World Today

① A senior CPC official has stressed supporting patriotic pro-reunification forces in Taiwan and striking hard against separatists. Why is the Chinese mainland justified to do so? (00:55)
 ② We analyze China’s provincial GDPs for 2025 and explore why “how fast” the economy grows becomes less important than “how well” it grows. (13:37)
 ③ South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed support for Russia's efforts to end the Ukraine war in a call with Vladimir Putin. How are the two sides developing their ties amid global uncertainties? (25:02)
 ④ Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse are renewing their calls for the full release of files tied to Epstein’s sex-trafficking network. What have led to their deep sense of frustration? (35:21)
 ⑤ Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of a new US-Canada bridge, demanding that Canada turn over at least half of the project’s ownership and agree to other US demands over cross-border trade issues. Does the threat make sense? (44:20)

① During a visit to an information technology innovation park in Beijing, President Xi Jinping stressed self-reliance in science and technology. How can China achieve this strategic goal? (00:53)
 ② What is China’s vision for this year’s APEC Leader’ Meeting that will be held in Shenzhen? (15:15)
 ③ We explore how Epstein files are raising questions about US elite ties. (24:53)
 ④ Indian farm unions and opposition parties have called for nationwide protests against a new trade framework between India and the United States. Will the agreement put India’s farmers at a disadvantage? (32:03)
 ⑤ In China, winter sports were traditionally concentrated in Xinjiang and the northeast. Why are they gaining traction in the country’s south nowadays? (42:12)

① Hong Kong’s high court has sentenced Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison. Why does he deserve it? (00:56)
 ② The US Justice Department is under scrutiny for revealing information about many of Jeffrey Epstein’s victims and concealing the details of individuals who may have aided the convicted sex offender. What systemic problem is it pointing to? (13:48)
 ③ Canada has announced a new EV strategy, stressing the importance of a strategic partnership with China. How big is the room for China-Canada EV cooperation? (24:54)
 ④ Israel’s president is in Australia to mourn the deaths of last year’s anti-Semitic attack at Bondi Beach. Many Australians have protested against his visit, condemning Israel’s military actions in Gaza. How is fury over Gaza dividing Australians? (34:14)
 ⑤ Saudi Arabia has announced a major investment package in Syria spanning energy, aviation, real estate, and telecommunications. What are Riyadh’s economic and strategic considerations? (44:22)

Gold prices are swinging sharply, while the appeal of the U.S. dollar as the world's dominant reserve currency appears to be gradually eroding. Does de-dollarization force the world to rethink safe havens — beyond dollar and gold. And where does the Renminbi stand in this shifting landscape?
 To explore these questions, host Ge Anna is joined by Yan Liang, Professor of Economics at Willamette University; Sean Chang, Associate Professor of Practice in Finance at the University of Hong Kong; and Chen Jiahe, Chief Investment Officer at Novem Arcae Technologies.

① President Xi Jinping has held a phone call with Donald Trump and a virtual meeting with Vladimir Putin on the same day. Will China maintain a stable relationship with the US while further developing close ties with Russia? (00:55)
 ② What’s behind the Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s renewed call for constitutional change to recognize the Self‑Defense Forces? (24:57)
 ③ Are Russia and Ukraine edging closer to peace as they hold US-brokered talks in Abu Dhabi? (35:11)
 ④ Germany’s Friedrich Merz is on a two-day Gulf tour with a mission to diversity Berlin’s partnerships. To what extent is the trip prompted by the increasingly contentious transatlantic relationship? (44:23)

① We explore how China’s “No.1 central document” plans to advance agricultural modernization and rural revitalization in 2026. (00:53)
 ② The Trump administration has announced a plan to establish a strategic minerals reserve with an aim to protect US manufacturers from supply chain shocks. What could be the possible obstacles for it? (13:46)
 ③ China has criticized Panama’s top court after it annulled a contract for Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison to operate two ports on the Panama Canal. When Panama yields to Washington’s pressure by taking this move, what prices may Panama have to pay over the long term? (24:53)
 ④ What has driven German investment in China to hit a four-year high through last year’s first 11 months? (35:28)
 ⑤ French authorities have carried out a raid on X’s offices in Paris and summoned Elon Musk for questioning. We take a look at Europe’s tightening scrutiny of US social media companies and how it is becoming a source of US-Europe frictions. (44:52)

