News that caught our eye / The week ending January 6
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NOTE: The news reports below are not in chronological order. There is often a time lag in their reaching the US and in gaining our attention. These reports reflect the opinions of a variety of news sources.
Russian-Style Jail Sentence for “Extremism” / January 2, 2023
Known for its control of those who operate outside of the approved religious groups, the CCP recently added “extremism” and even “terrorism” to its list of charges against perceived offenders. If one does not tow the party line in his religious activities, he is considered “extreme,” and is acting illegally (Bitter Winter).
Tesla and Apple face China risks as shares prices plunge / January 4, 2023
Slowing demand for Tesla and Apple products in China is the latest “headwind” blowing against the companies’ shares, likely brought on by the surging Covid outbreak and citizens redirecting their finances either to medical products or to travel now that “zero-Covid” restrictions are removed, allowing for foreign travel (CNBC).
China Covid: Celebrity deaths spark fears over death toll / January 5, 2023
The deaths of many popular Chinese media stars and at least 16 top scientists in various academic institutions in December have many doubting the Chinese government’s official figures on Covid cases and deaths. The government is no longer reporting daily cases and has only counted 22 deaths since December (BBC).
China offers talks on oil exploration deal with Philippines / January 4, 2023
President Xi met with the newly elected Philippine President Marcos Jr. on Wednesday, hoping to draw the country away from its alliance with the US and forge greater cooperation in petroleum exploration. Diplomacy was highly positive between the nations, even though tensions over the South China Sea are also high (South China Morning Post).
Beijing threatens response to ‘unacceptable’ virus measures / January 4, 2023
As more nations establish Covid testing for Chinese travelers entering their countries, China is threatening to respond, although it has not stated what form that response will take. This comes as China ends its strict Covid guidelines, including a 5-day quarantine, for foreign travelers to China (AP News).
China blasts ‘unacceptable’ COVID curbs on travelers / January 3, 2023
While Chinese citizens can travel overseas next Sunday, more than a dozen countries have mandated restrictions on Chinese citizens traveling overseas. The CCP objected to the new rules, but its questionable reporting of Covid cases and the potential for new variants spreading from China are key to the global concerns (Al Jazeera).
President Xi outlines new vision for Hong Kong and Xinjiang / January 2, 2023
Marking the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the “motherland” in 2022, President Xi celebrated the “one nation, two systems” governing philosophy as a success. With heartfelt diplomacy to unify China’s 56 ethnic peoples, he envisioned future growth and achievement for all of China, including Hong Kong and Xinjiang (CGTN).
Russia and China to form an alliance in 2023? / January 2, 2023
Xi Jinping spoke with President Putin virtually for his last state visit in 2022, promising to develop greater strategic ties between the two nations. The West’s sanctions against Russia have strengthened Russia’s commerce with China but may concern Xi as he works to improve his own country’s economy (FirstPost).