Civicidea

China condemns Canadian frigate’s passage through the Taiwan Strait as a provocation

Newswire / /

Amid efforts to ease tensions between Beijing and Ottawa, China has strongly reacted to the passage of the Canadian warship HMCS Charlottetown through the Taiwan Strait, accusing Western countries of attempting to undermine China’s security interests. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning made the statement on May 29.

According to Canadian media reports, the Royal Canadian Navy frigate crossed the Taiwan Strait on May 22-23. Canada’s defence authorities described the transit as a “routine operation”. Beijing strongly rejected this position, stating that the Taiwan Strait constitutes China’s internal waters.

Taipei firmly disputes this characterization, stressing that the strait does not fall under China’s sovereignty, as it is an international shipping route where freedom of navigation is guaranteed under international law. Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence also said it monitored the Canadian vessel’s movement and that the situation remained fully under control.

Just days after the incident, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid an official visit to Canada, marking the first visit by a Chinese foreign minister to the country in over a decade.

The move was intended to signal a renewal of bilateral relations, but the naval transit has cast uncertainty over the process. This is especially significant given that weeks earlier, China’s ambassador to Ottawa had warned that military and political contacts related to Taiwan could damage bilateral ties.

In recent years, transits by Western warships through the Taiwan Strait have become systematic. Such operations, regularly conducted by the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, are viewed by China as a threat to regional stability and are described as “provocations”.

China condemns Canadian frigate’s passage through the Taiwan Strait as a provocation Read More »

Beijing’s New Soft Power Push in Georgia: Media Outlets in Focus

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On March 26, Georgian journalist Nino Jangirashvili published a screenshot of a message she had received from the Chinese video news agency CCTV+. In the message, CCTV+ asked whether she would be interested in broadcasting content related to the Iran–Israel conflict and offered her media outlet the “opportunity” to publish the material free of charge.

Nino Jangirashvili is the founder and director of Kavkasia TV, a small Tbilisi-based media company that has faced serious financial difficulties since 2023. The crisis emerged amid what critics describe as deliberate efforts by the ruling Georgian Dream party to weaken critical and independent media by targeting the television advertising market. Due to its openly critical stance toward the government, Kavkasia TV has become one of the outlets most affected by political and financial pressure.

Facing the risk of halting its broadcasts, the station launched a public fundraising campaign to sustain its operations. In February 2026, the Georgian National Communications Commission also initiated administrative proceedings against the broadcaster over a donation received from the United States, further intensifying pressure on the outlet.

Against this backdrop of financial vulnerability and political pressure, CCTV+’s offer to provide free content to Kavkasia TV reflects what appears to be a broader strategy by Chinese state-affiliated media to penetrate financially struggling media organizations and expand their influence within the Georgian information space.

In recent months, Civic IDEA has received multiple reports from representatives of Georgian civil society confirming a similar pattern. Chinese media outlets and affiliated organizations have increasingly attempted to penetrate the Georgian information space, primarily targeting small media platforms and organizations that may require additional financial or institutional support.

One of the earliest public indications of CCTV’s growing presence in the Georgian media landscape emerged on November 26, 2023, when the Georgian business media outlet Business Media Georgia (BMG) announced plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding and a licensing agreement with CCTV. At the time, BMG General Producer Giorgi Isakadze described CCTV as one of China’s leading media groups and noted that it also owns the English-language agency CCTV+. Through this partnership, BMG obtained access and licensing rights to distribute content produced by CCTV.

Chinese soft power operations in Georgia date back to 2010, when the first Confucius Institute was established at Tbilisi Free University. Since then, China has actively promoted the Chinese language and culture within Georgian society. However, following the announcement of the Georgia–China Strategic Partnership in 2023, Chinese soft power activities in the country have significantly expanded. Beijing now appears increasingly focused on shaping favorable perceptions and promoting pro-Chinese narratives within the Georgian information environment.

