If sabotaging vaccine research was not enough, China is now promoting its traditional medicine as a cure for the Wuhan virus. China claims to have cured 92 per cent of the cases using its age-old concoctions. But, there is no evidence to prove their effectiveness.

Xi Jinping is promoting 'Traditional Chinese Medicine'

In an attempt to resolve the month-long bitter standoff between India and China, the top tactical army commanders of both the countries are meeting today at Chushul-Moldo border personnel meeting (BPM) point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

India, China look to break deadlock | India-China border standoff

Is Chinese President Xi Jinping consolidating power in the name of fighting corruption? Is he targeting his critics and rivals? Reports suggest he openly criticised the second-most powerful person in the country - Premier Li Keqiang. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Xi vs Li: China's power grab begins?

After the United States said that it will suspend Chinese flights entering the country, Beijing announced the resumption of foreign airline services, providing relief to US carriers.&nbsp;

The qualified foreign airlines currently barred from operating in&nbsp;China will be allowed once-per-week flights into a city of their choice from June 8, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) said in a statement. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/domestic-passenger-flights-to-resume-on-monday-mumbai-airport-to-deal-with-50-per-day-300798">Domestic passenger flights to resume on Monday; Mumbai airport to deal with 50 per day</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

This latest relaxation came after CAAC limited the foreign airline services based on their activity from March 12.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-resumes-domestic-flights-partially-as-nation-wide-lockdown-eased-299067">Pakistan resumes domestic flights partially as nation-wide lockdown eased</a>

Earlier, the US announced that it would not allow flights coming from China into its country from June 16 in a move to pressurise Beijing letting airlines from the US operate.&nbsp;

However, the move required a nod of US President Donald Trump, who has accused China of mishandling coronavirus pandemic and slammed its actions directed towards Hong Kong.

The Chinese aviation agency also said that routes whose passengers all test negative for three successive weeks will be given an additional flight each week.&nbsp;

In late March, China said that domestic and foreign carriers could not run more than one weekly flight on one route and could not fly any more than the number of flights they were operating on March 12.&nbsp;

The relations between both the nations have reached a new low and Trump on May 29 announced the US terminating ties with World Health Organization (WHO), accusing the global health agency of having biases&nbsp;towards China, despite the US being its largest donor.&nbsp;

After the United States said that it will suspend Chinese flights entering the country, Beijing announced the resumption of foreign airline services, providing relief to US carriers.

After the United States said that it will suspend Chinese flights entering the country, Beijing announced the resumption of foreign airline services, providing relief to US carriers. The qualified foreign airlines currently barred from operating in China will be allowed once-per-week flights into a city of their choice from June 8, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) said in a statement. Also read | Domestic passenger flights to resume on Monday; Mumbai airport to deal with 50 per day This latest relaxation came after CAAC limited the foreign airline services based on their activity from March 12. Also read | Pakistan resumes domestic flights partially as nation-wide lockdown eased Earlier, the US announced that it would not allow flights coming from China into its country from June 16 in a move to pressurise Beijing letting airlines from the US operate. However, the move required a nod of US President Donald Trump, who has accused China of mishandling coronavirus pandemic and slammed its actions directed towards Hong Kong. The Chinese aviation agency also said that routes whose passengers all test negative for three successive weeks will be given an additional flight each week. In late March, China said that domestic and foreign carriers could not run more than one weekly flight on one route and could not fly any more than the number of flights they were operating on March 12. The relations between both the nations have reached a new low and Trump on May 29 announced the US terminating ties with World Health Organization (WHO), accusing the global health agency of having biases towards China, despite the US being its largest donor.

China eases foreign flight curbs following US suspension of passenger planes

In the 1950s, the Chinese used to say, "The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) of today is the China of tomorrow." But after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, it became, "The USSR of yesterday must not become the China of tomorrow." 
 
China viewed the USSR as a 'pole' in a multipolar world. Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping,&nbsp;the paramount leader who retired in 1992, used to refer to the USSR as the polar bear.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-brutal-tiananmen-crackdown-to-chinas-re-emergence-a-timeline-of-events-303100">Also Read: From brutal Tiananmen crackdown to China's re-emergence: A timeline of events</a>

The Chinese leaders went to great lengths to prevent the Soviet Union from disintegrating. 
 
Since 1989 when China suppressed pro-democracy demonstrations in and around central Beijing's Tiananmen Square, the Communist Party of China (CPC) fears a similar fate. The party knew it had to change in order to survive. However, with this, it did not mean political reform, but more oppression and boosting its economy.

Deng Xiaoping's vision of a 'socialist market economy' became the Communist Party's official policy. In 1992, When Deng Xiaoping went for his second tour of southern China, he pressed for faster economic reforms Paramount leader Deng Xiaoping tours southern China to press for faster economic reforms Voices within the party that opposed market liberalisation were silenced. By October 1992, China was looking at increased foreign trade and investment. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/soft-and-hard-power-steps-india-needs-to-take-to-counter-china-303381">Also Read:&nbsp;Soft and hard power: Steps India needs to take to counter China</a>

In 1997, when Hong Kong was handed over to China, Beijing played safe and pressed for the policy of 'One Nation With Diversity'.&nbsp;What the party grew to value the most was stability and it was achieved by suppressing political rights and human rights.

After the Tiananmen Square massacre in 1989, Deng had reportedly said, "200 lives are a small price to pay for 20 years of stability." Clearly, when Deng Xiaoping said reform, he meant a new brand of socialism.&nbsp; 
 
China has never provided a full accounting of the 1989 violence. The death toll given by officials days later was over 200, most of them soldiers, but rights groups and witnesses say the death toll could have run into the thousands. 
 
Xi Jinping continues to follow Deng's line and he is not ready to compromise on the party's absolute grip on power. In 2017, Xi Jinping said, "China presents a new option for countries who want to speed up their development while preserving their independence." However, he did not tell the world that under its economic figures, China is hiding large-scale suppression and violation of human rights.

