Civicidea

Ambassador’s talks” project

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🎉 The third edition of the “Ambassador’s talks” project has officially concluded!
 
📅 “Ambassador’s talks” is a Civic IDEA initiative that gives selected participants the opportunity to engage in weekly meetings with ambassadors of various countries over a two-month period.

💡 This was the third time the project was held, and during this round, participants had the chance to meet the ambassadors of Georgia, Germany, the European Union, Latvia, Norway, the Czech Republic, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Denmark, Estonia, and more. The meetings took place in a lecture-discussion format, allowing for insightful conversations and exchanges.

🎉 On May 23, a special closing event was held to wrap up the series, where the winners of the project’s writing competition were announced. Participants presented their work in a storytelling format, highlighting the challenges faced by religious minorities in Georgia and emphasizing the need for inclusive solutions.
 
🏆 The winning participants were awarded prizes by the ambassadors themselves, who attended the final event and listened with great interest to the presentations. All participants received certificates of completion, and the evening concluded with a festive dinner.
 
Civic IDEA extends heartfelt thanks to all the participants, ambassadors, guests, and supporters who made this project possible! 💜

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China Urges Philippines to Cease Confrontation in South China Sea

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China has called on the Philippines to immediately halt “infringements and provocations” in the South China Sea, warning of a “resolute response” otherwise. The statement follows a collision between vessels of the two nations in disputed waters, sparking mutual accusations. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the “control measures” taken by China’s Coast Guard were lawful, while the Philippines’ actions threaten regional stability.

The incident, which occurred on May 22, followed the entry of Philippine vessels into disputed waters, prompting China’s Coast Guard to take “necessary measures,” including expelling the vessel. China claims these actions violate international law. Meanwhile, the Philippines accused China of “aggressive” behavior, a stance supported by the U.S. Ambassador to Manila, MaryKay Carlson, who described China’s actions as “life-threatening” and a “threat to regional stability.”

China urged the U.S. to stop using the Philippines to “stir up trouble” in the South China Sea. According to Mao Ning, U.S. involvement, including joint maritime exercises with the Philippines and Japan conducted this week, heightens regional tensions. These exercises, held for the first time, involved the Philippine and U.S. Coast Guards, as well as naval and air forces. China argues that such actions contradict the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling, which deemed China’s historical claims in the South China Sea “baseless,” a decision China does not recognize.

China’s stance remains consistent: it rejects the Philippines’ provocations, asserting that its sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea is being violated. In April, Zhao Zhiwei, spokesperson for the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command, stated in response to a similar incident that the Philippines’ “illegal intrusion” into waters near Huangyan Island violates China’s sovereignty and international law. The PLA affirmed it remains “on constant high alert” to safeguard national security.

Joint exercises by the Philippines, the U.S., and Japan in disputed waters drew sharp criticism from China. China accuses the U.S. of sowing “discord” in the region, while the Philippines and other neighboring countries, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, also claim parts of the South China Sea. This confrontation increases the risk of global tensions, particularly as China exerts growing economic and military influence in the region.

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Civic IDEA Calls on the International Community to Act as Arrest of Zurab Japaridze Signals the End of Democratic Pretenses in Georgia

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Civic IDEA urgently calls on Georgia’s international partners and democratic allies to respond decisively to the arrest of opposition leader Zurab Japaridze, which marks not just another political crackdown, but the definitive end of the Georgian Dream government’s pretense of governing by democratic rules. This act of repression signals the beginning of a new and dangerous chapter for Georgia—one in which dictatorship, not dysfunction, becomes the defining feature of the regime.

The legal process against Japaridze began after he refused to appear before a parliamentary inquiry commission—a body established in clear violation of Georgian law. The commission, created under politically charged circumstances, summoned Japaridze without any legitimate basis. He has never served in government nor held any official position during the tenure of the United National Movement (UNM), the party the commission was ostensibly investigating. His refusal to participate in what he rightfully called a political spectacle led to the imposition of a 20,000 GEL bail, which he declined to pay as a matter of principle, paving the way for today’s arrest.

