Civicidea

China Mediates Talks Between Pakistan and Afghanistan

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

China said on April 3 that talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan are making progress. According to Beijing, the two sides have agreed to continue dialogue, in what is being viewed as an effort to de-escalate tensions that have intensified between the neighboring states since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that both Pakistan and Afghanistan attach importance to the dialogue facilitated by Beijing and are prepared to continue negotiations. According to the Associated Press, the parties resumed working-level consultations several days earlier in Urumqi, in western China.

Media reports indicate that the current round of talks is focused on a possible ceasefire, the reopening of border crossing points, and the restoration of trade and cross-border movement.

At the same time, Pakistan maintains that armed groups operating from Afghan territory continue to carry out attacks on its soil, while Kabul rejects the allegation and says it remains prepared for responsible dialogue.

China, for its part, says it is seeking to preserve communication channels between Pakistan and Afghanistan and to provide a platform for negotiations, as tensions along the border have escalated in recent weeks and resulted in casualties.

However, Beijing has so far released no further details regarding either its mediation efforts or the substance of the ongoing consultations.

Author: Mariam Simsive

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European Parliament Delegation Pays Official Visit to China

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

A nine-member delegation from the European Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection, led by Anna Cavazzini, is visiting Beijing and Shanghai from March 31 to April 2.

This is the European Parliament’s first official visit to China in the past eight years. The main topics of the meetings include products entering the EU market that do not comply with standards, difficulties faced by European companies in accessing the Chinese market, and the regulation of digital trade. Alongside Chinese officials, the delegation is also meeting with representatives of Shein, Alibaba, and Temu.

According to the European Parliament, one of the main concerns is the large volume of small parcels entering the European Union from non-European online platforms, including those based in China.

Parliamentary data show that 4.6 billion small consignments entered the EU market in 2024, 91% of which came from China. The same source states that in 2025, the EU’s Safety Gate system recorded 4,671 dangerous products, of which 2,006 were of Chinese origin.

The visit is taking place against the backdrop of a major customs reform agreed on March 26 by the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament. The reform envisages tighter controls on dangerous and non-compliant goods, the creation of a unified customs data hub, the introduction of a common fee on small parcels, and the establishment of a new EU customs authority.

According to Reuters, Brussels is placing particular emphasis on tightening the responsibilities of online platforms, as product safety and fair competition have become increasingly pressing issues within the European Union.

China’s official side has assessed the visit positively, stating that the arrival of the European Parliament delegation will strengthen bilateral relations, promote cooperation between legislative bodies, and support the stable development of ties between China and the European Union.

Author: Mariam Simsive

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Dialogue: Europe in a Reconfiguring World

New / /

On March 23, 2026, a public discussion titled “Europe in a Reconfiguring World” was held at Palau Macaya, bringing together leading voices in international relations and European politics.

The event featured Tinatin Khidasheli – Chair of Civic IDEA, former Minister of Defence of Georgia, and a prominent expert on security and geopolitical dynamics – alongside Jordi Xuclà, President of the Catalan European Movement and an experienced policymaker in European affairs. 

The dialogue focused on the rapidly evolving international environment and the role of Europe within a world shaped by shifting power balances, geopolitical tensions, and growing uncertainty. Particular attention was given to the challenges facing small and medium-sized states, the transformation of global alliances, and the increasing complexity of diplomatic engagement in the 21st century.

The event also served as an opportunity to introduce and reflect on the newly published book “Geopolitics and Diplomacy on the Ground”, co-authored by Tinatin Khidasheli and Jordi Xuclà, among other prominent international figures. The book brings together the practical experiences of policymakers, diplomats, and scholars, offering insights into how geopolitical decisions unfold in real-world contexts, where political strategy meets human complexity.

Dialogue: Europe in a Reconfiguring World Read More »

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (March 23-29)

Weekly news / /

Georgia

Georgian Ambassador Participates in Conference in Guangzhou

March 24

Paata Kalandadze, Georgia’s ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, took part in a conference in Guangzhou, where he spoke about Georgia-China bilateral relations and investment opportunities in Georgia.

The conference, titled “New Cooperation Reaching out to Georgia, Mutual Journey of Cooperation & Exchange”, was held on March 20, while the Georgian Embassy published information about it on March 24.

The event was organized by Beka Mikaberidze, founder of the Belt and Road Georgia Business House and representative of the Georgian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Guangzhou. The event was attended by representatives of local authorities, business and investment circles, as well as the media organizations.

