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China and Philippines agree to extend cooperation to resolve concerns

China Reader | 16 January 2024 | Vol.1 Nos. 248
CHINA & EAST ASIA 
South Korea: “DAPA minister scheduled to visit Norway and Saudi Arabia”
On 16 January, The Korea Herald reported the scheduled visit of the head of South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration, Seok Jong-gun, to Saudi Arabia and Norway. The five-day trip scheduled from 19 January to 24 January is intended to strengthen industry partnerships and defence exports. Seok is expected to meet Saudi Arabia’s Minister of National Guard, Prince Abdullah bin Bandar Al Saud and focus on including Korea in Saudi Arabia’s modernization project for ground forces. Seok will also meet the undersecretary for political affairs, Khalid bin Hussein Albiyari and explore Korea’s involvement in acquiring key strategic assets in maritime and aerospace sectors.  In Norway, Seok will visit KSAT to discuss the export of self-propelled howitzers and multiple-rocket launchers. (Hwang Joo-young“DAPA minister to visit Saudi Arabia, Norway”, The Korea Herald, 16 January 2025)

CHINA & SOUTHEAST ASIA 
China and Philippines agree to extend cooperation to resolve concerns
On 16 January, the Philippines and China conducted the 10th round of Bilateral Consultation Mechanism to address issues in the South China Sea. China’s Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong co-chaired the meeting with Philippines undersecretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa P Lazaro in Fujian. During the meeting, the Philippines extended their concern about the activity of the Chinese Coast guard in Manila’s exclusive economic zone. Despite concerns, China and the Philippines agreed to advance scientific cooperation on marine and coast guards to resolve issues peacefully. (“Philippines, China pledge to seek common ground on South China Sea”, Reuters, 16 January 2025)

INTERNAL
Strong measures against gambling and telecom fraud is needed, states Wang Yi
On 16 January, China’s Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi called on ASEAN countries to take strong measures against online gambling and telecom fraud. This was in response to the series of gambling and telecom fraud cases along the Thai-Myanmar border, which has threatened and harmed Chinese citizens and other nationals alike. During his meeting with the region's envoys, Wang stated China’s willingness to strengthen cooperation in law enforcement with the ASEAN countries to provide a safe environment for all. (“Relevant countries should adopt strong measures to combat online gambling, telecom fraud: Wang Yi tells ASEAN envoys”, Global Times, 16 January 2025 )

CHINA & THE AMERICAS
CAAM - Dissatisfaction over Biden administration’s decision
On 16 January,the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM),along with the China’s Ministry of Commerce expressed strong dissatisfaction with the prohibition of the import of connected vehicle software ,software systems and complete connected vehicles from China by the Biden administration.The Chinese intelligent connected new-energy vehicles have started to gain consumer favor due to their competitiveness along with contributing to the global automotive supply chain.The CAAM said that this decision would harm the global intelligent connected automotive industry ecosystem.The ministry said that it would take the necessary measures to protect its interests and safeguard the supply chain. “China’s auto industry association blasts US rule against Chinese technology of connected cars,” Global Times,16 January 2025)

S&T
Fish astronauts” to embark on a journey to Tiangong Space Station
On 15 January,The Xinhua News reported ,that the “fish astronauts” are anticipated to board a journey to the Tiangong Space Station.Also called the “ the lab mice in water”, are small tropical freshwater zebrafish ,which supposedly have a 70 per cent genome match with humans ,making this journey crucial for research areas in life sciences.In April 2024 , the "Tiangong Aquarium" containing four zebrafish , turned out to be China’s first successful establishment of an in-orbit self-sustaining aquatic ecosystem. “Second group of ‘fish astronauts’ set to board Tiangong space station this year,” Global Times, 16 January 2025)

