CiCM 2nd December, 2024

NEWS IN CHINA

China’s first overseas atmosphere watch station begins operations: Located at China’s Antarctic Zhongshan Station, China’s first overseas atmosphere watch station began operations on Sunday, World Antarctic Day. This marks the ninth such station operated by China, focusing on continuous and long-term monitoring of atmospheric composition changes in an attempt to support global climate change initiatives. Zhongshan Station, which is China’s second year-round Antarctic research base, holds immense geographical advantages for atmospheric monitoring.It features a comprehensive observation system, covering critical elements like ozone, aerosols, and atmospheric chemistry. Previously collected data has contributed to the World Meteorological Organization’s “Antarctic Ozone Bulletin,” allowing a more detailed understanding of polar climate and atmospheric processes.This year also commemorates 40 years since China’s inaugural polar expedition, highlighting the state’s growing role in polar research. Alongside its nine existing stations, China initiated year-long experiments for ten new stations in critical climate zones hence reinforcing the country’s commitment to advancing global atmospheric understanding. Zhongshan Station’s contributions, along with China’s expanding atmospheric projects, reflect the country’s growing focus on international climate collaboration.
China is exploring the use of AI in an attempt to boost the efficiency of the judicial system: The People's Court Press introduced an AI-powered judicial platform at the Supreme People’s Court in an attempt to boost efficiency of, and accessibility to services. Designed with a database of 320 million legal records, including rulings, cases, and opinions, this large-scale infrastructure integrates content using legal terms and logical reasoning tailored to user needs. The platform aims to save judges time by analyzing electronic files, extracting key points, and classifying legal data, hence reducing the workload on judges amidst a growing volume of cases. Eventually, Artificial Intelligence is expected to provide public legal services such as mediation suggestions and addressing nonprofessional legal inquiries for easier access to consultations. This nationwide project aligns with China’s goal to ‘smarten’ its courts and judicial system through technology by streamlining legal processes and making them more accessible, hence reflecting China's commitment to integrating technology in governance.
Wang Huning met with Cambodia’s Hong Sen: Wang Huning, a key leader in China's Communist Party, met with Hong Sen, Chairman of the Cambodian People's Party and Senate, in Beijing on December 2. Wang highlighted the close communication and important consensus between China's Xi Jinping and Cambodia's Hun Sen, emphasizing them to be imperative to strengthening bilateral ties. He further affirmed China’s commitment to working in collaboration with Cambodia to strengthen cooperation and build a "community of shared future" in the new era. Hun Sen, on the other hand, praised China's achievements under the Communist Party’s leadership and reiterated Cambodia's friendship with China. He expressed Cambodia's willingness to deepen cooperation across all sectors, provide mutual support and jointly address global challenges. Both sides committed to political and legislative cooperation to achieve similar goals. Further, senior officials including Shi Taifeng and Wang Dongfeng, also attended the meeting.
Winter season appears to be boosting Chinese snow tourism: With the season bringing opportunities to boost China’s economy, many regions are introducing diverse new experiences and improving services. In Beijing, high-profile events like the International Snow Federation and Speed Skating World Cups attract global athletes and fans, boosting local hospitality and entertainment industries. Jilin Province’s ski resorts, including Beidahu, are fully operational, offering popular activities for domestic and international visitors. Tonghua City has launched a winter tourism season emphasizing themes like skiing and snow play, while Inner Mongolia promotes "Skiing + Tourism" packages, free skiing for students, and unique snowfield experiences like horse riding and tug-of-war. Xinjiang’s Urumqi County, known for its rich snow resources and scenic beauty, has witnessed its ski resorts bustling with activity. The region offers diverse activities, including hot pot festivals and snow competitions, drawing large crowds and promoting winter tourism. Altogether, these initiatives reflect China’s thriving ice and snow economy, catering to enthusiasts and tourists from across the globe.
To address the ‘Lying Flat’ movement, Chinese cities introduce ‘snail awards’: To tackle a growing “lying flat” mentality among workers, several Chinese cities are implementing measures like the “snail award” to highlight underperforming officials. Inspired by repeated calls from President Xi Jinping and disciplinary authorities, this initiative aims to encourage diligence among employees. In Taizhou, Jiangsu province, the snail award has been given for failures such as delayed public service responses. Recipients face poor evaluations and lower bonuses, while cities like Zhanjiang in Guangdong have demoted persons who appear to be slacking off. The phenomenon of avoiding responsibility, procrastination, and low quality of work standards is a concern raised by Xi, who has previously stressed the need for a “trailblazing spirit” among officials. Countering the ‘snail awards,’ some provinces have introduced forms of positive reinforcement such as Hunan province’s contests celebrating diligent workers. Critics, on the other hand, argue that the underlying issue is that of a lack of incentives with bureaucrats facing heavy workloads, pay cuts, and inspections. They demand greater efforts to ease burdens among officials aimed at addressing these challenges while motivating more proactive governance.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Chinese MMA star gains fame for her role as a TCM Doctor: Shi Ming, a Chinese MMA fighter and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) doctor, gained immense fame following her victory at the UFC “Road to UFC” tournament in Macau on November 23. In the women’s strawweight final, Shi defeated Feng Xiaocan with a powerful head kick in the third round, earning a UFC contract and a $50,000 performance bonus. In addition to her MMA career, Shi works as an acupuncturist at Kunming Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, balancing her medical practice with intense evening training sessions. Known for her unique combination of martial arts and TCM expertise, she credits her knowledge of Chinese medicine for helping with injury recovery. Fans have drawn comparisons between her and the legendary martial artist Wong Fei-hung, admiring her commitment to both saving lives and excelling in the MMA arena. Some even suggested that Shi’s hospital should showcase her fighting videos to deter violence against medical workers, highlighting her dual role as a healer by day and a fighter by night.

INDIA WATCH

Nepal Strengthens China Ties Amid India’s Scrutiny: The Global Times reported that Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s recent visit to China has garnered considerable attention, particularly due to its potential impact on Nepal-China-India relations. Traditionally, Nepali leaders visit India first after assuming office, but the author claims that Oli’s decision to prioritize China reflects a shift in Nepal’s foreign policy, influenced by regional dynamics. The visit focuses on strengthening Nepal-China ties, particularly through Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, with discussions centred on trade, infrastructure, and education. Oli held high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, and this highlights Nepal’s growing cooperation with China according to the article. The author also states that according to The Kathmandu Post, Nepal’s closer engagement with China is partly a response to past grievances, such as the 2015 blockade by India, which led Oli to explore alternatives, including China. While the Indian media has expressed concerns over Oli’s policies in light of these developments, the author claims that Nepal’s approach reflects a broader regional trend where South Asian countries are diversifying their partnerships beyond traditional ties with India.

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.