Interview with Georgia’s Ambassador Published in Chinese Official Outlet

March 25

An interview with Paata Kalandadze, Georgia’s ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, was published in the Chinese outlet People’s Daily. The Georgian Embassy released information about this on March 25.

In the interview, the ambassador discussed Georgia-China bilateral relations, with particular attention paid to education, tourism, and the deepening of ties between the two countries.

The interview also addresses the strengthening of trade and economic relations, the importance of the free trade agreement, and prospects for future cooperation.

Kalandadze also highlighted visa-free travel between Georgia and China, Georgia’s transit potential, and the state’s role in developing the Middle Corridor.

Georgia and China Sign Memorandum on Sports Cooperation

March 25

On March 25, Minister of Sports of Georgia Shalva Gogoladze met with Gao Zhidan, Minister of the General Administration of Sport of China. During the meeting, the sides signed a memorandum of cooperation in the field of sports.

The document is intended to deepen relations between the two countries in the sports sector and includes the organization of joint training camps, stronger cooperation in international sporting events, and further development of ties between sports organizations.

The working meeting of the two ministers was also attended by Deputy Sports Minister Irakli Dolaberidze, Georgia’s ambassador to China Paata Kalandadze, Georgian Table Tennis Federation President Guram Gogoladze, and representatives of the sports ministries of both countries and the Georgian Embassy.

Georgian Sports Minister Meets Representatives of Taishan Group in China

March 26

On March 26, Minister of Sports of Georgia Shalva Gogoladze met representatives of the Chinese sports equipment manufacturer Taishan Group.

Led by the minister, the delegation held talks with company board chairman Pien Zhiliang and vice president Man Fangfang. During the visit, the delegation also toured the Taishan Group museum and factories, where it observed the production process.

The sides discussed prospects for future cooperation, including equipping sports infrastructure in Georgia with sports equipment and innovative systems that meet international standards.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Minister Irakli Dolaberidze, heads of various Taishan Group departments, Georgian Table Tennis Federation President Guram Gogoladze, and representatives of the Georgian Sports Ministry and Embassy.

Georgia-China Trade Turnover Shows Growth at the Start of 2026

March 27

Georgia-China trade relations showed a growth trend in January-February 2026.

According to a March 27 article by Business Insider Georgia, based on Geostat data, exports from Georgia to China reached USD 147.1 million during the period, up 289.1% compared with the same period of 2025. At the same time, imports from China rose to USD 310.7 million, reflecting year-on-year growth of 28.4%.

In terms of export structure, precious metal ores and concentrates accounted for the largest volume of Georgian exports to China. Other leading export products included copper ores and concentrates, spices, instruments and devices used in medicine and veterinary practice, as well as natural grape wines.

On the import side, the main products entering Georgia from China were diodes, transistors and similar semiconductor devices, electric generating sets and rotary converters, passenger cars, flat-rolled carbon steel products, as well as poultry meat and edible offal.

The article stresses that Georgia-China trade relations continue to maintain upward momentum and that China remains one of Georgia’s leading trade partners.

Georgian Wine Presented at Exhibitions in Chengdu

March 27

On March 26-27, Georgian wine-producing companies showcased Georgian wine at international exhibitions underway in Chengdu, China.

With financial and organizational support from the National Wine Agency, Georgian wine was presented at the Fine Wineseer and Fine Wine Hotel Exhibition fairs, and will also be showcased this week in the China Food & Drinks Fair.

As part of the Fine Wine Hotel Exhibition, a Georgian wine tasting seminar was also held and led by Master of Wine Fongyee Walker. Around 100 guests attended the event, including wine experts, importers, and representatives of the HoReCa sector. Wines from eight Georgian companies were presented at the tasting.

According to the National Wine Agency, participation in these events is aimed at increasing awareness of Georgian wine, finding new partners, and strengthening export positions. The agency notes that China is one of the strategic markets for Georgian wine, where an active marketing campaign has been underway since 2013.

Georgia’s Sports Ministry Delegation Visits China

March 27

From March 23 to 27, a delegation from Georgia’s Sports Ministry paid a working visit to the People’s Republic of China.

During the visit, Deputy Minister Irakli Dolaberidze visited Beijing Sport University, where the sides discussed prospects for sports education, exchange programs, and joint training projects.