China Reader | 15 January 2024 | Vol.1 Nos. 247
CHINA & THE AMERICAS
China to deepen ties with Caribbean
On 13 January, China prepared to deepen its comprehensive cooperative partnership with the Caribbean nations. China’s President Xi Jinping made this assurance while meeting with the Prime minister of Grenada Dickon Mitchell who was also a one-time diplomatic ally of Taiwan. Xi offered to assist regional countries and aid economical and social development. Mitchell was also praising Xi for the benefits reaped due to the ties between both countries. He also affirmed the  one-China policy and called for its sovereignty and territorial integrity to be respected. Taiwan had broken off ties with Grenada 20 years ago and since then its Caribbean alliance members has decreased. (“China aims to deepen Caribbean ties, Grenada affirms one-China principle,” Reuters, 13 January 2025)

CHINA & EAST ASIA 
Wang Yi calls for improved cooperation with Japan
On 15 January, China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi called for improved dialogue based on historical considerations during the three-day visit of Japanese lawmakers. According to Yi, Sino-Japanese relations are in a “crucial time” for improvement. Furthermore, Yi called for sustained cooperation focused on moving beyond the rhetoric of considering China an “unprecedented challenge”. On 14 January, the Communist Party and the Japanese delegation held the first dialogue after over six years. (Alyssa Chen, “‘Crucial’ time to improve China-Japan relations, Wang Yi tells Tokyo delegation”, SCMP, 15 January 2025)

CHINA & AFRICA
Three Chinese citizens sentenced to prison in DRC
On 15 January, SCMP reported the sentencing of three Chinese citizens for illegally exploiting the mineral resources of the Democratic Republic of Congo. On 04 January, the Chinese citizens were arrested, with USD 400,000 and 10 gold bars in their possession. They were fined USD 600,000 and sentenced to seven years in prison. Money laundering, fraud and looting were other charges to which they pleaded guilty. This verdict marks the first time the court has convicted foreign mineral brokers for unauthorised and illegal mining in Congo. (3 Chinese citizens sentenced to 7 years for illegal mining in DR Congo, SCMP, 15 January 2025)

CHINA & SOUTH ASIA
Sri Lankan President Dissanayake visits China
On 14 January, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumar Dissanayake started his first four-day state visit to China. Dissanayake was officially welcomed by China’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chen Xiaodong. The visit is predicted to deepen bilateral ties between the countries in infrastructure, port city development and tourism, with poverty alleviation, agriculture and technology remaining the key areas.( Liu Caiyu. “Sri Lankan President kicks off a four-day state visit to China, demonstrating ‘Rubber-Rice’ friendship: expert, Global Times, 15 January 2025”)

China Reader | 13 January 2024 | Vol.1 Nos. 246
EXTERNAL
Grenadian PM visits Beijing
On 13 January, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with the Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell, in Beijing. Xi stated China’s willingness to assist in the economic and social development of Grenada. Mitchell extended his condolences to the Chinese government over the Dingri country earthquake. Furthermore, Xi expressed that the two countries should cooperate on new ventures like energy, low-carbon, green development, and digital economy. (“Xi meets Grenadian PM, calls for advancing bilateral ties”, Xinhua, 13 January 2025)

Aftershocks and tremors reported in Tingri
On 13 January, Reuters reported that Tingri, a rural country in the Tibet region, was still feeling tremors and aftershocks from the earthquake that struck the Tibet region on 7 January. The 7 January earthquake was the fifth strongest in the history of China, left at least 126 people dead and tales 338 injured in Tibet. The recent earthquakes in Tingri were recorded at a magnitude of 4.9, with the aftershock registering at 5.0. There were no immediate reports of casualties. The recent tremors in the Tingri region led to more than 4700 people being resettled in tents and prefab houses as the night-time temperature dropped to as low as minus 15 degrees Celsius( “ Earthquakes hit Tibet's Tingri county’, Reuters , 13 January 2025)