The Chinese Embassy in Georgia has also played an active role in constructing positive narratives about China in the Georgian media space. The embassy finances the television program “Chinese Panorama,” broadcast on the Georgian TV channel Obiektivi. The program’s content largely promotes China’s foreign policy agenda, international initiatives, economic projects, and geopolitical ambitions. Through such broadcasts, China is portrayed as a reliable strategic partner and an emerging global power.

Against the backdrop of the Georgian Dream government’s increasingly pro-Chinese rhetoric and foreign policy positioning, China has found fertile ground for expanding its narratives and state-controlled discourse within Georgian media. Georgian journalists are increasingly being approached by Chinese media organizations seeking to disseminate Chinese-produced content domestically. This trend reflects a new and exaggerated phase of Chinese soft power operations in Georgia.

Beijing’s New Soft Power Push in Georgia: Media Outlets in Focus Read More »

China-Pakistan Talks in Beijing: Strengthening Strategic Partnership and Regional Crises

Newswire / /

On May 25, a meeting took place in Beijing between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during which the two sides discussed deepening their strategic partnership and addressing regional crises, including efforts toward de-escalation of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Xi Jinping referred to Pakistan as a “old friend” of China during the meeting, emphasizing the “unbreakable friendship” between the two countries. He stated that Beijing and Islamabad have maintained decades-long relations based on mutual support and are ready to further strengthen their strategic partnership.

The meeting was held at the Great Hall of the People in China and followed Sharif’s talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. It was also attended by Pakistan’s military leadership, including the Chief of Army Staff, highlighting the importance of security issues on the agenda.

According to international media assessments, one of the key topics of the meeting was the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and diplomatic efforts to bring it to an end. Pakistan has recently been seeking to enhance its role as a mediator between the United States and Iran, while China has called for restoring stability in the region.

At the same time, Pakistan-China economic cooperation remains central to the agenda. In recent business forums, agreements worth more than $1.2 billion were signed between the two countries, covering sectors such as energy and infrastructure.

The meeting underscores China’s efforts to maintain its influence in South Asia amid growing engagement from the United States and other powers in the region. For Pakistan, Beijing continues to be one of its key economic and security partners, particularly in an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment.

China-Pakistan Talks in Beijing: Strengthening Strategic Partnership and Regional Crises Read More »

Liaoning aircraft carrier drills trigger regional tensions

Newswire / /

The People’s Liberation Army of China has begun large-scale military exercises in the western Pacific Ocean led by the aircraft carrier Liaoning, prompting security concerns in Japan.

The Chinese navy states that the drills are “routine exercises conducted under the annual plan”, however part of the Western media notes that the activity is taking place amid growing strategic competition in the region, making the waters near Okinawa and Taiwan particularly sensitive and critical hotspots.

According to the South China Morning Post, the current exercises follow an incident that occurred in December last year. At that time, Japan says that Chinese J-15 fighter jets aimed fire-control radars at Japanese fighters near Okinawa, prompting an official protest from Tokyo.

Reuters reported that in April, Chinese naval vessels passed through straits near islands in Okinawa Prefecture en route to the western Pacific after completing exercises. The Japanese government assessed this as an indication of China’s growing naval and military capabilities.

Taiwanese Premier Cho Jung-tai said earlier this week that China’s military activities are “the greatest source of regional instability”. He added that Beijing continues to intensify military and political pressure on both Taiwan and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Analysts assess that China’s more active operations of aircraft carriers in the western Pacific reflect Beijing’s attempt to expand its military influence beyond the “first island chain”, where the United States and its allies, including Japan, maintain a significant military presence.

Liaoning aircraft carrier drills trigger regional tensions Read More »

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (18-24 May)

Weekly news / /
Georgia

“TAV Georgia” works on expanding direct flights at Routes Europe 2026

18 May

Georgia is planning to further tap into the Chinese aviation market by exploring new routes. At the international aviation forum Routes Europe 2026 in Rimini, Italy, TAV Georgia, the operator of Tbilisi and Batumi airports, is holding active negotiations with Chinese airlines.

