Browsing Tag

China

138 posts

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.

Taking the high road: India infrastructure drive counters China

China’s renaming of the Indian frontier village of Zemithang, in the disputed region of Arunachal Pradesh, has sparked tension between the two Asian powers. The area remains disputed to this day, and both India and China have launched major construction drives to reinforce their positions. While India has increased its defence capabilities and invested in connectivity projects to boost civilian presence, Beijing has developed “xiaokang”, or well-to-do villages, along the Line of Actual Control, which New Delhi fears could be used for dual purposes in the event of a conflict.

US lawmakers query Shein, Adidas, Nike over Uyghur rights concerns

US lawmakers have sent letters to Adidas, Nike, Shein, and Temu seeking reassurances about their supply chains and compliance with US law. The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party has cited witness testimony alleging that Nike and Adidas might be sourcing materials from China’s Xinjiang region, where human rights abuses are alleged to occur. Meanwhile, a bipartisan group of lawmakers urged securities regulators to require Shein to attest it does not use forced Chinese labour as a condition of a public offering.

China warns US and South Korea against ‘provoking confrontation’ with North Korea

China has warned the US and South Korea against provoking confrontation with North Korea, after President Biden and his South Korean counterpart warned that Pyongyang would face the end of its leadership if it uses its nuclear arsenal. China’s foreign ministry urged all parties to play a constructive role in promoting a peaceful settlement of the issue, and not to deliberately stir up tensions or provoke confrontation. The ministry also condemned Washington’s decision to strengthen the US security shield for South Korea and warned that it could undermine regional peace and stability.

Chinese spirit maker ZJLD’s IPO raises HK$4.5 Billion despite rocky start to trading

ZJLD Group, the holding company for four of Wu Xiangdong’s liquor brands, has raised around HK$4.5 billion in Hong Kong’s largest IPO of the year. Despite falling short of the hoped-for HK$5.5 billion, the proceeds are still more than half of what the Hong Kong stock exchange generated from IPO offerings in Q1 2023. The popularity of baijiu in China has propelled demand, making it the most consumed spirit in the world, and its major producers the most valuable distilleries.