&nbsp;

In the 1950s, the Chinese used to say, "The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) of today is the China of tomorrow." But after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, it became, "The USSR of yesterday must not become the China of tomorrow.

In the 1950s, the Chinese used to say, "The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) of today is the China of tomorrow." But after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, it became, "The USSR of yesterday must not become the China of tomorrow." China viewed the USSR as a 'pole' in a multipolar world. Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping, the paramount leader who retired in 1992, used to refer to the USSR as the polar bear. Also Read: From brutal Tiananmen crackdown to China's re-emergence: A timeline of events The Chinese leaders went to great lengths to prevent the Soviet Union from disintegrating. Since 1989 when China suppressed pro-democracy demonstrations in and around central Beijing's Tiananmen Square, the Communist Party of China (CPC) fears a similar fate. The party knew it had to change in order to survive. However, with this, it did not mean political reform, but more oppression and boosting its economy. Deng Xiaoping's vision of a 'socialist market economy' became the Communist Party's official policy. In 1992, When Deng Xiaoping went for his second tour of southern China, he pressed for faster economic reforms Paramount leader Deng Xiaoping tours southern China to press for faster economic reforms Voices within the party that opposed market liberalisation were silenced. By October 1992, China was looking at increased foreign trade and investment. Also Read: Soft and hard power: Steps India needs to take to counter China In 1997, when Hong Kong was handed over to China, Beijing played safe and pressed for the policy of 'One Nation With Diversity'. What the party grew to value the most was stability and it was achieved by suppressing political rights and human rights. After the Tiananmen Square massacre in 1989, Deng had reportedly said, "200 lives are a small price to pay for 20 years of stability." Clearly, when Deng Xiaoping said reform, he meant a new brand of socialism. China has never provided a full accounting of the 1989 violence. The death toll given by officials days later was over 200, most of them soldiers, but rights groups and witnesses say the death toll could have run into the thousands. Xi Jinping continues to follow Deng's line and he is not ready to compromise on the party's absolute grip on power. In 2017, Xi Jinping said, "China presents a new option for countries who want to speed up their development while preserving their independence." However, he did not tell the world that under its economic figures, China is hiding large-scale suppression and violation of human rights.

Why the collapse of the Soviet Union is China's nightmare?

Hong Kong&nbsp;passed the National Anthem bill on Thursday despite protests by pro-democracy lawmakers in the legislative council. Many critics view the&nbsp;bill as China's way to increase its&nbsp;grip on the semi-autonomous city.&nbsp;

The bill will criminalise any form of disrespect hurled on the Chinese national anthem, many international human rights groups, as well as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Canada, have said that this bill could take away freedom from the Hong Kongers.&nbsp;

This bill also orders primary and secondary school children in Hong Kong to be taught to sing the "March of the Volunteers" (China's national anthem), along with history and etiquette.&nbsp;

Anyone who disrespects the national anthem in Hong Kong will now be sentenced up to three years in jail along with a fine up to HK$50,000 ($6,450).&nbsp;

The national anthem has been booed during the football matches and people have instead sung "Glory to Hong Kong".&nbsp;

During the council discussion, police and firefighters entered the city's legislature after two pro-democracy lawmakers threw foul-smelling liquid to protest against the "murderous" crackdown by Chinese troops in and around Beijing's Tiananmen Square 31 years ago.

The disruption in the legislature came after pro-establishment lawmakers vetoed most amendments to the anthem bill proposed by pro-democracy lawmakers.

Lawmakers Eddie Chu and Ray Chan rushed to the front of the chamber and threw the reeking liquid as guards engaged with them. Police and firefighters later arrived on the scene.

"A murderous state stinks forever. What we did today is to remind the world that we should never forgive the Chinese Communist Party for killing its people 31 years ago," Chu said later before he and Chan were removed from the chamber.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong passed the National Anthem bill on Thursday despite protests by pro-democracy lawmakers in the legislative council. Many critics view the bill as China's way to increase its grip on the semi-autonomous city.

Hong Kong passed the National Anthem bill on Thursday despite protests by pro-democracy lawmakers in the legislative council. Many critics view the bill as China's way to increase its grip on the semi-autonomous city. The bill will criminalise any form of disrespect hurled on the Chinese national anthem, many international human rights groups, as well as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Canada, have said that this bill could take away freedom from the Hong Kongers. This bill also orders primary and secondary school children in Hong Kong to be taught to sing the "March of the Volunteers" (China's national anthem), along with history and etiquette. Anyone who disrespects the national anthem in Hong Kong will now be sentenced up to three years in jail along with a fine up to HK$50,000 ($6,450). The national anthem has been booed during the football matches and people have instead sung "Glory to Hong Kong". During the council discussion, police and firefighters entered the city's legislature after two pro-democracy lawmakers threw foul-smelling liquid to protest against the "murderous" crackdown by Chinese troops in and around Beijing's Tiananmen Square 31 years ago. The disruption in the legislature came after pro-establishment lawmakers vetoed most amendments to the anthem bill proposed by pro-democracy lawmakers. Lawmakers Eddie Chu and Ray Chan rushed to the front of the chamber and threw the reeking liquid as guards engaged with them. Police and firefighters later arrived on the scene. "A murderous state stinks forever. What we did today is to remind the world that we should never forgive the Chinese Communist Party for killing its people 31 years ago," Chu said later before he and Chan were removed from the chamber. (Inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong passes China national anthem bill amid protests by pro-democracy lawmakers

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that China's actions against Hong Kongers have risked "badly eroding" the protection of civic and political freedom which is mentioned in the Sino-British agreement.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-interference-in-hong-kong-will-backfire-china-302960">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-interference-in-hong-kong-will-backfire-china-302960">UK's 'interference' in Hong Kong will 'backfire': China</a>

During a daily briefing on government's coronavirus news, Johnson said: "I do think that what is happening now is potentially going to be an infringement of the Sino-UK, China-British agreement ... (which) protects political and civic freedoms in Hong Kong. That looks as though it could be very, very badly eroded by what is being proposed."