Among around 20 scheduled meetings at the forum, China is a key priority within the strategy of market diversification, which has become even more relevant amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

According to TAV Georgia’s General Manager Tea Zakaradze, flights from Tbilisi to several Chinese destinations already operate, and direct flights to Shanghai are planned to start in July. Demand in this market remains high, so engagement with China will continue actively.

Alongside Chinese carriers, the Georgian delegation is also in talks with European and Middle Eastern airlines. The forum brings together over 100 airlines and airports from 65 countries and runs until 20 May.

Shalva Papuashvili meets Wang Huning, Chairman of the Chinese Political Consultative Conference

18 May

During an official visit to China, Speaker of the Georgian Parliament Shalva Papuashvili met Wang Huning, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee and Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.

Papuashvili said Tbilisi and Beijing share principles of sovereignty, peace, and security, and support strengthening international law and equality in international relations. The Chinese side reaffirmed its support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The meeting focused on expanding economic and trade cooperation, as well as strengthening ties in tourism, education, innovation, culture, and parliamentary relations. The importance of a free trade agreement was also discussed.

Both sides highlighted the importance of transport, logistics, and connectivity projects amid global turbulence, including the Belt and Road Initiative and the Middle Corridor. Both parties expressed readiness to deepen relations further.

Visit of Shalva Papuashvili to China: meeting with Zhao Leji

18 May

As part of his official visit to China, on 18 May, Shalva Papuashvili, Chairman of the Parliament of the ruling “Georgian Dream” party, met with Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.

The parties identified the main focus of their talks as expanding the strategic partnership and political dialogue between Georgia and China. Attention was given to deepening cooperation in trade, tourism, education, modern technologies, and culture.

During the meeting, it was noted that the two countries are already connected by significant legal and economic frameworks, including a free trade agreement and a visa-free regime, which, according to official assessments, contribute to the growth of trade and tourism flows.

The sides emphasized the importance of the principles of international law amid global instability. According to Papuashvili, the Parliament of Georgia pays special attention to parliamentary diplomacy, which is actively developing between the Parliament of Georgia and the National People’s Congress of China.

In official Chinese statements, it was noted that Georgia-China relations have entered a “new stage”, while Beijing reaffirmed its support for Georgia’s sovereignty and independence. In response, Papuashvili stated that Georgia continues to support the “One China principle” and will actively participate in global development initiatives.

Papuashvili speaks at China Foreign Affairs University

19 May

On 19 May, Shalva Papuashvili, Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, delivered a lecture at the China Foreign Affairs University (CFAU) in China.

The university, located in Beijing and affiliated with China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is regarded as a “cradle of Chinese diplomats” and trains specialists in diplomacy, international relations, and international law.

In his speech, Papuashvili highlighted the significance of the first visit of a Georgian parliamentary delegation to China and the growing strategic partnership between the two countries. He stated that, amid global transformations, Georgia is an “island of peace and development”.

The Speaker of Parliament also spoke about the government’s efforts to protect national interests and sovereignty, Georgia’s strategic geographic location, and its connectivity potential.

The meeting took place within the framework of Shalva Papuashvili’s official visit to China.

Papuashvili’s meeting with Shaanxi Provincial leadership

20 May

During his visit, Papuashvili met Zhao Yide, Secretary of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee and Chairman of the Shaanxi People’s Congress Standing Committee.

The sides discussed Georgia-China relations and prospects for strengthening the strategic partnership. Papuashvili emphasized Shaanxi’s historical and economic significance, noting the successful integration of ancient civilization and modern technology.

The meeting highlighted the importance of cooperation at both local and regional levels. The sides positively assessed the intensification of the twinning process between Georgian and Chinese cities and expressed readiness to deepen institutional, cultural, and educational ties.

Papuashvili summarizes the results of the China visit

20 May

The Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, Shalva Papuashvili, summarized the results of his official visit to China and told journalists on 20 May that relations between the two countries are at a “historically high level”.

He noted that this is the first official visit by a Speaker of the Georgian Parliament to China in the past 20 years, which, according to him, underlines the historical importance of the visit.