ECONOMY
China unveils tools to support weakening Yuan
On 13 January, Reuters reported that China unveiled more tools to support its weakening currency, including parking more dollars in Hong Kong to bolster the Yuan and allow companies to borrow more overseas, thereby improving capital flows. The Yuan has hit 16-month lows owing to a dominant dollar, sliding Chinese bond yields, and a threat of higher trade barriers with the US. The Chinese Central Bank, known as The People's Bank of China, had previously tried other means to improve the sliding Yuan, including warning against speculative moves and attempts to shore up yields. China's foreign reserves stood at around 3.2 trillion dollars at the end of December. China's onshore Yuan traded at 7.3318 per dollar on 13 January, not far from the 16-month low of 7.3328 last week. It has lost over 3% since the US election in early November. To prevent yields from falling too much and to control the offshore circulation of the Yuan, the central bank has been suspending treasury bond purchases and issuing a large number of bills in Hong Kong ( “China flags more policy measures to bolster yuan”, Reuters, 13 January 2025)

CHINA & TAIWAN
National Security Bureau reports surge in Chinese spies”
On 13 January, the National Security Bureau of Taiwan reported a suspected rise in the number of Taiwanese spies for China on the island, bringing the total to 64 individuals. China’s efforts to claim Taiwan include espionage campaigns, military drills and balloons near the island. The number of Taiwanese charged with attempted espionage for China increased from 10 people in 2022 to 48 in 2024. According to the report of the Bureau, two-thirds of the spies comprise of retired or current members of the armed forces. Furthermore, the Bureau has stated that the spies have tried to recruit members through criminal gangs, religious groups and underground banks. China’s Taiwan Affairs office has not responded to these allegations. (“Taiwan reports 'significant rise' in suspected Chinese espionage”, Reuters, 13 January 2025)

CHINA & SOUTHEAST ASIA
Foreign Affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun responds to Philippines’ protest
On 13 January, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun responded against the Philippine's protest on the Scarborough Shoal patrols. Jiakun defended the actions of their coast guard, stating it to be "lawful, justified and beyond reproach". On 05 January, the National Maritime Council of Philippines detected 5 Chinese vessels, including the CCG 5901, the world's largest coastguard vessel, around Bajo de Masinloc, approximately 70-90 nautical miles from the coastlines of Zambales. Guo responded by urging Manila to "stop spreading malicious remarks and driving a wedge between China and other countries". (Alyssa Chen, “China defends Scarborough Shoal patrols after Philippine protest”, 13 January 2025)

China Reader | 10 January 2024 | Vol.1 Nos. 245
DEFENCE
Chinese military presence detected in Taiwan
On 10 January, the Ministry of National Defence (MND) of Taiwan detected six naval vessels from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and four aircraft from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Three aircraft entered northern and southwestern Taiwan after crossing the median line. Earlier, on 9 January, nine naval vessels of the PLAN and five among the eleven aircraft from the PLA were detected crossing the median line. Despite the intrusion, Taiwan's annual media event continues. (“Taiwan reports 4 Chinese military aircraft, 6 vessels near its territory | External Affairs Defence Security News, Business Standard, 10 January 2025 )

CHINA & THE AFRICAS
China and Nigeria discuss security, economic and finance
On 09 January, Foreign ministers of Nigeria and China announced their plan to strengthen cooperation in finance, defence and energy, with China backing Nigeria’s issuance of Panda bonds for infrastructure funding. This four-day Chinese visit to four African countries is a follow-up of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s visit to China and the Beijing intergovernmental committee talks. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar also hinted at bilateral efforts to deal with regional security challenges. ( Ope Adetayo and Camillus Eboh,“Nigeria, China deepen ties with pledge on security, finance and economic growth”, Reuters, 09 December 2024)

China and Congo devise road map for strengthening ties
On 09 January, the Republic of Congo and China devised a 3-year road map for the African infrastructure projects using President Xi Jinping’s USD 50 billion funding commitment. Talks on economic-military cooperation, trade and party-to-party relations also took place. The countries also announced zero tariffs on 100 per cent of goods from least developed African countries. A ministerial coordination meeting for the implementation of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation would be hosted by the countries, stated Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During the visit, Nigeria and China announced sea and major land connectivity projects.(“Jevans Nyabiage, China, Congo draw up a road map for Xi Jinping’s US$50 billion Africa investment pledge, SCMP, 09 January 2025”)

