China News - 17 July 2023
International
UK approach to China spy threat inadequate, ISC report warns. The Intelligence and Security Committee published their long-awaited report on 13 July stating that China was a major threat to UK national security. As a result of Chinese economic might, the CCP has managed to penetrate every sector of the UK’s economy. The report urges the British government to take decisive action.
BBC News 13 July
John Kerry steps into searing China heat as world’s two biggest polluters try to fix fractured ties. The US and China account for nearly 40% of the world’s emissions. Despite political differences, both governments have realised that climate change requires cooperation and swift action. The climate crisis will not wait for China and the US to repair their relations.
CNN 16 July
Yellen “eager” to work with China on debt and other global challenges. Following the US Treasury Secretary's trip to Beijing last week, China and the US are on “surer footing” than before. They understand the need to work together to tackle global issues and “cooperate on areas of mutual concern”.
Reuters 16 July
New Zealand Prime Minister says Pacific region less secure owing to China’s assertiveness. Hipkins outlines the need to find a careful balance between a trade partnership and political relations like many of his European colleagues. Although New Zealand has previously been more conciliatory towards China, they are now expressing more caution.
Reuters 17 July
China and Russia to start joint air and sea drill in Sea of Japan. A Chinese naval flotilla has joined Russian naval and air forces to “safeguard the security of strategic waterways”. This drill demonstrates the enhanced military cooperation between China and Russia.
Reuters 16 July
Chinese military’s three-day show of force increases headache for Taiwan. 73 different aircraft from the People’s Liberation Army crossed the median line and flew over the streets of Taiwan in a display of military superiority. Showing obvious CCP military aggression towards Taiwan.
CNN 14 July
Economy & Tech
Germany says China trade could create perilous dependence. Germany released its own China strategy on 13 July. The strategy highlighted that Germany aims to “de-risk” rather than “de-couple” itself from China. Germany will reduce its reliance on Chinese producers while still retaining some business partnerships. Berlin also condemned the CCP for their violation of human rights.
The New York Times 13 July
China economic data likely to show recovery is fading quickly. In the second quarter, there has been a 0.5% growth in the Chinese economy. This is a result of “scaring effects” caused by Covid19. People are opting to pay off debts or increase savings rather than make new purchases.
Reuters 16 July
China launches another internet crackdown targeting online rumours. Xi Jinping stressed the need for a “security barrier” around the internet during a two-day cybersecurity meeting. The government has long pushed for China to become a great cyber power, but wants to expand in a “civilised” cyber environment. Already in Shanghai, 258 people have been targeted for spreading rumours online and 460 accounts have been shut down for illegal violations.
South China Morning Post (scmp.com) 16 July
Opinion & long-reads
Chinese scientists claim lead in race for viable biodegradable plastics. Researchers in Jiangnan University say their high-quality succinic anhydride can biodegrade 10 times faster than current plastics. However, production of succinic anhydride is notorious for its high-energy consumption.
South China Morning Post (scmp.com) 17 July
Heavy rain in China’s Chongqing threatens rivers, mass evacuations continue. Flash floods and mudslides have spread across China in recent weeks. There have been 15 reported deaths, and more than 40,000 people have been relocated from the Chongqing region.
Reuters 15 July
China’s birth rate is rapidly falling as it enters an ‘era of negative population growth’. Chinese couples have gone from being fined for having more than one child to being paid to have multiple children. However, high rates of youth unemployment and strict Covid19 restrictions have caused death rates to exceed birth rates.
The Daily Digest 14 July
China’s methane-powered rocket becomes world’s first to fly into orbit. Methane-propelled rockets combine high performance with low operational costs so are particularly suited for reusable rockets. The successful launch of the Zhuque-2 Y-2 is a landmark for China’s private aerospace sector.
CGTN 14 July