Papuashvili said that Georgia and China have been strategic partners for several years, and that visa-free travel and a free trade agreement are already in place, contributing to growth in trade, tourism, and direct flights.

In the assessment of the “Georgian Dream” parliamentary speaker, Tbilisi and Beijing share “absolutely identical approaches” regarding peaceful coexistence and respect for international law.

Papuashvili’s visit once again indicates that China remains an active direction in Georgia’s foreign policy agenda, as evidenced by the recent increase in official visits by Georgian high-level officials and parliamentary delegations to China.

Azerbaijan

Ilham Aliyev meets Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqi

18 May

On 18 May, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Zhang Guoqi, Vice Premier of the State Council of China. The sides discussed prospects for deepening cooperation in political, economic, transport, and other fields.

The Chinese side conveyed greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to President Aliyev and noted that Xi Jinping considers him a friend of China. In turn, the Azerbaijani president expressed gratitude for the conveyed greetings.

During the meeting, attention was also given to the World Urban Forum 13, held in Baku and dedicated to global urbanization and city development issues. The Chinese side thanked Azerbaijan for hosting the event at a high level.

In the course of the talks, both sides reaffirmed mutual support for the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Zhang Guoqi stated that China-Azerbaijan relations are developing dynamically and have already reached the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Ilham Aliyev said that Azerbaijan, as a country that has itself suffered from separatism, condemns all forms and manifestations of separatism. He also noted that Baku not only did not recognize elections held in Taiwan but was among the states that condemned the results of those elections.

In this context, the head of state once again emphasized that Azerbaijan consistently and firmly supports the “One China” policy.

Urban development cooperation discussed at WUF13 in Baku

18 May

The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), held in Baku, was attended by Xin Li, Director of the Shanghai Urban Planning and Design Institute.

Speaking to journalists on 18 May, Xin Li said that the World Urban Forum serves as an important platform for countries to exchange experiences and promote the global development of urban planning.

“China and Azerbaijan have the potential to expand cooperation in the fields of education, urban planning, and urban design”, he said.

Xin Li reiterated that the World Urban Forum is a key platform for sharing international experience and advancing global urban development. He also noted that one of the main objectives of the Chinese delegation is to share China’s experience in urban development with the international community.

The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), held from 17 to 22 May, is considered one of the most influential international platforms for sustainable urbanization and city development. This year’s event brought together more than 57,000 participants from 176 countries.

 Li Liping speaks at WUF13

22 May

On 22 May, Li Liping, Head of the Construction Industry Subcommittee of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), delivered a video address during an event held within the framework of the World Urban Forum (WUF13).

In his remarks, Li noted that since the early 21st century, urbanization in China has significantly accelerated, leading to improvements in environmental quality and providing the country with substantial experience in sustainable urban development.

“China is ready to share its accumulated experience in the field of sustainable urban development with international partners”, Li said.

He stated that in recent years, China’s construction sector has achieved significant progress in digital and intelligent transformation, the development of “smart” cities, urban renewal, and the promotion of green and low-carbon development.

Li Liping emphasized that China is willing to work with international partners to address global challenges related to urbanization and sustainable city development.

Xinhua reports on China’s urban development achievements

22 May

On 22 May, the Xinhua News Agency published a summary article on the World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku, highlighting China’s urban development achievements.

According to the article, this year’s forum, held under the theme “Housing the World: Safe and Sustainable Cities and Communities”, became an important platform for creating sustainable and inclusive urban environments.

Within the framework of the event, the Chinese side presented a national report on the implementation of the “New Urban Agenda”. The document outlines the country’s progress in urban development policy, including improvements in urban planning, infrastructure modernization, and the creation of more environmentally sustainable urban spaces.

At the exhibition area, the China Pavilion attracted significant attention, where the Urban Planning Society of China presented an exhibition showcasing the country’s innovative urban planning experience through practical examples.

Participants of WUF13 widely assessed the Baku forum as a turning point in strengthening global cooperation on urban development and enhancing knowledge exchange between countries.

