CiCM 6th September 2024

NEWS IN CHINA

Shanghai to Implement Stage-by-Stage Road Restrictions on National IV Diesel Trucks from October 15: On September 6, the Shanghai Municipal Transportation Commission announced that, with the municipal government's approval, Shanghai will introduce a phased road restriction policy for National IV diesel trucks starting October 15, 2024. This measure aims to improve air quality and reduce emissions from mobile pollution sources. The restriction policy primarily targets diesel trucks that comply with the National IV standard, applying equally to both operating and non-operating vehicles. It covers all National IV standard trucks, including those with license plates from other provinces and cities. Starting October 15, 2024, National IV diesel trucks will be banned from driving on roads within Shanghai's S20 Outer Ring Expressway, excluding the expressway itself and ground roads beneath the elevated sections. From October 15, 2025, this ban will extend to roads within the G1503 Shanghai Ring Expressway, again excluding the expressway and ground roads under its elevated sections. By October 15, 2026, these trucks will be prohibited from driving on all roads throughout Shanghai. Violators will face penalties enforced by the city's public security traffic management under the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China." This policy will take effect on October 15, 2024. Following the city-wide restriction on National III diesel trucks, National IV diesel trucks have become the primary source of vehicle pollution. Although they make up just 3% of the city's vehicles, they contribute 45% of total NOx emissions.
Chinese FM Wang Yi Meets U.S. Climate Official in Beijing: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with John Podesta, the U.S. president’s senior advisor on international climate policy, in Beijing on Friday. Wang emphasized that China and the U.S. should be partners rather than rivals, striving for mutual success instead of harmful competition, and aligning their actions with their words. He expressed China's willingness to collaborate with the U.S. for stable, healthy, and sustainable bilateral relations, building on the consensus reached during the leaders' meeting in San Francisco last year. Wang also reaffirmed China’s commitment to green, low-carbon, and sustainable development, noting the global benefits of addressing climate change. Wang Yi highlighted that climate change dialogue and cooperation are essential to China-U.S. relations and a key step in implementing the consensus reached at the San Francisco meeting. He emphasized the progress made in practical climate collaboration between the two countries this year and expressed hope that the U.S. will maintain stable policies, respect China's legitimate concerns, avoid protectionism, and work together to address global challenges. John Podesta reaffirmed that climate cooperation is a key consensus between the U.S. and China, crucial to their relations and global efforts. He highlighted the mutual and global benefits of collaboration and confirmed the U.S.'s commitment to constructive engagement with China.
Yuanshui Bridge in Hunan Yichang Expressway Expansion Project Successfully Closed: The Yuanshui Bridge, a key project in the Hunan Yichang Expressway expansion undertaken by China Communications Construction, was successfully completed with the precise installation of the final steel box girder. This milestone paves the way for the completion and opening of the entire expressway. The Hunan Yichang Expressway expansion covers 93.456 kilometers and is built to two-way, 6-lane expressway standards, with a design speed of 120 kilometers per hour. The roadbed is 34 meters wide, and the bridge and culvert are designed to highway level I load standards. The Yuanshui Bridge features a 240-meter main span and is a variable-section hybrid beam continuous rigid frame structure. The closure process of the Yuanshui Bridge utilized computer-controlled hydraulic synchronous lifting technology, employing modular hanging baskets, steel box girder hangers, and four 350-ton hydraulic jacks for precise "millimeter-level" closure. The CCCC project team developed over 140 inspection items and performed meticulous data measurements to ensure a flawless closure of the main bridge's middle span. Upon completion, the project will boost the traffic capacity of the Yichang Expressway, enhance Hunan's road network, and improve transportation in Hanshou County and nearby areas. It will also promote economic ties between Hunan, Chongqing, and other provinces, fostering regional development and accelerating the creation of an ecological and economic circle around Dongting Lake.
Xi Jinping Affirms China’s Support for Sudan’s Sovereignty: On Friday, Chinese President Xi Jinping affirmed China's strong support for Sudan in maintaining its national sovereignty, independence, and security, and in determining its own future. Xi made these comments during a meeting with Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, Chairman of Sudan's Sovereignty Council, who was in Beijing for the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Xi emphasized that China and Sudan have been steadfast friends through various challenges. Marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Sudan, President Xi Jinping expressed China's commitment to strengthening their friendship and mutual trust. He emphasized China's readiness to enhance cooperation and advance their strategic partnership. Xi also urged both sides to implement the outcomes of the 2024 FOCAC summit and improve the quality of their cooperation. He expressed hope for Sudan's swift restoration of peace and stability and its return to development. President Xi Jinping committed to supporting Sudan on international platforms and fostering a positive environment for resolving Sudan's issues. Chairman Al-Burhan praised the strong Sudan-China relationship, noting China's impactful infrastructure projects and expressing Sudan's gratitude. He reaffirmed Sudan's commitment to the one-China policy and readiness to strengthen their strategic partnership and implement the 2024 FOCAC summit outcomes.
Uzbek President Mirziyoyev meets with Chen Min'er, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Secretary of the Tianjin Municipal Committee: On September 5, Uzbek President Mirziyoyev held a meeting with Chen Min'er, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Secretary of the Tianjin Municipal Committee, in Tashkent. Chen Min'er delivered President Xi Jinping's greetings, noting the rapid development of China-Uzbekistan relations under the leadership of both heads of state. Following President Mirziyoyev's successful state visit to China in January, the two leaders upgraded their relationship to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership. Chen emphasized the Communist Party of China's commitment to working with Uzbekistan's major political parties to implement their agreements and build a shared future. He also highlighted Tianjin's plans to enhance cooperation with Uzbekistan in trade, education, science and technology, culture, and tourism, and to strengthen local exchanges. President Mirziyoyev asked Chen Min'er to pass on his best wishes to President Xi Jinping and expressed gratitude for China's support in Uzbekistan's "New Uzbekistan" initiative. He emphasized the desire to enhance inter-party exchanges and local cooperation to benefit both nations. Chen Min'er visited Uzbekistan from September 4 to 7 with a Chinese Communist Party delegation, at the invitation of the Legislative Chamber of the Supreme Assembly of Uzbekistan. During the visit, he met with various officials, including the speaker of the Legislative Chamber, and attended the unveiling of the Luban Workshop and the opening of the China (Tianjin)-Uzbekistan (Tashkent) Education Cooperation Roundtable.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Japanese Celebrity Provides Emergency Care, Gains Attention in China: A Japanese celebrity's quick response to an emergency has sparked widespread admiration on Chinese social media. Maika Kitamura, a 27-year-old medical doctor and member of the idol group NEO à la mode, recently gained international attention after assisting an elderly man who collapsed at a Tokyo subway station. A video of her calmly providing emergency care—checking the man's pulse and keeping him alert—went viral, amassing nearly 20 million views on X. On mainland social media, Kitamura was widely praised for embodying a commendable blend of professionalism and compassion, characteristics highly valued by many in China. Her ability to seamlessly balance her roles as a medical professional and an idol resonated deeply, with many highlighting her as an example of someone who excels in both her personal and professional life. Kitamura's actions have elevated her status beyond just being an entertainer, positioning her as an inspiring figure who embodies integrity and dedication. This admiration reflects a broader appreciation among Chinese audiences for individuals who step up in critical moments and demonstrate exceptional qualities across multiple fields.

