Washington, January 02. The United States has expressed concern regarding China's largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan, stating that Beijing's actions and rhetoric could unnecessarily escalate tensions in the region. Reacting to these exercises, Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the US Department of State, Tommy Pigott, stated that China should step back from military pressure and adopt the path of dialogue.

In a statement issued on January 1, the official mentioned that China's military activities are creating unnecessary stress for Taiwan and surrounding countries. As per agency report, the US has appealed to Beijing to exercise restraint, end military pressure on Taiwan, and initiate meaningful dialogue. This statement comes at a time when China completed major military exercises named Justice Mission 2025. These drills took place between December 29 and December 31, involving coordinated operations by the People's Liberation Army's Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Forces.

The exercises simulated a siege-like situation around Taiwan, including scenarios such as blocking major ports, conducting precision strikes, and disrupting supply routes. According to the Taiwan administration, activities of 77 Chinese military aircraft and 17 naval vessels were recorded during this period. In response, Taiwan scrambled fighter jets and took security measures, which included placing barriers like explosive barrels at river mouths as part of their preparations. Several US allies also expressed concern regarding the scale and timing of these exercises. The European Union, Britain, Japan, and Australia expressed discomfort over the increasing military pressure in the Taiwan Strait, noting that such activities increase the risk of miscalculation.

China described these exercises as a warning to separatist forces. Beijing also linked this to defense cooperation between the US and Taiwan, which includes recent major sales of American weapons to Taiwan. China maintains that its military activities around Taiwan are a response to external interference. The US reiterated its support for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and opposed any attempt to change the existing situation through force or pressure, citing its connection to international trade, supply systems, and regional security.

Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated the goal of reunification with Taiwan in his New Year message. However, the Taiwanese government has rejected Beijing's sovereignty claims, asserting that only the people of the island can decide its future. Taiwan has been governed separately from mainland China since 1949 and has developed its own democratic political system, military, and economy, although China considers it a breakaway province and has consistently reiterated the goal of integrating it into the mainland. A recent independent report stated that this is part of China's broader strategy to build pressure in maritime areas. The report also noted that the US has long emphasized that regional disputes should be resolved under international law and without coercion to maintain freedom of maritime and aerial navigation.

San Francisco, Oct 24 – Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk sparked widespread discussion on social media after posting a striking message on X, warning that China and Russia are allegedly targeting Silicon Valley employees through espionage tactics involving attractive women. Musk shared a screenshot of a report claiming that these countries are using “honey traps” to steal technological secrets from engineers and scientists. His post was captioned, “If she’s a 10 out of 10, you’re an asset,” a satirical yet serious reference to potential intelligence threats disguised as romance.

As per agency report, Musk’s post quickly went viral, garnering over 300,000 likes and 28,000 reposts within hours. The viral screenshot cited intelligence sources suggesting that Chinese and Russian spy networks are deploying women to approach employees in tech companies, in what experts have described as “sex warfare.” These agents reportedly build relationships, even going as far as marriage or pretending to have children, to gain the targets’ trust and extract classified information.

An insider quoted in the report described the situation as the “Wild West,” where unsuspecting tech professionals are unknowingly putting national security at risk. Investigations have already revealed multiple cases where intimate relationships led to data leaks involving sensitive technology. Musk’s post reignited debate across social media, with thousands of users humorously yet seriously discussing the implications. Some referenced the case of former U.S. congressman Eric Swalwell, who was previously accused of associating with a Chinese spy. Others joked about political figures like Kash Patel allegedly being caught in similar traps. With more than 16,000 comments, users widely praised Musk’s sharp humor while also calling for greater vigilance on national security concerns.

Trump advisor claims plans underway for his third presidential term in 2028

Washington, Oct 24 – A close advisor to former U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that preparations are being made for Trump to seek a third presidential term in 2028, despite constitutional restrictions. The advisor, a strategist from Trump’s first administration and a long-time supporter of the “Make America Great Again” movement, stated that Trump’s allies are serious about pursuing a third term and that “people should accept it.”