① President Xi Jinping has held talks with his visiting Uruguayan counterpart Yamandu Orsi in Beijing. How can China and Uruguay expand cooperation and advance an equal world order? (00:56)
 ② The United States and Iran will hold nuclear talks in Istanbul. Is the threat of a military confrontation easing? (15:06)
 ③ The Communist Party of China and the Chinese Kuomintang Party have held a think tank forum in Beijing focusing on cross-Strait cooperation. We explore the significance of this dialogue channel’s revival after a hiatus of nearly a decade. (24:58)
 ④ China has taken a world-first step in automotive safety. It will ban hidden door handles on cars sold domestically. What could be the ramifications of this step? (32:30)
 ⑤ Elon Musk’s SpaceX has acquired his artificial intelligence business xAI, with plans underway for space-based AI data centers. Is orbit the only way to scale the massive power and computing needs of advanced AI? (42:31)

① Xi Jinping has published an article, calling for building China into a financial powerhouse. He says China needs to build a strong currency that will reach the status of a global reserve. What remain to be done in expanding the yuan’s global footprint? (00:47)
 ② What’s at stake in Uruguayan President Yamandu Orsi’s week-long visit to China? (14:21)
 ③ Donald Trump has nominated Kevin Warsh to be the next chair of the US Federal Reserve. What do we know about Warsh? (24:56)
 ④ As US-Iran tensions boost oil prices, why has OPEC+ decided to maintain its current oil production levels? (35:36)
 ⑤ China’s annual Spring Festival travel rush began on Monday. Why is a new record expected for the number of travels during this year’s rush? (45:19)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is the latest leader of a US ally to visit China in pursuit of renewed ties. He says it is vital to build a more sophisticated relationship with China. Apart from Starmer, China has hosted leaders of South Korea, Canada, Finland, and Ireland since the start of 2026. All these countries have been hit by Washington’s so-called reciprocal trade tariffs over the past year, and a few have found themselves at odds with US President Donald Trump over his desire to take control of Greenland.
 
 Why are some of Washington’s closest allies looking to China for reliable relations? Host Ding Heng is joined by Muhammad Ali Nasir, Professor of Economics at the University of Leeds in Britain; Liang Linlin, Director of Communication and Research with China Chamber of Commerce to the European Union; Professor Cui Hongjian from Beijing Foreign Studies University’s Academy of Regional and Global Governance.

① President Xi meets with British PM Starmer: What signals does it send for China-UK ties? (00:47)
 ② China's expanding trillion-yuan GDP club highlights economic resilience: expert. (17:07)
 ③ Iran rejects Washington’s threats, saying it is ready to respond to any US attack. What comes next for regional stability? (27:33)
 ④ US consumer confidence drops to lowest level since 2014. What’s weighing on the U.S. economy? (36:58)
 ⑤ Canadian business leader: New China-Canada deal to fuel EV and farm growth. (46:04)

① UK PM leads major business delegation to China. how vital is China for Britain’s economy? (00:47)
 ② Chinese EV makers set sights on UK market as Beijing and London move to strengthen economic ties. How can Chinese NEVs seize growth opportunities in the UK? (15:33)
 ③ China urges Japan to correct fallacies in Takaichi’s remarks on Taiwan. How might Japan’s repeated provocative statements affect regional stability and Tokyo’s strategic calculations? (25:00)
 ④ China's retail sales hit 50-trillion-yuan (about $7.2 trillion) mark. What sectors are driving this unprecedented consumption growth? (33:27)
 ⑤ India, EU sign several pacts after 20 years. How will this landmark deal influence U.S. leverage over its traditional partners? (44:07)

