China

The Chinese government is forcing activists and human rights defenders to leave their homes under police escort to prevent protests or interviews during politically sensitive events. A report by Safeguard Defenders documents the practice, which is effectively a form of detention that violates human rights and, since Covid-19, has become less “luxurious” due to China's economic difficulties, but no less oppressive.

Liu Jianchao, 61, considered one of the most influential candidates to become China's next foreign minister, was arrested on his return from the capital. According to experts, he may have paid the price for his personal activism or his close ties to Washington. Since 2022, he had travelled to more than 20 countries and met with officials from over 160 countries.

The state-owned China Metallurgical Group Corporation has announced the start of work at the Mes Aynak mine, one of the largest copper deposits in the world. But the area is still mined, infrastructure is lacking, and security risks remain high. The Kabul regime is seeking legitimacy by focusing on Chinese investment, and Beijing is proceeding, but with caution.

The rapidly growing market is driven primarily by younger generations seeking to fill the emotional void of a society where fewer children are born.

The authorities in the former Portuguese colony have arrested Au Kam San on charges of collusion with foreign entities under Article 13 of Macau’s national security law. According to police, the former lawmaker provided “false and seditious information” to anti-China groups after 2022. The arrest comes amid growing repression in the territory. In May 2023, the local security law was toughened, while 12 candidates, including an incumbent lawmaker, were disqualified for the upcoming September legislative elections.

A new book by historian Paul Mariani traces the life of the Catholic community of Shanghai during the years when it was led by the Jesuit prelate, "illegitimately" ordained in 1985, a complex figure who, under difficult circumstances, sought in his own way to maintain a balance between Beijing and Rome. It is an interesting read not only about the past of the Church in China but also about what is going on today.

The Global Times reports news of seizures of fake versions of the Chjinese pop dolls that are trending worldwide. The same techniques that have been targeting major Western brands for years are being used on domestic products. The manufacturer is also studying countermeasures to combat this parallel market, in a general context that sees the growth of Chinese brands.

Chinese social media are discussing the corruption and sex scandal investigation against Abbot Shi, the man who turned the temple known for kung fu into a business empire. Similar accusations had surfaced in the past, but failed to dent his power. Some commentators note that his troubles began when he returned to China after a visit to the Vatican, which Beijing never reported. It is speculated that he went too far, undertaking an initiative not agreed with the Communist Party.

The diplomat, who has just taken up his post as his country’s representative to the Holy See, recounts his meeting with Leo XIV. Taiwan helped the pontiff “when he served in Peru”. Leo “said that he will pray for Taiwan.” The island does not “pose any threat” to China, offering instead “opportunities for dialogue and for peace.”

On the eve of the EU-China Summit tomorrow in Beijing, 17 NGOs sent an open letter to Commission President von der Leyen and European Council President Costa, expressing their concern about China’s political prisoners, Uyghur repression, religious freedom, and the Hong Kong national security law.

At over 4,000 metres above sea level on the Yarlung Tsangpo, Tibet’s sacred river that becomes the Brahmaputra in India, the dam includes a system of five cascading plants that will produce enough energy to power the entire United Kingdom. Concerns have been raised about its location in an earthquake-prone area and the forced displacement of populations. The political implications will impact relations with Delhi and Dhaka on the crucial issue of water management.

More and more farmers, supported by comprehensive training and government incentives, are selling their products online, bypassing middlemen. E-commerce brings economic benefits, reduces waste, and offers new opportunities to young people. This is in line with the revitalisation of rural areas announced by Xi Jinping, helping to narrow the gap between rural and urban areas.