"What we are saying is that we want to hold out our hand, a hand of friendship and support and loyalty, to the people of Hong Kong," said Johnson.&nbsp;

He even said that there was no contradiction between the United Kingdom's views on Hong Kong and Chinese telecoms group Huawei. He said that he wants a "good, friendly, clear-eyed working relationship" with China.

Earlier, China hit out at Britain’s plans to change immigration laws for Hong Kongers seeking relief amid the ongoing protests against China’s imposition of security laws in the former British territory.

The laws introduce provisions of sedition and essentially criticize the Chinese Communist Party a crime in the city which enjoys democratic freedoms not available to people in mainland China. &nbsp;

(Inputs from Reuters)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that China's actions against Hong Kongers have risked "badly eroding" the protection of civic and political freedom which is mentioned in the Sino-British agreement.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that China's actions against Hong Kongers have risked "badly eroding" the protection of civic and political freedom which is mentioned in the Sino-British agreement. Also read: UK's 'interference' in Hong Kong will 'backfire': China During a daily briefing on government's coronavirus news, Johnson said: "I do think that what is happening now is potentially going to be an infringement of the Sino-UK, China-British agreement ... (which) protects political and civic freedoms in Hong Kong. That looks as though it could be very, very badly eroded by what is being proposed." "What we are saying is that we want to hold out our hand, a hand of friendship and support and loyalty, to the people of Hong Kong," said Johnson. He even said that there was no contradiction between the United Kingdom's views on Hong Kong and Chinese telecoms group Huawei. He said that he wants a "good, friendly, clear-eyed working relationship" with China. Earlier, China hit out at Britain’s plans to change immigration laws for Hong Kongers seeking relief amid the ongoing protests against China’s imposition of security laws in the former British territory. The laws introduce provisions of sedition and essentially criticize the Chinese Communist Party a crime in the city which enjoys democratic freedoms not available to people in mainland China. (Inputs from Reuters)

China's action against Hong Kong could badly affect Sino-British agreement: Boris Johnson

China has been cracking down on a growing number of officials in President Xi Jinping's anti-corruption campaign. This time, the anti-graft watchdog has stretched its arms to the far western region of Xinjiang.

A high-level official in northwest Xinjiang region, where Muslim minorities have been held in internment camps, has come under investigation by the country's anti-corruption agency.

Ren Hua, the 56-year-old vice chairwoman of the region, is suspected of "serious violations of discipline and law", a euphemism for corruption, according to the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-slams-taiwans-call-on-china-to-apologise-for-tiananmen-crackdown-as-nonsense-302911">Also Read: Beijing slams Taiwan’s call on China to apologise for Tiananmen crackdown</a>

Ren is the fifth senior official to be investigated this year. Ren Hua started off as a clerk in the communist party's regional office in Xinjiang in 1986.

Since the start of the year, Xinjiang's regional corruption watchdog has detained - a former deputy mayor, a former deputy director of the transport and a former deputy commissioner.

This is a crackdown on former senior officials who served in the Xinjiang province which is the most-intensely monitored region in China. Beijing&nbsp;has peddled unfounded claims of terrorist threats, and thus, these investigations don't look like an anti-corruption drive, but political vendetta - an attempt to consolidate power. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-introduce-bill-criminalising-criticism-of-traditional-medicine-302968">&nbsp;Also Read: China to introduce bill criminalising criticism of traditional medicine</a>

The power struggle seems to have reached the top and now it's a fight between President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Kequiang.&nbsp;

At a recent gathering, Li said that China must leave room for fiscal, financial and social security policies. "China now faces a daunting task in slashing absolute poverty due to the COVID-19 impact," he said.

In response, Xi is said to have criticised Li's welfare approach as such a wide-ranging poverty alleviation scheme would put more curbs on government spending on infrastructure. 
 
It would hamper China's big lending operations across the world, most importantly, it would weaken Xi's position as a leader who could not take China back to its economic heights. 
 
China''s economy contracted to 6.8 per cent in the first quarter for the first time since 1976 due to coronavirus lockdowns. Beijing has suffered a blow to its international image, with the world pointing fingers at China for the pandemic that has infected nearly six&nbsp;million people around the world while claiming over 3 lakh lives.

Beijing-backed crackdowns on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong has also sparked an international backlash.

(With inputs from AFP)

China has been cracking down on a growing number of officials in President Xi Jinping's anti-corruption campaign. This time, the anti-graft watchdog has stretched its arms to the far western region of Xinjiang.

China has been cracking down on a growing number of officials in President Xi Jinping's anti-corruption campaign. This time, the anti-graft watchdog has stretched its arms to the far western region of Xinjiang. A high-level official in northwest Xinjiang region, where Muslim minorities have been held in internment camps, has come under investigation by the country's anti-corruption agency. Ren Hua, the 56-year-old vice chairwoman of the region, is suspected of "serious violations of discipline and law", a euphemism for corruption, according to the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. Also Read: Beijing slams Taiwan’s call on China to apologise for Tiananmen crackdown Ren is the fifth senior official to be investigated this year. Ren Hua started off as a clerk in the communist party's regional office in Xinjiang in 1986. Since the start of the year, Xinjiang's regional corruption watchdog has detained - a former deputy mayor, a former deputy director of the transport and a former deputy commissioner. This is a crackdown on former senior officials who served in the Xinjiang province which is the most-intensely monitored region in China. Beijing has peddled unfounded claims of terrorist threats, and thus, these investigations don't look like an anti-corruption drive, but political vendetta - an attempt to consolidate power. Also Read: China to introduce bill criminalising criticism of traditional medicine The power struggle seems to have reached the top and now it's a fight between President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Kequiang. At a recent gathering, Li said that China must leave room for fiscal, financial and social security policies. "China now faces a daunting task in slashing absolute poverty due to the COVID-19 impact," he said. In response, Xi is said to have criticised Li's welfare approach as such a wide-ranging poverty alleviation scheme would put more curbs on government spending on infrastructure. It would hamper China's big lending operations across the world, most importantly, it would weaken Xi's position as a leader who could not take China back to its economic heights. China''s economy contracted to 6.8 per cent in the first quarter for the first time since 1976 due to coronavirus lockdowns. Beijing has suffered a blow to its international image, with the world pointing fingers at China for the pandemic that has infected nearly six million people around the world while claiming over 3 lakh lives. Beijing-backed crackdowns on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong has also sparked an international backlash. (With inputs from AFP)

Is Xi Jinping consolidating power in the name of fighting corruption?