The Georgian delegation also attended the 10th World Junior Wushu Championships in Tianjin. Georgian Sports Minister Shalva Gogoladze, Irakli Dolaberidze, and Georgia’s ambassador to China, Paata Kalandadze, met members of Georgia’s national wushu team.

In addition, a meeting was held with Yufing Zhang, secretary general of the International Wushu Federation, where the sides discussed promoting wushu in Georgia and supporting the development of the sport.

Azerbaijan

Xi Jinping Says China Is Ready to Deepen Partnership with Azerbaijan

March 23

On March 23, the official website of Azerbaijan’s president published a letter from Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulating President Ilham Aliyev on the Nowruz holiday.

In the letter, Xi Jinping states that China and Azerbaijan are “comprehensive strategic partners.” In his assessment, political trust between the two countries has strengthened in recent years, while cooperation across various fields has developed steadily.

The Chinese president said he attaches great importance to the development of China-Azerbaijan relations and is ready to work together with Ilham Aliyev to take bilateral cooperation to a new stage.

Sahiba Gafarova Meets Chair of China’s National People’s Congress

March 25

On March 25 in Beijing, Speaker of Azerbaijan’s Milli Meclis Sahiba Gafarova met Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress. The sides discussed deepening bilateral political, economic, and parliamentary cooperation.

The meeting noted that Azerbaijan-China relations have, in recent years, developed to the level of a strategic partnership. The sides highlighted active contacts between leaders, stronger parliamentary ties, and an increase in bilateral visits.

Gafarova reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s support for the “One China” policy, while the Chinese side expressed support for Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The meeting also reviewed trade, transport, and humanitarian cooperation, including the importance of the Middle Corridor, direct air links, and the prospect of visa-free travel.

The sides also discussed expanding cooperation in digital development, artificial intelligence, and green energy. Particular attention was paid to strengthening institutional ties between the two parliaments.

Sahiba Gafarova Speaks on Azerbaijan-China Relations at Boao Forum

March 26

As part of her working visit to China, Speaker of Azerbaijan’s Milli Meclis Sahiba Gafarova addressed the annual conference of the Boao Forum for Asia on March 26, where she spoke about China’s international role and Azerbaijan-China relations.

Gafarova said that amid rising geopolitical tensions, dialogue and cooperation have become a necessity, while the Boao Forum is an important platform for practical solutions and international cooperation under such conditions.

According to her, China plays an important and constructive role in modern international relations, and Azerbaijan supports Beijing’s global development, security, civilization, and governance initiatives.

The speaker also said that Azerbaijan and China share common visions, while high-level visits held recently and documents signed on a strategic partnership point to a deepening of political dialogue and mutual trust between the two countries.

Azerbaijan-China Trade Turnover Rises at the Start of 2026

March 28

Trade turnover between Azerbaijan and China totaled USD 779.4 million in January-February 2026, up 4.6% compared with the same period last year. Trend reported this, citing data from Azerbaijan’s State Customs Committee.

According to the outlet, China accounted for 12.44% of Azerbaijan’s foreign trade turnover during the period and ranked third among the country’s largest trade partners. At the same time, China became Azerbaijan’s main import partner.

In January-February, Azerbaijan’s exports to China totaled USD 21.6 million, nearly doubling year on year. Imports from China rose to USD 757.8 million, marking a 3.2% increase.

Overall, Azerbaijan’s total foreign trade turnover for the period amounted to USD 6.264 billion, of which USD 3.66 billion came from exports and USD 2.59 billion from imports. As a result, the country maintained a positive trade balance of USD 1.06 billion.

Azerbaijan-China Cultural Relations Discussed at Dunhuang Conference

March 28

Agshin Aliyev, head of the Azerbaijani Language Department at Beijing Foreign Studies University and a doctor of philology, spoke on March 28 at an international scientific conference held in Dunhuang, China.

In his remarks, Aliyev said that the declaration on comprehensive strategic partnership signed between Azerbaijan and China in April 2025 had taken cultural cooperation between the two countries to a new stage.

In his assessment, the historical ties between Azerbaijan and China, both located along the Silk Road, have long been a focus of Azerbaijani researchers. He said Dunhuang, as an important Silk Road center, historically played a special role in shaping cultural dialogue in this space and continues to maintain that function today.

The event, titled “Dunhuang Culture, Bamboo Manuscripts and the International Popularization of Chinese Culture”, was attended by more than 100 participants from six countries.

