?

Two Chinese Generals have slammed the Chinese leadership for its aggressive foreign policy. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how why two PLA hawks have issued a warning to Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Gravitas: A warning to Xi Jinping from China's hawkish generals

Germany is at&nbsp;frontline of&nbsp;the US-China cold war between US and&nbsp;China&nbsp;according to a new report by a leading British think tank.

Reports suggest&nbsp;that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China.

Looks like it has chosen its side in the battle raging between the United States and China.

The relationship between Washington and Berlin has worsened since Trump became the US President.

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Germany's ambassador to the UK reportedly said that ''Shortcomings in Germany's relationship with the US meant that working with the Trump administration is not easy''.

The report comes as the White House formally announced that it will pull out thousands of troops from Germany.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-move-to-withdraw-troops-from-germany-can-cost-billions-and-take-years-316871https://www.wionews.com/world/us-move-to-withdraw-troops-from-germany-can-cost-billions-and-take-years-316871">US move to withdraw troops from Germany can cost billions and take years</a>

Experts believe that US took the ''strategic decision'' after sensing a&nbsp;growing camaraderie between Germany and China.

US is also shifting its&nbsp;special operations command from&nbsp;Stuttgart, Germany to&nbsp;Belgium as a rebuke of one of its closest military ally and&nbsp;trading partner.

Earlier, it was reported&nbsp;suggest&nbsp;that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China.

The Kremlin is waging a campaign of political interference, while Beijing sees Germany as its main target for economic expansion,&nbsp;as per UK think tank the Royal United Services Institute

Germany is at frontline of the US-China cold war between US and China according to a new report by a leading British think tank. Reports suggest that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China.

Germany is at frontline of the US-China cold war between US and China according to a new report by a leading British think tank. Reports suggest that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China. Looks like it has chosen its side in the battle raging between the United States and China. The relationship between Washington and Berlin has worsened since Trump became the US President. × Germany's ambassador to the UK reportedly said that ''Shortcomings in Germany's relationship with the US meant that working with the Trump administration is not easy''. The report comes as the White House formally announced that it will pull out thousands of troops from Germany. Also read: US move to withdraw troops from Germany can cost billions and take years Experts believe that US took the ''strategic decision'' after sensing a growing camaraderie between Germany and China. US is also shifting its special operations command from Stuttgart, Germany to Belgium as a rebuke of one of its closest military ally and trading partner. Earlier, it was reported suggest that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China. The Kremlin is waging a campaign of political interference, while Beijing sees Germany as its main target for economic expansion, as per UK think tank the Royal United Services Institute

Now, Germany on frontline of new US-China cold war

It seems all is not well in China as President Xi Jinping is facing a challenge from two People's Liberation Army (PLA) hawks.&nbsp;

They have written about their disappointment with Xi's aggressive foreign policy.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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The two generals are calling for policy re-evaluation and warned against "serious mistakes".

One of these voices in retired Major General Qiao Liang, a hawkish voice in China.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-china-is-safeguarding-its-interests-in-sri-lanka-317074">How China is safeguarding its interests in Sri Lanka</a>

Qiao has written a book called "Unrestricted Warfare", which had suggestions on how China could become a global superpower.&nbsp;

The book also talks about exporting a virus, creating a pandemic.&nbsp;

Once again Qiao has written and his latest message is to President Xi that: don't treat the pandemic as an opportunity to take back Taiwan by force.&nbsp;

"China's ultimate goal is not the reunification of Taiwan, but to achieve the dream of national rejuvenation so that all 1.4 billion Chinese can have a good life. Could it be achieved by taking Taiwan back? Of course, not," he said in an interview on Monday.&nbsp;

What he spoke afterwards is equally interesting.&nbsp;

Even Qiao agreed on what we were saying for weeks that in case of a war, China will not be able to mobilise its troops.&nbsp;

"If Beijing wants to take Taiwan back by force, it will need to mobilise all its resources and power to do this...You shouldn't put all your eggs in one basket. It's too costly," he said.&nbsp;

Qiao is a retired major general and knows PLA's capacity.&nbsp;