India has been locked in a border standoff with China for more than 25 days. There are no signs of de-escalation and a new report now says that both sides are further stepping up their guard. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the story.

Gravitas: Tensions prevail at India-China border | India-China border standoff

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused China of using 'tactical situation' to threaten others on the Sino-India border and the South China Sea.

During an interview with Fox News, he said that the threat posed by China is real.

"The Chinese Communist Party has been on this effort, on this march, for an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-global-times-boasts-about-plas-firepower-amid-standoff-at-india-border-302450">awfully long time</a>. They'll certainly use a tactical situation on the ground to their advantage. But each of the problems that you identified there are threats that they have been making for an awfully long time,''&nbsp;he said.

Threats like the one that is happening on its border with India, he said.

Several areas along the LAC in Ladakh and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-can-partner-with-several-countries-including-india-in-view-of-threat-posed-by-china-pompeo-302240">North Sikkim</a> have witnessed major military build-up by both the Indian and Chinese armies recently, in a clear signal of escalating tension and hardening of respective positions by the two sides even two weeks after they were engaged in two separate face-offs.

"General Secretary Xi (Jinping) is intent on building out his military capabilities. Our Department of Defence is doing everything it can to make sure it understands this threat,''&nbsp;he said.

China's President Xi, 66, is also the head of the two-million-strong military.

"I am confident that under President (Donald) Trump, our Department of Defence, our military, our national security establishment will keep us in a position where we can protect the American people, and indeed we can be good partners with our allies from India, from Australia, from South Korea, from Japan, from Brazil, from Europe, all around the world. We can be good partners alongside them and ensure that the next century remains a Western one modelled on the freedoms that we have here in the United States,'' he said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused China of using 'tactical situation' to threaten others on the Sino-India border and the South China Sea. During an interview with Fox News, he said that the threat posed by China is real.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused China of using 'tactical situation' to threaten others on the Sino-India border and the South China Sea. During an interview with Fox News, he said that the threat posed by China is real. "The Chinese Communist Party has been on this effort, on this march, for an awfully long time. They'll certainly use a tactical situation on the ground to their advantage. But each of the problems that you identified there are threats that they have been making for an awfully long time,'' he said. Threats like the one that is happening on its border with India, he said. Several areas along the LAC in Ladakh and North Sikkim have witnessed major military build-up by both the Indian and Chinese armies recently, in a clear signal of escalating tension and hardening of respective positions by the two sides even two weeks after they were engaged in two separate face-offs. "General Secretary Xi (Jinping) is intent on building out his military capabilities. Our Department of Defence is doing everything it can to make sure it understands this threat,'' he said. China's President Xi, 66, is also the head of the two-million-strong military. "I am confident that under President (Donald) Trump, our Department of Defence, our military, our national security establishment will keep us in a position where we can protect the American people, and indeed we can be good partners with our allies from India, from Australia, from South Korea, from Japan, from Brazil, from Europe, all around the world. We can be good partners alongside them and ensure that the next century remains a Western one modelled on the freedoms that we have here in the United States,'' he said.

Pompeo accuses China of using 'tactical situation' to threaten others

The war of words between China and the United States has intensified with Beijing now warning of strong countermeasures against any move that damages China's interests. Watch the WION ground report from Hong Kong.

China slams US: US drafting sanctions on Chinese firms

Chinese President Xi Jinping is so nervous about the position of the Communist Party that he is risking a new Cold War and imperilling Hong Kong's position as Asia's pre-eminent financial hub, says the former&nbsp;British governor of the territory.

Chris Patten said Xi's 'thuggish' crackdown in Hong Kong risked triggering an outflow of capital and people from the city which funnels the bulk of foreign investment into mainland China.

The West, he said, should stop being naive about Xi, who has served as General Secretary of the Communist Party since 2012.

"We have long since passed the stage where, without wanting another Cold War, we have to react to the fact Xi seems to want one himself," Patten said.

Patten cast Xi as a dictator who was "nervous" about the position of the Communist Party in China after criticism of its early handling of the novel coronavirus outbreak and the economic impact of its trade disagreements with the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-slams-trumps-move-to-end-citys-special-status-302036" hreflang="en">Hong Kong slams Trump's move to end city's special status</a>

"One reason Xi Jinping is whipping up all this nationalist feeling about Hong Kong, about Taiwan and about other issues, is that he is more nervous than any official would allow about the position of the Communist Party in China," he said.

The Chinese embassy in London did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Patten, now 76, watched as the British flag was lowered over Hong Kong when the colony was handed back to China in 1997 after more than 150 years of British rule.

Hong Kong's autonomy was guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" agreement enshrined in the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration. But thousands of Hong Kong protesters have defied Beijing in recent months.

China’s parliament this week approved a decision to create laws for Hong Kong to curb sedition, secession, terrorism and foreign interference.

"Xi Jinping hates the things which Hong Kong has been promised under the ‘one country, two systems’ treaty lodged at the United Nations which he is wilfully breaking," Patten said. "What he hopes he can do is to bash Hong Kong into shape."

Patten said Xi's actions had placed Hong Kong's position as Asia's premier international financial hub under question.

"What does it mean? It means serious question marks not just about Hong Kong's future as a free society but also about Hong Kong's ability to continue as probably the premier international financial hub in Asia," Patten said.

"A lot of people will try to leave Hong Kong," Patten said, adding that he feared capital would also flow out. "It is going to be pretty rough over the next few months."

The autonomy of Hong Kong has, until now, given investors faith in the territory's legal and governance systems. China’s legal system is accountable to the Communist Party.