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
China origin scientist receives National Medal of Technology and Innovation
On 10 January, Zhang Feng, an MIT professor born in China, received the highest honour for technological advancement at the White house. He received the award for his pioneering work in gene editing technology of the gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9. This research according to the US Patent and Trademark Office has widespread applications in agriculture and health research. Zang specialised in his role for adapting and optimising the technology for use in mammalian cells. He received a warm welcome when he visited Peking University in China in 2024. (Ling Xin, “China-born gene-editing star scientist Zhang Feng recognised with top US prize,” SCMP, 10 January 2025)

China to build solar power space stations
On 10 January member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering Long Lehao revealed a plan to use super heavy rockets to build solar power stations in space. He called it “another Three Gorges Dam project above the Earth” and is also internationally referred to as the “Manhattan Project.” He said “We are working on this project now. It is as significant as moving the Three Gorges Dam to a geostationary orbit 36,000km (22,370 miles) above the Earth. This is an incredible project to look forward to,” Space-based solar stations can collect energy without being affected by seasons or day-night cycles and the energy density is ten times denser than on earth. The project, if functional, can provide energy in a year equivalent to the entire energy produced by oil in the world. To make this project a reality, advances in heavy-lift rocket technology and technology to efficiently transmit energy from space to the ground need to be made. In June 2021 China started building its first experimental space solar power station in Bishan, Chongqing and in November 2023, test results for the world's first complete ground verification system for space solar power stations was also released. (Zhang Tong, “China plans to build ‘Three Gorges dam in space’ to harness solar power,” SCMP, 10 January 2025)

China Reader | 09 February 2024 | Vol.1 Nos. 244
CHINA & EAST ASIA 
China-Japan-South Korea Visa-Free Policy Boosts Youth Tourism and Cooperation
On 9 January ,Global Times reported China's visa-free policy has brought forth vibrant cultural exchanges between China, Japan, and South Korea. Young travelers, from Japan's "panda fans" to South Korea's "Shanghai weekenders," now explore new destinations with ease. This policy fosters mutual trust, regional peace, and a shared cultural identity, emphasizing youth-driven tourism and interest in emerging fields like the digital economy. The policy has strengthened trilateral ties as highlighted in the 2024 Trilateral Tourism Ministers' Meeting. Scholars applaud the policy as a diplomatic success, showing that through communication and collaboration, these nations can transcend differences and set a model for peace and development.(“The visa-free ‘circle of friends’ opens a new chapter in China-Japan-SK relations,”Global Times, 09 January 2025)

CHINA & TAIWAN
Taiwan Accuses Chinese-Linked Ship of Undersea Cable Damage
On 9 January,Taiwan has blamed a Chinese-associated ship for a broken undersea communications cable along its northern coastline, raising further regional tensions. The owner denied involvement, but the bad weather has prevented the coast guard from taking action. A vessel registered to Cameroon and Tanzania, owned by a Hong Kong firm, has been suspected to have "grey zone" activity though no specific proof has surfaced. China dismissed the claims as baseless, describing the incidents as routine maritime accidents and blamed Taiwan for blowing things out of proportion. The Mainland Affairs Council in Taiwan is conducting further investigations while emphasizing the sovereignty and security issues between Taiwan and China.(“Taiwan, China trade barbs over undersea cable damage,”Reuters, 09 January 2025)

ECONOMY
China Faces Deflation Risks Amid Weak Domestic Demand
On 9 January,China's CPI increased by just 0.2 per cent in 2024, the lowest since 2009, as aggressive fiscal stimulus failed to fire up the economy. December's CPI growth was 0.1 per cent, less than the 3 per cent target, while PPI fell 2.3 per cent , marking 27 consecutive months of decline. Weak domestic demand, a sluggish property sector, and subdued rental inflation are all holding back recovery efforts. Economists warned of deflation risks as food prices fell 0.5 percent, while pork prices increased 12.5 percent. Beijing is pushing for domestic consumption and stabilizing growth, with a 5 percent GDP target expected at the National People's Congress in March.(“China remains stuck in low consumer inflation for second year,”SCMP, 09 January 2025)

