CICM 1st April 2025

NEWS IN CHINA

Qiushi Journal Publishes President Xi’s Article on Advancing China's Sci-Tech Innovation: President Xi Jinping's article on advancing China’s scientific and technological strength was published in the 7th edition of the Qiushi Journal. It highlighted that since the 18th National Congress of the CPC in 2012, the CPC Central Committee has actively pursued an innovation-driven development strategy to establish China as a global leader in science and technology by 2035. The article examined key factors essential for China’s rise as a sci-tech powerhouse, emphasizing the need for strong foundational research, original innovation capabilities, and breakthroughs in core technologies. It also underscored China’s ambition to become a global hub for scientific advancement, enhancing its international influence and leadership. To accelerate sci-tech development, the article proposed several measures, including leveraging the advantages of the new system to mobilize national resources for major initiatives, strengthening high-level self-reliance in science and technology, and integrating sci-tech innovation with industrial development to drive new quality productive forces. Additionally, it called for deeper reforms in sci-tech systems and mechanisms to fully unleash innovation potential.
China Condemns U.S. Sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong Officials: China has strongly opposed the latest U.S. sanctions targeting six officials from the Chinese government and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government. The sanctions, outlined in the U.S. State Department’s "Hong Kong Policy Act Report," cited concerns over Hong Kong’s autonomy, a claim that Chinese authorities firmly reject. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, criticized the report, stating that it distorts Hong Kong’s governance and misrepresents the region’s legal system. Several key Chinese government bodies, including the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office and the central government’s liaison office in Hong Kong, also voiced their disapproval. HKSAR Secretary for Justice, Paul Lam, dismissed the sanctions as inconsequential to his duties, while the Chinese Embassy in the U.S. urged Washington to refrain from interfering in China’s internal affairs. Meanwhile, Hong Kong district councilors staged protests, reaffirming the city’s stability and ongoing development.
Beijing to Host 8th Digital China Summit: The 8th Digital China Summit is set to take place in Fuizhou, Fujian Province, from April 29 to 30, spotlighting China's progress in digital transformation and its impact on economic growth. Liu Liehong, head of the National Data Administration, emphasized the summit's focus on optimizing data utilization and enhancing marketdriven value creation. The summit will feature key policy reports shaping the future of digital development, with participation from over 300 professional institutions and an increased presenxe of private enterprises. Attendees will also experience immersive digital environments that blend tradition with innovation. China continues to deepen market-oriented reforms, promote regional digital development, and strengthen global cooperation, reinforcing its position as a leader in the digital economy and a key player in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
He Lifeng Discusses China-U.S. Economic Cooperation With Ray Dalio: Senior Chinese official He Lifeng met with Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, in Beijing to discuss the macroeconomic landscape and China-U.S. economic and trade relations. He highlighted China’s steady economic progress, noting the formation of a unified national market and rising consumer demand. Reaffirming China’s commitment to deepening reforms and expanding high-level market access, He Lifeng encouraged international investors to actively participate in China’s capital market development. Dalio, in turn, praised China’s economic achievements and reiterated his dedication to strengthening U.S.-China economic cooperation. Both sides expressed optimism about future collaboration, emphasizing the importance of robust bilateral economic ties in driving mutual growth and stability.
China Holds Annual Commemoration for Organ Donors in Shenyang: China’s annual national commemoration event for organ donation was held in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, ahead of the Qingming Festival. Health officials reported a steady rise in organ donation and transplants, with over 7.05 million registered donors nationwide. The ceremony honored 26 donors with floral tributes and a moment of silence, bringing together transplant recipients, donation coordinators, and medical professionals. Officials highlighted significant progress, noting over 58,000 organ donations, 110,000 corneal donations, and 63,000 body donations, benefiting medical research and patient care. Zhang Dingyu, a renowned medical professional and organ donation ambassador, shared his commitment to advancing medical research. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in organ transplantation studies. With over 280 memorial sites nationwide, China remains committed to raising awareness and fostering a culture of organ donation. Regional commemorations were also held, reinforcing the vital role of organ donation in saving lives and driving medical progress.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Full-Time Employment for Delivery Riders Gains Social Media Praise: The transition of many delivery riders to full-time employment has received significant praise on social media, with netizens highlighting its positive impact. Many have noted that this shift has substantially increased riders’ earnings, with some seeing their monthly income double from 6,000 to 12,000 yuan. Backed by the implementation of five social insurances and one housing fund, this transition has not only improved financial stability but also provided a comprehensive safety net against work-related risks, enhancing overall well-being. Many riders have expressed greater confidence in their future, citing reduced financial pressure and improved family life. By aligning their benefits with those of formally employed workers, these measures foster job satisfaction, financial security, and a fairer working environment—setting a precedent for broader labor market reforms. The initiative has been met with widespread approval online. One netizen praised it as "the first platform to provide five insurances and one fund for food delivery riders—truly remarkable." Another shared, "After going full-time, riders saw their income double, leading to a better family life. They are deeply satisfied and grateful."

INDIA WATCH

Chinese Media Highlights 75 Years of India-China Diplomatic Relations: An article published in The Paper commemorated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and India, highlighting the historical ties between the two nations and their future prospects. The article cited statements from both Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian President Droupadi Murmu, who exchanged congratulatory messages on April 1st, reaffirming the long-standing connections between their countries and their shared role in global development. According to the article, Xi emphasized the importance of mutual trust, peaceful coexistence, and cooperation in ensuring long-term stability and progress. It further noted that on the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Indian PM Narendra Modi also exchanged messages. Li conveyed China’s willingness to strengthen strategic trust and collaboration, while Modi acknowledged the historical contributions of both civilizations and their collective responsibility in promoting global peace and development. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining constructive and stable relations to support regional and global prosperity. The article also referenced developments since the meeting between Xi and Modi in October, reporting that engagements at various levels have contributed to stronger mutual understanding. Additionally, Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong highlighted the importance of people-to-people exchanges, noting an increase in visas issued to Indian citizens and ongoing efforts to resume direct flights. He further emphasized the significance of China and India’s roles in global development, advocating for deeper cooperation to address shared challenges and contribute to a stable, multipolar world.

Prepared By

Cherukuri Venkata Subramanya Sai Narayana

Cherukuri Venkata Subramanya Sai Narayana holds a Master’s degree in Police and Security Studies from the School of Police Science and Security Studies, National Forensic Science University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India. He has a strong academic interest in conflict and security studies, with a particular focus on maritime security. During his postgraduate studies, he authored a thesis on India’s Maritime Security: Dealing with Alliances and Conflicts in the Indian Ocean Region. He remains actively engaged in analyzing global events, applying his knowledge and expertise to assess geopolitical developments with a critical perspective.