Civicidea

China Steps Up Diplomatic Engagement Amid Iran Crisis

Amid the ongoing Iran crisis, China is intensifying its diplomatic activity, stating that it will continue to support de-escalation and promote negotiations. According to Beijing, the immediate priority is to prevent further escalation in the region and preserve space for dialogue.

This position was reaffirmed during an April 15 briefing, in which Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun noted that China welcomes all efforts to end the conflict.

Within this framework, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that during a meeting on April 14 with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of peace in the Middle East and outlined four key principles for maintaining stability: peaceful coexistence, respect for national sovereignty, adherence to international law, and a balance between development and security.

According to The Wall Street Journal, on April 15, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, during which they discussed the regional situation and the progress of Iran-U.S. negotiations. Wang Yi described the situation as being at a “critical stage between war and peace” and noted that a “window of opportunity for peace is opening”. He also stressed China’s support for a ceasefire, continued negotiations, the protection of Iran’s sovereignty, and ensuring safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Amid the crisis, China continues its diplomatic engagement through both direct communication and coordination with international partners. Notably, on March 31, China and Pakistan introduced a joint five-point initiative calling for an immediate ceasefire, the launch of peace talks, and respect for the sovereignty of Iran and Gulf states.

China is acting with particular caution in this process: on the one hand, it seeks to maintain communication channels with Iran, while on the other, it avoids escalating tensions with Washington.

Reuters reports that Wang Yi has held about 30 phone calls and meetings on ceasefire efforts, while China’s special envoy has conducted diplomatic consultations in several Gulf and Arab capitals. The agency also notes that Beijing’s increased activity coincides with statements by Donald Trump about a possible meeting with Xi Jinping in May. However, China’s Foreign Ministry has only confirmed that communication between the sides on this issue is ongoing.

Author: Mariam Simsive

China Steps Up Diplomatic Engagement Amid Iran Crisis Read More »

Sánchez and Xi Jinping Agree to Deepen Ties

On April 14 in Beijing, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two sides discussed strengthening cooperation and the strategic importance of bilateral relations.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Xi Jinping spoke about enhancing communication between the two countries and expanding cooperation. He said the priority areas include trade, new energy, the smart economy, culture, education, research, and sports. Beijing also noted that China is ready to work with Spain to uphold multilateralism and the international order based on the United Nations.

The Spanish government reported that 19 agreements were signed during the visit. The documents cover economic, cultural, and scientific-technological cooperation. Several protocols were also signed to expand Spanish products’ access to the Chinese market. The areas of cooperation also include transport infrastructure, biodiversity, and university research.

At the same time, Madrid used the visit to raise the issue of balancing trade relations with China. According to the government, Madrid wants not only close, but also healthier and more balanced economic relations with Beijing.

The prime minister said that agreements already reached had helped boost Spanish exports, while the new package is expected to further expand access to the Chinese market and encourage investment. Sánchez also called on Chinese investors to pursue projects in Spain that would create local jobs, facilitate knowledge transfer, and strengthen the local economy.

Pedro Sánchez’s April 11-15 visit to China took place at a time when a number of Western countries, despite disagreements in the areas of security and trade, are seeking to rebalance their relations with Beijing. This process has become particularly visible amid growing dissatisfaction among Western partners with the policies of U.S. President Donald Trump, prompting some countries to diversify their foreign economic ties.

Author: Mariam Simsive

Sánchez and Xi Jinping Agree to Deepen Ties Read More »

FCC Prepares New Restrictions on Chinese Telecom Companies

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is planning to tighten regulatory controls on Chinese telecommunications companies.

The agency may restrict the operations of China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom in relation to data centers and internet exchange points in the United States, while also strengthening oversight of their interconnection with American networks. An initial vote on the matter is scheduled for April 30.

According to the FCC’s preliminary assessment, interconnection with companies included on its official list poses risks to national security. The Commission’s document notes that such entities may have the capacity to access and manipulate data or to manage communications channels in a potentially improper manner. For this reason, the proposed restrictions are being considered not only for telecommunications services, but also for data centers and other critical infrastructure nodes.