He also posted a message on WeChat, where he said a move by the PLA to take Taiwan by force may trigger the US to declare war against Beijing.&nbsp;

He said China maritime links at the South China Sea may be cut-off, adding sanctions from other Western countries could hit Beijing's economic development.&nbsp;

Another prominent hawk, Dai Xi, a PLA General, also warns China on similar lines.&nbsp;

In a recently-written article, called: Four unexpected things and ten new understandings about the United States, Dai advises Beijing to take stock of its relative weakness vis-a-vis Washington.&nbsp;

"Remember, the 30 billion in tariffs imposed on you will bring an effect of 60 billion, 90 billion, or more. This is where imperial America is truly powerful. We must be rational, instead of angry and fight wisely," Dai wrote.&nbsp;

The PLA general claims that China's confrontation with the US has won it no friends.&nbsp;

This is a correct argument as several countries across continents are uniting against China.&nbsp;

Even China's chequebook diplomacy has failed in buying supporters.&nbsp;

Even Dai hints at this in a more subtle way.

"China has provided assistance to so many countries...benefiting them in so many ways...but at this critical moment, none of them has taken any unification action with China," he further wrote.&nbsp;

The point is, China's most prominent hawks know that their country is headed towards a downhill, and they are not just discussing this behind closed doors, but also writing about it in as many words possible.&nbsp;

Dai substantiates this point, writing "not a single country has stood out expressing sympathy and support for China".&nbsp;

Of course, the article is written in Mandarin, but the essence of it has not been lost in the translation. &nbsp;

What will happen if these Chinese hawks decide to put their words into action as they are still in a position to shape the opinion of the army.&nbsp;

If that happens, Xi's political survival will not be going to be easy.&nbsp;

It seems all is not well in China as President Xi Jinping is facing a challenge from two People's Liberation Army (PLA) hawks. They have written about their disappointment with Xi's aggressive foreign policy.

It seems all is not well in China as President Xi Jinping is facing a challenge from two People's Liberation Army (PLA) hawks. They have written about their disappointment with Xi's aggressive foreign policy. Watch | The two generals are calling for policy re-evaluation and warned against "serious mistakes". One of these voices in retired Major General Qiao Liang, a hawkish voice in China. Also read | How China is safeguarding its interests in Sri Lanka Qiao has written a book called "Unrestricted Warfare", which had suggestions on how China could become a global superpower. The book also talks about exporting a virus, creating a pandemic. Once again Qiao has written and his latest message is to President Xi that: don't treat the pandemic as an opportunity to take back Taiwan by force. "China's ultimate goal is not the reunification of Taiwan, but to achieve the dream of national rejuvenation so that all 1.4 billion Chinese can have a good life. Could it be achieved by taking Taiwan back? Of course, not," he said in an interview on Monday. What he spoke afterwards is equally interesting. Even Qiao agreed on what we were saying for weeks that in case of a war, China will not be able to mobilise its troops. "If Beijing wants to take Taiwan back by force, it will need to mobilise all its resources and power to do this...You shouldn't put all your eggs in one basket. It's too costly," he said. Qiao is a retired major general and knows PLA's capacity. He also posted a message on WeChat, where he said a move by the PLA to take Taiwan by force may trigger the US to declare war against Beijing. He said China maritime links at the South China Sea may be cut-off, adding sanctions from other Western countries could hit Beijing's economic development. Another prominent hawk, Dai Xi, a PLA General, also warns China on similar lines. In a recently-written article, called: Four unexpected things and ten new understandings about the United States, Dai advises Beijing to take stock of its relative weakness vis-a-vis Washington. "Remember, the 30 billion in tariffs imposed on you will bring an effect of 60 billion, 90 billion, or more. This is where imperial America is truly powerful. We must be rational, instead of angry and fight wisely," Dai wrote. The PLA general claims that China's confrontation with the US has won it no friends. This is a correct argument as several countries across continents are uniting against China. Even China's chequebook diplomacy has failed in buying supporters. Even Dai hints at this in a more subtle way. "China has provided assistance to so many countries...benefiting them in so many ways...but at this critical moment, none of them has taken any unification action with China," he further wrote. The point is, China's most prominent hawks know that their country is headed towards a downhill, and they are not just discussing this behind closed doors, but also writing about it in as many words possible. Dai substantiates this point, writing "not a single country has stood out expressing sympathy and support for China". Of course, the article is written in Mandarin, but the essence of it has not been lost in the translation. What will happen if these Chinese hawks decide to put their words into action as they are still in a position to shape the opinion of the army. If that happens, Xi's political survival will not be going to be easy.