① Xi calls on China and Finland to deepen cooperation across sectors. Where can China–Finland collaboration create the most impact for businesses and communities? (00:50)
 ② China leads in AI patents as IP-intensive industries grow. What does this mean for China’s tech competitiveness? (12:41)
 ③ US exit from key UN climate treaty draws UN criticism. Where will this hurt America most economically and strategically? (24:40)
 ④ U.S. immigration policy faces backlash after fatal shooting of another citizen. Where is enforcement turning into violence on American streets? (34:37)
 ⑤ Chinese university opens School of Space Exploration to train future talent. How might it power China’s next leap in deep space? (44:52)

① Finland seeks closer business ties with China through PM’s visit. How could this reshape Finland’s role in EU-Asia trade? (00:46)
 ② Beijing’s commercial space expo highlights rapid growth in industry. What new opportunities does China’s space boom create? (12:16)
 ③ US defense plan focuses on homeland, limits help to allies. What's behind the recent shift in US defence strategy? (24:59)
 ④ Russia, Ukraine, and US peace talks conclude without a deal. Does this signal a prolonged stalemate? (33:59)
 ⑤ France to ban social media for children under 15 by September. Can it curb online risks for minors? (43:15)

This year’s World Economic Forum in Davos unfolds against what an official release describes as the most complex geopolitical environment in decades. As 2026 begins under growing strain, what economic risks lie ahead—and what constructive role can China play? 
 Host Ge Anna is joined by Yan Liang, Professor of Economics, Willamette University; Peter Chang, Former Deputy Director, Institute of China Studies, University of Malaya; and Li Lun, Assistant Professor of Economics at Peking University.

① We take a look at the progress made in China’s agricultural modernization and rural revitalization in 2025. (00:54)
 ② The US withdrawal from the World Health Organization has taken effect. How could it affect global health governance? (14:12)
 ③ Against the backdrop of US pressure over Greenland, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen says the EU is at a crossroads towards more independence. How determined is Europe? (24:55)
 ④ Japan has halted the restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant after safety alarms were triggered. We explore the restart’s potential risks. (34:42)
 ⑤ The British government has approved China’s plan for constructing a new embassy in London. The plan had stalled for years due to a so-called security concern. Why is the concern illegitimate? (45:18)

① China’s vice premier has delivered a message of free trade, multilateralism, cooperation and dialogue at the World Economic Forum. We explore China’s determination to be a stabilizing force amid global turbulence. (00:56)
 ② China’s R&D spending intensity surpassed OECD economies for the first time in 2025. What does it tell about China’s economic transformation? (13:56)
 ③ EU lawmakers have reportedly agreed to hold off on ratifying a key trade deal with the US following President Donald Trump’s tariff threats over Greenland. What is the EU’s message to the White House? (24:56)
 ④ US and Russian officials have held what they call constructive closed-door talks on the Ukraine conflict at the World Economic Forum. Is it time for optimism about the peace process? (33:58)
 ⑤ At the U23 Asian Cup, China has entered the final for the first time. Does it provide any guiding spirit for China’s future football development? (44:09)

① China has unveiled a special guarantee program to support private investment, and a new plan is underway to spur consumption. We look at China’s strategy of focusing on targeted support for specific areas to bolster its economy. (00:51)
 ② Why is China being widely discussed as a stabilizer for global growth and a key driver of future innovation at this year’s Davos Forum? (13:33)
 ③ Germany has reintroduced electric vehicle subsidies in efforts to accelerate the transition to less polluting cars. Will it work? (24:59)
 ④ Japan’s prime minister has called a snap election three months after she took office. Can she reverse her party’s recent run of poor election results? (34:27)
 ⑤ What has enabled Chinese universities to overtake Harvard to top a major global research output ranking? (43:14)

① China’s economy grew by 5% last year, meeting the country’s target. We explore a series of factors underpinning China’s growth in 2025. (00:51)
 ② China’s Shenzhou-20 spacecraft has returned to Earth after spending nine months in orbit. We look at how its experience raises concerns about the danger to space travel posed by space debris? (13:38)
 ③ Will the US tariff threats over Greenland risk a dangerous downward spiral in transatlantic ties? (24:52)
 ④ The Pentagon has reportedly placed some 1,500 active-duty soldiers on standby for possible deployment to Minnesota, as protests continue against raids carried out by ICE officials. How far can President Trump push the boundaries of his power in Minnesota? (34:57)
 ⑤ The Syrian government has announced a ceasefire with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. Will it pave the way for renewed dialogue and cooperation towards a unified Syria? (45:49)

US President Donald Trump and his administration appear to be insistent on taking control of Greenland – by force if necessary. Following a recent meeting between senior Trump administration officials and Denmark’s foreign minister, Copenhagen said a fundamental disagreement over the autonomous Danish territory remains.
 