Armenia

European Diplomacy in Beijing: Ambassadors Discuss China’s Global Role at EPC Initiative

19 May

On 19 May, Beijing hosted a high-level meeting of ambassadors from European Political Community (EPC) member states, organized jointly by the Embassy of Armenia in China and the Delegation of the European Union.

The diplomatic meeting focused on the prospects for European security and stability, as well as the assessment of China’s role as a global actor in these processes.

According to an official press release, amid growing geopolitical tensions, diplomats emphasized the need to strengthen Europe’s strategic resilience. At the same time, participants agreed that maintaining direct dialogue and communication channels with Beijing is a pragmatic necessity.

The discussion addressed both political and economic challenges, highlighting that relations with China simultaneously include elements of partnership and strategic competition.

The meeting was held under the auspices of the European Political Community (EPC), which brings together around 50 European countries and serves as a platform for political dialogue and enhanced cooperation on issues of common interest.

Experts note that such formats aim to coordinate unified European positions amid global challenges, particularly at a time when relations with China combine both cooperation and strategic competition.

Kyrgystan

Chinese Public Security Minister visits Kyrgyzstan

19 May

On 19 May, a delegation led by Wang Xiaohong, Minister of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China, arrived in Bishkek on an official visit. The information was reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan.

The main event of the visit was a meeting between Wang Xiaohong and Kyrgyz Minister of Internal Affairs Ulan Niyazbekov. The central topic of the discussions was the expansion of the strategic partnership between Kyrgyzstan and China in the field of law enforcement.

The talks also focused on improving interagency coordination and outlining specific prospects for future operational cooperation. The visit aims to further strengthen bilateral relations in the area of security between the two countries.

Security chiefs of China and Kyrgyzstan meet in Beijing

19 May

On 19 May, Chairman of the State Committee for National Security of Kyrgyzstan, Jumgalbek Shabdanbekov, hosted Wang Xiaohong, Minister of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China.

According to the Kyrgyz State Committee for National Security, the meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in combating terrorism, religious extremism, economic crimes, and cyberattacks.

One of the key topics of the talks was ensuring the security of strategic infrastructure projects, including the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, which is considered to be of particular importance for regional connectivity and economic development.

Shabdanbekov also confirmed readiness to ensure the protection of the rights and legitimate interests of Chinese investors in Kyrgyzstan.

At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed to deepen cooperation and implement practical steps aimed at further strengthening collaboration in the field of security.

 Kyrgyzstan and China sign $430 million project agreement

20 May

On 20 May, an agreement on a $430 million energy and logistics project between Kyrgyzstan and China was signed, according to the Kyrgyz news agency Kabar.

The project aims to strengthen energy infrastructure and expand transport and logistics capacities, which is expected to further enhance economic cooperation between the two countries.

The initiative is viewed as an important step within the strategic partnership between China and the Central Asian state, particularly in the fields of energy and regional connectivity.

According to the parties, the strategic partnership is not limited to mutual economic benefits alone. It is expected to play a fundamental role in strengthening energy security in Central Asia and significantly enhancing the region’s transit potential.

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (18-24 May) Read More »

Strategic Ties Between Tbilisi and Beijing: Shalva Papuashvili’s Official Visit to China

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Following the establishment of a strategic partnership between Georgia and the People’s Republic of China, bilateral political relations have entered a broader and more multifaceted phase. The increasing number of visits by Georgian officials to China has now been joined by the official visit of the Speaker of the Georgian Dream’s Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili. The head of the legislative body departed for Beijing on May 18.

A central component of the visit consisted of meetings held in Beijing, during which Shalva Papuashvili personally met with Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.

One of the main topics of discussion was the deepening of the strategic partnership between Georgia and China and the expansion of political dialogue. The sides noted that the two countries are already connected by significant legal and economic frameworks, including a free trade agreement and a visa-free regime, which, according to official assessments, contribute to the growth of trade and tourism flows.