"What you have coming into conflict is a dictatorial idea of what the law is with the common law which is undoubtedly going to cause a constitutional clash," Patten said

He added the West had been even more naive with Xi's China than it had with post-Soviet Russia.

"What Xi has demonstrated so far is that unless you stand up to bullies they go on bullying you," he said.

Patten said the West should stand together when allies, such as Australia, were targeted by Beijing and be cautious with companies such as Huawei which Britain has allowed to help build its 5G network.

"Huawei is an agent of an unpleasant Chinese state," Patten said. Huawei has repeatedly denied claims that it is agent of the Chinese state.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is so nervous about the position of the Communist Party that he is risking a new Cold War and imperilling Hong Kong's position as Asia's pre-eminent financial hub, says the former British governor of the territory.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is so nervous about the position of the Communist Party that he is risking a new Cold War and imperilling Hong Kong's position as Asia's pre-eminent financial hub, says the former British governor of the territory. Chris Patten said Xi's 'thuggish' crackdown in Hong Kong risked triggering an outflow of capital and people from the city which funnels the bulk of foreign investment into mainland China. The West, he said, should stop being naive about Xi, who has served as General Secretary of the Communist Party since 2012. "We have long since passed the stage where, without wanting another Cold War, we have to react to the fact Xi seems to want one himself," Patten said. Patten cast Xi as a dictator who was "nervous" about the position of the Communist Party in China after criticism of its early handling of the novel coronavirus outbreak and the economic impact of its trade disagreements with the United States. Also read: Hong Kong slams Trump's move to end city's special status "One reason Xi Jinping is whipping up all this nationalist feeling about Hong Kong, about Taiwan and about other issues, is that he is more nervous than any official would allow about the position of the Communist Party in China," he said. The Chinese embassy in London did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Patten, now 76, watched as the British flag was lowered over Hong Kong when the colony was handed back to China in 1997 after more than 150 years of British rule. Hong Kong's autonomy was guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" agreement enshrined in the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration. But thousands of Hong Kong protesters have defied Beijing in recent months. China’s parliament this week approved a decision to create laws for Hong Kong to curb sedition, secession, terrorism and foreign interference. "Xi Jinping hates the things which Hong Kong has been promised under the ‘one country, two systems’ treaty lodged at the United Nations which he is wilfully breaking," Patten said. "What he hopes he can do is to bash Hong Kong into shape." Patten said Xi's actions had placed Hong Kong's position as Asia's premier international financial hub under question. "What does it mean? It means serious question marks not just about Hong Kong's future as a free society but also about Hong Kong's ability to continue as probably the premier international financial hub in Asia," Patten said. "A lot of people will try to leave Hong Kong," Patten said, adding that he feared capital would also flow out. "It is going to be pretty rough over the next few months." The autonomy of Hong Kong has, until now, given investors faith in the territory's legal and governance systems. China’s legal system is accountable to the Communist Party. "What you have coming into conflict is a dictatorial idea of what the law is with the common law which is undoubtedly going to cause a constitutional clash," Patten said He added the West had been even more naive with Xi's China than it had with post-Soviet Russia. "What Xi has demonstrated so far is that unless you stand up to bullies they go on bullying you," he said. Patten said the West should stand together when allies, such as Australia, were targeted by Beijing and be cautious with companies such as Huawei which Britain has allowed to help build its 5G network. "Huawei is an agent of an unpleasant Chinese state," Patten said. Huawei has repeatedly denied claims that it is agent of the Chinese state.

China's 'nervous' Xi risks new Cold War, says former Hong Kong governor

US President Donald Trump said he will speak on Friday in a press conference on China amid Beijing-Washington tiff, developments in Hong Kong, and the coronavirus fallout.&nbsp;

"We'll be announcing tomorrow what we're doing with respect to China," Trump told journalists on Thursday, saying "we're not happy with China", without providing details on the course of action. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100000-deaths-very-sad-milestone-says-trump-on-coronavirus-fatalities-301661">100,000 deaths very sad milestone, says Trump on coronavirus fatalities</a>

After Trump's statements, Wall Street closed lower, finishing a three-day streak.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-in-hong-kong-china-passes-security-law-301658">Amid protests in Hong Kong, China passes security law</a>

Trump's press conference will come on the same day that Britain and the United States want the UN Security Council to meet informally behind closed doors to discuss the situation in Hong Kong, as per diplomatic sources.

The US president's comments came on a day when China approved a security law that threatens to curb Hong Kong's freedom and autonomy.&nbsp;

The US-China relations hit a new low after Trump blamed China for its response to coronavirus and Washington slamming Beijing for its authoritarian measures in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

US-based The New York Times reported that the US is considering annulling visas for thousands of Chinese graduate students studying at US universities who have ties to educational institutions back home with links to China's military.

Trump has been critical of China over coronavirus that originated from China and spread worldwide and affected the US the most with over 100,000 deaths.&nbsp;

However, critics of the US president blame him and his administration for the lackluster response to the crisis that has thrown unimaginable economic and health challenges to the world's biggest economy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said he will speak on Friday in a press conference on China amid Beijing-Washington tiff, developments in Hong Kong, and the coronavirus fallout.

US President Donald Trump said he will speak on Friday in a press conference on China amid Beijing-Washington tiff, developments in Hong Kong, and the coronavirus fallout. "We'll be announcing tomorrow what we're doing with respect to China," Trump told journalists on Thursday, saying "we're not happy with China", without providing details on the course of action. Also read | 100,000 deaths very sad milestone, says Trump on coronavirus fatalities After Trump's statements, Wall Street closed lower, finishing a three-day streak. Also read | Amid protests in Hong Kong, China passes security law Trump's press conference will come on the same day that Britain and the United States want the UN Security Council to meet informally behind closed doors to discuss the situation in Hong Kong, as per diplomatic sources. The US president's comments came on a day when China approved a security law that threatens to curb Hong Kong's freedom and autonomy. The US-China relations hit a new low after Trump blamed China for its response to coronavirus and Washington slamming Beijing for its authoritarian measures in Hong Kong. US-based The New York Times reported that the US is considering annulling visas for thousands of Chinese graduate students studying at US universities who have ties to educational institutions back home with links to China's military. Trump has been critical of China over coronavirus that originated from China and spread worldwide and affected the US the most with over 100,000 deaths. However, critics of the US president blame him and his administration for the lackluster response to the crisis that has thrown unimaginable economic and health challenges to the world's biggest economy.