Abbasov: China Is a Reliable Partner for Azerbaijan

March 29

Rafig Abbasov, director of the Confucius Institute at the Azerbaijan University of Languages, says China is a reliable partner for Azerbaijan. He made the statement in an interview with China’s Xinhua news agency.

According to Abbasov, the partnership between Azerbaijan and China is developing dynamically in the political, economic, and humanitarian spheres. He also said that Baku and Beijing are actively strengthening cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Assessing humanitarian ties, Abbasov said interest in the Chinese language in Azerbaijan is growing year by year, along with attention to Chinese culture, history, and contemporary life.

According to him, over the past ten years, the Confucius Institute in Baku has already taught Chinese to more than 4,000 students through 13 branches, scientific organizations, and various universities and schools.

Abbasov said student exchanges and youth educational events have turned the institute into an important platform for cultural exchange and people-to-people diplomacy between Azerbaijan and China.

Armenia

Yerevan State University Students Visit Chinese Embassy

March 27

On March 27, members of the Student Scientific Society of the Faculty of International Relations at Yerevan State University paid an academic visit to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Armenia.

During the visit, the students met members of the diplomatic corps, who briefed them on the current dynamics of Armenia-China cooperation and possible future directions.

Particular attention at the meeting was devoted to issues raised by the students, including their experience in Chinese studies, prospects for bilateral educational and cultural ties, as well as existing challenges and new opportunities.

After the formal part ended, the meeting continued in a question-and-answer format, enabling future international relations specialists to engage directly with diplomats on professional issues of interest to them.

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Discusses Infrastructure Projects with CSCEC

March 24

Ravshanbek Sabirov, head of the National Investment Agency under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, held a meeting on March 24 with representatives of China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC).

According to the National Investment Agency, cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and CSCEC has entered a new stage following their first meeting in Beijing.

The sides discussed infrastructure and investment projects, including roads, bridges, railways, energy, and urban development, and also reviewed the use of green and digital technologies.

At the end of the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to deepen long-term cooperation and develop specific projects.

More Than 5,000 People Involved in Construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway

March 24

More than 5,000 people and over 5,600 units of equipment are involved in construction work on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, according to data from Kyrgyzstan’s Cabinet of Ministers cited by 24.kg.

According to 24.kg, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Erlist Akunbekov held a working meeting on March 24 on the progress of the project. At this stage, the main design materials have already been prepared and coordination with the relevant agencies is underway.

The outlet says that more than 3.5 million cubic meters of earthworks have already been completed at the construction sites. The main works within the project include tunneling, moving earth masses, and bridge construction.

Kyrgyz authorities say they will provide the support and coordination needed for the implementation of the project. Akunbekov also stressed the need to strictly observe safety norms and environmental requirements.

Chinese Ambassador Meets Kyrgyz Emergency Situations Minister

March 25

China’s ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, Liu Jianping, met Kyrgyz Emergency Situations Minister Kanatbek Chinibayev. During the March 25 meeting, the sides discussed deepening cooperation in emergency management.

According to the Chinese Embassy, the ambassador congratulated the minister on his appointment and said cooperation between Beijing and Bishkek has reached an unprecedentedly high level in various areas. He added that the Chinese side is ready to work with Kyrgyzstan to speed up relevant projects and strengthen cooperation in the training and professional development of specialists.

Kanatbek Chinibayev positively assessed the results of the development of bilateral relations and thanked the Chinese side for the support Kyrgyzstan receives in disaster prevention, damage reduction, and emergency management.

The minister said Bishkek is ready to respond to global challenges through close cooperation with Beijing.

Kyrgyz Energy Minister’s Official Visit to China

March 26

Kyrgyz Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibraev held meetings with Chinese energy and technology companies during a working visit to China.

A memorandum was signed between Kyrgyzstan’s Energy Ministry and the Chinese corporation ShuiFa Group, providing for cooperation in energy infrastructure.

The document concerns the development of charging stations and energy storage systems. According to the Kyrgyz side, the move will help modernize the country’s energy sector and support the development of sustainable transport infrastructure.

During the visit, the minister also met Yulin Lian, founder and chief executive officer of NUCL New Energy Tech. The sides discussed the development of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and the introduction of modern technological solutions.

