Browsing Category

China

873 posts

Australian minister heads to China seeking ‘unimpeded’ trade

Australia’s trade minister has traveled to Beijing with the aim of removing all import barriers imposed by China. The meeting between Trade Minister Don Farrell and China’s commerce minister is seen as a significant breakthrough in rebuilding the strained relationship. China had previously imposed tariffs and restrictions on Australian exports in response to political disagreements. The visit signals a potential thaw in relations as Australia seeks to balance its economic ties with China and its alliances in the South Pacific region.

Austria bans TikTok on government work phones

Austria announced a ban on TikTok for federal employees’ work phones, citing security concerns. The decision follows advice from intelligence services and ministry experts. Several other countries, including the US, UK, Australia, France, and the Netherlands, have also taken similar measures. TikTok has been scrutinized due to its Chinese ownership and concerns about data privacy and national security.

Hong Kong bans foreign lawyers from national security cases

Hong Kong has passed an amendment barring foreign lawyers from working on national security cases, with exceptions allowed only if approved by the city’s leader. This change is part of China’s efforts to suppress dissent in Hong Kong following the 2019 pro-democracy protests. Under the national security law, the participation of foreign lawyers is considered a “potential risk” to national security. The amendment arose from attempts to prevent prominent British rights lawyer Tim Owen from defending media tycoon Jimmy Lai, a democracy activist facing charges under the security law.

Taiwan holds first training for women reservists

Taiwan conducted its first-ever reservist training for women as part of efforts to strengthen its defenses against China. Soldiers, equipped with gas masks, participated in mock defense exercises, showcasing their dedication to protecting the country. Military analysts have emphasized the need for Taiwan to bolster its reservists and prepare the civilian population for potential conflicts. Tensions between Taipei and Beijing have escalated, with China conducting military exercises and Taiwan taking measures to enhance its security.

Hong Kongers find new ways to defend democratic ideals

Two years after his release from a Hong Kong prison, Lau Ka-tung is dedicated to supporting pro-democracy activists behind bars. Lau, a social worker, regularly visits prisons to provide emotional support and guidance to jailed protesters and their families. Amid the aftermath of the 2019 protests and Beijing’s subsequent crackdown, Hong Kong’s civil society has been severely impacted, with the disbandment of advocacy groups and limitations on political activities. Despite the challenges, individuals like Lau and spaces like the “Have A Nice Stay” bookstore strive to maintain a sense of resistance and support for democratic values in Hong Kong.

The key issues straining China-Canada relations

Canada has expelled a Chinese diplomat accused of intimidating a lawmaker, triggering a tit-for-tat response from Beijing as it orders Canada’s consul in Shanghai to leave. This latest episode marks the continuation of souring relations between the two countries, which began with the arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou in 2018, followed by the detention of two Canadians and escalating tensions over human rights, tech battles, and alleged interference in Canadian affairs. The expulsion of diplomats further heightens the strained relationship between Canada and China.

China says to expel Canada’s top diplomat in Shanghai

China has expelled Canada’s consul in Shanghai, Jennifer Lynn Lalonde, in retaliation after Canada announced the expulsion of a Chinese diplomat. The move deepens the diplomatic dispute between the two countries, following allegations of foreign interference and tensions over the arrest of a Huawei executive and the detention of two Canadians in China. The situation adds further strain to already souring relations between Beijing and Ottawa.

Canada expels Chinese diplomat, Beijing vows ‘resolute countermeasures’

Ottawa expelled a Chinese diplomat accused of intimidating a Canadian lawmaker critical of Beijing, escalating tensions and prompting warnings of retaliation. Canada’s Foreign Minister emphasized that defending democracy was paramount, while China accused Canada of sabotaging relations and threatened countermeasures. The move comes amid strained Sino-Canadian relations due to previous disputes and allegations of foreign interference in Canada’s elections. Experts anticipate possible economic reprisals or the expulsion of Canadian diplomats in response.

Australia says ‘deep concerns’ for reporter held in China since 2020

Australia urged China to release journalist Cheng Lei, who has been detained for 1,000 days on charges of “supplying state secrets overseas.” The case is believed to be politically motivated, and there are concerns about the delays and limited contact she has had with the outside world. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed deep concerns and called for Cheng Lei to be reunited with her family.

Xi to host first China-Central Asia summit this month

President Xi Jinping will host a summit with Central Asian leaders, aiming to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties. China’s investments in the region’s natural gas reserves and rail links are crucial for its Belt and Road Initiative. Beijing’s growing influence in Central Asia is challenging Russia’s dominance.