His detention follows two days of escalating rhetoric from ruling party officials, who have openly threatened not only opposition leaders but also civil society organizations with criminal prosecution. These statements reflect a coordinated effort to intimidate watchdog groups, activists, and independent voices, reinforcing the fear that Japaridze’s arrest is only the first in a broader campaign of political persecution.

At a time when Georgian citizens are demanding a European future, the ruling party is building fortresses around courtrooms and using the justice system as a tool of oppression.

Civic IDEA warns that this moment marks a transition from backsliding democracy to full-blown authoritarianism. We urge the international democratic community—including the European Union, the United States, the UK and all of Georgia’s partners—to:

  • Condemn this arrest in the strongest possible terms;

  • Demand the immediate release of Zurab Japaridze;

  • Impose targeted sanctions and consequences against those responsible for orchestrating political persecution;

  • Stand visibly and vocally with Georgia’s civil society, which now faces open threats of criminalization.

Georgia’s democracy is in free fall. The time to act is now.

Civic IDEA Calls on the International Community to Act as Arrest of Zurab Japaridze Signals the End of Democratic Pretenses in Georgia Read More »

“The Georgian government is afraid of Russia and constantly thinks about how Moscow will react.” – Tinatin Khidasheli in an interview with Czech media outlet “IROZHLAS”.

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In the interview, Tinatin Khidasheli voices deep concerns about Georgia’s current political direction. She criticizes the ruling Georgian Dream party for drifting away from the European path and leaning toward authoritarianism.

“As long as Georgians are fighting in the streets with European flags, there is still hope,” Khidasheli said in an interview with iROZHLAS.cz, who visited Prague for the Unlock summit organized by the Prague Civil Society Centre.

Read the full article [in Czech] here:

“The Georgian government is afraid of Russia and constantly thinks about how Moscow will react.” – Tinatin Khidasheli in an interview with Czech media outlet “IROZHLAS”. Read More »

Tinatin Khidasheli Joins International Experts in “Demystifying China’s Global Initiatives” Webinar

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Tinatin Khidasheli, chairwoman of Civic IDEA, took part in the international webinar “Demystifying China’s Global Initiatives,” organized by the Institute for Chinese Policymaking (ICP) and Project Synopsis.

This high-level discussion brought together leading global experts—Martin Hála (Director, Project Synopsis), Laura Harth (Global Director, Safeguard Defenders), Charles Burton (Senior Fellow and China-Canada relations expert), and Andrea Calle (Project Director, ICP)—to examine the risks and strategies surrounding China’s growing global influence, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The panel presented concrete cases of how the BRI has operated across Europe and North America, exposing patterns of unfulfilled investment promises, elite capture, covert political influence, and threats to national sovereignty.

In her remarks, Tinatin Khidasheli emphasized the importance of democratic vigilance and shared Georgia’s experience in navigating China’s expanding strategic interests. The conversation also included tailored recommendations for Colombia, as it considers participation in the BRI.

📺 Watch the full webinar here:

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China’s Harsh Response to EU Sanctions Against Russia and China

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The European Union has approved its 17th sanctions package in response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, aiming to curb Russia’s economic and military capabilities. This time, the sanctions target not only Russia’s “shadow fleet” and energy sector but also Chinese companies, prompting a strong protest from China. China deems these measures “unfounded” and accuses the EU of “double standards,” escalating global economic tensions.

The EU’s 17th sanctions package includes restrictions on 189 vessels belonging to Russia’s “shadow fleet,” which are involved in transporting Russian oil. Additionally, the sanctions target three Chinese entities, including state-owned companies, which the EU claims supply Russia with components for unmanned aerial vehicles.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, stated that the EU’s sanctions are “unfounded” and violate international law and UN Security Council resolutions. She emphasized China’s support for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis and its strict control over the export of dual-use products. Mao also noted that European and North American countries, including the US, continue trade relations with Russia, which she called a sign of “double standards.” China declared it would take “necessary measures” to protect its legitimate interests, though specific actions were not detailed.

