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NEWS IN CHINA

• China and India Reaffirm Commitment to Stronger Ties: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, emphasizing the "important consensus" reached by both countries’ leaders during last year’s meeting in Kazan, Russia. Wang urged both sides to view each other as partners in development rather than as strategic competitors, stressing the importance of good-neighborly relations, mutual benefit, and careful management of sensitive issues to preserve peace and stability in border areas. Doval echoed these sentiments, noting that both nations prioritize development as a strategic goal and recognizing the guiding role of their leaders' shared vision. He expressed India’s willingness to deepen coordination with China in multilateral forums and voiced support for China’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Both sides acknowledged the broader role China and India can play as major Asian powers in contributing to regional and global stability.
  
  
• Hangzhou Unveils Ambitious 2025 AI Action Plan: Hangzhou has launched its 2025 Action Plan aimed at reinforcing its position as a global hub for artificial intelligence innovation. By the end of 2025, the city plans to double its intelligent computing capacity, from 25 to 50 EFLOPS, and roll out two world-class foundational AI models alongside more than 25 industry-specific models. The initiative sets a bold target of pushing the city’s core AI sector to exceed 390 billion yuan (approximately $54.43 billion USD) in annual revenue. Key priorities include breakthroughs in AI chip technology and expanding AI applications across key sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, transportation, education, scientific research, and governance. To power these ambitions, Hangzhou is introducing a four-year, 1-billion-yuan computing power voucher program, covering up to 60% of computing costs for local enterprises. The plan also includes strategic subsidies to attract top-tier global AI talent and accelerate homegrown innovation.
  
  
• China and Singapore Pledge Deeper Strategic Partnership: Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and reaffirmed both nations' commitment to deepening bilateral ties and strengthening multilateral cooperation. The leaders vowed to enhance collaboration in third-party markets, safeguard the multilateral trading system, and ensure the stability of global industrial and supply chains. Premier Li praised the steady progress in diplomatic relations and the robust partnership between China and Singapore. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high-level exchanges, deepening strategic dialogue, and reinforcing political mutual trust to unlock greater outcomes in bilateral cooperation. Key areas of focus include accelerating joint projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, boosting trade and investment flows, and expanding cooperation in emerging sectors such as the digital economy and artificial intelligence. The leaders also underscored the importance of people-to-people exchanges to foster deeper cultural and social ties. Prime Minister Wong expressed Singapore’s confidence in the resilience of China’s economy and reiterated the country’s commitment to multilateralism and free trade. The meeting concluded with the signing of agreements on talent development and intellectual property.
  
  
• China Prepares for the 80th Anniversary of Anti-Japanese Aggression War Victory: China has announced a comprehensive series of events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the global triumph in the World Anti-Fascist War. The commemorations will culminate in a major national gathering and military parade on September 3 in Tiananmen Square, where President Xi Jinping is expected to deliver a keynote address. The commemorative activities aim to honor historical memory, pay tribute to fallen heroes, and reinforce national unity and resilience. Central to the events will be the awarding of commemorative medals to surviving veterans and their families, along with tribute visits and ceremonies to recognize their sacrifices. Highlights include a solemn July 7 event at the Museum of the War of the Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, forums and symposiums for overseas Chinese communities, and a symbolic bell-ringing ceremony on September 18 to echo the enduring message of “Never Forget.” The campaign also includes the unveiling of new memorial sites, restoration of historic landmarks, and the honoring of war heroes.
  
  
• China's Draft Social Assistance Law Aims to Strengthen Safety Net: China has taken a major step toward reinforcing its social safety net with the submission of a draft Social Assistance Law to the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress for initial review. Aimed at ensuring basic living standards for those in need, the proposed legislation marks a significant upgrade from the 2014 interim measures, which experts have criticized as outdated and insufficient in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. The draft law, comprising seven chapters and 76 articles, significantly expands the scope of social assistance. Moreover, it extends aid to near-subsistence and hardship-stricken households. It also introduces a more responsive system through tailored support programs, streamlined eligibility verification enabled by interdepartmental data sharing, and proactive monitoring by grassroots authorities to ensure timely intervention. Minister of Civil Affairs Lu Zhiyuan acknowledged persistent challenges, including weak coordination and limited public involvement, and called for improved mechanisms to meet evolving needs. 

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Beijing Swelters Under Orange Heat Alert as Temperatures Soar: On June 22, the Nanjiao Observatory recorded a scorching 38.3°C, the highest temperature of the year so far. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak hours, and take protective measures against heatstroke. The intense heat is driven by high pressure systems and warm air masses, resulting in clear skies and little relief. With the summer solstice bringing extended daylight, forecasters expect the heatwave to persist for another two to three days. A slight dip in temperature is possible around June 26–27 due to increased cloud cover, with potential thunderstorms on June 28 offering more significant relief. Authorities are urging the public to limit outdoor exposure, stay well-hydrated, wear sun protection, and observe fire safety and proper food handling. Guidelines also advise recognizing heat-related illness symptoms and checking on vulnerable individuals. On Weibo, users are sharing their discomfort, with many posting, “It’s too hot—I feel like I’m melting,” while others exchange reminders to stay safe and prevent heatstroke.

INDIA WATCH

DNA Identified for Majority of Victims in Indian Plane Crash as Probe Advances, CCTV Reports: Authorities have identified the DNA of 259 victims in the recent Indian plane crash, including 240 passengers and 19 individuals on the ground, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. One passenger's DNA analysis remains pending, while the remains of 256 victims have been returned to their families. The tragedy occurred on the afternoon of June 12, when an Indian Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for the UK crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport. Of the 242 people onboard, only one survived, making the crash even more devastating. The total death toll stands at 279, including casualties on the ground. This incident marks the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787, a milestone that adds urgency and global attention to the investigation. An international team, comprising experts from several countries, has been deployed to support Indian authorities in determining the cause of the disaster.

Prepared By

Maheshwar S Chhaunkar

Maheshwar S Chhaunkar has completed his Bachelor's degree in Political Science and History from Sri Aurobindo College, University of Delhi. He is currently working as an IT Assistant at CENJOWS. His areas of interest include India-China relations, Indo-Pacific affairs and Asian politics.