CiCM 12th May 2025

NEWS IN CHINA

State Council Releases White Paper on National Security: The State Council Information Office of China has released a white which aims to comprehensively explain the concepts, practices, and achievements in safeguarding its national security in the new era. Structured in six sections, the white paper highlights China's role in providing global stability amidst disorder, the guiding holistic approach to national security, its support for Chinese modernization, the synergy between security and development, the implementation of the Global Security Initiative for common global security, and the ongoing modernisation of its national security system through reforms. Chinese diplomacy with the countries in the Asia-Pacific region was regarded as a key component of the strategy, while its holistic approach towards National Security aligns with the Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. The white paper states the security of the citizens as its ultimate goal, political security as the fundamental task, and national interests as the guiding principle, while operating under the Rule of Law. The paper reiterated the position of the Communist Party of China as the governing party in the socialist system, along with the importance of protecting national territorial integrity and maritime rights. The paper emphasises Chinese commitment to national rejuvenation while maintaining stability, upholding regional peace, prioritizing people's and political security alongside national interests, promoting high-quality development and opening up, and safeguarding territorial integrity and emerging fields.
Education Ministry to Implement Stratified AI Education: The Chinese Ministry of Education announced the establishment of a tiered Artificial Intelligence (AI) education system encompassing primary, junior high, and senior high schools. This initiative aims to guide students from basic AI awareness to practical technological innovation. Primary School Education focuses on AI literacy, while the subsequent Junior High Education seeks to elevate logical reasoning and critical thinking about AI. Senior High students would work on the applicability of Artificial Intelligence by learning, designing, and refining algorithmic models. To support this, the ministry plans to integrate AI competence in teacher training and mandate age-appropriate curricula. Simultaneously, it also prohibits the submission of AI-generated content for academic work and requires teachers to develop students' critical thinking skills regarding AI outputs.
Commerce Ministry Rolls Out Stricter Strategic Mineral Export Controls: The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced concrete steps to prevent the illicit outflow of strategic minerals, asserting its importance for national security and development. A ministry spokesperson revealed instances of foreign entities collaborating with domestic individuals to circumvent export control measures through smuggling and other illegal means. Consequently, China has launched a campaign to rigorously crack down on such activities, including false declarations, concealment, and transshipment via third countries. This initiative involves intensified customs inspections and thorough investigations to identify and dismantle the illegal entities and smuggling networks involved, aiming to effectively protect national security and development interests.Additionally, a meeting was convened in Changsha, uniting officials from various central government departments and strategic mineral-rich regions, to bolster "full-chain control over strategic mineral exports." The ministry also indicated that more actions to combat these illegal activities will be initiated in the near future.
China Launches Novel Environmental Regulations: The CPC Central Committee and the State Council have issued updated regulations on eco-environmental protection inspections which aim to fully leverage inspections as a crucial instrument for identifying and resolving ecological issues. The focus is on promoting high-quality development through robust environmental protection, deepening reforms within the ecological civilization framework, and modernising the eco-environmental governance. Key areas of inspection include advancements in pollution control, the transition to greener development models, ecological preservation and restoration efforts, and initiatives aimed at achieving carbon peaking and neutrality. This move underscores China's continued prioritization of eco-environmental protection within its broader social and economic development strategy, as part of its "Beautiful China" initiative.
China and The U.S.A. release Joint Statement on Trade and Economics: China and the United States jointly announced measures to alleviate recent trade tensions in the China-U.S. Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva. Recognizing the critical role of their bilateral economic relationship for both domestic and global economies, the United States committed to eliminating 91% of additional tariffs imposed on Chinese goods under April executive orders. Furthermore, it will suspend 24% of reciprocal tariffs for 90 days, maintaining the remaining 10%. In response, China will eliminate 91% of its counter-tariffs on US goods and similarly suspend 24% of its corresponding counter-tariffs for 90 days, retaining 10%. Additionally, China will suspend or remove its non-tariff countermeasures. Both nations will implement these changes by May 14th and will establish a mechanism, with Vice Premier He Lifeng, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and USTR Jamieson Greer as key representatives, to continue economic and trade discussions

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Centenarian Triggers Debate on the Nexus between Aging and Habits: Media Sensation, 102-year-old Grandfather Zheng and his life of highlights on Social Media sparked a debate about the potential secrets to longevity and a fulfilling existence. His regimented daily routine, commencing with a 6:30 AM weightlifting session, scheduled rest and concluding with a 10:00 PM bedtime lead to the comparative analysis of generational lifestyles. Beyond exercise, the social support from his two sons and a daughter dealt with the importance of familial backing and cohesion to overall well-being, especially in old age. Netizens compared the lifestyles of two generations, the importance of social settings and underscored the value of small, consistent changes in daily habits as a path to longevity.

INDIA WATCH

Xinhua reports Indo-Pak ceasefire: An article by Xinhua highlighted China's supportive stance towards the recently achieved ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, stated on Monday that China welcomes the ceasefire and hopes both nations will consolidate and extend this momentum. The spokesperson pointed out that this ceasefire aligns with the fundamental and long-term interests of both India and Pakistan, further contributing to regional peace and stability, a sentiment echoed by the international community. The article also highlighted that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held separate phone calls with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. These diplomatic efforts were aimed at easing tensions and fostering a lasting ceasefire. The report concluded by noting a sense of calm returning to communities along the Line of Control, despite prior allegations of ceasefire breaches from both sides.

Prepared By

Iklavya Dev

Iklavya is currently a Second Year student pursuing undergraduate degrees in Multimedia Communication and Political Science from K.C. College, Mumbai and Indira Gandhi National Open University respectively. He is deeply interested in the realms of Public Policy, Governance and International Relations, and aspires to broaden his horizons in the same through interactive working experiences and research. His research work includes various subjects ranging from Indian Foreign Policy and Defence Studies to Social Issues and Constitutional Law.