Chinese official statements noted that relations between the two countries have entered a “new stage”, while Beijing once again reaffirmed its support for Georgia’s sovereignty and independence. In response, Papuashvili stated that Georgia continues to support the “One China Principle” and will actively engage in global development initiatives.

In addition to Beijing, Shalva Papuashvili visited Shaanxi Province, where he met with Zhao Yide, Chairman of the local provincial legislature. The meetings focused on issues of regional economic and cultural cooperation.

The visit program also prominently included meetings with China’s leading political institutions. In particular, the Speaker of Parliament met with Wang Huning, Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). The discussions focused on strengthening interparliamentary cooperation and developing institutional dialogue.

The parliamentary chairman also delivered a lecture at China Foreign Affairs University. During his speech, he spoke about Georgia’s geopolitical role, noting that the country has historically been part of the “Silk Road” and today represents an important link in the “Middle Corridor”, which strengthens transport connectivity between Europe and Asia. Addressing students and faculty members, Papuashvili reviewed Georgia’s foreign policy priorities and the country’s role in international transit and trade processes.

Speaking with the media, Shalva Papuashvili summarized the results of the visit and emphasized its “historical significance“. According to official assessments, the Chinese authorities and Tbilisi share an “absolutely identical approach“ to international challenges, which is based on peaceful coexistence and respect for the principles of international law.

Papuashvili’s visit is further evidence that visits by Georgian officials to China are no longer isolated diplomatic acts. The increasing frequency of trips to Beijing and various Chinese provinces by parliamentary committees and members of the ruling party in recent years suggests that the “eastern direction” has become one of the most active vectors of Georgia’s current foreign policy strategy.

Strategic Ties Between Tbilisi and Beijing: Shalva Papuashvili’s Official Visit to China Read More »

Tinatin Khidasheli to Speak at International Expert Discussion on Russian Influence Operations During Electoral Campaigns

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On 20 May, Tinatin Khidasheli, Chairwoman of Civic IDEA participated in an international expert discussion hosted by the Ukraine Crisis Media Center (UCMC): “Russian Influence Operations During Electoral Campaigns in EU and Eastern Partnership Countries in 2024–2025: Lessons for Ukraine.”

As part of the second panel, focused on electoral developments across Eastern Partnership countries, Tinatin Khidasheli addressed the topic: “Georgia: elections according to the authorities’ scenario.”

The discussion brought together leading experts, policymakers, and analysts from across Europe to examine how Russian influence operations target democratic electoral processes and to reflect on lessons for strengthening resilience against disinformation and hybrid threats.

 

Watch the discussion:

Tinatin Khidasheli to Speak at International Expert Discussion on Russian Influence Operations During Electoral Campaigns Read More »

Xi and Putin in Beijing: Demonstration of Strategic Partnership and Unresolved “Power of Siberia 2”

Newswire / /

On May 20, Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin on an official visit, during which the two sides signed dozens of cooperation documents and described bilateral relations as having entered a “new stage”.

The meeting took place just a few days after U.S. President Donald Trump visited China, which, according to international media assessments, allowed Beijing and Moscow to once again demonstrate a unified political stance toward the West. This reflects China’s strategy of maintaining strategic ties with Russia while simultaneously managing its relationship with Washington.

In a joint statement issued after the talks, China and Russia reaffirmed their support for a “multipolar world order”. According to official statements, the sides paid particular attention to strengthening cooperation in the fields of the economy, energy, technology, science, education, and media.

Xi Jinping described bilateral relations as being at a “historically highest level”, while Putin stated that China-Russia cooperation is developing steadily “under conditions of external pressure”. Both leaders criticized “unilateralism” and “hegemonic approaches” in international politics. This rhetoric has been frequently used by Beijing and Moscow in recent years when assessing Western, particularly U.S., policies.

International security issues were also discussed at the summit, including the war in Ukraine, the Middle East crisis, and growing competition in the Asia-Pacific region. China reiterated that conflicts should be resolved through “dialogue and political negotiations”.