The new initiative forms part of Washington’s broader policy toward Chinese telecommunications firms. In 2019, the FCC denied China Mobile authorization to provide telecommunications services in the United States, and in subsequent years revoked the authorizations previously granted to China Unicom and China Telecom Americas. In April 2024, the Commission also ordered the American subsidiaries of these operators to discontinue their fixed and mobile broadband internet services.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington criticized the FCC’s initiative, stating that the United States justifies the imposition of restrictions on Chinese companies under the pretext of protecting national interests and state security. According to Beijing’s assessment, however, Washington applies the concept of national security in practice with excessively broad scope, and this approach ultimately serves to impose additional constraints on the activities of Chinese businesses.

Author: Mariam Simsive

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From Promise to Disparity: Two Years of Georgia-China Strategic Relations

Civic IDEA is pleased to share its latest policy paper:

“From Promise to Disparity: Two Years of Georgia–China Strategic Relations”

The paper assesses the development of Georgia–China relations since the signing of the Strategic Partnership in July 2023 and evaluates whether the promised benefits have materialized in practice.

Our findings show that despite growing political engagement and pro-Chinese rhetoric from the Georgian Dream government, the partnership has produced limited tangible benefits for Georgia. Instead, bilateral relations increasingly reflect structural asymmetry across political, economic, and educational domains.

The paper examines:

  • Political relations and growing party-to-party ties with the CCP
  • China’s lack of diplomatic support for Georgia internationally
  • Trade imbalances and declining Georgian exports to China
  • Limited Chinese investment despite strategic partnership rhetoric
  • Expansion of Chinese companies in Georgian infrastructure and energy sectors
  • Chinese soft power and educational influence in Georgia

From Promise to Disparity: Two Years of Georgia-China Strategic Relations Read More »

Beijing and Pyongyang Agree to Deepen Relations

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit North Korea on April 9-10.

According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the visit is aimed at enhancing strategic communication, high-level contacts, and cooperation between Beijing and Pyongyang.

As mentioned in the official information, 2026 marks the 65th anniversary of the signing of the China-North Korea Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, and the two sides are also planning commemorative events.

The same statement notes that the North Korean side once again reaffirmed its support for the “One China” principle and expressed readiness to deepen practical cooperation between the two countries.

The visit comes amid the recent intensification of political and transport links between Beijing and Pyongyang, as passenger train service between the two capitals has resumed, Air China flights have restarted, and Chinese exports to North Korea reached $2.3 billion in 2025, the highest level in the past six years.

According to the agency, this warming in ties was preceded by Kim Jong Un’s visit to Beijing in September 2025 and Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s trip to Pyongyang in October. Reuters notes that this is the first publicly known visit by a Chinese foreign minister to North Korea since 2019.

Author: Mariam Simsive

Beijing and Pyongyang Agree to Deepen Relations Read More »

China Mediates Talks Between Pakistan and Afghanistan

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

China Mediates Talks Between Pakistan and Afghanistan Read More »

European Parliament Delegation Pays Official Visit to China

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

European Parliament Delegation Pays Official Visit to China Read More »

Dialogue: Europe in a Reconfiguring World

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)

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 »

China launches reciprocal investigations into U.S. trade practices

On March 27, China launched two investigations into U.S. trade practices and accused Washington of restricting access to the trade market and disrupting commerce in green products.

Beijing’s announcement followed two earlier U.S. decisions. On March 11, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative opened an investigation under Section 301 into structural overcapacity in various manufacturing sectors.

According to China’s Commerce Ministry, the steps taken by the United States restrict Chinese products’ access to the U.S. market, hamper exports of advanced technologies to China, and create barriers to trade in the green energy sector.

Although a trade truce has remained in place between Washington and Beijing since the October 2025 meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, recent developments show that disagreements over industrial policy, market access, and technology trade remain on the agenda.

According to Reuters, Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao also raised concerns about the U.S. investigations during his latest meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, while noting that Beijing remains ready to deepen economic and trade cooperation.

Media sources suggest that both sides are trying to preserve leverage for negotiations while also avoiding a sharp deterioration in diplomatic relations.

Beijing’s decision to respond to U.S. steps with formal investigations rather than tougher trade tariffs indicates that room for negotiations still remains, even as the trade dispute has already expanded to include supply chains, high-tech exports, and green industries.

Author: Mariam Simsive

China launches reciprocal investigations into U.S. trade practices Read More »

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