 Is the US threat to annex Greenland generating yet another crisis in transatlantic relations? How can Europe defend Greenland from possible US moves? Host Ding Heng is joined by Timo Kivimaki, Professor of International Relations at the University of Bath; George Tzogopoulos, Senior Research Fellow at CIFE, a France-based research organization; Jin Ling, Director of the Department for European Studies, China Institute of International Studies.

① China–Canada ties: Beyond bilateral relations. What strategic implications do strengthened China–Canada relations have for the wider Pacific region? (00:45)
 ② China has unveiled national plan to boost green consumption. How might this plan reshape domestic markets and create new opportunities for both local and international businesses? (13:31)
 ③ Global survey: Majorities expect China's influence to grow over next decade. Which aspects of China's engagement appear more aligned with the needs of the international community? (26:28)
 ④ Japan's PM to detail snap election plans. Having been in office for less than three months, why is Takaichi moving so urgently to dissolve the lower house? (35:57)
 ⑤ U.S. freezes immigrant visa processing from 75 countries. What's next? (44:31)

① Canada PM’s China trip: What’s next for bilateral relations? (00:46)
 ② China's foreign trade is up 3.8% in 2025 with more diverse partners. What does this say about China’s economy amid global uncertainties? (12:30)
 ③ South Korean President Lee Jae Myung wraps up his two-day visit to Japan, and urges closer trilateral ties with Japan and China. (24:31)
 ④ Facing a more coercive United States on Greenland, what options do European countries really have? Is NATO still relevant? (34:59)
 ⑤ China installs world's first 20-megawatt offshore wind turbine. How will this tech milestone accelerate China’s green transition? (44:58)

① Xi calls for sustained anti-corruption drive. How does deepening institutional oversight underpin China’s long-term governance and development goals? (00:49)
 ② China–EU agree on EV price undertakings. How can dialogue-based solutions ease trade frictions and stabilize the global auto supply chain? (11:06)
 ③ China tightens rules on government investment funds. How will stronger evaluation mechanisms improve capital efficiency and guide social investment toward national priorities? (24:18)
 ④ Turkey seeks to join Saudi–Pakistan defense pact. As U.S. intervention in Venezuela fuels global security anxiety, is Ankara hedging beyond NATO? (34:44)
 ⑤ X’s AI chatbot Grok blocked in Southeast Asia, UK probes platform. Is the world nearing a turning point in AI content regulation and platform accountability? (46:09)

① Chinese Foreign Minister 2026 Africa Tour. At a time when hegemonism is once again on the rise, how can China–Africa cooperation help safeguard the voice of development in global affairs? (00:46)
 ② Expert insight: China’s CPI rebound points to a potential structural shift. (13:11)
 ③ Can Iran stabilize its economy amid U.S. and external interference? (34:47)
 ④ EU, South America reach trade deal after 25 years of talks. What’s at stake? (35:57)
 ⑤ U.S. Fed chair Powell under investigation: How political is the case? (44:21)

The U.S. forcible seizure of Venezuela’s President Maduro has sent shockwaves across the world. Is this abuse of unilateral power becoming a go-to tool for the United States? Are we witnessing the return of a “might makes right” logic in international affairs? And what kind of world order may emerge from this?
 
 Host Ge Anna is joined by Anna Rosario Malindog-Uy, Director and Vice President for External Affairs, Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute; Cao Ting, Director of the Center for Latin American Studies of Fudan University; and Josef Mahoney, Professor of Politics and International Relations at East China Normal University.

