NIAS Area Studies: Pakistan-

China Reader Daily Wire | 26 October 2026, Monday | Vol 3 No. 166

China calls on US to halt investment restrictions amid trade concerns

Moscow transfers USD 80 million worth of submarine technology to China

State Council introduce policy to build “fertility-friendly society”

Photo : United24media

In Brief
INTERNAL
Fifth Plenum of the CPC begins with a focus on party discipline
On 26 October, The Guardian reported that the Fifth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China will be held from 26 to 29 October. It is a secretive, closed-door convention of the highest-ranking officials from the party's Central Committee. The news reports that discipline will be the main focus at the Communist Party meeting. In China's political system, "corruption" includes both financial crimes and "spiritual corruption," which means political disloyalty. Since 2012, President Xi Jinping has used an endless anti-corruption campaign to enforce loyalty and remove rivals. Last year alone, China investigated over 1 million officials, including 100 high-ranking figures. Experts note that because the system has nearly a 100 per cent conviction rate, investigations serve as a powerful tool to eliminate threats to Xi's authority. Recent high-profile purges have hit the highest levels of the military and regional leadership, leaving the top military commission with only two active members out of its normal seven. Analysts argue that corruption is deeply built into China’s massive top-down bureaucracy. Xi believes the party will collapse without strict discipline. However, stricter punishments cannot fully stop officials from chasing self-interest. As a result, Xi uses continuous crackdowns as a permanent way to govern. This meeting serves as a final push to enforce unity before next year's 21st Party Congress, where Xi is expected to secure a historic fourth term.
(“Xi Jinping’s corruption crackdown in the spotlight as China prepares for meeting of top leaders,” The Guardian, 26 October 2026)
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/oct/26/xi-jinping-corruption-crackdown-china-fifth-plenum

State Council introduce policy to build “fertility-friendly society”
On 23 October, The Straits Times reported that China’s cabinet (the State Council) announced plans to increase support for families and boost the country’s record-low birth rate. China’s population dropped for the fourth straight year in 2025, threatening economic growth and straining the social insurance/pension system. Hence, the proposed actions to address this issue are to improve policies for marriage, childbirth, child-rearing, and education. Adjust taxation, social security, and housing to make raising children cheaper. Expand financial help like childcare subsidies and lower pre-school fees. Reform the rural-to-urban household registration system, so migrant workers' children can more easily attend city public schools. The State Council stated that these actions are to build a “fertility-friendly society” to stop the population decline.
(“China aims to stabilise number of new births with policy support,” The Straits Times, 23 October 2026)
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/china-aims-to-stabilise-number-of-new-births-with-policy-support

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Moonshot AI launches new Kimi model K3.1 Pro
On 24 October, The Tribune reported that Chinese AI company Moonshot AI has launched Kimi K3.1 Pro, a 3-trillion-parameter open-weight model with a one-million-token context window. A high-speed version, Kimi K3.1 Pro Highspeed, was also released. The company said it plans to publish the models’ full weights by November 4. Moonshot AI said the model is designed for coding, 3D creation, financial research and other tasks involving AI agents. It is available through Kimi.ai, Kimi Work, Kimi Code, the company’s mobile apps and its API. The company said the Highspeed version responds two to three times faster than the standard model. The company also reported that Kimi K3.1 Pro scored 65.7 per cent on Terminal Bench 4.0, which tests coding agents on practical computer tasks. That was above GPT-6 Astra’s 58.2 per cent and close to Claude Opus 5.5’s 66.4 per cent. On Moonshot AI’s own long-horizon coding benchmark, the model scored 61.2 per cent, up from 55.95 per cent for the previous K3 model.
(“China's Moonshot AI launches Kimi K3.1 Pro; plans full model weights release by Nov,” The Tribune, 24 October 2026)
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/business/chinas-moonshot-ai-launches-kimi-k3-1-pro-plans-full-model-weights-release-by-nov/amp