Ukraine, for its part, presented the EU with a “White Paper” proposing strengthened sanctions, including secondary sanctions on countries like China that purchase Russian oil. This initiative stems from uncertainty in US sanctions policy, positioning the EU as a leader. However, imposing secondary sanctions on China is challenging due to the significant trade relationship between the EU and China and China’s growing economic influence on global markets.

China’s protest against sanctions is not new. In February 2025, following the EU’s 16th sanctions package, China’s Commerce Ministry stated that such measures “negatively impact” trade relations with the EU. It called on the EU to stop sanctioning Chinese companies and individuals, arguing that this contradicts the consensus reached between the two sides’ leaders. China’s consistent stance is that it will not accept sanctions without a response, which could lead to trade restrictions against the EU.

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How Did Brazil’s First Lady Criticize TikTok in Beijing?

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Tensions have escalated following a state dinner in Beijing between Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The dinner, hosted by President Xi, did not feature any formal speeches or official statements. Nevertheless, President Lula raised the issue of regulating digital platforms and inquired whether the Chinese government could send an official representative to Brazil to discuss the matter further.

In the wake of this request, Brazil’s First Lady, Rosangela “Janja” da Silva, openly criticized TikTok for promoting what she described as “harmful content.” She cited the tragic case of an 8-year-old Brazilian girl who died after inhaling spray deodorant while participating in a dangerous “deodorant challenge” circulated on the platform. Additionally, media reports indicate that Janja expressed concern over TikTok’s algorithm, claiming it disproportionately promotes right-wing content in Brazil, thereby contributing to political polarization and the spread of disinformation.

Eyewitnesses to the event reported that China’s First Lady, Peng Liyuan, appeared visibly disturbed by Janja’s remarks, reportedly describing them as “disrespectful to Xi Jinping.”

Although the dinner took place behind closed doors, details of the incident were leaked to the media afterward. The presence of official representatives from both countries, including several Brazilian ministers, has raised internal questions and concerns within the Brazilian government. As of now, neither the Chinese delegation nor the Chinese Embassy in Brazil has issued any public statements regarding the matter.

Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3310985/amid-furore-brazils-first-lady-defends-tiktok-remarks-china-state-dinner-hosted-xi

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Increasing Threat: Space Arms Race Between Great Powers

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The strategic competition between China and the United States is rapidly expanding beyond Earth’s boundaries and into space. Both Chinese and American authorities are raising alarms over escalating military threats in orbit.

In a May 2025 article, China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) warned that the United States’ growing space warfare capabilities are intensifying military rivalry and undermining space security.

The U.S. Space Force recently awarded a $60 million contract to American company Gravitics to develop an advanced orbital transport system capable of launching maneuverable spacecraft within hours. Gravitics aims to demonstrate this “game-changing” system in early 2026.

Michael Guetlein, Vice Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, acknowledged the rising military threats in space. He cited China’s 2024 “dogfighting” exercises as a concerning example, along with the potential development of nuclear-armed satellites by Russia.

Newly released documents from the U.S. Space Force reveal Washington’s intent to significantly enhance its military capabilities in orbit. The plans emphasize strengthening command and control mechanisms, achieving space superiority, and minimizing the risk of foreign interference during U.S. space operations.

China’s PLA has expressed deep concern over these developments, viewing America’s initiatives with suspicion. With these rising tensions, space is increasingly becoming a new frontier in the great power competition.

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China’s Strategic Expansion: Visa-Free Travel for Five Latin American Countries

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The People’s Republic of China has announced that, effective June 1, 2025, for a period of one year, citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay will be exempt from visa requirements, integrating these Latin American nations into China’s global economic and cultural network alongside strategic partners such as Japan, South Korea, and European states. This initiative, driven by China’s leadership, aims to deepen cooperation with over 150 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America. According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the policy, which permits stays of up to 30 days for tourism, business, or personal purposes, was activated following the China-Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) Forum in Beijing, where a $9.2 billion financial support package and infrastructure investments were announced, underscoring China’s long-term regional ambitions.