① China’s public security minister and Pakistan’s interior minister have met in Beijing, vowing to intensify cooperation in fighting terrorism. We explore how efforts in this regard could lead to better development of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor. (00:51)
 ② The EU has launched its carbon border tax despite opposition from major trading partners. Is this policy protectionism cloaked in environmental rhetoric? (15:38)
 ③ The Trump administration has announced US withdrawal from dozens of international organizations. What could be the consequences when the US further retreats from global cooperation? (24:53)
 ④ As more and more international patients take medical trips to China, will the country become a global hub for medical tourism? (35:36)
 ⑤ What is causing the escalation of clashes between government forces and Kurdish fighters in Syria’s Aleppo? (44:41)

① China’s foreign minister has embarked on a trip to four countries in Africa, continuing with a 36-year diplomatic tradition. Will China-Africa ties remain steadfast despite global turbulences? (00:53)
 ② China has strengthened its export control on dual-use items to Japan. Why is Beijing justified to take this move? (15:28)
 ③ European allies have agreed to key security provisions for Ukraine. We explore how security guarantees for Ukraine might look like. (24:50)
 ④ Precious metals are trading near their record highs. We look at how geopolitical flashpoints including tensions over the US seizure of Venezuela’s president are fueling the demand for safe-haven assets. (35:37)
 ⑤ Why are Chinese tech firms drawing crowds at the annual Consumer Electronics Show? (43:57)

① South Korean President Lee Jae Myung continues with his visit to China. How can China and South Korea strengthen cooperation while jointly defending results of the victory in World War II? (00:57)
 ② Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has pleaded not guilty to all drug-related charges during his first court appearance in New York. We explore the legal issues that could arise in this case, including those concerning the legality of his forcible seizure. (14:23)
 ③ Donald Trump has set sights on Greenland after the US attack on Venezuela. Should Denmark be worried about any US move targeting the self-governing territory? (24:50)
 ④ Why has Eurasia Group, a well-known political risk consultancy, named the US political revolution as the world’s top risk in 2026? (35:25)
 ⑤ According to new official figures, China’s low-altitude equipment sector has grown fast over the past five years. We explore the factors behind its growth. (42:23)

① President Xi Jinping has held talks with his visiting South Korean counterpart Lee Jae Myung in Beijing. Are China-South Korea ties entering a phase of gradual recovery? (00:51)
 ② Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin is on a visit to China. How can Ireland strengthen cooperation with Beijing and advance China-EU ties? (14:23)
 ③ Will Donald Trump order a second US military strike on Venezuela? (24:31)
 ④ What has enabled China to kick off 2026 with a strong surge in travel and tourism? (33:42)
 ⑤ Why are Saudi-backed government forces clashing with UAE-backed fighters in Yemen’s civil conflict? (44:11)

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife have been sent to a detention center in New York after they were captured in a large-scale US military strike. A UN spokesperson says UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is deeply alarmed by the escalation in Venezuela, emphasizing the importance of full respect of international law, including the UN Charter.
 
 What aspects of international law has the US action violated? Will the US capture of Maduro necessarily lead to government change in Venezuela? Host Ding Heng is joined by Cao Ting, Director of Center for Latin American Studies at Fudan University and Professor Wang Jin from Northwest University in Xi'an, China.

China has issued draft rules that would tighten regulation of artificial intelligence services designed to simulate human personalities and engage users in emotional interaction. The draft lays out a regulatory approach that would require providers to warn users against excessive use and to intervene when users show signs of addiction or extreme emotions. In other words, it is targeting the potential psychological and emotional risks of AI-powered chatbots.
 
 Why is China seriously paying attention to this field? What does the move tell us about China’s mentality in AI governance? Host Ding Heng is joined by Li Lun, Assistant Professor of Economics at Peking University; Andy Mok, Professor at Beijing Foreign Studies University; Professor Yao Shujie, Deputy Director of the Department of Social Sciences, Chongqing University.