Prominent Chinese hawks warn Xi Jinping to avoid 'serious mistakes'

A prominent Chinese legal scholar who was detained and then fired after criticising President Xi Jinping hopes to clear his name by overturning a prostitution charge brought against him by police, his lawyer said on Wednesday.

Xu Zhangrun, a former constitutional law professor at the prestigious Tsinghua University, was detained by police in Beijing in early July for nearly a week after being accused of soliciting prostitution while in the southwestern city of Chengdu last December.

Xu engaged rights lawyers Mo Shaoping and his partner Shang Baojun on Tuesday night in an effort to overturn the charge, Mo told Reuters.

"Professor Xu engaged us because he rejects the trumped up prostitution charges meant to smear his name," said Mo.

According to Mo, as evidence of his offence, police from Chengdu's Qingyang district presented a woman who said she had intercourse with Xu. Xu contends that he had never seen her before, Mo said.

Xu and his lawyers are still deciding the exact course of action to take, Mo said. His options are to lodge an appeal to the Chengdu city-level police or sue the district police, Mo said.

Neither Xu nor the Chengdu district police could be immediately reached for comment.

While Xu was being detained, Beijing's Tsinghua University fired him for violating its ethical code. It cited the prostitution case as well as various articles Xu had published since July 2018, in a notice seen by Reuters.

Xu, 57, came to prominence in July 2018 for denouncing the removal of the two-term limit for China's leader.

At the peak of China's coronavirus outbreak in February, Xu wrote an article calling for freedom of speech. In May, he wrote an article accusing Xi of trying to bring the Cultural Revolution back to China.

Under Xi, China has clamped down on dissent and tightened censorship.

A prominent Chinese legal scholar who was detained and then fired after criticising President Xi Jinping hopes to clear his name by overturning a prostitution charge brought against him by police, his lawyer said on Wednesday.

A prominent Chinese legal scholar who was detained and then fired after criticising President Xi Jinping hopes to clear his name by overturning a prostitution charge brought against him by police, his lawyer said on Wednesday. Xu Zhangrun, a former constitutional law professor at the prestigious Tsinghua University, was detained by police in Beijing in early July for nearly a week after being accused of soliciting prostitution while in the southwestern city of Chengdu last December. Xu engaged rights lawyers Mo Shaoping and his partner Shang Baojun on Tuesday night in an effort to overturn the charge, Mo told Reuters. "Professor Xu engaged us because he rejects the trumped up prostitution charges meant to smear his name," said Mo. According to Mo, as evidence of his offence, police from Chengdu's Qingyang district presented a woman who said she had intercourse with Xu. Xu contends that he had never seen her before, Mo said. Xu and his lawyers are still deciding the exact course of action to take, Mo said. His options are to lodge an appeal to the Chengdu city-level police or sue the district police, Mo said. Neither Xu nor the Chengdu district police could be immediately reached for comment. While Xu was being detained, Beijing's Tsinghua University fired him for violating its ethical code. It cited the prostitution case as well as various articles Xu had published since July 2018, in a notice seen by Reuters. Xu, 57, came to prominence in July 2018 for denouncing the removal of the two-term limit for China's leader. At the peak of China's coronavirus outbreak in February, Xu wrote an article calling for freedom of speech. In May, he wrote an article accusing Xi of trying to bring the Cultural Revolution back to China. Under Xi, China has clamped down on dissent and tightened censorship.

