Civicidea

Xi Jinping Meets Lukashenko

Newswire / /

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Beijing on June 29. During the meeting, Beijing underscored its support for Belarus’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.

According to Chinese state media, Xi said that China and Belarus should maintain strategic communication and promote the further development of bilateral relations. Beijing stated that the deepening of ties between the two countries should serve the interests of both peoples.

Belarusian president’s administration said that Lukashenko placed particular emphasis on economic and industrial cooperation during the meeting. He cited the Great Stone Industrial Park as one of the successful examples of cooperation with China, noting that Chinese companies account for a significant share of foreign investment there. Lukashenko also said that in 2026-2027, industrial cooperation would be one of the key areas in China-Belarus relations.

Xi described the two countries as “iron friends” and said that China-Belarus relations had withstood changes in the international environment. Beijing’s message represents a demonstration of diplomatic support for Belarus and shows that China continues to deepen ties with countries facing Western sanctions and political pressure.

Against this backdrop, Belarus is increasingly relying on cooperation with China and Russia for economic, political, and security support. Before meeting Xi Jinping, Lukashenko arrived in Beijing from Moscow, where he had met with Vladimir Putin several days earlier.

Xi Jinping Meets Lukashenko Read More »

Wang Yi and Ajit Doval Agree on the Normalization Process of China-India Relations

Newswire / /

Chinese Foreign Minister and member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Wang Yi met Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval in New Delhi. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 16th Meeting of BRICS National Security Advisers and High Representatives on Security Issues.

India says, that the meeting was “constructive and forward-looking”. The sides discussed the recent dynamics of bilateral relations and noted that relations between China and India are moving toward gradual normalization.

According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi said during the meeting that China-India relations had returned to a path of “recovery and improvement”. He emphasized the need to restore dialogue mechanisms and expand cooperation in areas such as trade, finance, law enforcement, and media.

Doval, for his part, noted that stable, predictable, and constructive relations would help strengthen trust and mutual understanding between the two countries. According to Indian media, one of the main topics of discussion was the normalization of relations after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash and years of military tensions in eastern Ladakh.

According to Beijing’s assessment, the situation in the China-India border area is stable, and the sides continue to maintain communication on border-related issues. China’s foreign ministry said the two sides are working to prepare the 25th round of talks between the Special Representatives on the China-India boundary question.

After the 2020 border confrontation, China-India relations deteriorated significantly. However, in recent years, through negotiations held via diplomatic and military channels, the sides have taken steps toward reducing tensions.

Wang Yi and Ajit Doval Agree on the Normalization Process of China-India Relations Read More »

Wang Yi attends BRICS security meeting in New Delhi

Newswire / /

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has arrived in India to participate in the 16th Meeting of BRICS National Security Advisors and High Representatives. For both countries, this visit represents a significant effort to revive bilateral dialogue.

At the high-level forum currently underway in New Delhi, security and foreign policy leaders from BRICS member states are discussing several critical issues. The agenda includes regional security challenges, joint counter-terrorism mechanisms, and the global geopolitical situation.

The head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry will hold meetings with India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other high-ranking officials. The main topics of discussion will include border security between Beijing and Delhi, maintaining regional stability, and strengthening economic and strategic cooperation within the framework of the BRICS platform.

The visit is particularly noteworthy against the backdrop of recent border tensions between China and India. According to foreign media assessments, this meeting is a gradual attempt by both sides to prevent further escalation of the conflict and to maintain channels of communication between the two regional powers.

The BRICS security meeting will continue until June 23.

Wang Yi attends BRICS security meeting in New Delhi Read More »

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (15-21 June)

Weekly news / /
Georgia

Mariam Kvrivishvili Meets Chinese Ambassador to Georgia

15 June

On 15 June, Georgia’s Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Mariam Kvrivishvili, met with the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Georgia, Zhou Qian. According to the Ministry of Economy, the parties discussed the current state of trade and economic relations between the two countries and prospects for their further development.

The meeting highlighted the growing dynamics of bilateral trade and emphasized the importance of the Middle Corridor and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement between Georgia and China.

The minister also reviewed the outcomes of her recent visit to China, focusing on progress achieved and the expansion of cooperation in the civil aviation and tourism sectors.