As per agency report, when asked about the 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which limits presidents to two terms, the advisor responded that there were “several options,” though he declined to elaborate, saying the plan would be revealed at the appropriate time. He argued that the country still needs Trump’s leadership, claiming that although Trump’s victories in 2016 and 2024 were challenging, his chances in 2028 would be stronger. He described Trump as part of a divine plan, suggesting that despite his flaws, he was chosen for a special purpose.

Earlier this year, Trump himself hinted at the possibility of a third term, claiming that “many people are asking for it” and that “there are ways to make it happen,” though he clarified that no legal steps had been taken. The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, explicitly restricts any individual from being elected president more than twice. The only exception applies to a vice president who assumes the presidency for less than two years and is subsequently elected for two full terms—allowing a maximum of 10 years in office.

A third term would only be possible if the 22nd Amendment were repealed, which would require a two-thirds majority in both the House and the Senate, followed by ratification by three-fourths of the state legislatures—a process considered highly improbable under current U.S. political conditions.

Tianjin (China), August 31 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Chinese President Xi Jinping that India is committed to advancing its relations with China based on mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity. The two leaders held comprehensive talks on recalibrating bilateral relations on the sidelines of the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin. Modi began his televised remarks by highlighting that the welfare of 2.8 billion people is linked to cooperation between India and China.

The meeting came against the backdrop of global trade turbulence caused by tariff policies under the administration of US President Donald Trump. Modi arrived in Tianjin on Saturday evening from Japan, marking his first visit to China since the eastern Ladakh border standoff that began in May 2020. The last engagement between Modi and Xi was in October last year in Kazan, Russia, just days after both countries reached an agreement to end the Ladakh standoff.

As per agency report, Modi noted that the disengagement process completed last year has brought peace and stability along the border, with direct flights between the two countries now resuming. He also referred to the restart of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and recalled the understanding reached between special representatives on border management. Modi stressed India’s commitment to deepening cooperation with China through trust and sensitivity.

During the meeting, Modi congratulated Xi on China’s successful presidency of the SCO. However, details of the specific discussions between the two leaders have not yet been disclosed. Ahead of his Tianjin visit, Modi emphasized the importance of India and China working together to stabilize the global economic order.

In an interview with Japan’s daily newspaper, The Yomiuri Shimbun, published on Friday, Modi had said that stable and cordial India-China relations could have a positive impact on regional and global peace and prosperity. He further stated that given the prevailing uncertainties in the world economy, it is crucial for the two major economies to cooperate in restoring stability.

Modi’s visit to China comes less than two weeks after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s trip to India, where he held extensive talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Following those discussions, both sides announced steps to build “stable, cooperative and forward-looking” relations, which included maintaining peace along the disputed border, reopening cross-border trade, and resuming direct flight services at the earliest.

Beijing, August 28 – China announced on Thursday that 26 foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, will attend its Victory Day celebrations on September 3. The event, which China describes as commemorating its resistance against Japanese aggression during World War II, has sparked a diplomatic row with Japan.

As per agency report Tokyo has urged world leaders not to participate, arguing that the parade reflects “anti-Japan sentiments.” In response, Beijing lodged a diplomatic protest, stressing that Japan must acknowledge its wartime past and respect the sentiments of China and other victimized nations if it truly wishes to move beyond historical disputes.

China’s Vice Foreign Minister Hong Lei confirmed that the parade would mark the 80th anniversary of victory in both the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the global fight against fascism. The military parade in Beijing will follow the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit scheduled for August 31 and September 1 in Tianjin.

Leaders expected to attend the SCO summit include Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto, Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. From South Asia, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu will participate.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also scheduled to attend the SCO summit in Tianjin after a two-day visit to Japan. China is seeking to extend invitations to these leaders for its parade as well, further fueling Japan’s discontent.

Reports from Japanese media suggested that Tokyo, through its embassies abroad, urged other nations to reconsider participation, citing concerns that the event highlights lingering hostilities. However, Beijing has dismissed this stance, emphasizing that the ceremony is a rightful commemoration of history.