Professor who criticised XI Jinping to fight prostitution charges: Lawyer

It is now well recognized all over the world China has made spectacular progress in the industrial and technological front in the last few decades. Certainly, there are many admirers of China in the world, who are impressed that China has changed its image from being a developing country to a developed country in a short span of time.&nbsp;

Obviously, this is a tribute to the native intelligence of Chinese people, their determined and hard-working capability and above all, an unbending desire to improve earnings and profit. So far so good.

The minus factor&nbsp;

While China has contributed significantly to the industrial and economic prospects of the world, one can not admire the greedy ambitions of China to become the world superpower, with least regard for fairness in dealing with other countries and it’s lack of scruples as well as its view that it can adopt any means to achieve its objectives of emerging as a superpower. The concept that the means should justify end is not in China’s dictum.

Definite game plan

China’s expansionist greed is being implemented with a definite game plan. China is making no effort to conceal it.&nbsp;

China aggressively entered Tibet in 1950s, massacred innocent Tibetan protestors and has been occupying Tibet for several decades now. The unfortunate fact is that China’s aggression in Tibet was not challenged by other countries in the world and Tibet became the first victim of China’s greed for world dominance.&nbsp;

India was the second victim of China’s greed, when China started a war with India in 1962, defeated the ill-equipped Indian army and occupied large Indian territory, which it continues to occupy till today. Further, China is laying claim for the Arunachal province in India.

The next victim of China’s greed is Japan, where China is laying claim for Senkaku Island.&nbsp;

There are other countries like the Philippines, Vietnam who are yet other victims of China’s greed, as China is laying claim on the South China Sea, questioning the legitimate claims of countries like the Philippines, Vietnam and others.

Economic exploitation of weak countries&nbsp;

Apart from such aggressive military interventions, as part of its game plan to implement its expansionist greed approach, China is steadily bringing several weak countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh under its control by extending debt for implementing projects, clearly knowing that these weak countries will never be able to repay their debt to China. &nbsp;

The debt-ridden countries are being forced to surrender projects related to the territory to China in lieu of the debt such as Hambantota port in Sri Lanka, Gwadar port in Pakistan and several others.

The One Belt One Road &nbsp;(OBOR) &nbsp;initiative is another clever strategy by China to subjugate the weak countries in Asia, Africa and elsewhere to China’s economic domination and it has already made substantial inroads in these countries, that have succumbed to OBOR temptation and have unwittingly got themselves in OBOR trap.

Cause for concern :

Even as China has been recording steady growth in multiple directions, the fact is that it has shown aggressive behaviour in expanding its territories and implementing its schemes to dominate the world. This is justifiably causing concern all over the world.

The present view of the most section of the world community about China is not much different from the view of the world community about Hitler during the second world war. Many people in the world felt in the 1940s that eliminating Hitler was a precondition for the prevalence of peace in the world.&nbsp;

Potential threat to world peace&nbsp;

While China believes that it has enough economic and military strength to gradually advance its expansionist ambition and it would not be effectively challenged in advancing its plans, several countries in the world are now realizing that China can be a potential threat to world peace.

There is a gradual realisation amongst several countries that some coordinated action amongst them is required to checkmate China in the present juncture.&nbsp;

All the concerned countries do understand that unlike in the case of World War II, when Hitler was defeated by a military war, this cannot be so in the present conditions in tackling China.

Vulnerable to trade pressure&nbsp;

Obviously, the number of concerned countries seem to be veering to the view that China has to be confronted on the trade front to make it behave.&nbsp;

While China has built huge capacities in industries and in the production of goods and services, the fact is that such capacities are much more than what China needs now in the immediate future. Obviously, China has become an export-dependent economy and any adverse impact on the export trade of China would cause unbearable pain for the Chinese economy.

Suppression of freedom&nbsp;

Apart from the expansionist greed of China that causes worldwide concern, the suppression of liberty and freedom in China and human rights violation is disturbing the world conscience to some extent.&nbsp;

China seems to be creating an impression that suppression of freedom and growth of the economy should go in parallel, which is unacceptable from an ethical and civilization viewpoint.

Is it right to target a particular country?

