CiCM 8th November 2024

NEWS IN CHINA

China summons Philippine Ambassador over laws that challenge China’s sovereignty: The Philippine Ambassador to China has been summoned by the Chinese Foreign Ministry over two laws signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that infringe upon China’s territorial integrity. The Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes (ASL) Act and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act were approved by the Congress last month and passed by the President on November 8. The ASL designates air and sea routes in the South China Sea for foreign planes and ships within archipelagic waters. The Maritime Zones Act includes China’s Huangyan Island and parts of the Nansha Islands into the Philippines maritime zone. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that the two laws violate the clause in the “Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea” which says that the parties would restrain from indulging in activities that would further escalate the issue. Yang Xiao, deputy director of the Institute of Maritime Strategy Studies at China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations said that this move would intensify conflict and tensions in the South China Sea.
Xi Jinping meets with Italian President in Beijing: Italian President Sergio Mattarella, on an official visit to China, met with Xi Jinping on November 8. A ceremony with military honours was arranged at the Great Hall of People in Beijing where the two leaders exchanged greetings. Despite the countries’ differences, Xi stated that Italy and China should work together toward building a world of peaceful coexistence. 2024 marks the 20th year of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership, in which Xi said that both countries should encourage the international community to conflict resolution through dialogue and cooperation. China and Italy have complex ties because of the Russia-Ukrain war. In 2023, Italy pulled out of the Belt and Road Initiative and Prime Minister Meloni declined to renew the agreement, straining the relationship further. Nonetheless, no differences on political matters were brought up in front of the media during President Mattarella’s visit.
Xi Jinping to attend the APEC Meeting and G20 Summit: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying announced on November 8 that Xi Jinping will be visiting Peru from November 13 to 17 to attend the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting. Hua also stated that Xi will visit Brazil to attend the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro from November 17 to 21. Another foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning said that Xi will deliver a speech at the APEC meeting expanding on China’s propositions on advancing Asia-Pacific cooperation. Mao added that Xi’s attendance at the G20 Summit shows China’s support for multilateralism. Mao stated that Xi would hold talks with his Peruvian and Brazilian counterparts to strengthen bilateral ties and have in-depth discussions on cooperation in key areas.
China and the USA to collaboratively tackle cross-border chemical trafficking: Xinhua News Agency reported on November 8 that law enforcement agencies of the USA and China have collaborated to investigate a chemical trafficking case, as informed by the Ministry of Public Security. Based on leads provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, police in the central Hubei province are investigating the case. A 38-year-old suspect named Gao, among others, is being investigated. The authorities discovered that Gao and others were exploiting differences among national regulations of chemical export and import to illegally trade chemicals, and engaging in illegal foreign exchange transactions. The company operated by Gao has been unregistered and the four suspects have been arrested. The Ministry of Public Security has stated that the investigation has yet to conclude.
Chinese Center for Disease Control issues advisory regarding Marburg virus disease: The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention urged people to remain cautious against the Marburg virus disease, the outbreak of which is being reported in parts of Africa. Some cases have also been reported in Europe and North America. WHO has reported the outbreak of the Marburg virus disease in Rwanda. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention stated on their official WeChat account on November 7 urging travelers to avoid high-risk areas by monitoring updates from sources like the World Health Organisation and the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda. The Chinese CDC urged people to avoid contact with persons who could be potentially infected and to avoid travelling to Rwanda unless necessary. Those who have recently travelled to Rwanda or other impacted regions, or have come in contact with positive cases have been urged to report to local authorities and get monitored. Those who develop the symptoms of the disease are to seek treatment and provide their travel details.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER

Netizens brace for National Fire Prevention Day: In anticipation of China’s National Fire Prevention Day on November 9, netizens on Weibo have been paying heartfelt tribute to firefighters. The phrase “Everyone pays tribute to the firefighters” has become a trending topic, with users sharing messages of gratitude, AI-generated images, and videos from Xinhua News Agency to honour these brave individuals. One post described firefighters as "omnipotent" and ever-ready to "leap into the sea of flames." Another recalled the tragic explosion at Tianjin Port, where firefighters courageously sacrificed their lives to prevent a second, even more devastating blast. The user reflected on the firefighters’ resolve, knowing they might not return, but choosing to protect others nonetheless. Across Weibo, users saluted firefighters and shared prayers for their safety, showing deep appreciation for their courage and dedication.

INDIA WATCH

Chinese media reports on India’s thoughts on joining RCEP and CPTPP: Chinese media outlet Guancha recently highlighted discussions on India’s potential interest in joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). According to the report, the CEO of Niti Aayog Mr. BVR Subrahmanyam has expressed support for India’s inclusion in both trade agreements, emphasizing that membership could significantly strengthen India’s manufacturing sector. The article reflects on India’s previous stance, noting that while India had shown interest in RCEP, it ultimately opted out of signing in 2019. Subrahmanyam now argues that aligning with RCEP and CPTPP would bolster India’s role in the global supply chain. Guancha also reports that China’s Ministry of Commerce is actively engaging with current CPTPP members to facilitate its accession to the agreement and is committed to furthering discussions to expedite this process. Additionally, the Ministry noted that India would be welcome to apply to join the RCEP following the agreement’s full implementation. The piece includes insights from Singaporean scholar Kishore Mahbubani, who contends that India’s economic growth would benefit from greater integration with the global supply chain, advocating that India deepen its economic ties with China to enhance its manufacturing capabilities on a global scale.

Prepared By

Ananya Tandon

Ananya Tandon is a third-year undergraduate student at FLAME University, majoring in International Studies and minoring in Journalism. With a keen interest in political journalism, she gained valuable hands-on experience through her internship at NDTV, where she had the opportunity to explore the field. She is passionate about staying up-to-date on issues that shape the global community.