CiCM 4th December 2024

NEWS IN CHINA

China accuses the Philippines of provocation in the South China Sea collision: China has accused the Philippines of deliberately provoking a collision between their vessels near Huangyan Island in the South China Sea. According to China Coast Guard (CCG) spokesman Liu Dejun, Philippine government vessel No. 3003, along with other coast guard and fishing vessels, entered China's territorial waters on Wednesday. Reports claim that despite multiple warnings, the Philippines’ vessels reversed sharply prompting a collision with CCG vessel No. 3302. China subsequently criticized the Philippines for endangering navigation safety and engaging in provocative action under the pretext of fishing protection. On the other hand, the Philippine Coast Guard stated that it was on a routine patrol to protect Filipino fishermen when the Chinese vessels fired water cannons and launched ‘aggressive actions’ after dawn. The CCG maintained that it acted in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations and Liu warned the Philippines against further infringements or misleading propaganda, stating that they would be responsible for any resulting consequences. The incident comes amidst growing tensions between the two nations over disputed territories in the South China Sea where Huangyan Island, also known as Scarborough Shoal, has long been a point of contention.
China Tightens Export Controls Amid U.S. Semiconductor Restrictions: China has introduced stricter export controls on specific dual-use items to the United States, citing the need to safeguard national security. The policies introduced include bans on exporting materials like gallium, germanium, antimony, superhard materials, and graphite that are often used for military purposes in the USA in semiconductors, communication technologies, and renewable energy. The announcement comes after the U.S.'s tightened export restrictions on semiconductor-related equipment and the addition of 136 Chinese products to its export control list. In response, China accused the U.S. of politicizing trade and abusing export control mechanisms, while stating that such policies harm global supply chain stability and eventually lead to Chinese firms seeking self-reliance. For example, Chinese semiconductor companies, including Skyverse and Naura, have said that they have achieved significant self-sufficiency, hence minimizing the impact of U.S. restrictions. Despite trade tensions, China's chip trade has grown, with exports rising by nearly 20% each year. In fact, experts suggest that these U.S. measures may eventually strengthen China's technology sector and innovation capabilities.
China's Railways Surpass 4 Billion Passenger Trips in 2024: China's railway sector achieved a milestone in 2024, handling over 4 billion passenger trips reported at the end of November, surpassing the 3.86 billion trips recorded for 2023. This marks a strong recovery in railway transport post-pandemic, highlighting returning demand for travel. China’s railway network spans approximately 160,000 kilometers, with 46,000 kilometers dedicated to high-speed rail, showcasing its global leadership in railway infrastructure. The extensive network now connects 99% of Chinese cities with populations exceeding 200,000, and 97% of cities with over 500,000 residents benefit from high-speed rail services. Cross-border railway transport also experienced significant growth. The China-Laos Railway facilitated 249,000 cross-border trips, while the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High-speed Railway witnessed 24.36 million trips, showing greatly improved regional connectivity.
China’s Eastern Airlines launches new route: For the domestically produced C919 aircraft, Chinese Eastern Airlines has launched a new route connecting Shanghai to Wuhan. This marks the eighth city served by the C919, highlighting success in its commercialization.The inaugural flight, MU5385, departed Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport at 11:08 am on Wednesday, carrying 142 passengers to Wuhan Tianhe International Airport. Operated by the ninth C919 aircraft in Eastern Airline’s fleet, this plane notably possesses a domestic in-flight network, offering passengers enhanced entertainment options via Wi-Fi-enabled devices. As the first operator of the C919, Eastern Airlines has nine aircraft in service, planning to add 105 more to their fleet. Since its commercial debut on May 28, 2023, the C919 has completed over 5,500 flights and transported over 750,000 passengers. This signifies the aircraft’s role in promoting the Chinese aviation industry.
Shanghai Introduces World's Largest Power-Grid Reactors: The State Grid Shanghai Municipal Electric Power Company announced on December 4 that it has begun operations of the world’s largest single-capacity current-limiting reactors following a successful 24-hour trial. Installed on the Shanghai Yuan Dong-Ting Wei 500 kV transmission line, these reactors aim to address the increasing short-circuit currents caused by the city’s expanding 500 kV power grid. The project features 24 large-capacity series reactors that are being utilised to stabilize current flow, protect equipment, and enhance the grid’s stability. Zhang You, a project manager, also underscored the system's role in resolving Lin-gang Special Area’s power challenges, with the aim of improving supply reliability, and safeguarding the grid’s operation and safety. This advanced project reflects a crucial step in Shanghai’s efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and support the city’s growing electricity demands, all while ensuring operational sustainability in its systems.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Romance Novelist Qiong Yao passes away, netizens react: Netizens have responded to Qiong Yao's death with a mix of nostalgia and heartfelt tributes. Many commented on how her works, such as Huan Zhu Ge Ge and other romantic novels, framed their understanding of love and life. Social media platforms have been inundated with discussions of her influence, and fans reposting their favorite lines, scenes, and moments from her novels and adapted television series. Younger generation users also expressed their appreciation for being introduced to her works by their parents or grandparents, showcasing the love she garnered in her lifetime. Her words resonate across generations, owing to the dramatic twists and deep emotions she explored. Many users who commented that her passing marked the end of an era, described her as the "Lord of Love," portraying her impact on Asian pop culture and literature.

INDIA WATCH

Chinese Media Highlights India’s Role in BRICS Amid U.S. Dollar Diplomacy: An article published by China’s leading daily ECNS highlighted the growing apprehensions among non-Western countries, including India, about the U.S. weaponizing global financial systems like SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication), which was established in 1973 and is headquartered in Belgium. As the article reported, China views India's interest in exploring other means of transactions, such as the ‘BRICS bridge’ payment network instead of the current dollar-dominated system, as a shared objective in mitigating reliance on the West’s financial systems. The author stated in the piece that experts from both China and India recognise the impracticality of Trump’s proposed tariffs, where he threatened to impose 100% tariffs on BRICS countries that do not use the dollar as their reserve currency. These however, have the potential to harm U.S. consumers by raising domestic prices, as well as disrupt global trade. Experts also emphasised on India’s concerns over U.S. sanctions and highlighted the need for economic diversification. Chinese commentators suggest that India’s stance aligned with the BRICS’ goal of financial independence, while also marking the country’s balanced approach so as to avoid direct confrontation with the U.S., portraying its cautious approach.

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.