CiCM 21st January 2025

NEWS IN CHINA

China Pushes for Stronger Data Governance to Boost Digital Economy: China’s recent guidelines on data security governance aim to enhance the efficient and compliant circulation of data, allowing the country to efficiently utilize its economic potential and enhance innovation in the digital economy. Issued by the National Development and Reform Commission, the National Data Administration, and other ministries, the Guidelines target a robust data governance framework by 2027, supporting the secure and reliable flow of data elements while preventing data abuse. Key measures in the Guidelines include encouraging enterprises to appoint chief data officers, enhancing data governance, and promptly addressing illegal data usage. Experts emphasise the importance of standardizing the market for data circulation and bolstering protections for sensitive personal information. For instance, Zhao Gang of CIO Manage stresses the importance of building innovative data security infrastructure to support industrial efficiency and productivity. With China’s data output reaching 32.85 zettabytes in 2023, the guideline is expected to expand opportunities in the data security industry, enabling growth through advanced technologies.
Xi and Putin Strengthen China-Russia Strategic Cooperation Amid Global Uncertainties: Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties during a video meeting on 21 January 2025. Xi emphasized that a stable China-Russia relationship is vital for addressing global uncertainties and ensuring international fairness and justice. He further highlighted the progress in bilateral trade, cultural exchanges, and multilateral cooperation through platforms like the UN, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Both leaders celebrated 80 years since World War II victories, stressing upon their joint role in defending the UN-centered global order and promoting multilateralism. Beijing also called for enhancing practical cooperation, BRICS collaboration, and SCO development. Putin, in response, noted the positive momentum in bilateral trade, energy cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges. He reiterated Russia’s support for China's sovereignty over Taiwan and condemned any form of "Taiwan independence." Both leaders agreed to strengthen global governance systems.
Beijing Seeks Stable Relations With Washington Under Trump's Presidency: Ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration as U.S. president, China emphasized its commitment to fostering a stable and cooperative relationship with Washington. Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng met with U.S. Vice-President-elect JD Vance, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and U.S. business leaders in Washington. He stressed that adherence to mutual respect and peaceful coexistence could enable both nations to achieve mutual success, hence allowing for global peace and development. He highlighted potential cooperation opportunities, particularly in economic and trade relations, urging dialogue to resolve differences. Vance acknowledged the importance of U.S.-China trade ties and emphasized cooperation on global issues. Musk expressed Tesla’s interest in deepening investment in China, while U.S. business leaders expressed optimism about recent Xi-Trump talks. Han Zheng also reiterated China’s commitment to improving its business environment, encouraging U.S. companies to engage more with China.
New Subsidy Program Boosts Digital Product Consumption in China: China’s Ministry of Commerce announced a nationwide subsidy program starting January 20, 2025, to encourage the purchase of mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches, and other digital products. Local governments, including in Sichuan, Beijing, and Shanghai, have highlighted the subsidy standards and coupon mechanisms, allowing consumers to receive discounts both online and offline. This initiative aims to stimulate consumption and support other related industries, including software development, chip manufacturing, and component production. Experts acknowledged the program's alignment with national and local efforts, which enables high-quality growth of the digital economy. The program also ensures flexibility, allowing restored subsidies for returned items and emphasizing consumer convenience. Analysts praised its potential to deepen the integration of online and offline markets, enhance user experience, and drive economic activity, hence expecting significant success rates in 2025.
Li Qiang Hosts Symposium to Refine Government Work Report: Premier Li Qiang led a symposium with leaders of democratic parties, the National Federation of Industry and Commerce, and non-partisan representatives to gather inputs on the draft Government Work Report. Attendees, including leaders from eight central democratic parties, praised China’s economic resilience and progress in modernization under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, highlighting achievements in macroeconomic stability, high-quality development, and overcoming challenges in 2023. Participants further offered suggestions to strengthen macro-regulation, promote scientific innovation, deepen reforms, and enhance public welfare. Li Qiang emphasized the importance of meeting the goals of the 14th Five-Year Plan, addressing external challenges, and mobilizing societal enthusiasm to sustain economic recovery. He also encouraged cooperation with democratic parties to better governance, while urging stakeholders to act in collaboration with different sectors, so as to contribute to China’s sustainable development.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Regrets of “Golden Stream Eye” House Owner Receive Attention on Social Media: The unique "road house" in Jiangxi, nicknamed the "Eye of the Golden Stream," has drawn public attention since 2024. Located on Jinxi Ring Road, the home of Huang Ping (pseudonym) and his grandson is surrounded by highway lanes, resembling an eye from an aerial view. Despite ongoing road construction, the house still has running water and electricity, though vibrations from construction are felt by its residents. Huang Ping declined initial government relocation offers, leading to a legal dispute over compensation for his 160-square-meter home. Today, he says he regrets the decision, similar to "losing a gamble." The road is expected to open before the Spring Festival, worrying him about future noise. Yet, he acknowledges it is "too late to change things now." This case highlights the challenges of balancing development with residents' rights, as Huang Ping waits for the outcome of the lawsuit and deliberates his next steps.

INDIA WATCH

Global Times Article on India-China Relations Calls for Cooperation and Long-Term Perspective: An article in Global Times details the views of Chinese media and experts who emphasize the importance of cooperation and mutual respect between China and India, highlighting their shared role as ancient civilizations, developing countries, and emerging economies. The article refers to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, who stated that prioritizing development and cooperation is in alignment with the interests of over 2.8 billion citizens in both states hence supporting the Global South’s rising prominence and aim for regional stability. Guo’s comments come after Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s acknowledgment of the complex post-2020 border relationship, stressing upon the necessity of mutual trust for future ties. The article mentions Chinese experts who also express their support, advocating for the implementation of agreements between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which portrays India and China as partners rather than threats. It also underscored the need for a strategic and long-term approach to restoring healthy and stable bilateral ties, referencing the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and promoting multipolar global governance and inclusive economic globalization. These efforts are being viewed as essential to addressing current challenges and enabling both nations to coexist harmoniously while contributing to stable global development and security.

Prepared By

Taasha Mistry

Taasha Mistry is a third year undergraduate student at FLAME University, pursuing a major in International Studies with a minor in Advertising & Branding. After having completed an internship at International SOS, she has found her interests to lie in security and strategic studies. Intrigued by the ever changing dynamics in the modern day world, she keeps herself updated with daily news and events.