Deputy Ministers Tamar Ioseliani and Genadi Arveladze also attended the meeting.

 

Irakli Kobakhidze Meets Delegation of China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission

16 June

On 16 June, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze met with a delegation from China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission (NEAC), led by Commissioner Qin Yizhi.

The parties discussed bilateral strategic partnership and prospects for cooperation on ethnic affairs. During the meeting, it was noted that Georgia and China are prepared to share their experiences through both bilateral and international platforms.

Special attention was paid to Georgia’s state policy on civic equality and integration, as well as the country’s ten-year strategy aimed at ensuring equal opportunities.

The meeting at the Government Administration was also attended by Tea Akhvlediani and Levan Zhorzholiani.

 

Maka Bochorishvili Meets Qin Yizhi

16 June

On 16 June, Georgia’s Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maka Bochorishvili, met with Qin Yizhi, Commissioner of China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission, who was visiting Georgia on an official visit.

The parties discussed the dynamics of Georgia-China relations and opportunities to deepen cooperation within the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The discussion also focused on cooperation between Georgia’s Office of the State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality and China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission.

Participants emphasized the importance of maintaining high-level political dialogue. China reaffirmed its support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while the Georgian side once again confirmed its support for the One China policy.

 

Tea Akhvlediani Meets Delegation of China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission

16 June

On 16 June, Georgia’s State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality, Tea Akhvlediani, met with a delegation from China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission.

According to the State Minister’s Office, the high-level Chinese delegation’s visit is hosted by the agency and aims to further deepen cooperation within the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

The parties discussed issues of mutual importance, exchanged views on future priorities, and explored potential directions for expanding bilateral cooperation.

As part of the visit, the Chinese delegation was also scheduled to hold introductory and working meetings with representatives of Georgia’s executive and legislative branches.

Azerbaijan

 

Chinese Delegation Visits Sagarejo Public Service Hall

18 June

On 18 June, a delegation from China’s National Ethnic Affairs Commission visited the Public Service Hall in Sagarejo.

During the visit, Deputy Minister of Justice Lana Morgoshia and Chairman of the Public Service Hall Vakhtang Zhvania introduced the guests to the institution’s concept and operational model.

Particular attention was given to ensuring access to public services for non-Georgian-speaking populations as part of Georgia’s civic integration efforts, as well as to the mechanisms developed for this purpose.

The visit was aimed at further strengthening cooperation within the framework of the Georgia-China strategic partnership.

 

Azerbaijan and China Discuss Deeper Customs Cooperation

18 June

Against the backdrop of growing cargo traffic along the Middle Corridor, Azerbaijan and China are considering measures to strengthen cooperation in the customs sector.

According to officials, the issue was discussed during a meeting held on 18 June at Azerbaijan’s State Customs Committee, attended by China’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Lu Mei.

The State Customs Committee stated that the main focus of the talks was the expansion of institutional ties between the customs authorities of the two countries, aimed at managing the increasing flow of goods along the strategic transit route connecting Asia and Europe.

The parties also discussed opportunities for exchanging expertise, adopting international best practices, and further deepening cooperation in customs administration.

Armenia

 

Large-Scale Evacuation of Chinese Citizens from Iran Through Armenia

18 June

Amid ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, the evacuation of foreign nationals from Iran continues. According to the Chinese Embassy in Armenia, more than 600 Chinese citizens entered Armenia from Iran through the Agarak border crossing on 18 June.

It is noteworthy that China’s diplomatic mission in Tehran had already warned its citizens on 17 June about the possible closure of land borders and urged them to leave the country as soon as possible.

 

The Armenian authorities have also been actively involved in facilitating the evacuation of citizens of other countries for security reasons.

Kyrgyzstan

 

Meeting Between the Leaders of China and Kyrgyzstan

17 June

On 17 June, on the sidelines of the China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov. The two leaders discussed deepening their strategic partnership, expanding trade and investment, and strengthening cooperation in infrastructure and energy.

Xi Jinping stated that China-Kyrgyzstan relations are at a historic high point and emphasized cooperation in energy, artificial intelligence, and transport, including the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project.