CHINA & THE AMERICAS
Tencent's WeChat removed from US' so-called notorious markets list - Global Times
On 9 January, Global Times reported that the United States Trade Representative Office moved Chinese social media WeChat from its notorious market list for 2024; the company was included in the 2023 list. Over the past few years, Tencent We Chat's parent company has strongly contested the USD's decision to be included on the list. It has repeatedly communicated to the US government body its efforts to strengthen intellectual property rights protection. ( Tencent's WeChat removed from US' so-called notorious markets list, Global Times, 09 January 2025)

ECONOMY
China remains stuck in low consumer inflation for second year”
On 9 January, the South China Morning Post reported that  China remained at a low level of consumer inflation for a second year. China's consumer price index was 0.2 per cent in the last year, matching 2023 figures as the lowest increase since the previous decade. This is despite a series of aggressive fiscal stimulus measures, with analysts noting that the world's second-largest economy faces significant challenges in overcoming deflation and revitalizing domestic demand. The consumer price index, a key measure of inflation, rose by 0.1 percent year on year; the annual CPI reading was in better territory at 0.2% but well below the official control target of 3%. According to Peking University, the 2025 economic growth target is expected to be set at around 5%, the same as last year.(China remains stuck in low consumer inflation for second year, SCMP, 09 January 2024)

China Reader | 07 February 2024 | Vol.1 Nos. 243
INTERNAL
Nine deaths confirmed in Dingri county earthquake
On 07 January, Global Times confirmed the death of nine individuals following the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Dingri county in Shigatse of Xizang Autonomous Region. According to the Ministry of Emergency Management, 15 personnel and three vehicles are heading towards the affected region. Six vehicles and 75 personnel are on standby. The Armed Police Force, Xizang Forest Fire Brigades, and Special Operations team members have been mobilized, according to the People's Liberation Army. Local authorities are coordinating the safe evacuation of residents, with village cadres carrying out rescue operations.(“6.8-magnitude earthquake hits Xizang”, Global Times, 07 January 2025)

Tencent calls inclusion to ‘Section 1260H’ a mistake
On 07 January, Chinese internet and technology company Tencent Holding disproved the company's inclusion in the United States Section 1260H blacklist. Regarding the inclusion as a mistake, Tencent reiterated that they are not a military supplier and promised cooperation with the US Department of Defense to resolve the issue. In a statement, Tencent stated that the blacklist does not affect the company's business. Battery maker and artificial software company SenseTime is also present amongst several Chinese companies blacklisted by the US Department of Defense. (“Chinese tech giants refute US ‘Section 1260H’ list inclusion, Tencent saying ‘clearly a mistake’”, Global Times, 07 January 2025)

Volkswagen and XPENG to work together in building a Superfast charging networks
On 06 January, Global Times reported that Volkswagen Group China and XPENG, a major Chinese EV manufacturer, will jointly build one of China's largest superfast charging EV networks. This collaboration is expected to strengthen Volkswagen's Competitiveness in the Chinese market and help the company employ similar models in Germany and Europe. This collaboration is the latest in a series of partnerships between international manufacturers and Chinese EV brands. China holds immense potential for vehicle consumption. According to the China Passenger Car Association, China's New Energy Vehicle consumption accounted for almost 70 percent of the world's total in 2024. The Xinhua news agency reported that China had been the global front-runner in new-energy vehicle sales and production for nine consecutive years, from 2015 to 2023. (Chen Qingrui, “Volkswagen to work with XPENG to build one of China’s largest super-fast charging networks for EVs”, Global Times, 06 January 2025)