Donald Trump to hold press conference today on China

US President Donald Trump has his reiterated offer to mediate on the border dispute between India and China. Trump spoke to PM Modi over the phone on this issue.

Trump reiterates mediation offer: 'Modi not in good mood over border row'

From Hong Kong to Washington DC and even Taiwan,&nbsp;they are hitting back at China with warnings, threats, and even support to the people of Hong Kong.&nbsp;In less than a week, there have been five retaliatory moves already.

Retaliation number one: the pro-democracy protesters are back on the streets.

Over the weekend, they defied the lockdown and began their campaign against Beijing again. All through this week, the world witnessed the&nbsp;protests.&nbsp;Despite an aggressive crackdown from the Hong Kong police who&nbsp;have arrested at least 360 people, the cops haven't been able to completely stop them.

The anger in Hong Kong is palpable. The pro-democracy protesters have already declared that they will fight back.&nbsp;

The United States too wants to ride on the wave of anger against Beijing. It wants to make the status of Hong Kong an international issue. The Trump administration took two big steps. First, it tried to raise Hong Kong at the Security Council by calling for an emergency meeting only to be blocked by China.

The US said that the issue of Hong Kong is a "matter of global concern".&nbsp;China rejected the request. Beijing said Hong Kong was an internal matter.&nbsp;China's ambassador to the United Nations put out two tweets&nbsp;calling America the troublemaker of the world.

The United States says that the Communist Party is afraid. So, it blocked the virtual meeting. America failed in its bid to raise Hong Kong at the UN.

But, the world did take notice when the United States made the&nbsp;announcement.&nbsp;The Trump administration declared that Hong Kong is no longer autonomous. It wasn't a statement or a comment from a lawmaker. It was US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who notified the US Congress.

The US has maintained a special relationship with Hong Kong. The Americans used to treat Hong Kong as a separate entity which allowed Hong Kong to become a financial centre.

However, it looks like Trump wants to end all special treatment. So far&nbsp;the US has not revoked any special privileges. But, Washington is certainly leaning towards it.

Until now, Hong Kong was protected from any sanctions imposed on China. It was not subjected to the high tariffs&nbsp;slapped by Trump on Chinese goods.

It's not just the US government that wants to retaliate. American lawmakers have strengthened Trump's hand with the US Congress approving&nbsp;a bill calling for sanctions on China allowing the president to&nbsp;punish oppression of the Uighur Muslims in China. The bill calls for sanctions against those&nbsp;who are responsible for the crackdown against Uighurs in China.

The US lawmakers are targeting specific members of the Communist Party. The bill singles out the Communist Party secretary for Xinjiang, Chen Quanguo. It accuses him of "Gross human rights violations."

Chen is also a member of the politburo, a group of 25 people who oversee the party. The bill will now go to the White House where US President Donald Trump is expected to sign it or&nbsp;he can veto it too.

But, considering his government's wide ranging attacks on China&nbsp;no one expects the US president to veto it this time.

The fifth and final retaliation came from Taiwan. It is ready to help&nbsp;the people of Hong Kong.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-Wen, who China calls a "separatist" published a Facebook post in which she said that Taiwan's executive branch will come up with a "humanitarian action plan".

It proposes to give the right to Hong Kongers to flee Chinese crackdown and settle in Taiwan.&nbsp;With the Hong Kong bill, the Communist Party wanted to send a message that&nbsp;the coronavirus has not de-railed its agenda but, like these five retaliations show China has dug itself an even bigger hole.

Also watch

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&nbsp;

From Hong Kong to Washington DC and even Taiwan, they are hitting back at China with warnings, threats, and even support to the people of Hong Kong. In less than a week, there have been five retaliatory moves already.

From Hong Kong to Washington DC and even Taiwan, they are hitting back at China with warnings, threats, and even support to the people of Hong Kong. In less than a week, there have been five retaliatory moves already. Retaliation number one: the pro-democracy protesters are back on the streets. Over the weekend, they defied the lockdown and began their campaign against Beijing again. All through this week, the world witnessed the protests. Despite an aggressive crackdown from the Hong Kong police who have arrested at least 360 people, the cops haven't been able to completely stop them. The anger in Hong Kong is palpable. The pro-democracy protesters have already declared that they will fight back. The United States too wants to ride on the wave of anger against Beijing. It wants to make the status of Hong Kong an international issue. The Trump administration took two big steps. First, it tried to raise Hong Kong at the Security Council by calling for an emergency meeting only to be blocked by China. The US said that the issue of Hong Kong is a "matter of global concern". China rejected the request. Beijing said Hong Kong was an internal matter. China's ambassador to the United Nations put out two tweets calling America the troublemaker of the world. The United States says that the Communist Party is afraid. So, it blocked the virtual meeting. America failed in its bid to raise Hong Kong at the UN. But, the world did take notice when the United States made the announcement. The Trump administration declared that Hong Kong is no longer autonomous. It wasn't a statement or a comment from a lawmaker. It was US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who notified the US Congress. The US has maintained a special relationship with Hong Kong. The Americans used to treat Hong Kong as a separate entity which allowed Hong Kong to become a financial centre. However, it looks like Trump wants to end all special treatment. So far the US has not revoked any special privileges. But, Washington is certainly leaning towards it. Until now, Hong Kong was protected from any sanctions imposed on China. It was not subjected to the high tariffs slapped by Trump on Chinese goods. It's not just the US government that wants to retaliate. American lawmakers have strengthened Trump's hand with the US Congress approving a bill calling for sanctions on China allowing the president to punish oppression of the Uighur Muslims in China. The bill calls for sanctions against those who are responsible for the crackdown against Uighurs in China. The US lawmakers are targeting specific members of the Communist Party. The bill singles out the Communist Party secretary for Xinjiang, Chen Quanguo. It accuses him of "Gross human rights violations." Chen is also a member of the politburo, a group of 25 people who oversee the party. The bill will now go to the White House where US President Donald Trump is expected to sign it or he can veto it too. But, considering his government's wide ranging attacks on China no one expects the US president to veto it this time. The fifth and final retaliation came from Taiwan. It is ready to help the people of Hong Kong. On Wednesday, Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-Wen, who China calls a "separatist" published a Facebook post in which she said that Taiwan's executive branch will come up with a "humanitarian action plan". It proposes to give the right to Hong Kongers to flee Chinese crackdown and settle in Taiwan. With the Hong Kong bill, the Communist Party wanted to send a message that the coronavirus has not de-railed its agenda but, like these five retaliations show China has dug itself an even bigger hole. Also watch ×