The upcoming events are expected to attract global attention, not only for their symbolic significance but also for the high-profile gathering of world leaders amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Beijing/New Delhi, July 15 – In a significant diplomatic development, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing during his ongoing visit to China. This marks Jaishankar’s first visit to the country since the tense military standoff between India and China in 2020.

As per agency report, the meeting between the two leaders was focused on advancing the bilateral relationship between the neighboring Asian giants. Jaishankar conveyed greetings from President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Xi Jinping. Sharing details of the meeting on social media, Jaishankar said he briefed the Chinese President on recent progress in India-China relations and emphasized the importance of leadership guidance in managing and improving bilateral ties.

In addition to his meeting with President Xi, Jaishankar also held discussions with his counterparts from other Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states. Prior to his engagement with Xi, he met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, during which he stressed the need for open and constructive exchanges between the two nations, especially as neighboring countries and major global economies.

Jaishankar expressed optimism about his visit, stating that he hoped the talks would proceed positively. The minister is also scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his stay in Beijing.

This high-level engagement follows a gradual thaw in India-China relations since 2024. Notably, during the Kazan Summit last year, Prime Minister Modi and President Xi held a face-to-face meeting, which paved the way for both countries to begin withdrawing troops from the contentious regions of Depsang and Demchok. These areas had been flashpoints for military confrontations since the 2020 standoff in eastern Ladakh.

Before arriving in China, Jaishankar had visited Singapore as part of his overseas tour. His current visit to Beijing is being closely watched for signs of further de-escalation and normalization of ties between the two regional powers.

Beijing, June 12 – China has indicated its readiness to engage in discussions with India regarding the recent export restrictions imposed on rare earth minerals, stating that it is open to enhancing dialogue and cooperation with concerned nations to maintain the stability of global industrial supply chains.

In recent months, China had imposed significant export controls on key rare earth elements, leading to disruptions in several industries worldwide, including the automotive and semiconductor sectors in India. These restrictions have drawn concern from various countries reliant on rare earth supplies for critical manufacturing needs.

Responding to a question from a news agency, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that China is willing to increase dialogue and cooperation with relevant countries and regions to jointly ensure the stability of global industrial and supply chains. However, he added that for specific details regarding export policies, one should refer to the relevant government departments.

The comments came amid growing international pressure and China's decision to issue export licenses to the United States and the European Union. While the spokesperson did not confirm whether similar permissions would be extended to India, the diplomatic tone suggested a window for engagement.

As per agency report, Indian Ambassador to China Pradeep Kumar Rawat recently met Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to discuss various bilateral issues, including shared concerns such as the impact of the export restrictions.

Given China's near-monopoly on rare earth resources, its decision to curb exports has created shortages in several key industries globally. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed ongoing communication with Chinese authorities, both in New Delhi and Beijing.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India remains in contact with the Chinese side to ensure supply chain reliability and stability in line with international trade practices. He noted that China’s Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs had in early April announced the implementation of export controls on certain earth-derived items.

India is now seeking to work through diplomatic channels to address the issue and ensure the continued flow of critical raw materials necessary for its strategic industries.

Beijing, April 29 – A devastating fire broke out at a restaurant in Liaoyang city of China's northeastern Liaoning province on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of 22 people and injuries to three others, according to state-run news agency Xinhua.

The blaze reportedly started around 12:25 p.m., though the exact cause has not yet been confirmed. Images from the scene showed intense flames billowing from the restaurant’s windows, highlighting the severity of the incident.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued instructions for the proper treatment of the injured and called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire.

This marks the second major fire-related tragedy in China this month. On April 9, a fire at a nursing home in Longhua County, Hebei province, claimed the lives of 20 elderly residents. At the time of that incident, 39 residents were reportedly inside the building.

Authorities are expected to release further details following an official investigation into Tuesday’s fire.

Washington, April 16 – The United States has intensified its trade standoff with China by imposing retaliatory tariffs of up to 245 percent on Chinese imports, following Beijing’s recent actions against American exports. According to a fact sheet released by the White House, this decision is part of President Donald Trump’s renewed "America First" trade policy aimed at safeguarding national interests and defending domestic industries, as per agency report.

President Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, on Tuesday to reveal that China had refused to accept aircraft under a major Boeing deal, confirming earlier reports suggesting that Chinese aviation authorities had instructed airlines to halt procurement from the American aerospace giant. Trump condemned this move and reiterated his commitment to protect American farmers and businesses amid the escalating trade war.

The White House announcement followed an executive order signed by President Trump initiating a formal investigation into the national security risks posed by America’s dependence on imported processed critical minerals and related products. The executive action aims to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains for materials vital to defense and advanced technology sectors.

While over 75 countries have reportedly come forward to negotiate new trade agreements under the revised US trade strategy, China has stood out as the only country to respond with direct countermeasures. Last Friday, China raised its tariffs on US imports to 125 percent, in response to the 145 percent tariff hike imposed earlier by the US on Chinese exports.

The White House fact sheet highlighted that, due to its retaliatory actions, China is now facing US import tariffs reaching as high as 245 percent. The administration also accused Beijing of restricting exports of key technological materials to the US, including gallium, germanium, antimony, and other strategic minerals.

These critical minerals are essential components for US defense applications such as jet engines, missile guidance systems, advanced computing, radar infrastructure, and secure communications equipment. The move underscores US concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Meanwhile, China responded on Wednesday by appointing Li Chenggang as its new international trade representative at the Ministry of Commerce. A veteran diplomat with years of experience in international negotiations, Chenggang previously served as China’s ambassador to the World Trade Organization. His appointment signals Beijing's strategic recalibration as it prepares to handle the complex and escalating trade dynamics with Washington.

The Trump administration, while pressing ahead with tariff escalations, has maintained that it is up to China to take the next steps toward resolving the current trade impasse.

Beijing, April 11, 2025 — China has intensified its retaliation in the escalating trade dispute with the United States, announcing a steep increase in tariffs on American imports to 125 percent. The decision came in response to the Trump administration's earlier move to raise duties on Chinese products to a total of 145 percent, including an additional 20 percent hike introduced in January this year.

As per agency report, China’s Tariff Commission declared the new duties during a press briefing, warning that if the US pushes tariffs beyond this point, it would no longer be economically viable and would ultimately be remembered as a farcical moment in global economic history. The commission also emphasized that American imports are already untenable under the current tariff structure, and any further hikes would be ignored by China.

The new tariffs will take effect from Saturday and mark the latest move in a growing economic confrontation between the world’s two largest economies. The commission made it clear that China would not hesitate to escalate countermeasures if the US continues to undermine its economic interests, vowing to “fight till the end.”

Despite the tough rhetoric, Beijing signaled its openness to dialogue, stating it is still willing to negotiate with Washington to resolve the dispute. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has also filed a formal complaint against the US at the World Trade Organization (WTO) under its dispute settlement mechanism.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, during a media briefing, reiterated that China does not seek a trade war but is equally unafraid of one. He emphasized that no side wins in a tariff or trade war, and for any meaningful dialogue to happen, it must be rooted in equality, mutual respect, and shared benefit. Lin also criticized the US approach, calling for an end to what he described as a “maximum pressure strategy” and “irresponsible actions.”

China’s latest tariff hike signals an unyielding stance as tensions between the two countries threaten to destabilize global trade. The retaliatory move places further strain on bilateral relations, even as both sides face mounting pressure from domestic stakeholders and international observers to de-escalate the situation.

In a sharp escalation of the ongoing trade tensions, China has announced an 84 percent tariff on all imports from the United States, effective from Thursday. The decision follows US President Donald Trump's move to impose a 104 percent tariff on Chinese exports to the US, which came into force on Wednesday.

As per agency report, Beijing’s retaliation signals a firm stance against Washington’s aggressive trade measures. Last week, China had declared plans to levy a 34 percent tariff on American goods. However, in response to the latest US action, which included an additional 50 percent duty, China has now raised its tariff rate to 84 percent.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce issued a white paper on Wednesday outlining its position and warned that China would launch another legal case against the United States at the World Trade Organization. Additionally, Beijing announced increased restrictions on trade between American and Chinese companies.

