CiCM 24th January 2025

NEWS IN CHINA

Wang Huning Attends Spring Festival Symposium with Religious Leaders: Wang Huning, a member of the CPC Central Committee's Standing Committee, attended a Spring Festival symposium on January 23. He extended New Year greetings on behalf of the Party and General Secretary Xi Jinping to religious figures and believers nationwide. Wang commended the contributions of religious groups in 2024 and encouraged continued efforts in 2025. He emphasized adhering to Xi Jinping Thought, advancing the sinicization of religion and promoting harmonious religious relations. Wang called for enhancing patriotism, integrating core socialist values, and fostering religious practices aligned with Chinese culture and national conditions. He also underscored the importance of rule of law in religious governance and urged strengthening self-discipline within religious groups. Shi Taifeng, Minister of the United Front Work Department, and leaders of major religious associations also attended the event.
Municipal Party Committee Discusses Key Plans for Spring Festival and New Year: The Standing Committee of the Municipal Party Committee, presided over by Secretary Chen Jining, convened to study the spirit of recent central conferences and discuss year-end and New Year priorities. The meeting emphasized implementing Xi Jinping's directives to advance Shanghai's "five centers" initiative, enhance safety, uphold the rule of law, and ensure social stability. Political and legal teams were urged to maintain integrity and professionalism. The committee stressed strict party governance, aligning organizational work with development goals, and translating political strengths into governance capabilities. United front efforts were highlighted to rally diverse groups, integrate into broader objectives, and foster unity. For emerging fields, the focus will be on innovative Party-building systems, improving efficiency, and setting benchmarks. Ahead of the Spring Festival, officials pledged heightened vigilance on safety risks, comprehensive inspections, and enforcing accountability to ensure a secure, joyful celebration. Holiday-linked economic and cultural activities will also be prioritized for a strong start to the city's economy.
Lei Jun Ranked 8th Among World's Top CEOs as Xiaomi Achieves New Milestones: On January 24, Xiaomi's stock soared over 8%, reaching a record high at HK$36.85 per share, an increase of 6.81%. This marked a historic closing high and brought Xiaomi’s market value to HK$925.1 billion. Since February last year, Xiaomi's stock has surged nearly 200%, recovering significantly from its October 2022 low of HK$8.31 per share. CEO Lei Jun reflected on this journey during a New Year broadcast, emphasizing the resilience behind Xiaomi's recovery. The company reported record revenues of ¥92.51 billion in Q3 2024, up 30.5% year-on-year, with its smart EV division contributing significantly despite initial losses. Xiaomi Auto delivered 135,000 vehicles in 2024, aiming for 300,000 in 2025. Lei Jun’s global recognition was further bolstered by his eighth-place ranking in Brand Finance's 2025 Global Brand Protection Index, recognizing the world's top 100 CEOs. This acknowledgment reflects Xiaomi's strategic push into high-end markets and its robust ecosystem strategy, solidifying its global brand value.
Shanghai Launches Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination for Males Aged 9 to 26: Shanghai has fully rolled out HPV vaccinations for males aged 9–26. A nine-year-old boy, accompanied by his mother, received his shot at Fudan University’s Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital on Thursday. Experts emphasized the importance of vaccinating males, as persistent HPV infections can lead to diseases like anal cancer (88% linked to HPV) and genital warts (90% linked to HPV6 and HPV11). Studies show vaccinating both genders reduces infection rates, lowers screening costs, and aids in eliminating cervical cancer faster. Parents see vaccination as vital for children’s health and reducing HPV transmission. Several provinces, including Guangdong and Zhejiang, have also introduced male HPV vaccination programs.
China Unveils Drone to Boost Deliveries in Remote Regions: China’s CH-YH1000 unmanned transport drone completed its full-load taxiing test at Zhanghe Airport, Hubei Province. The Drone is named as a "pickup truck in the air," and aims to enhance logistics in remote areas with limited shipping options. Designed with high wings and dual engines, the drone features a flipping nose door for efficient cargo loading, a belly hatch for emergency use, and autonomous navigation capabilities. It leverages mature technology from China's CH-3D armed reconnaissance drone, ensuring high reliability and security against interference. The project launched in 2024, and has advanced rapidly, with a prototype showcased at the Zhuhai Airshow. The drone's 1,000kg capacity and round-the-clock operation are expected to revolutionize logistics, rescue missions, and military supplies, addressing high delivery costs and slow service in regions like Xizang and Xinjiang.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Top Japan Restaurant Criticized for Serving Inferior Ingredients to Chinese Diners: Xin Rong Ji, a Michelin three-star restaurant specializing in Taizhou cuisine, faced backlash after a Chinese influencer alleged its Tokyo branch served lower-quality ingredients to Chinese guests. The influencer disclosed on social media that the ¥88,000 (US$560) tasting menu she ordered substituted premium ingredients like geoduck and Houdan chicken, listed on another menu, with more affordable options such as whelk and squab.. She also noted Japanese diners served premium items like mitten crab and claypot rice, while she received plain white rice. The restaurant’s manager initially attributed the changes to seasonal availability and cultural dining habits, further angering the influencer, who viewed the explanation as discriminatory. Although the manager later apologized and offered a refund, she declined the refund but accepted the apology. The incident sparked outrage online, with many accusing the restaurant of discrimination and tarnishing its reputation. Some defended seasonal adjustments, but others argued quality should remain consistent for all diners.

INDIA WATCH

China Welcomes Indian Foreign Secretary’s Visit: China has expressed its welcome for Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit, scheduled for January 26–27, to engage in deputy foreign minister-level dialogue. This visit is seen as a continuation of the agreements made between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 16th BRICS Summit, aiming to strengthen India-China relations. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning highlighted both countries’ shared commitment to enhancing exchanges, improving communication, and restoring cooperation in various fields. This aligns with efforts to bring bilateral relations back to healthy and stable relations. Mao also noted that recent meetings, including those on the China-India boundary issue, have produced constructive results, and Beijing looks forward to further dialogue and will release more information on the visit at an appropriate time. China’s act of welcoming Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit signals its intent to strengthen bilateral ties and stabilize relations with India, especially after the recent tensions. By emphasizing dialogue and cooperation, China aims to restore trust, enhance economic and political exchanges, and address mutual concerns, reaffirming its commitment to peaceful and stable development in the region.

Prepared By

Manushka Sharma

Manushka Sharma is a dedicated second year student currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Chinese (Hons.) at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). With a keen interest in international relations, particularly in the dynamics of India-China relations, Manushka brings a unique perspective to understanding cross-cultural connections and geopolitical issues. Alongside academic pursuits, Manushka aspires to make significant contributions to global affairs, leveraging linguistic skills and cultural insights to bridge gaps and foster dialogue. She can be reached at manushka82006@gmail.com.