In addition, the Kyrgyz delegation held talks with representatives of Zhejiang Anfu Energy. The sides discussed the supply of equipment for charging stations designed for electric transport and possibilities for localizing the technologies.

Chinese Ambassador and Bishkek Mayor Agree to Expand Cooperation

March 27

Chinese Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Liu Jianping met with Bishkek Mayor Aibek Junushaliev. According to the Chinese Embassy, the meeting took place on March 27, and the sides discussed deepening China-Kyrgyzstan cooperation.

According to the Chinese side, cooperation with Bishkek has produced significant results in recent years in ecology, infrastructure, and humanitarian areas. The embassy said a waste processing plant in Bishkek has already been launched, while road network reconstruction and ring road construction projects are underway.

The ambassador said Beijing is ready to continue supporting the expansion of cooperation between Bishkek and Chinese cities and provinces, including through the sharing of urban governance experience.

For his part, Aibek Junushaliev thanked the Chinese side for its long-term support for Kyrgyzstan and said he is ready to further strengthen cooperation for the implementation of mutually beneficial projects.

China Southern Airlines Launches New Guangzhou-Bishkek Route

March 29

On March 29, Chinese airline China Southern Airlines operated its first Guangzhou-Bishkek-Guangzhou flight. According to official information, this is an important event for Kyrgyzstan’s aviation sector, and the new route was launched as a result of cooperation with the Chinese side.

According to the official announcement, regular flights will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays. In the Kyrgyz side’s assessment, the launch of the new air route will contribute both to the development of passenger and cargo transportation and to the deepening of transport, economic, and humanitarian ties between Kyrgyzstan and China.

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (March 23-29) Read More »

“Georgia’s Iranian turn” – Tinatin Khidasheli on FRANCE 24

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According to Tinatin Khidasheli, Georgia is suspended between its declared European future and an increasingly authoritarian present. While formally holding candidate status for European Union membership, the political reality has shifted toward systemic control, legal ambiguity, and the suppression of dissent. Legal instruments, particularly the foreign agents law, are designed not merely to regulate but to deter, creating an environment where ordinary professional or civic activity risks criminalisation.

See the full interview:

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Tinatin Khidasheli Delivers Lecture on European Security at CEU Universitat Abat Oliba, Barcelona

New / /

On March 23, Tinatin Khidasheli delivered a lecture titled “The New Geopolitical Chessboard: Security and Alliances in Europe” at CEU Universitat Abat Oliba in Barcelona.

In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of alliances and international partnerships in today’s security environment and discussed the real impact of NATO and EU enlargement on Eastern Europe.

“You have probably heard the myths about a Russia irritated by NATO or EU enlargement, left with no choice but to defend its own security. Facts and reality, however, prove the opposite. Russia’s imperial ambitions stopped exactly where enlargement took place. We did not see Putin wage war against Poland or the Baltic states; nor did he attack Finland last year. But we did witness Russia’s aggressive actions in countries where NATO and EU policies were overly cautious and restrained.

No, friends — the expansion of alliances played a decisive role in the peaceful development of Eastern Europe, ensuring their security and, consequently, their prosperity. And only where delays occurred did we see Russian imperial aggression, war, destruction, and casualties… NATO and the European Union remain the clear and unconditional guarantors of peace in Europe, and our recent history confirms this,” – Khidasheli told the audience at the university.

The lecture was held in a roundtable format and addressed changes in Europe’s security architecture, strategic partnerships, and the importance of regional cooperation.

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A Book Co-Authored by Tinatin Khidasheli Published in Spain

New / /

The book “Geopolitics and Diplomacy on the Ground”, co-authored by the Chairperson of Civic IDEA, Tinatin Khidasheli, has been published in Spain by Editorial Dykinson.

The book presentation took place on March 24 in Barcelona, where the authors, including Tinatin Khidasheli, attended in person and shared their experiences with the audience.

The publication is an international  collaborative work bringing together reflections and experiences from diplomats, policymakers, and scholars who have shaped, negotiated, and lived the realities of international relations.

This book explores how geopolitical decisions intersect with complex human realities and how diplomacy continues to be an essential tool for peace, negotiation, and building the future — not merely an academic concept, but something lived and practiced on the ground. 

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The Dragon’s Path in Georgian Media: China in Georgia’s Information Environment

Research / /

We would like to present our new report: “The Dragon’s Path in Georgian Media: China in the Georgian Information Environment,” which clearly demonstrates how the Georgian media landscape is being shaped in a way that reflects the anti-Western trajectory of the ruling party, while simultaneously promoting the governance model of the People’s Republic of China as a parallel or alternative path for Georgian society.