Latin America remains a pivotal arena for geopolitical competition between China and the United States, with China emerging as a significant trade partner for regional economic leaders such as Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. This policy facilitates increased imports of high-quality products and supports infrastructure projects, such as Peru’s Chancay Port, which streamlines trade linkages between South America and China. The growth in bilateral trade indicators in early 2025 highlights the economic potential of this cooperation, though restrictive measures imposed by the United States, as observed in other regions, pose certain challenges. Regional analysts note that China’s openness enhances its cultural influence, particularly through the promotion of its arts and traditional cuisine.

The year 2025 marks a significant milestone in strengthening China-Latin America relations, with China’s leadership emphasizing the expansion of cooperation in education, culture, and tourism to foster people-to-people connections. According to regional experts, the visa waiver will boost tourist flows, activate trade exhibitions, and enhance economic collaboration, particularly through support for projects like the Chancay Port, which optimizes trade logistics. However, experts indicate that realizing the policy’s full potential requires the implementation of exchange programs in education and business to ensure long-term benefits are maximized. 

China positions itself as a strategic supporter of developing nations, as evidenced by the $9.2 billion financial package announced at the CELAC Forum, focused on advancing infrastructure, clean energy, and economic development. This policy, particularly for countries like Brazil and Chile, which are part of the Belt and Road Initiative, strengthens China’s economic and political presence in the region. Analysts assess this move as a counterbalance to the United States’ restrictive policies, though its long-term success hinges on the stability of cooperation and the engagement of regional partners.

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China’s Strategic Expansion: Colombia Joins the BRI

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China and Colombia have signed a cooperation plan within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), marking Colombia’s official entry into this massive global project. The Belt and Road Initiative, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, aims to revive the historical Silk Road through a modern infrastructure and economic network connecting over 150 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America.

During a meeting with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who was in Beijing for the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum, Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that this agreement offers an opportunity to deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, trade, and sustainable development. This move reflects China’s growing influence in Latin America, where it is already the largest trading partner for several countries.

Latin America has become a key region for geopolitical competition between China and the United States. China, Colombia’s second-largest trading partner after the US, expresses its readiness to increase imports of high-quality Colombian products and support Chinese companies in infrastructure construction, including railway corridors and renewable energy projects. In the first four months of 2025, bilateral trade reached $6.7 billion USD, demonstrating the economic potential of the cooperation. However, US pressure, such as Panama’s withdrawal from the BRI, poses certain challenges to China’s ambitions, especially given the region’s strategic importance to the US. Nevertheless, Colombia’s accession to the BRI confirms the success of China’s diplomatic maneuvers, which simultaneously strengthen economic cooperation and political influence in the Global South.

The year 2025 marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Colombia, which Xi Jinping called a “new historical starting point.” He emphasized the need to strengthen political trust and deepen cooperation in education, culture, and tourism to increase people-to-people exchanges and consolidate the public foundation of bilateral friendship. Gustavo Petro said that Colombia is ready to strengthen its strategic partnership with China, especially in areas such as new energy, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure, which serve to improve people’s lives.

The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described its membership in the BRI as a “historic step” that opens new opportunities for investment, technological cooperation, and sustainable development. Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia stated that this agreement creates “endless possibilities” for trade, investment, and tourism, while Petro noted on social media that “the history of Colombia’s foreign relations is changing,” implying global integration based on equality and freedom. These statements underscore Colombia’s ambition to become a more active player in the global economy with China’s support.

China presents itself as a supporter of the Global South and a multilateral order. Within the framework of the China-CELAC Forum, Xi Jinping announced $9.2 billion USD in development credit, focusing on infrastructure, clean energy, and the fight against transnational crime. Colombia’s contribution as the pro tempore president of CELAC to the forum’s success has strengthened its role in cooperation with China, serving the vision of a “shared future.” This vision is part of South-South cooperation and reflects China’s efforts to strengthen its influence in developing countries.

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