The world retaliates against China over Hong Kong security law

China has now imposed the draconian national security law in Hong Kong. In an unprecedented move threatening political fundamental political freedoms and civil liberties in the semi-autonomous territory. China's parliament unanimously approved the resolution to introduce the sweeping security legislation. How much of Hong Kong's autonomy will be preserved?

China approves plan to reign in Hong Kong, Will Trump stand with HK?

On the sidelines of the National People’s Congress, members of China’s defence forces welcomed President Xi Jinping with a round of applause and the Chinese president had nothing but praise for the PLA.

"The fight against the COVID-19 epidemic is a test for our army. The People's Liberation Army has followed the party's command, responded rapidly upon orders and played an important role and made outstanding contributions to the fight against the epidemic. Facts have proved once again that the People's Army is always a heroic army that the party and the people can fully trust," Xi Jinping said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/gravitas-xi-jinpings-military-gameplan-301416/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The meeting on the sidelines of China’s Parliament session is an annual affair but, the circumstances are much different this time with China facing the world’s wrath over the virus from Wuhan and its leader wants his forces to prepare for war.

Xi Jinping is not just the president of China, he is the general secretary of the Communist Party and the chairman of the central military commission which was created by Xi himself.

The entire chain of command of China’s defence forces runs back to the Chinese president. It gives him complete control over the People’s Liberation Army. So, when Xi Jinping speaks on military strategy the generals listen.

The statements from President Xi are cues which determine the focus areas for the PLA. On Tuesday, the Chinese president had set the agenda for the PLA. He wants his troops to stay on the offensive for the rest of this year beyond combat preparedness, the Chinese president wants the military to strengthen its training.

Xi wants the troops to remain flexible and come up with new training methods, keeping in mind epidemic prevention and control. The technology is set to play a vital role in Chinese military operations.

Xi Jinping wants the defence forces to push for independent and original innovations in defence despite the backlash over the Wuhan virus cover-up, the PLA will not take a backseat.

China is under pressure to revive its economy after the outbreak and the budget constraints are obvious but, the country still went ahead and increased the military budget which now touches $179 billion.

As China wraps up its National People’s Congress, the PLA is keeping a close eye in the South China Sea including Hong Kong, Taiwan as well as along the border with India. World powers are making moves to make China pay but, they shouldn’t take their eyes off the PLA.

On the sidelines of the National People’s Congress, members of China’s defence forces welcomed President Xi Jinping with a round of applause and the Chinese president had nothing but praise for the PLA.

On the sidelines of the National People’s Congress, members of China’s defence forces welcomed President Xi Jinping with a round of applause and the Chinese president had nothing but praise for the PLA. "The fight against the COVID-19 epidemic is a test for our army. The People's Liberation Army has followed the party's command, responded rapidly upon orders and played an important role and made outstanding contributions to the fight against the epidemic. Facts have proved once again that the People's Army is always a heroic army that the party and the people can fully trust," Xi Jinping said. The meeting on the sidelines of China’s Parliament session is an annual affair but, the circumstances are much different this time with China facing the world’s wrath over the virus from Wuhan and its leader wants his forces to prepare for war. Xi Jinping is not just the president of China, he is the general secretary of the Communist Party and the chairman of the central military commission which was created by Xi himself. The entire chain of command of China’s defence forces runs back to the Chinese president. It gives him complete control over the People’s Liberation Army. So, when Xi Jinping speaks on military strategy the generals listen. The statements from President Xi are cues which determine the focus areas for the PLA. On Tuesday, the Chinese president had set the agenda for the PLA. He wants his troops to stay on the offensive for the rest of this year beyond combat preparedness, the Chinese president wants the military to strengthen its training. Xi wants the troops to remain flexible and come up with new training methods, keeping in mind epidemic prevention and control. The technology is set to play a vital role in Chinese military operations. Xi Jinping wants the defence forces to push for independent and original innovations in defence despite the backlash over the Wuhan virus cover-up, the PLA will not take a backseat. China is under pressure to revive its economy after the outbreak and the budget constraints are obvious but, the country still went ahead and increased the military budget which now touches $179 billion. As China wraps up its National People’s Congress, the PLA is keeping a close eye in the South China Sea including Hong Kong, Taiwan as well as along the border with India. World powers are making moves to make China pay but, they shouldn’t take their eyes off the PLA.

Amid coronavirus pandemic, President Xi wants PLA to step up combat readiness

How did China manage to scoop up stake in Norway's biggest airline? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you Norwegian Air is now partly owned by Bank of China, via a company in Singapore.

Gravitas: China scoops up stake in Norway's biggest airline

China says its unemployment rate in urban areas stands at 6%. But, the ground realities tell a different tale. Can China's numbers on unemployment be trusted? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: China's biggest challenge: Unemployment

Beijing will witness the biggest political event in China. The annual meeting of the Chinese parliament will be a major test for Xi Jinping. The Coronavirus crisis has triggered many challenges for the Chinese President. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you about the 4 chinks in Xi's armour.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping faces his biggest test

A bill has passed in the US Senate, that could force state owned Chinese companies to delist from American stock exchanges. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how the US is escalating its fight with China.

