CiCM 25th August 2023

NEWS IN CHINA

China Strongly Opposes US Arms Sale to Taiwan: China vehemently opposed the United States' recent acceptance of a $500 million arms sale to Taiwan for F-16 fighter planes, claiming involvement in Taiwan's internal affairs as well as a breach of the one-China principle and past joint communiqués. As per the statement, the deal is perceived to be endangering Taiwan's security and the overall stability of the region. China has subsequently expressed its displeasure and filed complaints with the United States. The statement also emphasized that the Taiwan issue was of critical importance to China-US ties. The US was also encouraged to stick to its pledge not to promote "Taiwan independence," as well as suspend arms deliveries and to minimize military cooperation with Taiwan. China also sent warnings stating that any attempt to use Taiwan against China would fail and that armed measures to achieve "Taiwan independence" would be deemed worthless.
China Emphasizes on Historical Context of Boundary Issue in India Relations: Wang Wenbin, the spokeswoman for China's Foreign Ministry, addressed the border dispute between China and India in the context of their bilateral ties. He stressed that the border dispute was of a historical issue that does not define the whole China-India relationship. According to his statement President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a thorough dialogue, during the BRICS Summit. Xi emphasized the need to strengthen China-India ties for the sake of both countries' well-being and global stability. Both parties were encouraged to think about their overall interests, manage the boundary problem, and work together to keep the border peaceful. Wang reaffirmed that China's position on this issue remained unchanged and that they seek to find a fair and mutually accepted settlement through peaceful negotiations. He also emphasized on the fact that both nations must work together to keep the border area calm until a settlement was reached.
President Xi Jinping and South African President Ramaphosa Lead High-Level Dialogue: President Xi Jinping and South African counterpart President Ramaphosa co-chaired a conversation between Chinese and African leaders on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, in Johannesburg. The summit was attended by African leaders such as President Azali of Comoros, President Sall of Senegal, President Hichilema of Zambia, and others. Xi Jinping made a speech emphasizing China's strong connection with Africa and their joint efforts towards modernization and prosperity. He emphasized China's support for Africa's own road to modernization and outlined three initiatives to improve practical cooperation: boosting talent training, helping African industrialization, and adopting an agricultural modernization plan. African leaders expressed gratitude for China's support and collaboration, as well as for China's contributions to African development. The summit culminated in the release of a Joint Statement as well as steps to aid African industrialization, agricultural modernization, and talent development.
EG.5 Omicron Variant of COVID-19 still Dominates: According to Beijing health officials, COVID-19 is still prevalent as the city's major infectious illness. The Omicron variant's EG.5 sub-lineage is presently the dominant strain in China, accounting for more than 70% of COVID-19 infections. Beijing recorded 11,080 instances of different infectious illnesses during the 33rd week of 2023 (August 14-20), a significant rise from prior weeks. COVID-19, hand, foot, and mouth disease, other infectious diarrhea, influenza, and TB are the top five illnesses recorded. The incidence of the EG.5 variety has increased dramatically, becoming the dominant strain in the majority of China's provinces. While there are fears about a third COVID-19 infection, specialists say the situation is presently manageable, with no major increase in severe cases. According to current monitoring data, COVID-19 infection levels in Shanghai remain constant and low.
ACFTU Party Group Holds Thematic Education Meeting: In accordance with the criteria of the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, the Organisation Department of the CPC Central Committee, and the Central Leading Group, the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (ACFTU) convened a democratic life meeting concentrating on thematic education. The meeting was presided over by Xu Liuping, the ACFTU's party group secretary. The discussion included self-inspection, critical evaluation, and improvement suggestions based on Xi Jinping's Thoughts on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. Liu Jiayi and Zhang Junkuo offered external guidance. The ACFTU party organization carried out self-inspection and critique of their study and working environment, addressing concerns raised by Xi Jinping's ideology. The gathering promoted free criticism and recommendations, which resulted in more unity, improved work, and mission fulfillment. Liu Jiayi of the CPC Central Committee's 16th Guidance Group applauded the meeting's effectiveness, pointed out flaws, and offered suggestions for development. The gathering emphasized the need to learn Xi Jinping's philosophy, increase political knowledge, wisdom, and practical abilities, and encourage a pragmatic work style. It emphasized the need to apply Xi's ideals in order to achieve high-quality development in the labor movement and trade union activities. Observers included officials from the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, the State Supervision Commission, and the All-China Federation Organs Leading Group for Thematic Education.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER IN CHINA

China Remembers Kobe Bryant, honoring a Legend on His 45th Birthday and 'Kobe Day: Fans in China remembered Kobe Bryant on his 45th birthday, as well as "Kobe Day," a day dedicated to his remembrance. The basketball icon and his daughter were killed in a helicopter tragedy in January 2020. In China, where he actively connected with fans through visits, charity games, and his presence on the social media site Weibo, he was widely regarded. Bryant's death sparked an outpouring of sadness in China, with the issue trending and garnering billions of views on Weibo. His influence stretched beyond basketball, as he was a beloved person who created the Kobe Bryant China Fund. In recognition of his efforts, the 24th of August has been recognized as Kobe Bryant Day, mirroring his jersey numbers. On Weibo, fans conveyed their affection and memories through postings, videos, and notes, highlighting his ongoing influence and impact on the world of sports.

INDIA WATCH

In response to the COVID-19 epidemic, India has implemented a set of proactive preventative strategies aimed at better preparing the country to deal with similar crises in the future. These policies cover a wide range of industries and tactics, demonstrating a comprehensive commitment to preparedness. One important area of concentration has been the improvement of hospital infrastructure. The pandemic highlighted medical facility vulnerabilities, pushing India to invest in the building of specialized COVID-19 hospitals, the expansion of intensive care unit (ICU) capabilities, and the installation of temporary isolation centers. These enhancements not only address the immediate issues posed by the epidemic but also strengthen the nation's ability to respond effectively to future health catastrophes. In addition, India has recognized the significance of vaccine research and distribution in pandemic preparedness. Moreover, by sharing critical vaccines with its neighbourhood, India has garnered greater influnce in the region. Thus it is imortant that such meausres continue to both, expand the country's scientific vigour but also help advance its neighbourhood first policy too. India has also invested in early warning systems to facilitate greater detection and reaction capabilities. These methods are intended to closely monitor disease trends in order to detect possible outbreaks early. The capacity to respond quickly is critical in minimizing the effect of future infectious disease emergencies and is a valuable initiative to reduce and mitigate health risks. India is therefore better positioned to confront new infectious diseases in the future if it remains at the forefront of scientific knowledge and innovation.

Prepared By

Anakha S Thampy

Anakha S Thampy is currently pursuing her dual Masters degree - an MA in International Studies from Symbiosis International University, Pune, and an MA in Sustainability Science from IGNOU. Having completed her Bachelor's in Political Science, she aspires to make a significant impact in society by becoming a Civil Servant. Her research focus revolves around the captivating realms of Asian area studies and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).