CICM 6th May 2025

NEWS IN CHINA

Strengthening Legal Oversight to Advance Sustainable Forestry in China: On 6 May, Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), addressed the first plenary meeting of the NPC Standing Committee’s Forest Law Enforcement Inspection Group in Beijing. He emphasized the importance of implementing Xi Jinping’s thought on ecological civilization and the Party Central Committee’s guidance on forestry. Highlighting China’s achievements in ecological protection, Zhao stressed the need for effective implementation of the Forest Law to safeguard forest resources, enhance ecological security, and foster high-quality forestry development. He underlined the significance of identifying and addressing challenges in law enforcement, protecting forest land rights, and promoting legal compliance across all levels. Vice Chairpersons Li Hongzhong, He Lifeng, Wu Weihua, and Shekelat Zakir, along with State Council representatives, participated and shared insights on the Forest Law’s implementation.
China-EU Relations: Celebrating 50 Years of Cooperation and Shared Progress: On May 6, 1975, China and the European Community established diplomatic ties, marking the beginning of a constructive partnership. Over five decades, this relationship has flourished across trade, technology, environmental cooperation, and multilateral diplomacy. Bilateral trade has grown significantly, supported by initiatives like the China-Europe freight train service. Economic complementarities, with China’s manufacturing strength and Europe’s innovation fostered mutual development. The two sides also align closely in areas such as green technology, digital transformation, and global governance. Upholding multilateralism, both support the central role of the United Nations and promote dialogue-based solutions to global challenges. As advocates of globalization and trade liberalization, China and the EU are committed to ensuring open, fair, and stable global supply chains. Marking 50 years of engagement, the partnership continues to contribute meaningfully to global peace, sustainable development, and economic prosperity.
Strengthening Legal Safeguards for Black Soil Protection in China: China's Supreme People’s Court and Supreme People’s Procuratorate jointly issued a judicial interpretation to reinforce the implementation of the Black Soil Protection Law, which came into effect in August 2022. The 14-article document aims to guide judicial efforts in addressing crimes that affect black soil, a crucial agricultural and ecological resource. It designates illegal disposal of hazardous substances on black soil as environmental pollution and classifies unauthorized excavation as unlawful occupation of agricultural land. Wu Zhaoxiang, chief judge of the top court’s Environment and Resources Division, highlighted the essential role of black soil in food security and ecological sustainability. Covering over one million square kilometers in Northeast China, the region is a cornerstone of national grain production. The interpretation reflects China’s ongoing commitment to environmental protection and sustainable agricultural development through legal and institutional frameworks.
Celebrating Peace, History, and Commitment to Global Harmony: In 2015, President Xi Jinping presented the “Zun of Peace” to the United Nations to commemorate its 70th anniversary, symbolizing China’s enduring commitment to peace, cooperation, and mutual development. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, a solemn reminder of the value of peace. President Xi's participation in commemorative events reflects China's historical experience and its dedication to global harmony. Drawing on China's deep cultural heritage, including wisdom from The Art of War, Xi emphasizes prudence in conflict and the importance of avoiding war. His consistent engagement with international leaders reinforces China's peaceful development path, guided by the principle of non-hegemony. Honoring those who made sacrifices for peace, President Xi commemorates national heroes annually, recognizing their enduring legacy. China's message remains clear, peace is to be cherished, preserved, and fostered through collective memory and global cooperation.
ASEAN+3 Enhances Regional Financial Safety Net with New Financing Facility: At the 28th ASEAN+3 Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting in Milan, member economies endorsed the establishment of the Rapid Financing Facility under the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralization (CMIM), aimed at providing swift liquidity support in freely usable currencies, including the renminbi. This development marks a significant step in strengthening regional financial cooperation and enhancing economic resilience. Officials noted the facility’s potential to broaden access to liquidity during periods of financial stress, while contributing to a more diversified and stable regional monetary framework. Governor Pan Gongsheng of the People’s Bank of China emphasized the importance of reinforcing financial safeguards amid global uncertainties. Chinese Finance Minister Lan Fan reiterated China's commitment to multilateralism, regional solidarity, and financial integration, announcing renewed support for the China TA Trust Fund. The joint statement from the meeting highlighted shared efforts to deepen intra-regional trade and uphold an open, rules-based multilateral trading system.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

A Young Man’s Inspiring Role in China's Environmental Restoration: Wang Jin, a 23-year-old from Sichuan province, has gained national attention for his dedicated work in combating desertification in Inner Mongolia. Despite the physical demands of planting trees in arid terrain, Wang’s commitment has resonated with millions online. Known affectionately as the “Desert Prince,” he rose to fame by sharing simple yet powerful videos showing daily life in the desert, often eating modest meals amidst sand and wind. A migrant worker alongside his parents, Wang earns a modest income planting trees to support China’s long-standing afforestation efforts. His distinct mismatched eyes, one clouded from an injury sustained in childhood have further drawn public interest, though he maintains it does not hinder his life. Wang’s growing visibility has brought renewed focus to China’s Great Green Wall project, launched in 1978. His story not only reflects personal resilience but also highlights the collective effort toward ecological preservation and environmental sustainability.

INDIA WATCH

India-Pakistan Tensions Rise, Calls for Peace Intensify: The Global Times stated that Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern on Wednesday over recent military developments, urging adherence to international law and the UN Charter. According to the statement, airstrikes reportedly targeted areas in Muridke, Sialkot, Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad, resulting in civilian casualties. The author states that Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to sovereignty while reserving the right to respond appropriately under Article 51 of the UN Charter. India, in its communication, cited strikes on what it termed terrorist infrastructure in response to a recent attack in Pahalgam. Meanwhile, international responses have called for de-escalation. The UN Secretary-General urged both nations to exercise restraint and prioritize dialogue. The article commented on China's expression of regret over the escalation, encouraging both neighbors to act with mutual respect and responsibility. With both countries being nuclear-armed and regionally significant, the global community continues to emphasize diplomacy as the pathway to lasting peace and security.

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.