INDIA WATCH

Chinese Ambassador to India Visits Gandhi's Residence and Riverside Park Project: On September 5, Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong visited Gandhi's former residence and the riverside park development project in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Xu noted that ten years ago, President Xi Jinping began his first state visit to India in Gujarat, where he, accompanied by Prime Minister Modi, visited these sites. The visit led to productive discussions and broad agreements between the two leaders. President Xi highlighted the historical and contemporary connections between China and India, emphasizing the need for mutual respect, learning, and cooperation as neighbours advance together. Xu Feihong highlighted that, a decade later, as we follow the path laid by President Xi Jinping, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in advancing and improving China-India relations. Reflecting on the past and looking toward the future, we draw strength and inspiration to move forward. Just as the riverside park continues to grow and develop, people from both China and India should unite to uphold the principles of mutual respect, understanding, trust, care, and achievement. By fostering these values, we can ensure that China-India relations progress on a healthy and stable trajectory, ultimately benefiting the people of both countries and contributing positively to the world.

Prepared By

Pavithra SR

I am a third-year undergraduate majoring in International Relations at Shiv Nadar Institute of Eminence, Greater Noida specializing in gender, security, and digitalization. My interests include policy making and South Asian studies, with a particular focus on international migration, subaltern communities, and democratic studies. I am keen to conduct policy research in these areas in the future.