CiCM 11th-12th January 2025

NEWS IN CHINA

Xi Jinping's Call Boosts Audit Oversight for Economic Growth: General Secretary Xi Jinping has reaffirmed the critical role of audit supervision in safeguarding high-quality economic and social development. In recent instructions, he commended audit institutions for promoting economic health, uncovering risks, and tackling corruption while urging deeper reforms to strengthen their effectiveness. In 2024, audits covered over 50,000 units and 19,000 officials, recovering 310 billion yuan and addressing key issues, such as rectifying 4 billion yuan in misused education funds. Xi emphasized building a centralized and efficient audit system, focusing on economic oversight to protect national interests. Auditors pledged to enhance capabilities, innovate methods, and strengthen systems to ensure accountability and transparency. These efforts reinforce governance, prevent systemic risks, and support China’s modernization and high-quality development aspirations.
Chinese General Pledges Tough Military Anti-Corruption Push: General He Weidong, vice-chairman of China’s Central Military Commission (CMC), emphasized the military's progress in anti-corruption efforts and vowed to deepen reforms in defense-related industries. Addressing the CMC's Commission for Discipline Inspection, He called for stricter political supervision, intensified governance, and a tougher crackdown on corruption to "purify the political ecology." The remarks align with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s decade-long anti-corruption campaign, which has expanded across sectors, including the military. Notable recent cases include investigations into former defense ministers Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe and the removal of 14 military lawmakers since March 2023. His comments echo the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection’s (CCDI) commitment to combating corruption. Xi warned of "catastrophic risks" if the crackdown slows, stressing that corruption remains the Communist Party’s greatest threat. The CMC aims to tighten accountability and fight a "protracted war" against corruption in 2025.
Shanghai Welcomes New Year with 19th Customs Exhibition: The 19th Shanghai New Year Customs Exhibition opened on January 12 at the Shanghai People's Art Museum, bringing the festive spirit alive with vibrant displays of traditional customs and contemporary entertainment. Lively lion dances welcomed visitors, calligraphers creating Spring Festival couplets, and children engaging in traditional folk games like bell-playing and knot-throwing. The exhibition also revisits cherished memories, such as the iconic "Casio Cup" singing competition in the 1980s and popular shows like Meet on Saturday. Nostalgic elements like communal bathing in public bathhouses and croquet games in old Shanghai alleys evoke warm sentiments for older generations. The exhibition, co-organized by the Shanghai People's Art Museum and local cultural associations, will run until March 16, featuring workshops, performances, and screenings to celebrate the Year of the Snake. It bridges traditional customs and contemporary festivities, ensuring the New Year spirit thrives across generations.
China Targets 'Proactive' Fiscal Policy: China is shifting toward a "proactive" fiscal policy this year, aiming to boost economic growth through forceful countercyclical adjustments. Vice-Minister of Finance Liao Min announced plans to increase the deficit-to-GDP ratio, issue larger government bonds, and front-load fiscal measures to support growth. Liao emphasized that China has ample policy space and a diverse toolkit, ready to respond to new challenges. The country’s GDP growth supports an expansion in the fiscal deficit, allowing for higher total expenditures and stronger countercyclical measures. Analysts predict the deficit ratio could rise to 4%, up from the current 3%. Despite global uncertainties, including a recovering property market and rising protectionism, leveraging fiscal tools to stimulate domestic demand remains crucial. Liao also mentioned plans to expand government bond issuances, including ultralong treasury bonds and local government bonds. Ultralong bonds are expected to increase from 1 trillion yuan to around 1.5–2 trillion yuan, while local government bond issuance could rise to 7 trillion yuan. The new funds will support large-scale infrastructure upgrades, affordable housing, and consumer goods trade-in programs, aiming to enhance domestic demand and stabilize the economy.
Fujian's First Large-Scale Shared Energy Storage Power Station Launched: Fujian’s first large-scale centralized shared energy storage power station in the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone was successfully delivered on January 11. This milestone marks a key step in building new power systems and “zero-carbon islands” in the region. The Phase I project consists of 72 battery containers and 40 integrated converters and boosters, capable of storing over 200,000 kWh of electricity and completing charge/discharge cycles in two hours. The station will support the development of Pingtan's offshore wind power industry by enhancing wind power absorption capacity. It will also provide essential services such as peak-shaving and frequency regulation for island power grids. In 2024, the National Energy Administration included the Pingtan project in its list of national new energy storage pilot projects, making it the only such project selected in Fujian Province.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Weibo Users Rally Behind Anti-Corruption Drive Amid Ongoing Campaign: China’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign has sparked intense debate on Weibo, with netizens reacting passionately to the government’s firm stance. The phrase "No step of rest, no half step of concession" from General Secretary Xi Jinping’s speech at the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Commission for Discipline Inspection has become a symbol of the country’s commitment to tackling corruption. This message has resonated strongly with the public, with many stressing that corruption is the "biggest cancer" to the Communist Party of China (CPC) and its future. Despite the crackdown, which has resulted in over 889,000 people being punished in 2024, netizens point out that corruption remains a persistent issue. "The fight is far from over," one user commented, highlighting that corruption continues to thrive. The TV program "Anti-Corruption for the People," which aired recently, showed fallen officials, sparking further discussions on the need for transparency and justice in the process. While the anti-corruption efforts are largely supported, some Weibo users cautioned that the campaign must remain fair and balanced, warning against potential overreach. The debate continues, with netizens united in their demand for sustained action and a long-term commitment to eradicating corruption from its roots.

INDIA WATCH

Chinese Media Reports Highlight India's Growing Tensions with Bangladesh: A South China Morning Post article has recently highlighted the escalating tensions between India and Bangladesh, reflecting a broader regional shift that may impact India’s international standing. Once seen as a cornerstone of South Asian diplomacy, the relationship between India and Bangladesh is now under strain. The author comments that India’s concerns over Hindu minorities in Bangladesh and its sheltering of ousted leader Sheikh Hasina have led to accusations of interference in Dhaka’s internal affairs. Chinese outlets, observing the tensions, remark that India’s actions may deepen the divide unless urgent diplomacy is embraced. Beijing’s coverage underscores the fragile nature of India’s regional influence, with analysts pointing out that India’s growing involvement in Bangladesh's politics, particularly over Hindu rights, risks exacerbating the situation. The piece also states that China, a key regional power, views India’s increasing focus on Bangladesh as a potential vulnerability. The fallout could affect India’s relationships not just with Bangladesh, but with other neighbouring nations as well.

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.