One of the key topics of the meeting was energy cooperation. Russia is attempting to expand its lost positions in European markets toward China. In this context, the strategically important “Power of Siberia 2” project aims to transport 50 billion cubic meters of Russian gas annually to China from the Yamal fields via Mongolia.

However, despite high expectations, the sides once again failed to reach a final agreement at the Beijing summit. According to the Kremlin, there is agreement on the “main aspects” of the project, but several details still need to be finalized. International media reports that disagreements relate to gas pricing, financing, and long-term contractual terms.

Western media note that relations between Beijing and Moscow are asymmetrical. After the war in Ukraine and amid Western sanctions and the loss of European markets, Russia’s economic dependence on China has significantly increased, giving Beijing additional leverage. China is taking advantage of this and seeks to secure Russian energy resources under the most favorable conditions. At the same time, China is trying to manage cooperation with Russia in a way that does not fully damage its own economic relations with the West.

This situation shows that despite strategic and political rapprochement, relations between Beijing and Moscow are still clearly based on pragmatic economic interests, where both sides seek to maximize protection of their own conditions.

Xi and Putin in Beijing: Demonstration of Strategic Partnership and Unresolved “Power of Siberia 2” Read More »

Tinatin Khidasheli on Georgia’s Military Readiness and the Future of National Defense

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Civic IDEA was pleased to participate in the webinar “Armies and Nations: Georgian Military Since Independence”, featuring our Chairperson Tinatin Khidasheli, alongside Giorgi Shaishmelashvili, moderated by Shota Gvineria.

The discussion explored the evolution of Georgia’s armed forces since independence and examined a fundamental question: how prepared is Georgia to defend itself against today’s growing security challenges?

Georgia’s international missions in Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan played a transformative role in shaping its military. These experiences helped build a more professional, disciplined, and capable defense force by:

• Professionalizing the armed forces through merit-based military culture and institutional development
• Building interoperability with NATO allies and strengthening operational readiness
• Developing leadership, raising a new generation of experienced officers and non-commissioned officers
• Enhancing Georgia’s strategic credibility through meaningful contributions to global security
• Reinforcing Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations through sustained defense cooperation

At the same time, the discussion underscored an important lesson: military excellence abroad must be matched by strategic preparedness at home.
Georgia’s challenge today is clear: to preserve the professionalism and partnerships built over decades while ensuring that every reform strengthens one core objective—the defense of Georgia itself.

Tinatin Khidasheli on Georgia’s Military Readiness and the Future of National Defense Read More »

A new phase in US-China trade relations is underway

Newswire / /

Following the meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping in Beijing, the White House announced that China will purchase at least $17 billion worth of American agricultural products annually between 2026 and 2028.

The agreement covers a wide range of agricultural goods, including soybeans, beef, poultry products, and other agricultural commodities. This step is particularly important for American farmers, as US agricultural exports to China have sharply declined in recent years amid US-China trade tensions.

According to Reuters, US agricultural exports to China fell by 65.7% year-on-year in 2025, reaching only $8.4 billion. During the same period, China also significantly reduced its dependence on American soybeans, from 41% in 2016 to about 20% in 2024.

Agriculture was one of the key topics of the negotiations. According to Reuters, Washington sought stronger purchasing guarantees from Beijing, particularly regarding soybeans. The two sides are also planning to establish US-China trade and investment councils that will work on tariff reductions and market access issues.

The Financial Times reports that the new mechanisms are expected to cover so-called “non-sensitive” goods and investments. The plan also includes opening the Chinese market to American beef and the aviation sector.

The Trump administration describes the agreement as a step toward “stabilizing economic relations”. Despite optimistic statements, Beijing says the agreements have not yet been finalized. China’s Ministry of Commerce stated on May 16 that agreements related to tariffs, agriculture, and aviation are still “preliminary” and require further negotiations.

Despite ongoing crises surrounding Taiwan and the tech sector, the Beijing summit showed a willingness for mutual economic compromise. Washington and Beijing are attempting to rebuild ties in areas where interdependence is vital.

A new phase in US-China trade relations is underway Read More »

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