① FM Wang Yi says China values and welcomes the South Korean president’s visit. What should we watch for? (00:51)
 ② Dozens of countries voice support for China over its countermeasures and military drills around Taiwan. What does this say about the broader international consensus on the Taiwan question? (15:44)
 ③ Exclusive with Dominican President Sylvanie Burton. (27:20)
 ④ China ratifies the UN High Seas Treaty. What role will it play in protecting marine life beyond national borders? (34:15)
 ⑤ Türkiye grants visa-free entry to Chinese tourists. How will this boost tourism and people-to-people ties? (45:03)

① President Xi Jinping delivers New Year speech. What messages stand out for the year ahead? (00:45)
 ② Year-end special: How will the Global Governance Initiative shape cooperation and redefine international engagement? (26:15)

① China holds central rural work conference. How will China’s next five-year plan advance agricultural modernization and rural prosperity? (00:48)
 ② The PLA carried out live-fire drills north and south of Taiwan, continuing its military exercises around the island. What do the PLA’s recent drills signal about China’s commitment to regional security and readiness? (15:05)
 ③ Year-end special: What does China–Latin America cooperation tell us about the future of South-South collaboration? (25:31)

① PLA holds drills around Taiwan: how is China drawing a clear line against external interference? (00:45)
 ② Chinese FM says China will continue to make efforts to rebuild peace between Thailand and Cambodia. Why does regional stability matter so much for Asia’s future? (14:09)
 ③ Year-end special: How should we read the signals from Beijing and Washington — and where are China–U.S. relations really heading? (26:48)

From feeling no regret for wartime atrocities to nuclear rhetoric and military expansion, how far will Japan’s prime minister push a bellicist mindset—and who will bear the consequences? 
 Host Ge Anna is joined by Sultan Hali, a retired Air Force officer and author in Pakistan; Liu Kuangyu, a researcher at the Institute of Taiwan Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences; and Josef Mahoney, a professor of politics and international relations at East China Normal University.

① China is urging the US to immediately stop arming Taiwan after Washington approved the sale of $11 billion of weapons to the island. What does the weapons package reveal about Washington’s mindset on Taiwan-related issues? (00:55)
 ② The US has imposed a visa ban on five European individuals who have been at the heart of a campaign to introduce laws regulating American tech companies. What does it tell us about the cultural and political clash between the US and Europe? (14:48)
 ③ Ukraine has unveiled the key points of a draft US-backed proposal aimed at resolving its war with Russia. Is the proposal likely to be accepted by Moscow? (24:50)
 ④ A conversation with Grzegorz Kołodko, a former deputy prime minister of Poland. (35:04)
 ⑤ A report shows that China’s Gen Zs are pursuing a free, sincere and interesting life in their own way. We take a look at some of its interesting findings. (43:07)

① China has condemned the US action to add all foreign-made drones and key components to a list of untrusted suppliers. Can protectionism help the US boost its own drone technologies’ competitiveness? (00:56)
 ② Japan is preparing to restart a major nuclear power plant that has been closed since the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster. We take a look at the safety concerns raised by this move. (13:56)
 ③ Israel’s defense minister is engulfed in controversy after saying Israel will never fully withdraw from Gaza. What could be the consequences of a scenario like that? (24:34)
 ④ European countries are voicing strong support for Denmark and Greenland in the wake of renewed threat from Donald Trump to take over the autonomous territory. Why is Europe firmly rejecting any suggestion of selling the island? (33:04)
 ⑤ Humanoid robots have begun working at scale on CATL’s factory floors. We explore how China’s EV battery giants are taking automation to the next level. (42:21)

① The yearly transaction volume in China’s A-share market has exceeded 400 trillion yuan ($56.9 trillion) for the first time in 2025. We explore the factors that have contributed to this milestone. (00:52)
 ② What has prompted China to impose temporary anti-subsidy measures on certain dairy products imported from the European Union? (12:35)
 ③ Donald Trump has issued a new warning to his Venezuelan counterpart, saying it would be smart for Nicolas Maduro to leave power. What could be the ultimate goal of Washington’s pressure campaign against Caracas? (25:07)
 ④ We take a look at the perceived divergences between the recently unveiled U.S. National Defense Authorization Act and the U.S. National Security Strategy. (34:44)
 ⑤ China has begun reviewing a draft law on Antarctic activities and environmental protection. How would the proposed legislation regulate Antarctic activities that China is involved in? (45:39)