Japarov noted that China is Kyrgyzstan’s largest trading and investment partner and expressed readiness to encourage broader participation by Chinese companies in the country’s development. He reaffirmed Kyrgyzstan’s support for the One China principle, opposition to “Taiwan independence”, and resistance to external interference in China’s internal affairs.

Following the meeting, the two leaders signed a number of bilateral cooperation agreements covering agriculture, customs affairs, science and technology, and media cooperation.

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (15-21 June) Read More »

Wang Yi Signals a New Stage in China-India Dialogue

Newswire / /

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit India on June 22-23 to participate in the 16th Meeting of BRICS National Security Advisers and High Representatives on Security Affairs.

The information was confirmed on June 19 by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a press briefing. Participants are expected to discuss key international and regional security issues. According to Lin, the meeting will serve as an important preparatory step for the upcoming BRICS Summit under India’s chairmanship.

According to Indian media reports, Wang Yi’s trip will be his first official visit to India after a nearly one-year pause. Analysts view the visit as a sign of the gradual normalization of relations between Beijing and New Delhi, which deteriorated significantly following the 2020 border clashes.

The The Times of India noted that Wang Yi’s participation is particularly significant given that he did not attend the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting held in May. The newspaper assessed that his presence indicates that China and India are seeking to stabilize relations through stronger cooperation on multilateral platforms.

Meanwhile, according to the Deccan Chronicle, Wang Yi is expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the BRICS gathering with Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The sides are expected to discuss bilateral relations as well as regional security issues.

Wang Yi Signals a New Stage in China-India Dialogue Read More »

China Demands Strengthening the Role of the “Global South” at the UN

Newswire / /

China is demanding an increase in the representation and influence of developing countries, the so-called “Global South”, within the UN and the global governance system. According to official Beijing, the current international architecture does not sufficiently reflect the interests of these countries.

The relevant statement was made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a briefing in Beijing on June 17. The minister explained that the modern international environment is characterized by “crisis and uncertainty”, which increases the necessity for multilateral cooperation.

Wang Yi noted that the international system needs a more just and inclusive format, where the voices of developing countries are heard more clearly. According to him, all states, “large or small, developed or developing”, should be equal.

Beijing’s position is reflected in China’s new political document (the so-called White Paper), which aims to reform the UN system and increase the role of the developing world in decision-making processes. Chinese official agencies explained that the initiative will contribute to a more effective response to global crises.

UN official data confirms that in recent years, China has been actively strengthening the frameworks of “South-South Cooperation”, which entails deepening economic and technological ties among developing nations.

Critics argue that through this initiative, Beijing is attempting to expand its own spheres of influence on the international stage and form a counter-bloc to Washington and Brussels.



China Demands Strengthening the Role of the “Global South” at the UN Read More »

China in the South Caucasus and Kazakhstan (8-14 June)

Newswire, Weekly news / /
Georgia

 Georgia and China sign comprehensive strategic partnership agreement

9 June

According to the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, Georgia and China are moving to the stage of a comprehensive strategic partnership. He stated that the corresponding agreement was signed on June 9.

Kobakhidze noted that the strategic partnership agreement signed three years ago contributed to the deepening of political, economic, and trade ties between the two countries. According to the Prime Minister, the new stage will further strengthen Georgian-Chinese cooperation and create additional opportunities in economic, transport, and humanitarian directions.

He also added that in recent years, visa-free travel was introduced between Georgia and China, the number of direct flights increased, and trade and economic relations expanded, which became the foundation for deepening bilateral cooperation.

 

Mikheil Kavelashvili and Xi Jinping exchange congratulatory letters on 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations

9 June

Regarding the 34th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the President of Georgia Mikheil Kavelashvili and the President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping exchanged congratulatory letters.

In the congratulatory letters exchanged on June 9, the leaders noted that over the past 34 years, bilateral ties have developed on the basis of mutual respect, trust, and constructive cooperation, which ensured significant progress in various directions.

According to the parties’ assessment, a special dynamic was given to the relations after the establishment of a strategic partnership in 2023, which further deepened political trust and expanded practical cooperation in the fields of trade, investment, connectivity, culture, education, and people-to-people ties.

Mikheil Kavelashvili stated that Georgia attaches great importance to relations with China and is ready to further deepen the partnership, which will contribute to the development of both countries and the well-being of their peoples.