CHINA AND SPACE
New space governance paper calls for strengthening global governance in outer space
On October 24, Anadolu Agency reported that China had released a position paper on strengthening global governance of outer space, with preventing an arms race among its priorities. The paper warns that the risk of military competition turning space into a theatre of conflict is a major threat to space security. China said existing international laws have not kept pace with advances in space technology. It called for countries to follow international law, improve transparency and use the United Nations as the main forum for space governance. The paper also urged fair access to space and stronger regulation of commercial activities. The release followed comments by US Air Force Secretary Troy Meink that the US Space Force has weapons capable of controlling activity in orbit. China’s paper calls on countries to oppose offensive military policies and avoid actions that threaten other states’ security interests.
(“China unveils space governance paper prioritizing preventing arms race,” Anadolu Agency, 24 October 2026)
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/china-unveils-space-governance-paper-prioritizing-preventing-arms-race/4099123

CHINA AND EAST ASIA
President Kim Jong Un completes a one-day trip to war memorial in China
On 25 October, Reuters reported that North Korea’s President Kim Jong-un completed a surprise one-day trip to China’s Dandong city, visiting a war memorial. President Kim made the trip by road, crossing the long-stalled New Yalu River Bridge connecting Dandong with North Korea’s Sinujiu. North Korea’s state media reported that President Kim visited one day before the anniversary of China joining the Korean War on North Korea’s side. He was joined by the fourth-highest Chinese Politburo member Wang Huning, and visited Dandong’s Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. Kim was joined by various senior officials, including his sister Kim Yo Jong, and Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui.
(“North Korea's Kim Jong Un returns from China after war memorial visit, state media says,” Reuters, 25 October 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-returns-china-after-war-memorial-visit-state-media-says-2026-10-24/

CHINA AND SOUTH ASIA
Sri Lanka seeks Chinese support for sovereign AI as cloud capacity falls short
On 23 October, Biometric Update reported that Sri Lanka is seeking Chinese support to establish a National Sovereign AI Computing Centre amid a shortage of domestic data-centre and cloud-computing capacity. Sri Lanka currently has approximately 5 megawatts (MW) of data-centre capacity, while officials estimate that the country needs between 25 and 50 MW of cloud and AI computing capacity in the short term. Discussions between Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne and Chinese Ambassador Wei Huaxiang focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital transformation and the digital economy. The two countries are also working towards a proposed memorandum of understanding on digital cooperation, with potential collaboration in research and development, technical knowledge-sharing and skills training. The initiative comes as Sri Lanka expands its digital public infrastructure, including its Unique Digital Identity project, data-exchange systems and digital payment services. The government is considering additional investment in domestic data centres and cloud infrastructure, while seeking to attract private-sector participation and foreign investment. However, energy costs, environmental considerations and the need to protect sensitive citizen data remain important challenges. The proposed AI computing centre reflects an effort to strengthen Sri Lanka’s digital sovereignty while drawing on Chinese technological expertise. The discussions do not establish that a final agreement or Chinese funding commitment has been concluded.
(“Sri Lanka seeks Chinese support for sovereign AI as cloud capacity falls short,” Biometric Update, 23 October 2026)
https://www.biometricupdate.com/202610/sri-lanka-seeks-chinese-support-for-sovereign-ai-as-cloud-capacity-falls-short

Pakistan and China review CPEC progress and reaffirm commitment to regional peace
On 25 October, The Telegraph reported that Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad to review bilateral cooperation, including progress under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), trade, investment, regional connectivity and agricultural modernisation. According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Dar welcomed the continued development of the two countries’ “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” and emphasised the importance of sustained high-level exchanges to advance the proposed “Pakistan-China Community of Shared Future in the New Era.” The meeting also provided an opportunity for the two sides to exchange views on regional developments and reaffirm the importance of dialogue and diplomacy for sustainable peace and stability. The discussions come as Pakistan and China seek to advance the second phase of CPEC, commonly referred to as CPEC 2.0, with greater emphasis on industrialisation, agriculture, technology, connectivity and private-sector investment. The two countries are also seeking to broaden cooperation beyond infrastructure development through trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges. The meeting underscores the continued importance of CPEC to Pakistan-China economic relations and the two governments’ stated intention to expand cooperation while maintaining diplomatic engagement on regional issues.
(“Bilateral ties: Pakistan, China discuss CPEC cooperation, stress dialogue for regional peace,” The Telegraph, 25 October 2026)
https://www.telegraphindia.com/world/bilateral-ties-pakistan-china-discuss-cpec-cooperation-stress-dialogue-for-regional-peace/cid/2186170