It is certainly not right to target a particular country but when that country has faith in aggressive methods, has territorial ambitions and expansionist greed, the world is left with no alternative other than striving to defeat such approach of the country.

The confrontation is not with the Chinese people per se but with the present Chinese government, which is totalitarian in outlook and methods and is not a credible representative of the Chinese people.

It is sad that the present Chinese government has become a pain in the neck of the world and the Chinese government does not seem to mind this.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

It is now well recognized all over the world China has made spectacular progress in the industrial and technological front in the last few decades. Certainly, there are many admirers of China in the world, who are impressed that China has changed its image from being a developing country to a developed country in a short span of time.

It is now well recognized all over the world China has made spectacular progress in the industrial and technological front in the last few decades. Certainly, there are many admirers of China in the world, who are impressed that China has changed its image from being a developing country to a developed country in a short span of time. Obviously, this is a tribute to the native intelligence of Chinese people, their determined and hard-working capability and above all, an unbending desire to improve earnings and profit. So far so good. The minus factor While China has contributed significantly to the industrial and economic prospects of the world, one can not admire the greedy ambitions of China to become the world superpower, with least regard for fairness in dealing with other countries and it’s lack of scruples as well as its view that it can adopt any means to achieve its objectives of emerging as a superpower. The concept that the means should justify end is not in China’s dictum. Definite game plan China’s expansionist greed is being implemented with a definite game plan. China is making no effort to conceal it. China aggressively entered Tibet in 1950s, massacred innocent Tibetan protestors and has been occupying Tibet for several decades now. The unfortunate fact is that China’s aggression in Tibet was not challenged by other countries in the world and Tibet became the first victim of China’s greed for world dominance. India was the second victim of China’s greed, when China started a war with India in 1962, defeated the ill-equipped Indian army and occupied large Indian territory, which it continues to occupy till today. Further, China is laying claim for the Arunachal province in India. The next victim of China’s greed is Japan, where China is laying claim for Senkaku Island. There are other countries like the Philippines, Vietnam who are yet other victims of China’s greed, as China is laying claim on the South China Sea, questioning the legitimate claims of countries like the Philippines, Vietnam and others. Economic exploitation of weak countries Apart from such aggressive military interventions, as part of its game plan to implement its expansionist greed approach, China is steadily bringing several weak countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh under its control by extending debt for implementing projects, clearly knowing that these weak countries will never be able to repay their debt to China. The debt-ridden countries are being forced to surrender projects related to the territory to China in lieu of the debt such as Hambantota port in Sri Lanka, Gwadar port in Pakistan and several others. The One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative is another clever strategy by China to subjugate the weak countries in Asia, Africa and elsewhere to China’s economic domination and it has already made substantial inroads in these countries, that have succumbed to OBOR temptation and have unwittingly got themselves in OBOR trap. Cause for concern : Even as China has been recording steady growth in multiple directions, the fact is that it has shown aggressive behaviour in expanding its territories and implementing its schemes to dominate the world. This is justifiably causing concern all over the world. The present view of the most section of the world community about China is not much different from the view of the world community about Hitler during the second world war. Many people in the world felt in the 1940s that eliminating Hitler was a precondition for the prevalence of peace in the world. Potential threat to world peace While China believes that it has enough economic and military strength to gradually advance its expansionist ambition and it would not be effectively challenged in advancing its plans, several countries in the world are now realizing that China can be a potential threat to world peace. There is a gradual realisation amongst several countries that some coordinated action amongst them is required to checkmate China in the present juncture. All the concerned countries do understand that unlike in the case of World War II, when Hitler was defeated by a military war, this cannot be so in the present conditions in tackling China. Vulnerable to trade pressure Obviously, the number of concerned countries seem to be veering to the view that China has to be confronted on the trade front to make it behave. While China has built huge capacities in industries and in the production of goods and services, the fact is that such capacities are much more than what China needs now in the immediate future. Obviously, China has become an export-dependent economy and any adverse impact on the export trade of China would cause unbearable pain for the Chinese economy. Suppression of freedom Apart from the expansionist greed of China that causes worldwide concern, the suppression of liberty and freedom in China and human rights violation is disturbing the world conscience to some extent. China seems to be creating an impression that suppression of freedom and growth of the economy should go in parallel, which is unacceptable from an ethical and civilization viewpoint. Is it right to target a particular country? It is certainly not right to target a particular country but when that country has faith in aggressive methods, has territorial ambitions and expansionist greed, the world is left with no alternative other than striving to defeat such approach of the country. The confrontation is not with the Chinese people per se but with the present Chinese government, which is totalitarian in outlook and methods and is not a credible representative of the Chinese people. It is sad that the present Chinese government has become a pain in the neck of the world and the Chinese government does not seem to mind this. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Expansionist greed of Chinese government: A pain in the neck for the world