The media analysis unequivocally reveals the systematic dissemination of propaganda messages and well-crafted narratives aimed at:

  • discrediting liberal democracy;
  • portraying the West as a space of crisis, weakness, and moral decline;
  • establishing China as a stable, successful, and desirable alternative.

Key Findings:

The report shows that China-related content in Georgian media has significantly increased and become more structured, particularly after “strategic partnership” with China became a government priority.

The following trends are identified:

  • Pro-government media consistently portrays China as a strong, peaceful, and reliable partner, while critical assessments are virtually absent;
  • At the same time, the West is frequently depicted in the context of crisis, moral degradation, and political weakness;
  • Media discourse continuously constructs a contrast in which China succeeds where the West fails — in areas such as war and peace, economic development, and global stability;
  • Some media outlets receive direct funding from the Chinese Embassy and disseminate content with clear signs of propaganda;
  • Even the Public Broadcaster fails to provide balanced coverage and often aligns with government narratives;
  • The media environment increasingly promotes the idea that closer ties with China represent a “pragmatic” alternative to the Western foreign policy course.

The report also shows that positive narratives about China are systematically framed within the context of the “failure” of the West, creating a unified informational framework—China is presented as a model of success, while the West is depicted as an example of crisis and failure.

These trends pose a serious challenge to Georgia’s democratic development, the process of Euro-Atlantic integration, and the country’s information security. This demonstrates that informational influence is no longer merely a media issue; it is directly linked to the country’s strategic choices and the future of its democratic development.

Full report

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“Power and Geopolitics in the 21st Century” –  Lecture by Jill Dougherty at Civic IDEA

New / /

Bringing decades of experience in international journalism and Russian affairs, Jill Dougherty delivered a lecture titled “Power and Geopolitics in the 21st Century” on March 11 for alumni of Civic Idea projects and participants of its ongoing programs.

The lecture explored how geopolitics shapes the distribution of power in today’s international system, examining how major powers project influence and how smaller states – like Georgia – navigate external pressures and shifting global dynamics, with examples from Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Jill Dougherty is an expert on Russia and the region. She served as CNN’s Moscow Bureau Chief for nearly a decade and has held key roles including White House Correspondent and Foreign Affairs Correspondent. She is currently a CNN on-air contributor, an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University, and affiliated with research institutions such as the Woodrow Wilson Center and the Kennan Institute. She is also the author of My Russia: What I Saw from the Kremlin, reflecting her decades-long experience covering the region.

The Lecture was held in an interactive format, allowing participants to engage in discussion and exchange perspectives on the topics covered.

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US-China trade negotiations amid Trump-Xi Jinping Meeting

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

U.S. and Chinese officials met in Paris on Monday, March 16th. The negotiations have been led by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, to finalize trade and agriculture proposals that could set the stage for a possible summit between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping later this month.

The talks focused on expanding Chinese purchases of U.S. farm goods, including soybeans, and creating new mechanisms to manage trade frictions. Reuters, citing sources familiar with the negotiations, said officials also discussed a possible “Board of Trade” and “Board of Investment” to address sector-specific issues.

The talks also addressed strategic supply chains. Reuters reported that U.S. officials raised access to Chinese critical minerals, including aerospace-grade yttrium, while urging Beijing to buy more Boeing aircraft and U.S. energy exports.

Still, broader geopolitical tensions threaten to overshadow the trade track. Trump said in an interview with the Financial Times, that he may delay the China trip unless Beijing helps efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after conflict-related disruption sent fresh shockwaves through energy markets.

China has meanwhile kept a harder public line on U.S. trade pressure. In a statement carried by Xinhua News Agency, China’s commerce ministry said it had lodged representations with Washington over a new U.S. forced-labor-related trade probe and urged the United States to “correct its wrongdoings” and resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation. AP also reported that Beijing described the new U.S. investigation as damaging to global supply-chain stability.

The Paris talks appeared aimed more at stabilizing ties than achieving an immediate breakthrough. That suggests both sides are trying to preserve momentum in the relationship even as trade disputes and the Iran-linked energy crisis add new uncertainty.

Author: Mariam Simsive 

US-China trade negotiations amid Trump-Xi Jinping Meeting Read More »

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