For his part, Xi Jinping noted that China always views relations with Georgia from a long-term strategic perspective, and the formation of a new format, a comprehensive strategic partnership, will give additional momentum to bilateral cooperation and further strengthen traditional friendship.

According to the parties’ assessment, the decision made to elevate Georgia-China relations to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership aims to deepen bilateral cooperation and create additional benefits for the people of the two countries.



 

Foreign Ministry marks 34th anniversary of Georgia-China diplomatic relations

9 June

On June 9, an event dedicated to the 34th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Georgia and China was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aleksandre Khvtisiashvili, and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Georgia, Zhou Qian. It was noted at the event that, by decision of the countries’ leaders, relations between Georgia and China have moved to the stage of a comprehensive strategic partnership.

The parties emphasized the friendly relations established over recent decades and the importance of cooperation in economic, cultural, and educational fields.

 

Ambassador Zhou Qian: “Middle Corridor” and “Belt and Road Initiative” are important for Georgia and Europe-China connectivity

9 June

For the People’s Republic of China, Georgia is an important partner of the “Belt and Road Initiative”. The Ambassador of China to Georgia, Zhou Qian, stated this at a joint briefing held on June 9 with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Aleksandre Khvtisiashvili.

According to him, the “Middle Corridor” and the “Belt and Road Initiative” play an important role not only at the regional but also at the global level, contributing to the strengthening of stable transport and economic ties between Europe and China.

The Ambassador focused on recent events in the Middle East and Iran and noted the special importance of alternative land routes, particularly in crisis situations.

Zhou Qian noted that one of the pillars of China’s diplomacy is relations with developing countries, and partnership with Georgia occupies a special place in this context. According to him, Tbilisi and Beijing share a common vision regarding the international order, which is based on the principles of the UN Charter and the protection of justice.

According to the Ambassador’s assessment, cooperation between the two countries is based on mutual benefit. He stated that China is open to Georgian products, while Georgia benefits from the opportunity to gain experience and technological innovations from China, as one of the leaders in the global economy and innovation. The briefing also focused on the tourism sector and the deepening of people-to-people ties.

 

Meeting between law enforcement agencies of Georgia and China

12 June

On June 12, a delegation from the Department of Public Security of Guizhou Province of the People’s Republic of China paid a working visit to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia.

According to the agency, the delegation was led by Yang Zhuo, Deputy Director General of the Department of Public Security of Guizhou Province. Within the framework of the visit, they met with the Deputy Ministers of Internal Affairs, Giorgi Sakhokia and Shalva Tadumadze. The meeting was also attended by the Director of the Tbilisi Police Department, Vazha Siradze.

The parties discussed the existing cooperation between the law enforcement agencies of the two countries and also reviewed the prospects for further expanding current ties, including in the field of police education.

As part of the working visit, the delegation visited the Public Security and Police Academy, where the parties signed a memorandum of cooperation. The agreement entails the implementation of joint educational projects, as well as the sharing of experience and best practices.

During the visit, the guests also visited the Expertise-Criminalistic Department, where the members of the delegation received information about the specifics of the unit’s activities and toured the existing forensic laboratories.

 

Natia Turnava meets Governor of the People’s Bank of China

12 June

During meetings in Shanghai, on June 12, the Acting Governor of the National Bank of Georgia, Natia Turnava, met with the Governor of the Central Bank of China, Pan Gongsheng.

During the meeting, attention was focused on the current state of financial and economic cooperation between the two countries and the opportunities for its strengthening. The parties reviewed the results of the memorandum signed last year and noted that the dynamics of cooperation have increased following the document.

Natia Turnava emphasized that Georgia-China economic relations are developing steadily, which creates additional opportunities for expanding cooperation in the financial sector. Trade and economic ties were also discussed at the meeting.

It was noted that China remains one of Georgia’s main partners, which is reflected in the volume of foreign trade, as well as in the growth trends of investments and tourism. In conclusion, the parties expressed their readiness to continue active cooperation with the aim of further deepening economic and financial relations.

 

Natia Turnava meets ICBC President

13 June

During the symposium held in Shanghai, Natia Turnava, the President of the National Bank of Georgia, met with Lin Liao, the President of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), one of China’s largest financial institutions, on June 13.