A suspended engineering professor of the University of Arkansas called Simon&nbsp;Saw-Teong&nbsp;Ang has been&nbsp;indicted over China links and is facing&nbsp;44 counts of fraud said the US Department of Justice.

The indictment said&nbsp;Ang&nbsp;was secretly part of the Xi-backed Thousand Talents program, which Washington says China uses to collect research from abroad.

The FBI affidavit says authorities discovered Ang's alleged ties to Chinese interests after a university employee attempted to identify the owner of a hard drive that was placed in lost-and-found at a campus library.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-arrests-nasa-researcher-for-not-disclosing-alleged-ties-with-china-298420">FBI arrests NASA researcher for not 'disclosing' alleged ties with China</a>

While reviewing the contents of the hard drive, which were later turned over to the FBI, the affidavit says, the employee discovered an email exchange between Ang and a visiting researcher from Xidian University in Xi'an, China.

In the September 2018 email discussion, Ang wrote that things were becoming difficult for him because of the current political climate, according to the affidavit.

According to the FBI, those associated with China's Thousand Talents program are individuals who work or study outside of China in high-priority research fields. While not traditional spies, investigators say they are nevertheless collecting research information sought by Chinese authorities.

Earlier this week,&nbsp;Li Xiaojiang, a former professor at Emory University in Atlanta, admitted tax fraud in a case focused on his hidden earnings from China, also as a participant in the Thousand Talents program.

Senator Marco Rubio, a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said such cases combined with the coronavirus are forcing China to change its tactics.

"Beijing has shifted its recruitment efforts for the Thousand Talents Program online, and it has increased efforts to hack US medical research institutes for COVID-19 information," he said.

A suspended engineering professor of the University of Arkansas called Simon Saw-Teong Ang has been indicted over China links and is facing 44 counts of fraud said the US Department of Justice.

A suspended engineering professor of the University of Arkansas called Simon Saw-Teong Ang has been indicted over China links and is facing 44 counts of fraud said the US Department of Justice. The indictment said Ang was secretly part of the Xi-backed Thousand Talents program, which Washington says China uses to collect research from abroad. The FBI affidavit says authorities discovered Ang's alleged ties to Chinese interests after a university employee attempted to identify the owner of a hard drive that was placed in lost-and-found at a campus library. Also read: FBI arrests NASA researcher for not 'disclosing' alleged ties with China While reviewing the contents of the hard drive, which were later turned over to the FBI, the affidavit says, the employee discovered an email exchange between Ang and a visiting researcher from Xidian University in Xi'an, China. In the September 2018 email discussion, Ang wrote that things were becoming difficult for him because of the current political climate, according to the affidavit. According to the FBI, those associated with China's Thousand Talents program are individuals who work or study outside of China in high-priority research fields. While not traditional spies, investigators say they are nevertheless collecting research information sought by Chinese authorities. Earlier this week, Li Xiaojiang, a former professor at Emory University in Atlanta, admitted tax fraud in a case focused on his hidden earnings from China, also as a participant in the Thousand Talents program. Senator Marco Rubio, a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said such cases combined with the coronavirus are forcing China to change its tactics. "Beijing has shifted its recruitment efforts for the Thousand Talents Program online, and it has increased efforts to hack US medical research institutes for COVID-19 information," he said.

US professor Simon Ang indicted over China links, faces 44 counts of fraud

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