In its official statement, the ministry stated that if the US insists on escalating economic and trade restrictions, China is fully equipped with the necessary tools and determination to respond and to fight until the end. The strong language used by Chinese officials underscores the seriousness of the dispute.

Despite growing global concerns over the implications of the trade war, China has not indicated any willingness to enter negotiations with the US, unlike some other nations. The Chinese government has not commented on whether talks with the White House are being considered.

President Trump’s decision to significantly raise tariffs on Chinese imports marks a major step in reshaping US trade policy, particularly aimed at reducing trade imbalances. However, it has also heightened fears of prolonged economic disruption.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that if the United States genuinely wishes to resolve the issues through dialogue, it must adopt a stance based on equality, mutual respect, and shared benefits. Until then, Beijing appears resolute in its decision to counter US actions without compromise.

Beijing, April 4 – In a strong countermeasure to the United States’ tariff decision, China on Friday announced an additional 34 percent duty on all goods imported from the US, deepening the ongoing trade rift between the world’s two largest economies. The move comes in response to US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 34 percent tariff on Chinese imports, part of a broader trade reform plan described as the “Liberation Day” package.

As per agency report, the new Chinese tariffs will come into effect from April 10. These include a base tariff of 10 percent, beginning April 5, followed by a special retaliatory levy of 24 percent from April 9. Together, these measures raise the total tariff burden on US goods to 34 percent.

The state-run Xinhua News Agency reported that in addition to the tariff increase, China has also filed a formal complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO), alleging that the US's actions violate international trade rules. Further, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced that it will restrict exports of dual-use items to 16 American companies, marking a significant escalation in trade restrictions.

President Trump’s announcement on Wednesday stated that the 34 percent tariff on Chinese goods would help reshape US trade policy. He claimed that China imposes an effective 67 percent tariff on US goods, factoring in currency manipulation and other non-tariff barriers. With the newly imposed US tariffs, the effective duty on Chinese goods entering the US now stands at 54 percent, nearing the 60 percent figure he previously threatened during his campaign.

In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun criticized the US measures, stating that they constitute a serious violation of WTO regulations and undermine the rules-based multilateral trading system. Guo emphasized that China strongly opposes these actions and will take all necessary steps to protect its legal rights and interests.

China’s decision to impose steep retaliatory tariffs further intensifies fears of a prolonged trade conflict that could have global economic repercussions. According to the Office of the United States Trade Representative, the total goods trade between the US and China in 2024 was estimated at $582.4 billion. Of this, US exports to China stood at $143.5 billion, while imports from China totaled $438.9 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $295.4 billion for the US.

China’s latest move underscores its firm stance against the US’s aggressive trade policy, especially at a time when tensions are also flaring between Washington and other major trading partners. The US remains China’s third-largest export destination after ASEAN and the European Union.

Beijing, March 11 – In a significant move showcasing advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), China has deployed robot dogs and unmanned patrol vehicles to enhance public security in its capital, Beijing. The initiative aims to integrate AI-powered technology into urban safety measures, reinforcing the city's efforts toward smart policing.

As per agency report, the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area (BDA) recently announced the introduction of these robotic patrol units. In a press release, BDA highlighted the deployment of unmanned vehicles and robotic patrol dogs as part of its strategy to strengthen urban security.

On Saturday, visitors at Boda Park in southeastern Beijing witnessed a fleet of smart patrol vehicles along with two robotic dogs, marked with the words "patrol, publicity, and prevention." These robots, painted in brown and white, drew significant public attention as they moved through the area.

BDA has introduced a next-generation patrol system that includes 18 Level-4 automated vehicles, 15 manually operated patrol cars, and two industrial-grade robotic dogs. These technologies are expected to support law enforcement efforts by providing surveillance, security monitoring, and rapid response capabilities.

According to Global Times, Chen Jing, vice president of the Institute of Technology and Strategy Research, stated that while these AI-powered applications are still in the early trial phase, they demonstrate Beijing’s commitment to integrating intelligent robotics into its urban infrastructure. The initiative aligns with China's broader goal of building "smart cities" with advanced automation and AI-driven public services.