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U.S. Congressional Panel Plans Annual Visits to China to Strengthen Relations

U.S. Congressional Panel Plans Annual Visits to China to Strengthen Relations

A U.S. congressional advisory panel has returned from a fact-finding mission to China, marking the first visit of its kind since 2019. The delegation visited Beijing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou, engaging in discussions on various topics including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and regional security. The panel, part of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, aims to make these visits an annual event to enhance engagement and inform U.S. policy on China. The delegation met with U.S. diplomats, Chinese officials, and business representatives, although some planned meetings with technology companies did not occur.

Pew Research: Canadians and Mexicans Now View China More Positively Than the U.S.

Pew Research: Canadians and Mexicans Now View China More Positively Than the U.S.

A recent Pew Research Center survey reveals that for the first time in nearly two decades, both Canadians and Mexicans view China more favorably than the United States. The survey, conducted in the spring of 2026, shows a significant shift in public opinion, with 44% of Canadians and 59% of Mexicans holding a favorable view of China, compared to 33% and 40% respectively for the U.S. This change in perception is attributed to various factors, including the U.S.'s perceived interference in other countries' affairs and a lack of consideration for the interests of countries like Mexico. Additionally, the survey highlights that younger adults in both countries tend to have a more favorable view of China compared to older adults.

US walks out on France at UN meeting to protest ally's criticism of America's human rights record

US walks out on France at UN meeting to protest ally's criticism of America's human rights record

U.S. diplomats walked out as their French counterparts spoke at the United Nations after the European ally criticized the Trump administration’s human rights record

Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Global Geopolitics Explored

Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Global Geopolitics Explored

The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is reshaping geopolitical dynamics, with significant impacts on political, social, economic, and military activities worldwide. The asymmetrical distribution of AI capabilities is altering inter-state relations, particularly affecting developing countries in the Global South. These nations are eager to leverage AI for economic transformation but face challenges similar to those posed by the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, dominated by the U.S. and China. The article discusses the potential of AI to change diplomacy, warfare, and international relations, emphasizing the need for multilateral collaboration to manage AI's risks and benefits.

UN Secretary-General Selection Process Underway with Calls for Reform

UN Secretary-General Selection Process Underway with Calls for Reform

The United Nations is in the process of selecting its next secretary-general, with current Secretary-General António Guterres set to leave office after two terms. Several candidates, including Rafael Grossi, Michelle Bachelet, and Rebeca Grynspan, have entered the race, each emphasizing the need for reform within the UN. The selection process involves nominations from UN member states and secret ballots by the Security Council. The role of the secretary-general is crucial in mediating international disputes and representing UN values.

EU and ASEAN Strengthen Ties with Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Plans

EU and ASEAN Strengthen Ties with Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Plans

The European Union (EU) is working to elevate its partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership level. This initiative was discussed during the EU-ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference and the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, where EU High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas emphasized the EU's commitment to deepening ties with ASEAN. The EU plans to adopt upgrades in its bilateral relations with the Philippines and Indonesia, following a similar upgrade with Vietnam earlier this year. These developments are part of a broader strategy to enhance cooperation between the EU and ASEAN, with a focus on addressing global challenges such as energy market disruptions and geopolitical tensions.

China's Economic Transformation Positions It as a Strategic Challenger to the US

China's Economic Transformation Positions It as a Strategic Challenger to the US

China has emerged as a principal strategic challenger to the United States, driven by its remarkable economic transformation over the past four decades. The country has invested heavily in manufacturing, infrastructure, education, science, technology, and global trade, creating a robust economic foundation. China's economy has expanded at an average annual rate of about 9% for over three decades, lifting millions out of poverty and making it the world's largest manufacturing nation. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has further expanded China's international influence by strengthening connectivity through infrastructure projects across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Europe.

North and South Korea Remain Divided 73 Years After Armistice, Highlighting Ongoing Tensions

North and South Korea Remain Divided 73 Years After Armistice, Highlighting Ongoing Tensions

North and South Korea continue to be separated by one of the world's most heavily fortified borders, a stark reminder that the Korean War, which took place from 1950 to 1953, ended with an armistice rather than a peace treaty. This means that technically, the two countries are still at war. The border is not only a physical barrier but also a symbol of the enduring scars left by the conflict. These scars are visible in the form of border fortifications, war memorials, and the lives of families who remain separated. The armistice agreement, signed on July 27, 1953, halted the fighting but did not resolve the underlying issues, leaving a legacy of division and tension that persists to this day.

China Urges SCO to Address Regional Hotspot Issues and Enhance Cooperation

China Urges SCO to Address Regional Hotspot Issues and Enhance Cooperation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to address regional and international hotspot issues during a meeting in Kyrgyzstan. Wang emphasized the importance of the SCO in promoting peace and stability through dialogue and cooperation. He proposed strengthening the organization's role in global governance and enhancing regional cooperation in areas such as trade, security, and development. The meeting marked the 25th anniversary of the SCO and highlighted its strategic importance in shaping a multipolar world.

China Reaffirms Diplomatic Approach at SCO Meeting Amid Middle East Tensions

China Reaffirms Diplomatic Approach at SCO Meeting Amid Middle East Tensions

At the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting in Kyrgyzstan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. Wang Yi emphasized China's commitment to diplomacy as the primary means of resolving tensions in the Middle East and the Gulf. He called for the resumption of dialogue and the implementation of existing agreements, reinforcing China's role as a diplomatic leader in Eurasia. The meeting highlighted the SCO's function as a platform for strategic dialogue and regional security.

China and Japan differ on whether their foreign ministers spoke last week at ASEAN

China and Japan differ on whether their foreign ministers spoke last week at ASEAN

Japan and China are giving conflicting accounts about whether their foreign ministers briefly spoke last week

Armenia's Commitment to Small Modular Reactors Raises Geopolitical Questions

Armenia's Commitment to Small Modular Reactors Raises Geopolitical Questions

Armenia has committed to replacing its Metsamor nuclear facility with Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology. This decision is seen as a geopolitical move, potentially favoring American technology over Russian alternatives. However, industry expert Henry Tillman suggests that Armenia might also consider Chinese SMRs and Thorium reactors. The U.S. SMRs are criticized for being experimental, with no operational plants yet. Meanwhile, China and Russia are advancing in this field, with China expected to release its first commercial SMR by 2026. Armenia's decision is significant given its reliance on nuclear power for 35% of its energy needs and its limited budget of $9 billion.