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NEWS IN CHINA

• China Condemns U.S. Military Aid Package, Warns of Escalating Tensions: A Ministry of Commerce representative from China has expressed strong disapproval of the United States' approval of a military assistance plan that includes conditions believed to harm China's interests. The spokesperson condemned the package for violating market economy and fair competition principles, claiming that it unfairly singles out foreign companies in the name of national security. The spokesperson added that the move is symbolic of “unilateralism” and being aggressive, stating that the package poses a risk to regular economic and trade interactions by allowing one-sided penalties and extending legal control beyond borders. Stressing the importance of the U.S. to acknowledge China's concerns and rights, the spokesperson cautioned that steps will be taken to protect China's legitimate interests.

• Chinese Vice Premier Calls Foreign Brands to Enter China: Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing urged more international brands to enter the Chinese market, highlighting the nation's dedication to fostering a favourable climate for business growth. During the China Brand Day launch event, Zhang emphasized China's commitment to extensive opening-up measures, broadening market entry for foreign businesses and guaranteeing fair opportunities for both local and international companies. While emphasizing backing for local companies in international rivalries and improvement of product quality, Zhang also underlined the government's attention to ensuring fair competition and safeguarding intellectual property rights.

• Xiong’an New Area's High-Tech Industrial Zone Begins Operations: The high-tech industrial development zone in Xiong’an New Area, began operations on Thursday after receiving approval from the Hebei provincial government around December 2023. This zone focuses on advanced modern service industries, especially scientific and technological services, business services and free trade services. The government has proposed creating five specific parks focused on space, information, biotechnology, new materials and future science and technology within the zone. There has been notable advancement in infrastructure development in the core region of the high-tech zone, including the gradual completion of residential, commercial and public service facilities. Numerous tech companies have been quick to arrive in Xiong’an, showing a positive beginning to the project.

• China and Hungary Elevates Relations to ‘All-Weather Partnership’: During discussions between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, both leaders announced that China and Hungary have elevated bilateral relations to "all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for the new era." This decision marks a notable increase in their relationship, as both leaders are optimistic that it will boost collaboration and be advantageous for both countries. President Xi stressed the significance of upholding mutual trust and promoting win-win cooperation between China and Hungary, particularly as they celebrate the 75^th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. Hungary was the inaugural European country to sign a cooperation agreement with China's Belt and Road Initiative, resulting in substantial growth in trade and investment between the two nations. This collaboration has resulted in significant investments in Hungary, which includes a significant project by the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD. President Xi emphasized the significance of fostering interpersonal relationships to enhance bilateral relations, emphasizing the growing interest in Hungarian language classes in China and vice-versa. Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to increasing interactions across various levels and fostering deeper mutual understanding among their populations. PM Orban reiterated Hungary's strong dedication to strengthening collaboration with China, brushing off worries about potential risks and highlighting the beneficial opportunities brought about by China's progress. He also refuted ‘overcapacity’ and ‘de-risking’ claims against China. The joint statement issued after Xi’s visit highlights that both countries view each other as priority partners. The focus of the joint statement has largely been on improving connectivity infrastructure between China and Europe for which Hungary acts as a major partner.  Moreover, Hungary’s growing economic inter-connections with China through trade, agricultural cooperation and joint issue of green panda bonds was also discussed in the statement.

• China Aims to Strengthen Its Data Application Regime Across Several Industries: China's head of National Data Administration (NDA), Liu Liehong, announced plans to intensify efforts in expanding the application of data elements across various industries. This initiative aims to fully unlock the value of China's vast data resources and stimulate the development of new productive forces. Liu highlighted the pivotal role of data as a new production factor, driving the transformation of traditional industries, enhancing productivity and fostering innovation. At a competition launch event in Hefei, Liu emphasized the significance of data in empowering social and economic development. China ranks second globally in data resources, with local authorities actively exploring the authorization and operation of public data resources. A guideline released by NDA and other government departments outlines plans to advance data element applications in key fields such as manufacturing, agriculture, trade, finance, and technology. The goal is to create over 300 application scenarios, double data transactions, and cultivate innovative data merchants and service organizations. Ouyang Rihui from the China Center for Internet Economy Research underscores the necessity of establishing a unified domestic data market, clarifying data-related rights and developing pricing mechanisms and value assessment systems. Integrating data with traditional industries is expected to enhance production efficiency, resource allocation and generate new business models and social value.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER IN CHINA

• Baidu's PR Chief Resigns Amidst Controversy Over Comments on Work Culture: It has been reported that Qu Jing, who was previously the head of public relations at Baidu, has left her position due to controversy surrounding her support for a rigorous work environment. The confirmation of Qu's departure was documented in Baidu's internal system and disclosed by Chinese tech publication 36Kr. The dispute arose from Qu's videos on Douyin, in which she showed no concern for employee welfare and reprimanded a staff member for declining a work trip amidst the pandemic. Qu's comments, which involved ignoring employees' personal lives and promoting a work culture that operates round the clock, caused public anger and criticism. The event revealed the common "996" work ethos in some tech companies, known for its extended hours and intense stress. In reaction to the criticism, Qu posted an apology on social networking platforms, expressing remorse for her comments and emphasizing that they did not represent Baidu's principles. Although Baidu has not released an official statement regarding Qu's exit, the situation highlights the continuing conversations surrounding work-life balance and workplace protocols within the technology sector.

INDIA WATCH

• Delhi Chief Minister's Temporary Bail in Excise Policy Case: Xinhua published an article on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's temporary release in the excise policy case as a representation of India's political scene and court system. The focus is on Kejriwal's important position as a major leader in the opposition alliance in India's ongoing general elections. Chinese media emphasizes the importance of the court's ruling, stating that the temporary bail enables Kejriwal to be involved in campaigning until June 1, coinciding with the last stage of elections. The report highlights some aspects of Indian politics, especially involving accusations of corruption and legal actions against opposition figures. Chinese media also offers perspective on the AAP's leadership in Delhi and Punjab, highlighting its crucial position in Indian politics. Furthermore, it highlights the AAP's involvement in the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), a group focused on contesting against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership in the elections.

Prepared By

Triveni Mahajan

Triveni is a student of Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication at Bennett University and has contributed to the field of Indian Politics Journalism.