① Southeast Asian foreign ministers have gathered in Malaysia for a special meeting to discuss the border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. What steps can be taken to de-escalate tensions and end the fighting? (00:58)
 ② China has issued a serious warning to Japan over a senior Japanese official’s remarks that Japan should have nuclear weapons. We explore why Japan should not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons. (13:13)
 ③ EU leaders have struck a deal to loan 90 billion euros to Ukraine, but failed to agree on using frozen Russian assets. What’s the calculation of the bloc? (25:07)
 ④ China has released a new batch of public data application models to accelerate the use of government data in key sectors. How will this initiative improve digital governance in the country? (33:14)
 ⑤ A new generation of Chinese beverage brands is tapping into the US market. Do they stand a chance to succeed? (43:46)

① Hainan Free Trade Port begins special customs operations. What does this signal for China’s further opening-up? (00:48)
 ② Russia vows peaceful solutions while asserting military initiative in Ukraine—what does this mean for the prospects of peace talks? (24:40)
 ③ The unemployment rate in the U.S. rose in November to a four-year high—what does this reveal about the economic struggles behind everyday Americans’ livelihoods? (36:27)
 ④ CATL discusses Chinese battery innovation—how will it reshape the future of energy and mobility? (45:08)

① Jimmy Lai convicted—would Western states tolerate similar crimes to their own political systems? (00:45)
 ② From cold resources to hot growth—how did China build a booming ice-and-snow economy? (14:55)
 ③ Ghana’s president: China is a true friend of Africa. (24:33)
 ④ Washington orders blockade of sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela—what is it aiming for? (34:16)
 ⑤ Arctic sees warmest year on record since 1900: report. (42:57)

① Saudi Arabia strongly reaffirms the one-China principle during Wang Yi’s Middle East visit. What message does it send? (00:45)
 ② China denounces Japan for hyping up its regular military training. What’s behind Tokyo’s provocation? (11:55)
 ③ IMF official on China’s economic outlook: what forces will shape the country’s future? (27:05)
 ④ Far-right candidate Kast wins Chile’s presidential election. What does it mean for the country and the region? (36:41)
 ⑤ China grants the first Level 3 autonomous driving vehicle permits. What's next? (45:08)

① Chinese economy keeps steady growth momentum in November — What does this indicate about the trajectory set out by the Central Economic Work Conference? (00:44)
 ② Newly declassified archives add evidence to Japan's wartime crimes against China — How do these records, showing Unit 731’s systematic, state-organized crimes, reshape Japan’s historical accountability? (12:12)
 ③ Australian PM flags stricter gun laws after Bondi Beach shooting — Will proposed reforms close existing loopholes? (30:27)
 ④ Zelenskyy offers to drop NATO bid for security guarantees but rejects US push to cede territory — What does this mean for the prospects of a negotiated settlement? (42:59)
 ⑤ Climate pressure on food: a growing global emergency — How urgent is the threat to global food security, and what strategies can governments and international bodies realistically implement to mitigate it? (51:04)

Softer rhetoric on China, but an intensified drive for economic and technological supremacy. A renewed Monroe Doctrine and a Western Hemisphere that tops America national priorities—is the 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy a real shift in American foreign policy, or just old wine in new bottles?
 
 In this episode, we explore how America’s new National Security Strategy affects China-U.S. relations and what it means for Global South countries and the broader world order. Host Xu Yawen is joined by Zhao Hai, Director of International Political Studies at the National Institute for Global Strategy, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences; Wang Haolan, Research Assistant at the Asia Society Policy Institute’s Center for China Analysis; Clifford Kiracofe, Washington-based author and former Senior Professional Staff Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations; and George Tzogopoulos, Director of EU-China Programmes and Senior Research Fellow at the European Institute of Nice.

