China

Livestreamer Li Jiaqi is facing backlash for insensitive comments made during a recent livestream, which have been criticized for being dismissive of the struggles of young Chinese people, leading to a decrease in his following and sparking discussions about high unemployment rates and economic struggles faced by China’s youth. Li’s previous controversies and his celebrity status have contributed to growing skepticism towards his ability to empathize with his audience. Li’s remarks, in which he suggested that those unable to afford an eyebrow pencil had not worked hard enough, sparked controversy and criticism from social media users, state media, and the public. Despite issuing an apology, calls for a boycott of his livestream channel continue, highlighting the broader issue of high unemployment rates and economic struggles faced by China’s youth and raising questions about the role of internet celebrities and their understanding of societal challenges.

China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, is currently in Russia for strategic security consultations.

Hangzhou, China wowed spectators with a dazzling light show ahead of the Asian Games, while an innovative motion-tracking device showcased at a trade show in Japan has the potential to revolutionize virtual interaction. South Korean amphibious vehicles took center stage in a ceremony commemorating the Incheon Landing, a pivotal event in reclaiming Seoul during the Korean War. The Associated Press offers captivating visual journalism through their Instagram, Twitter, and blog, providing a comprehensive understanding of the news stories captured through their lens.

The Australian government rejects China’s package deal offer, viewing the trade issues of wine tariffs and treatment of wind towers, railway wheels, and stainless steel sinks as separate matters and plans to resolve them through dialogue.

In recent years, a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape has emerged, signifying a transition towards a new international order characterized by evolving regional alliances, power struggles, and the pursuit of national interests. The European Union is considering integrating Balkan states, Ukraine, and Moldova into its fold to counter Russian and Chinese influence and reinforce regional stability. The United States is strengthening security ties with Asian countries, including India’s authoritarian leader, to solidify security alliances and partnerships in the region. China is actively courting African and Arab countries, presenting itself as the champion of a non-Western-dominated multipolar world. A three-way contest has emerged in the global power dynamics between the established US-dominated order, an emerging authoritarian global regime led by China, and a reformed UN-centered multilateralism favored by swing states. Governments worldwide are scrambling to create or join security alliances, coalitions, and economic blocs in response to evolving power dynamics and changing needs and priorities. As the world transitions into this new international order, it is crucial to navigate these shifting dynamics with strategic foresight, emphasizing cooperation and dialogue to shape a more inclusive, stable, and sustainable future.

Chinese dissident Chen Siming seeks safe passage to a third country and is currently taking refuge in a Taiwan airport during a stopover, due to repeated detentions in China for his activism; he has asked the Taiwanese government to assist him in resettling in a third country, preferably the United States, fearing deportation to China if he returns to Thailand.

Adnan Amin, CEO of COP28, is determined to bring about a “course correction” for climate change and aims to surprise critics with the conference’s outcome, despite acknowledging that a complete phase-out of fossil fuels is unlikely and instead believes a phase-down is inevitable. Amin defends COP28 president Sultan al-Jaber, an oil executive, and anticipates that al-Jaber will also surprise critics. The negotiations at COP28 face obstacles due to the role of coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as opposition from certain countries and the need for unanimous agreement. African countries argue that they should be allowed to use fossil fuels for development with financial aid, while outside experts believe historic polluters should not exploit Africa’s poverty to promote continued fossil fuel use. Understanding the difference between a “phase out” and a “phase down” is crucial, with climate scientists emphasizing this distinction. The fossil fuel industry and major nations like Russia, China, and Saudi Arabia favor a “phase down,” potentially blocking a complete phase-out. The conference aims to be inclusive by inviting the fossil fuel industry to participate, with Amin actively engaging with them to promote decarbonization. Young people will also have a more official role in the negotiations, recognizing their concerns and contributions. Amin considers the talks a success if they result in climate financial aid, decarbonization of energy systems, increased funding for adaptation measures, and broader inclusion in negotiations. While progress has been made through previous agreements, addressing climate change remains a slow and ongoing process. Amin’s vision for COP28 is to achieve outcomes that will be looked back upon with amazement in ten years, serving as a testament to the negotiations’ success.

The Philippines accuses China’s coast guard of installing a floating barrier in the South China Sea, which is preventing Filipino fishermen from accessing the Scarborough Shoal and depriving them of their livelihoods. This action has escalated tensions between the two countries and the Philippines may seek support from other nations involved in the dispute to address the issue.

Australia’s government has reported a budget surplus of 22.1 billion Australian dollars ($14.2 billion) for the last fiscal year, marking the first balanced budget in 15 years. However, Treasurer Jim Chalmers has expressed doubts about achieving another surplus due to China’s economic challenges and recent interest rate hikes in Australia. The surplus was boosted by higher-than-expected corporate tax receipts, largely attributed to elevated energy prices caused by global disruptions. While the achievement reflects a significant turnaround, uncertainties in China and interest rate rises pose challenges to maintaining a surplus in the current fiscal year.

China is responsible for the majority of new mpox cases reported in September, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).