CiCM 15th-16th June

NEWS IN CHINA

China's Foreign Ministry Defends Extraterritorial Application of Hong Kong National Security Law: On June 14th, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian staunchly defended the actions taken by Hong Kong police under the national security law. He asserted that these actions are justifiable, lawful, and reasonable, emphasizing the legal framework's alignment with international standards. Lin specifically targeted Nathan Law Kwun-Chung and other exiled activists, accusing them of long-standing anti-China activities. According to Lin, their actions have significantly undermined the "one country, two systems" principle, jeopardized national security, and harmed Hong Kong's fundamental interests. He further clarified that the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and the Hong Kong National Security Law are designed not only to take stringent measures against a minority of serious offenders but also to protect the rights and liberties of all Hong Kong citizens. The extraterritorial application of this law, he argued, is unquestionable and consistent with international law as well as regional and national customs. Lin concluded by urging foreign parties to respect China's sovereignty and the rule of law in Hong Kong. He called on them to cease interfering in Hong Kong affairs, stop encouraging anti-China disruptors, and refrain from shielding individuals considered criminals by Chinese authorities. This strong stance highlights China's commitment to maintaining control and ensuring security in Hong Kong, despite international criticism.
China's Initiative for Cross-Strait Integrated Development: In a significant announcement, Wang Huning, China's senior political counsellor, emphasized the urgent need to advance the creation of a demonstration zone for cross-Strait integrated development. This initiative aims to strengthen economic ties and institutional frameworks across the Taiwan Strait. Wang highlighted the strategic steps being taken, including the designation of Fujian Province as a demonstration area for cross-Strait integrated development in September 2023. He underscored the importance of applying high-quality development principles throughout the integration process to enhance economic cooperation and benefit Taiwanese compatriots. Furthermore, Wang called for expanding cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation channels, improving policies to enhance the well-being of Taiwanese residents, and facilitating easier integration for younger generations to live, work, and study in mainland China.
Ansteel's Innovations in Intelligent Manufacturing: Anshan Iron and Steel Group Co Ltd (Ansteel), a major Chinese steel producer, has launched pioneering initiatives to advance intelligent manufacturing in its operations. Key projects such as intelligent mining, dark factories, and 5G integrated smart steelmaking are transforming Ansteel's production capabilities. At the dark factory of grinding and magnetic separation in Guanbaoshan Mining Company, automation is at its peak, with no visible workers along the entire production line. Instead, a digital management platform displays real-time operational data on large screens, ensuring smooth operations with minimal human intervention. Similarly, in the color coating area of Ansteel's cold rolling mill, a smart factory setup enables employees to primarily engage in data monitoring. This setup ensures efficient operation even in the absence of personnel on the floor. Ansteel's commitment to innovation is further evident in its iron-making central control center, where real-time operational data from six blast furnaces is continuously updated. This achievement stems from Ansteel's substantial investments in a big data application platform tailored for smart ironmaking in recent years.
CSRC Vows Enhanced Oversight Amidst Market Volatility: The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) pledged to bolster oversight of unauthorized short sales and margin lending regulations to ensure market stability. Recent reports indicated significant activities in the securities market, with 170 million shares borrowed and lent on June 12th alone, exacerbating concerns about market declines. The CSRC reported a net reduction of 460 million shares in the securities loan balance over two days, contributing to a weekly decrease of 5.4 billion yuan ($744.33 million), or 14%, in the securities lending balance. Measures implemented since 2023 include prohibiting the lending of restricted shares and cracking down on margin trading used for covert T+0 trading. Looking ahead, the CSRC plans thorough assessments, necessary revisions, and strengthened countercyclical adjustments to enhance regulatory oversight and stabilize market operations.
Chinese Company Sets New Temperature Monitoring Record for Quantum Computing: On June 16th, the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center announced a breakthrough: a high-performance anti-interference ruthenium oxide thermometer, developed independently by Chinese company QuantumCTek Co., achieved a new national record in temperature monitoring. This thermometer can accurately measure temperatures as low as approximately 6 millikelvin, positioning China at the forefront of superconducting quantum computing measurement technology. Previously, China relied on imported ruthenium oxide thermometers incapable of measuring temperatures below 10 millikelvins. QuantumCTek's domestically produced thermometer now offers a temperature range from 6 to 200 millikelvin, surpassing the previous national record for the lowest starting temperature measurement capability. This advancement marks a significant milestone in China's pursuit of advanced quantum computing technologies.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Chinese Barbecue Restaurant Closed After Viral Video of Hazardous Paint Use: A Chinese barbecue restaurant in Guiyang, Guizhou province, faced public outcry and subsequent closure after a viral video showed staff using hazardous spray paint on BBQ skewers. The video raised serious concerns about food safety, prompting an investigation by the local branch of the State Administration for Market Regulation Market Supervision Administration. Authorities discovered three cans of "high-grade spray paint" labeled for steel and mirror use, which were intended for promotional purposes rather than food preparation. Fortunately, the painted skewers had not been cooked or distributed to customers, as confirmed by a report from May 22. Despite the explanation from the restaurant owner regarding the use of paint for promotional differentiation, the incident led to the immediate closure of the establishment by regulatory authorities.

INDIA WATCH

Smritivan Museum in Gujarat Recognized for Architectural Excellence: Xinhua reported that this year's "World Selection for the Prix Versailles Museums" includes Smritivan Museum in Gujarat, India. Located in the Kutch district's Bhuj area, the museum stands as a memorial to the victims of the devastating 2001 earthquake that razed the neighborhood. Spread across 470 acres, Smritivan Museum is not just a commemorative site but also a symbol of human resilience, as noted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He expressed appreciation for the museum's nomination to the global selection list for the Prix Versailles Museums 2024. What sets Smritivan apart is its commitment to sustainability, evident in its operation powered by a 1.1-megawatt solar power plant. This initiative aligns with the museum's goal to achieve self-sufficiency in renewable energy. Each year, the Prix Versailles recognizes buildings that exemplify exceptional architectural and design excellence on a global scale.

Prepared By

Diksha Takale

Diksha is currently an undergraduate student at FLAME University, Pune. She is pursuing her degree in BA with a major in Literary and Cultural Studies and minor in Sociology. Writing is a part of her primary focus in building her career and one way to cater to that is by diversifying her academic reach in a field such as international relations. She is an avid reader and writes fiction in her leisure time.