China’s plan to expand its role in Bangladesh’s seaports faces a hurdle
On 25 October, IANS reported that Bangladesh’s decision to involve international port operators from countries other than China in developing and operating key maritime facilities could limit Beijing’s role in the country’s port sector. The report noted that China was expected to support the development of Mongla Port following discussions during Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s visit to Beijing in June 2026. The proposed Chinese-funded project includes two modern container jetties intended to increase the port’s cargo-handling capacity. However, the Chittagong Port Authority has entered into a 30-year agreement with Denmark’s Maersk Group to design, finance, build and operate the Laldia Container Terminal under a public-private partnership framework. Bangladesh has also involved Japan in the development of Matarbari Port, while Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Gateway Terminal operates the Patenga Container Terminal and Indonesia’s state-owned PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental has received a contract to operate and maintain a facility in Cox’s Bazar. Meanwhile, Chinese companies remain involved in supplying port equipment, developing industrial infrastructure and establishing the China Economic and Industrial Zone at Anwara in Chittagong. The report interprets Bangladesh’s approach as an effort to attract foreign investment and modernise its maritime infrastructure while diversifying its development partners. It also raises concerns about the potential strategic implications of Chinese involvement in ports near India and important Bay of Bengal shipping routes. However, the reported commercial agreements do not in themselves establish that China has sought or secured military control of these facilities. The developments highlight Bangladesh’s efforts to balance economic cooperation with China against a broader approach to port development involving multiple international partners.
(“China’s plan to tighten grip on Bangladesh seaports hits a hurdle,” IANS, 25 October 2026)
https://ianslive.in/category/business/1

India reimposes anti-dumping duties on Chinese titanium dioxide imports
On 24 October, The Economic Times reported that India had reimposed anti-dumping duties ranging from USD 460 to USD 681 per tonne on specified titanium dioxide imports from China for five years, unless the measures are revoked, superseded or amended earlier. The decision followed a fresh investigation by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), which concluded that Chinese imports were being sold at dumped prices and had caused material injury to India’s domestic titanium dioxide industry. The measure also followed a legal challenge by the Indian Paint Association and a Calcutta High Court direction to reconsider an earlier duty imposed in May 2025. The revised duties vary according to the producer and exporter, with company-specific rates applying to eligible manufacturers and a higher rate covering other specified producers. Titanium dioxide is an important white pigment used in paints, coatings, plastics and other industrial products. The reimposition of duties is intended to address the impact of allegedly unfairly priced imports on domestic manufacturers. However, the measure could also increase raw-material costs for Indian paint producers and other downstream industries that rely on Chinese supplies. The extent of any impact on retail prices will depend on manufacturers’ inventories, alternative sourcing options and their ability to absorb additional costs. The decision illustrates the continuing role of trade-remedy measures in India’s economic relationship with China, particularly in sectors where domestic industrial interests and dependence on imported inputs intersect.
(“China faces fresh Indian duties on titanium dioxide imports: Anti-dumping levy of $460–$681 per tonne reimposed for five years,” The Economic Times, 24 October 2026)
https://m.economictimes.com/industry/cons-products/paints/china-faces-fresh-indian-duties-on-titanium-dioxide-imports-anti-dumping-levy-of-460-681-per-tonne-reimposed-for-five-years/articleshow/135170362.cms