Gravitas: Will the US force Chinese companies to delist from its exchanges?

China's plans to tighten its grip over Hong Kong with a new law has been met with anger from pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more about the controversial Hong Kong security law.

Gravitas: China's new law for Hong Kong triggers outrage

China's biggest political gathering is currently underway in Beijing. More than 3000 delegates across China are taking part in the annual Congress meeting. Hong Kong security bill is being tabled in the meet. Watch report.

Chinese government tables Hong Kong security bill at annual Congress

China's annual meeting of the Communist Party which is the biggest political event began today at a time when President Xi Jinping is facing the biggest political crisis of his career.

Two years ago during the annual meeting of the Communist Party, Xi Jinping was in the spotlight when the Communist Party of China abolished term limits on the presidency - it made Xi Jinping president for life.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-xi-jinping-faces-his-biggest-test-300263/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The removal of term limits strengthened Xi Jinping's hand which was the boldest move of his political career. A move&nbsp;that gave him a tighter grip on the Communist Party and his country.

He was being compared to Mao Zedong, China's founding father, however, in the last two years a lot has changed. Xi Jinping is back at the same venue, he is still the supreme leader of China but the halo has faded.

Today, he is a man in the dock. He is being held responsible for a global pandemic and is a leader under siege. He will be addressing his country's most powerful political gathering to fix his reputation.

The event kicked off today. It is popularly called two sessions which are two separate affairs but, both events are held together. On Thursday was round one. It is called the Chinese people's political consultative conference which is a meeting of China's top political advisory committee.

Xi Jinping was of course present surrounded by party loyalists in masks but he wasn't wearing one. It was a gathering to discuss and give proposals to the government. The main event starts on Friday - the National People's Congress(NPC).

The NPC is where laws are made. The two sessions are highly choreographed events. The Communist Party decides what needs to be done and sets the agenda for the year even as other party members just approve it - no questions asked.

However, this year, more pomp and propaganda are expected because the two sessions were delayed due to the coronavirus outbreak. Therefore, the event, is a chance for China to show the world that it has tamed the beast. It's as if the extravaganza will overshadow the international criticism and at the center of the entire affair stands Xi Jinping, all eyes will be on the Chinese president.

Xi is currently weak on four counts - jobs, debt, global scrutiny and fraying global ties. First, the Chinese economy which isn't looking good with growth derailed and millions out of jobs. Second, China can't recover loans, it has loaned billions of dollars to smaller countries which they can't pay back.

Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road juggernaut has come to a grinding halt. China's banks are on the brink of implosion. Third, the global pressure is mounting as&nbsp;questions over China's handling of the outbreak have been growing louder even as international investigation looms.&nbsp;

And finally, the diplomatic fires. The complete collapse in the relationship with the United States and Australia.

The many disputes triggered by "wolf warriors" or the confrontational diplomats of China. Xi Jinping is not expected to take address any of these issues, let alone take questions but, they remain as the elephant in the room.

Under normal circumstances, this occasion would have been a reason to celebrate for President Xi, it would have marked the halfway point of his second term with no clear challenge to his leadership, he would have been paving the road for a third term in 2023.

The Chinese press would have celebrated his leadership but none of it&nbsp;is happening. The Chinese President is now fighting a fire.

China's annual meeting of the Communist Party which is the biggest political event began today at a time when President Xi Jinping is facing the biggest political crisis of his career.

China's annual meeting of the Communist Party which is the biggest political event began today at a time when President Xi Jinping is facing the biggest political crisis of his career. Two years ago during the annual meeting of the Communist Party, Xi Jinping was in the spotlight when the Communist Party of China abolished term limits on the presidency - it made Xi Jinping president for life. The removal of term limits strengthened Xi Jinping's hand which was the boldest move of his political career. A move that gave him a tighter grip on the Communist Party and his country. He was being compared to Mao Zedong, China's founding father, however, in the last two years a lot has changed. Xi Jinping is back at the same venue, he is still the supreme leader of China but the halo has faded. Today, he is a man in the dock. He is being held responsible for a global pandemic and is a leader under siege. He will be addressing his country's most powerful political gathering to fix his reputation. The event kicked off today. It is popularly called two sessions which are two separate affairs but, both events are held together. On Thursday was round one. It is called the Chinese people's political consultative conference which is a meeting of China's top political advisory committee. Xi Jinping was of course present surrounded by party loyalists in masks but he wasn't wearing one. It was a gathering to discuss and give proposals to the government. The main event starts on Friday - the National People's Congress(NPC). The NPC is where laws are made. The two sessions are highly choreographed events. The Communist Party decides what needs to be done and sets the agenda for the year even as other party members just approve it - no questions asked. However, this year, more pomp and propaganda are expected because the two sessions were delayed due to the coronavirus outbreak. Therefore, the event, is a chance for China to show the world that it has tamed the beast. It's as if the extravaganza will overshadow the international criticism and at the center of the entire affair stands Xi Jinping, all eyes will be on the Chinese president. Xi is currently weak on four counts - jobs, debt, global scrutiny and fraying global ties. First, the Chinese economy which isn't looking good with growth derailed and millions out of jobs. Second, China can't recover loans, it has loaned billions of dollars to smaller countries which they can't pay back. Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road juggernaut has come to a grinding halt. China's banks are on the brink of implosion. Third, the global pressure is mounting as questions over China's handling of the outbreak have been growing louder even as international investigation looms. And finally, the diplomatic fires. The complete collapse in the relationship with the United States and Australia. The many disputes triggered by "wolf warriors" or the confrontational diplomats of China. Xi Jinping is not expected to take address any of these issues, let alone take questions but, they remain as the elephant in the room. Under normal circumstances, this occasion would have been a reason to celebrate for President Xi, it would have marked the halfway point of his second term with no clear challenge to his leadership, he would have been paving the road for a third term in 2023. The Chinese press would have celebrated his leadership but none of it is happening. The Chinese President is now fighting a fire.

President Xi in spotlight as China's annual party meet begins

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