At the meeting, the parties discussed the existing cooperation between the National Bank of Georgia and ICBC and the opportunities for its further development. The conversation also touched upon deepening the partnership in trading Chinese securities and investing in the Chinese bond market. Additionally, attention was focused on current trends in international financial markets and future prospects.

ICBC is one of the largest banks in China and the world, with total assets reaching approximately $7.6 trillion. The financial institution operates in 49 countries and is considered one of the leading players in the global banking sector.

The bank is also actively involved in investment banking services, particularly in the primary and secondary markets of government bonds of developing countries.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan and China strengthening scientific and academic cooperation

10 June

On June 10, the Deputy Minister of Science and Education of Azerbaijan, Hasan Hasanli, met with a delegation from Xi’an Shiyou University of China. At the official meeting, the parties summarized the existing partnership between the two countries and outlined future initiatives.

The main focus was placed on deepening ties between the Chinese educational institution and higher education institutions of Azerbaijan, activating exchange programs for students and academic staff, and prospects for implementing joint scientific-research projects.

Within the framework of the same visit, the Chinese delegation also visited Baku State University. At the working meeting held with the management of the higher education institution, the parties discussed specific ways of strengthening bilateral academic cooperation and developing partnerships between the universities.

 

Azerbaijan-China trade exceeds $1.5 billion

11 June

In January-April of the current year, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and China increased by 6.1% compared to the same period last year and amounted to 1.514 billion dollars. Trend News Agency published this data on June 11.

According to the review, China is among Azerbaijan’s four largest trading partners, accounting for 8.7% of the country’s total trade turnover. During the reporting period, exports from Azerbaijan to China increased significantly and reached 40.0 million dollars, while imports from China exceeded 1.47 billion dollars.

Overall, during the same period, Azerbaijan’s total foreign trade increased to 17.4 billion dollars, as a result of which the country recorded a positive trade balance of 6.35 billion dollars.

In addition to trade relations, bilateral economic cooperation actively includes the energy, finance, and transport sectors, where special attention is paid to strategic projects for the development of the “Middle Corridor”.

 

Azerbaijan expands food exports to China

12 June

On June 12, Azerbaijan and China signed a package of agreements aimed at expanding the export of Azerbaijani agri-food products to the Chinese market. The documents were signed during a visit to China led by Goshgar Tahmazli, Chairman of the Food Safety Agency of Azerbaijan.

The parties discussed expanding market access for Azerbaijani agricultural and food products, promoting safe and efficient trade, implementing digital solutions, and the mutual recognition of certification processes. Three protocols were also signed, regulating the export rules for wild aquatic bioresources, aquaculture products, and poultry meat to China.

During the visit, the sides discussed strengthening food safety control and risk-based inspection systems, as well as deepening cooperation with China’s customs and regulatory authorities. The agreements aim to strengthen bilateral agro-transport and economic cooperation.

Armenia

Chinese investment in Armenian media

13 June

The Public Television of Armenia, with the support of China, is building a new, modern broadcasting studio. Information about this is reported by the Chinese media agency People’s Daily.

According to Ruben Shahinyan, the head of strategic programs at the television company, the main goal of the project is to increase its own television content and transform the channel into a modern media hub. According to the project, the total area of the new complex exceeds 7,100 square meters, of which 1,000 square meters will be dedicated specifically to the filming set.

The construction work underway in the Nork-Marash district of Yerevan is being carried out by Chinese companies “China Jiangsu International” and “Nanjing Lopu”. According to Pan Song, the head of the engineering team, the structural part of the building is already completed. Notably, the visual concept of the complex blends elements of traditional Chinese courtyards and Armenian architecture.

According to both sides, this technological initiative will significantly improve the quality of Armenian television broadcasting and lay the foundation for a new stage of cultural exchange and partnership between the two countries.

Kazakhstan

 

Kazakhstan and Jiangsu Province deepen economic cooperation

14 June

The First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, Nurlybek Nalibayev, met with Xin Changxing, the Secretary of the Jiangsu Provincial Party Committee, on June 14. The parties discussed the deepening of regional and investment cooperation.

Nalibayev named China as Kazakhstan’s main economic partner and noted the high industrial potential of Jiangsu Province. Attention was focused on cooperation in the fields of industry, innovation, logistics, and the digital economy.