CHINA AND THE MIDDLE EAST
China reiterates Iran has legitimate right to peaceful nuclear energy in UN’s IAEA review meeting
On 26 October, China Daily reported that China had called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to engage in peaceful nuclear cooperation and diplomacy on international issues, while opposing unilateralism and protectionism. At the UN General Assembly’s review of the IAEA's 2025 annual report, the Chinese deputy permanent representative to the UN, Sun Lei, urged dialogue and negotiations to tackle pressing global issues, particularly the Iran conflict. According to Sun, Iran had a legitimate right to peaceful nuclear energy, which needed to be respected. However, he also cautioned that Iran needed to meet its prior commitments of not developing nuclear weapons. He also expressed concerns that nuclear submarine cooperation under AUKUS had a risk of further proliferation. Sun also called for an inclusive intergovernmental process to address concerns that safeguards would not be adhered to. Additionally, Sun said the IAEA needed to maintain its independence and protect countries' legitimate rights to use nuclear energy peacefully. He further expressed his desire that countries would support the resolution introduced by Beijing on protecting the rights of countries, especially developing ones, on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
( “China calls on IAEA to back peaceful nuclear cooperation, diplomacy on Iran,” China Daily, 26 October 2026)
https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202610/26/WS6adeaabce4b06d4aa0564bb2.html

CHINA AND RUSSIA
Preparations for Putin-Xi-Trump trilateral summit have begun, says Kremlin
On 25 October, Anadolu Agency reported that Kremlin foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov stated that the administrations of all three presidents of Russia, China, and the US were ready to hold a trilateral meeting in principle, and preparations for the meeting had already begun. Ushakov, however, stated that Russia and the US have not agreed on a bilateral meeting between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Shenzhen. Ushakov stated that while the general political backdrop in the US was unfavourable to Russia, President Trump was taking Russian sensitivities seriously. He further stated that Russia would focus on the Shenzhen summit in November and the G20 summit in Miami.
(“Kremlin says preparations for Putin-Xi-Trump trilateral summit have begun,” Anadolu Agency, 25 October 2026)
https://aa.com.tr/en/politics/kremlin-says-preparations-for-putin-xi-trump-trilateral-summit-have-begun/4100286

Moscow transfers USD 80 million worth of submarine technology to China
On 24 October, United 24 Media reported that Russia supplied China with more than USD 80 million worth of submarine-related technology and technical documentation, helping Beijing develop its conventional submarine fleet through cooperation that continued after the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Washington-based research organisation C4ADS stated in a report that Russia’s Rubin Central Design Bureau for Marine Engineering conducted twelve shipments to Chinese military procurement agencies and China Shipbuilding and Offshore International Co. (CSOI) between August 2015 and April 2023. The transfers included designs for non-nuclear submarines, testing documentation, and technologies intended to improve underwater stealth. Two shipments in October 2019 and January 2020 were related to cavitation, a phenomenon that generates underwater noise and makes submarines easier to detect. Between December 2019 and September 2022, CSOI supplied Rubin with submarine testing equipment, including instruments and control panel systems used for evaluating onboard information and control systems.
(“Russia Transferred Over $80 Million in Submarine Technology to China,” United 24 Media, 24 October 2026)
https://united24media.com/war-in-ukraine/russia-transferred-over-80-million-in-submarine-technology-to-china-23771

CHINA AND THE AMERICAS
China calls on US to halt investment restrictions amid trade concerns
On 25 October, Channel News Asia reported that China's Commerce Ministry urged the United States to stop expanding restrictions on American investments in China, saying a proposed rule on sensitive technologies would disrupt trade ties. The US Treasury Department issued proposals on 22 October to update its outbound investment security programme, adding biotechnology to restricted sectors and expanding coverage of high-performance computing and hypersonic systems. Beijing said the proposal "discriminatorily" widened China-related restrictions, damaged bilateral economic ties, and ran counter to the consensus reached by the two countries' presidents, who have met twice in the past six months. It firmly opposed the proposal and reserved the right to take unspecified countermeasures. The Treasury has said the measures, which do not only cover China, are intended to stop US capital from supporting foreign adversaries' development of dual-use strategic technologies that could threaten national security. The programme already restricted certain US investments involving China in semiconductors, quantum technologies, and artificial intelligence.
("China urges US to halt proposed expansion of outbound investment curbs," Channel News Asia, 25 October 2026)
https://share.google/hfU6MUy6vRcjt74G1

China Reader Daily Wire | 05 November 2026, Thursday | Vol 3 No. 175

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