① The U.S. Federal Reserve has cut interest rates for a third time this year, though the decision came with a divided vote. How should the Fed balance its goals of taming inflation and supporting employment? (00:57)
 ② Venezuela has condemned the latest US seizure of an oil tanker as a “grave international crime.” Why is Washington escalating pressure on Caracas? (14:37)
 ③ China has held its annual Central Economic Work Conference to set its economic priorities for 2026. We bring you a few quick takeaways from the meeting. (24:59)
 ④ A conversation with Rebecca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development, on how the Global South can turn trade into financial clout. (38:42)
 ⑤ Mexico has approved tariffs of up to 50% on countries that don’t have a free trade deal with it. What has prompted this move, especially while Mexico is negotiating with the U.S. over tariffs? (45:03)

① In a “1+10” dialogue with leaders of major international economic organizations, China’s premier stressed that openness and cooperation remain the most effective way to spur growth and drive innovation. What role is China playing in rejecting rising protectionism? (00:50)
 ② Iran and Saudi Arabia have reaffirmed their commitment to implementing a China-brokered deal to resume bilateral diplomatic ties. As the peace process for Gaza faces continued uncertainties, what’s the significance of this commitment for the Middle East? (15:18)
 ③ Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Ukraine will be ready to hold elections if the United States and Europe guarantee security for the vote. Is that feasible? (24:57)
 ④ We explore why China’s consumer inflation picked up while factory-gate deflation persisted in November. (33:04)
 ⑤ Australia has become the first nation to ban social media for kids. We explore the strong emotions that the move has stirred across the country. (43:43)

① China’s top leaders have highlighted eight areas of focus for the country’s economic work in 2026. How can China’s economy maintain stability while pursuing progress next year? (00:55)
 ② German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has paid a visit to China. We explore how China and Germany can expand their trade partnership and how Germany should position itself on the Taiwan question. (12:51)
 ③ In the first 11 months of this year, China's exports increased by 6.2% from a year earlier. How has China managed to navigate the headwinds and uncertainties in global trade? (25:22)
 ④ What has reignited fighting between Thailand and Cambodia along their border? (36:18)
 ⑤ Why has Nigeria deployed fighter jets to neighboring Benin to thwart a coup attempt in the country? (46:15)

① Hong Kong has completed its election of the eighth-term Legislative Council. As the city is in a difficult period after a deadly apartment fire, what’s the significance of the election? (00:54)
 ② The Trump administration says it aims to prevent conflict with China over the Taiwan question in a new National Security Strategy document. Is this a sign that the current US administration is more realistic in its China policy? (14:43)
 ③ Why are Japan’s repeated moves to interfere with China’s naval exercises in the East China Sea dangerous? (24:49)
 ④ What has made the OECD raise its 2025 forecast for China’s economic growth? (35:47)
 ⑤ Why have downloads of Xiaohongshu surged in Taiwan after the island’s DPP authorities announced restriction of the social networking app? (46:17)

China and France have agreed to strengthen political trust, support each other on core interests and expand cooperation. French President Emmanuel Macron’s three-day visit to China has seen Beijing and Paris pledge to work towards greater cooperation in aerospace, aeronautics, nuclear energy, and emerging areas such as green industries and AI. China and France also pledged closer collaboration on global governance, upholding the UN-centered system and promoting a more equitable global order.
 
 In this episode, we explore the dynamics of China-Europe cooperation and how the two sides should manage their ties. Host Ding Heng is joined by Professor Hans-peter Burghof, Chair of the Banking and Finance Department at the University of Hohenheim in Germany; Muhammad Ali Nasir, Professor of Economics at the University of Leeds in Britain; Liang Linlin, Director of Communication and Research with China Chamber of Commerce to the European Union.

① Xi, Macron meet and pledge cooperation on global crises and trade. How might this deepened China-France engagement influence broader China-EU relations and global multilateral coordination? (00:45)
 ② Japan drops out of the top 10 destinations for Chinese travelers after PM Takaichi’s radical moves. What does this “Takaichi Fallout” reveal about the economic costs of political missteps in Japan? (13:31)
 ③Putin visits India amid Ukraine peace push. What’s on the agenda? (26:28)
 ④ EU to launch antitrust probe into Meta over use of AI in WhatsApp. What impact will it have for tech companies? (35:57)
 ⑤ China Eastern launches world's longest flight route from Shanghai to Argentina. What does this milestone say about China-Latin America ties? (44:31)