The Chinese side emphasized the transit importance of Kazakhstan on the China-Europe route and expressed readiness to expand direct business contacts. It was also noted that the “Central Asia-Jiangsu Center” could become an important platform for investment and technology exchange.

 

Tokayev congratulates Xi Jinping on his birthday

15 June

On June 15, the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, congratulated the President of China, Xi Jinping, on his birthday and sent an official congratulatory telegram.

Tokayev particularly emphasized the Chinese leader’s personal contribution to strengthening the strategic partnership existing between the two countries. According to him, relations between Beijing and Astana are firmly based on friendship, good neighborliness, and mutual support.

At the end of the congratulatory letter, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed confidence that the multifaceted Kazakhstan-China partnership will continue to expand in the future and rise to a new, even higher level.

China in the South Caucasus and Kazakhstan (8-14 June) Read More »

Nepal’s Foreign Minister to Visit China on Official Trip

Newswire / /

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal will pay an official visit to China from June 14-17. The visit is taking place at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and aims to further deepen political, economic, and strategic cooperation between Beijing and Kathmandu.

During the visit, high-level bilateral meetings are scheduled, where the two sides will discuss trade and economic relations, the development of cross-border connectivity, infrastructure projects, tourism, and broader regional cooperation. Meetings are also expected with representatives of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the International Department of the Communist Party of China.

Both sides are expected to place particular emphasis on infrastructure cooperation, including ongoing and planned projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, as China has become one of Nepal’s largest partners in recent years, playing a significant role in developing the country’s transport, energy, and logistics systems.

The visit is also being viewed in a broader regional geopolitical context. According to Nepalese media, Khanal is scheduled to travel to China just days after completing a three-day official visit to India, which analysts say reflects Kathmandu’s efforts to maintain a balanced foreign policy between its two neighboring countries, India and China.

The visit highlights China’s interest in strengthening its position in South Asia, while for Nepal it represents an opportunity to attract additional investment and expand economic cooperation with one of the region’s most influential powers.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister to Visit China on Official Trip Read More »

Europe Criticizes China’s Maritime Activities as Taipei Strengthens Defense Readiness

Newswire / /

The United Kingdom, France, and Germany have described the increased activity of China’s coast guard east of Taiwan as an alarming development. At the same time, Taipei says the time available for early response in the event of a potential Chinese attack is becoming increasingly limited.

According to Reuters, on June 24, the representatives of the three European countries said in a joint statement that China’s new maritime activity poses a threat to regional stability and freedom of navigation.

The European statement followed accusations from Taiwan that Chinese coast guard vessels had been stopping commercial ships east of the island, requesting information about their routes and destinations, and asserting jurisdictional claims over those waters. Taipei views these actions as part of “gray zone” pressure.

Beijing says that its coast guard activities are lawful. According to China, the patrols are linked to talks between Japan and the Philippines on maritime boundary issues, which Beijing views as a step against its own interests.

Against this backdrop, Taiwan has launched five days of military drills. According to the Associated Press, the exercises aim to test how quickly Taiwan’s military can shift from peacetime operations to combat readiness if China’s regular military activity suddenly turns into a real attack.

Taiwanese Defense Minister Wellington Koo said the time available to identify a possible Chinese attack in advance is shrinking. According to him, this is why it is necessary to practically test the military’s ability to mobilize quickly and respond immediately.

Europe Criticizes China’s Maritime Activities as Taipei Strengthens Defense Readiness Read More »

 Young Researcher Program

New, Project / /
Civic IDEA’s Young Researcher Program Successfully Concludes.

On June 10, participants of Civic IDEA’s Young Researcher Program presented the results of their research projects during the program’s final presentations and award ceremony.

Over the course of two months, participants completed a series of theoretical training sessions before working in teams to produce policy-oriented research on topics of strategic importance to Georgia.

🏆 Congratulations to this year’s winning team:

Andria Sajaia, Saba Kartvelishvili, and saba kvizhinadze, whose research on the growing Chinese influence in Georgia’s banking sector was selected as the best project. Their paper will be published on the Civic IDEA website in the near future.

We thank all participants for their dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm throughout the program and wish them continued success in their academic and professional endeavors.

 Young Researcher Program Read More »

Scroll to Top