Corruption is the "biggest threat" to CCP, says Xi
On January 6, Reuters reported that President Xi Jinping said that corruption is the biggest threat to the Chinese Communist Party, warning that the ruling party is determined to address the long-running problem entrenched at all Chinese government levels. 2024 saw many high-profile corruption cases ranging from a deputy central bank governor to a former China National Petroleum Corp chairman and a top Chinese Admiral., Miao Hua. At the start of a three-day congress of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, Xi said that corruption is not only pervading China but is actually on the rise. The CCDI is the government's top anti-corruption watchdog. To underline the scale of the problem, the CCDI quoted that 58 senior officials were probed in 2024. The People's Liberation Army has also been swept by a wave of corruption charges since 2023, with defense ministers Li Shangfu and Wei FEnghe removed within 7 months of each other on corruption charges.( Ryan Woo, “China's Xi cites corruption as 'biggest threat' to ruling Communist party”, Reuters, 6 January 2025)

CHINA & TAIWAN
Taiwan Undersea Cable damaged: Investigations ongoing
On 7 January, Reuters reported that the Taiwanese Coast Guard suspected an undersea communications cable was damaged by a ship over the weekend. Still, bad weather prevented the Coast Guard from investigating further. The coast guard claims that a vessel registered to Cameroon and Tanzania is suspected of damaging the cable, that all seven crew were Chinese nationals, and that the owner is based in Hong Kong. China has recently amped up activities like balloon overflights and sand dredging in the " grey zones" around the island. Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs said that the communications to the island had not been affected by the damage to the cable, which should be repaired by 3 February.( Ben Blanchard and Yimou Lee, Taiwan coast guard says investigation of damaged undersea cable stymied by weather, Reuters, 07 January 2025)

EXTERNAL
China congratulates Indonesia on becoming full member of BRICS - Global Times
On 6 January,China warmly congratulated Indonesia on becoming a full member of BRICS, as declared by Brazil, the BRICS chair in power now. A large Global South country, Indonesia has participated actively in "BRICS Plus" cooperation and shares the values of BRICS. China believes that accession to BRICS and the Global South will help Indonesia develop solidarity and reform global governance. BRICS countries continue to be dedicated to multilateralism, equity, and development. China looks forward to working with Indonesia and other members to deepen cooperation, promote high-quality BRICS cooperation, and contribute to building a community with a shared future for humanity.(“China congratulates Indonesia on becoming full member of BRICS,” Global Times ,07 January 2025)

China issues guideline for building unified national market
On 07 January, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of China released a guideline for a unified national market. It is released to implement the key tasks present at the Central Economic Work Conference held in December 2024. The key measures in the guideline were to improve connectivity and unify the market and market regulations for better resources and ensure fair practice. The NDRC said “The guideline aims to encourage all localities and government departments to accelerate their integration into the unified national market and actively support its development,” (Huaxia, “China issues guideline for building unified national market-Xinhua,” Xinhua, 07 January 2025)

China Reader | 02 February 2024 | Vol.1 Nos. 242
CHINA & EUROPE
UK Lawmakers Summon Shein and Temu Over Labor Practice
 On 2 January, Reuters reported that the UK Business and Trade Committee will question Shein and Temu on January 7 regarding labor practices in their supply chains. The inquiry, launched in October, examines employment rights and allegations of forced labor in factories supplying the companies. Low-cost fashion and gadgets sold by Shein, which is founded in China and headquartered in Singapore, and Temu, owned by PDD Holdings, come under a lens over worker conditions. Shein seeks regulatory approval for a London IPO despite UK officials expressing their concerns. Evidence will be given by representatives of McDonald's UK, Tesco, and the Department for Business and Trade. Both companies claimed zero-tolerance policies on forced labor but did not immediately comment.(“UK lawmakers summon Shein and Temu for questioning over labour practices,”Reuters,3 January 2025)

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Southeast University unveils China's first distributed flying vehicle
On 2 January, Global Times reported that a research team at Southeast University, Jiangsu province, unveiled China's first distributed electric-driven flying car. It features all-wheel drive and full steering capabilities. According to the university, the "Southeast University Kunpeng No.1" uses a car as the primary carrier, unlike traditional vertical take-off and landing aircraft that combine the movement capabilities of aerial vehicles. The vehicle has a maximum take-off limit of 500 kg and a flight endurance of at least 20 minutes. (“China’s first distributed electric-driven flying car unveiled by Southeast University”, Global Times, 2 January 2025)