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Keir Starmer Travels to China for Official Visit

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will officially visit the People’s Republic of China from January 28 to 31. On Thursday, he is scheduled to meet President Xi Jinping.

Accompanying Sir Keir Starmer on the visit are Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle and Economic Secretary to the Treasury Lucy Rigby. Around 50 British business and cultural leaders will also take part in the delegation.

The UK government has described the visit as one of the most significant steps in restoring relations with China. Starmer said that the UK’s approach to China had been inconsistent over the years, but added that, “despite the challenges, a strategic relationship with China is in the national interest.”

On the issue, the Beijing Ministry of Commerce stated that China places great importance on economic and trade cooperation with the United Kingdom and is ready to use this visit to strengthen political trust and deepen practical collaboration. According to a deputy minister, more than 100 companies from China and the UK have expressed interest in cooperation.

The visit is expected to cover issues such as human rights, the situation in Hong Kong, Xinjiang, the war in Ukraine, and China’s role in international security. Special attention will also be paid to the participation of Chinese companies in Britain’s critical infrastructure.

It should be noted that Sir Keir Starmer previously met President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024, but this will be the first official visit to China by a British prime minister since 2018.

Author: Mariam Simsive

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Civic IDEA’s contribution referenced in the UN Universal Periodic Review of Georgia

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A report prepared jointly with partners, with contributions from Civic IDEA, has been formally referenced in the United Nations Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process as Joint Submission 1 (JS1). The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights reflected the report’s findings in its official summary of stakeholders’ information for Georgia’s review, placing civil society analysis within the international human rights assessment considered by UN member states.

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a Human Rights Council mechanism that examines the human rights record of every UN member state, drawing on information from governments, civil society, and independent experts. The stakeholder summary referencing our joint submission reflects concerns related to:

  • Shrinking civic space and reported pressure on civil society organizations, journalists, and human rights defenders

  • Legislative changes affecting freedom of assembly, association, and public participation

  • Restrictions linked to laws regulating foreign funding, grants, and NGO operations

  • Allegations of excessive use of force against protesters and broader patterns of intimidation and legal pressure targeting activists

Civic IDEA will continue to monitor the UPR process as the outcome report is finalized and later adopted by the UN Human Rights Council, and remains engaged in documenting developments affecting civic space, rule of law, and the protection of fundamental rights in Georgia.

Civic IDEA’s contribution referenced in the UN Universal Periodic Review of Georgia Read More »

Two of China’s highest-ranking generals have been removed from their positions

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

On January 24, 2026, Chinese authorities removed two senior military leaders from their positions. The move concerns Central Military Commission (CMC) members Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, both of whom played key roles at the highest levels of the People’s Liberation Army.

Zhang Youxia served as Vice Chairman of the CMC and was considered one of the most influential figures in the Chinese military. For years, he was regarded as a close associate of President Xi Jinping and played a significant role in military reforms and the modernization of the armed forces.

Liu Zhenli held the position of Chief of the Joint Staff Department of the CMC and was responsible for operational planning and overall combat readiness of the military.

According to the official version, the generals were removed due to “serious disciplinary violations,” and investigative procedures have been launched against them. However, Chinese authorities have not provided detailed information about the nature of the allegations. At this stage, it has not been officially confirmed whether the generals have been detained, although they have completely disappeared from the public sphere.

According to a report cited by The Wall Street Journal and referenced by The Straits Times, Zhang Youxia is suspected of leaking highly sensitive information related to China’s nuclear weapons program to the United States, as well as accepting large bribes in exchange for official decisions, including military promotions. The report is based on sources familiar with an internal briefing in Beijing. Chinese authorities have not publicly confirmed these specific allegations.

The latest update was released on January 26, when state media and international outlets reported that Beijing once again emphasized the importance of “party discipline and political integrity” within the military.

It remains unclear who will replace the dismissed generals and how this decision will affect China’s military structure and system of governance.

Two of China’s highest-ranking generals have been removed from their positions Read More »

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (January 19-25)

Weekly news / /

Georgia

Georgia’s Ambassador Meets Executive VP of China-Europe Technical and Economic Cooperation Association

20 January

On January 20, 2026, Paata Kalandadze, Georgia’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, held a working meeting with Lu Meizhen, Executive Vice President and Secretary-General of the China-Europe Association for Technical and Economic Cooperation (CEATEC).

During the meeting, both sides discussed deepening cooperation between Georgia and China in the fields of high technology and renewable energy. Topics included collaboration in wind, solar, hydrogen, and energy storage technologies, areas where CEATEC is actively engaged.

Ambassador Kalandadze highlighted Georgia’s attractive investment environment, emphasizing the country’s potential in green energy and interest in adopting innovative Chinese technologies to modernize its energy sector.

Lu Meizhen confirmed her readiness for active cooperation with the Georgian side, expressing CEATEC’s willingness to foster interest from leading Chinese technology companies in expanding into Georgia’s energy market.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties agreed to maintain close coordination with plans to organize joint economic forums and thematic seminars to further strengthen ties.

Source: EMBASSY OF GEORGIA TO THE PEOPLE`S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, China explore implementation of joint projects

19 January

Opportunities for implementing joint projects in aluminum production and expanding bilateral cooperation between the Government of Azerbaijan and the Chinese companies Wanji and Sunstone were discussed.

According to Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Economy, Deputy Minister of Economy Samad Bashirli met with the heads of the Chinese companies.

The company representatives were briefed on Azerbaijan’s favorable investment climate, the infrastructure established in the country’s industrial zones, as well as the incentives and support mechanisms offered to investors.

It was noted at the meeting that Azerbaijan attaches particular importance to the implementation of industry- and technology-oriented projects and is interested in developing long-term cooperation with foreign investors.

The main focus of the talks was on expanding mutual cooperation and exploring opportunities for joint projects in aluminum production.

Wanji is one of the Chinese companies specializing in industrial, transport, and technological solutions. The company is engaged in the development of innovative products and services, improving production efficiency, and expanding cooperation in international markets.

Sunstone is involved in the research, production, and sale of carbon materials (prebaked anodes) for the aluminum industry and is currently one of China’s leading exporters in this field.

Source: Report.az

Aqshin Aliev: Teaching the Azerbaijani Language in China Is an Honorable Mission

19 January

Teaching the Azerbaijani language in China is an honorable and meaningful mission, said Aqshin Aliev, an Azerbaijani scholar and specialist in Chinese language and literature.

Aliev made the remarks in the context of expanding cultural and educational cooperation between Azerbaijan and China, including initiatives aimed at supporting the study and teaching of the Azerbaijani language at Chinese educational institutions. He emphasized that language education plays an important role in strengthening bilateral ties and fostering mutual understanding between the two countries.

According to Aliev, creating opportunities for teaching the Azerbaijani language abroad reflects Azerbaijan’s commitment to cultural outreach and broader international cooperation.

He noted that promoting the Azerbaijani language in China should be viewed not only as an educational priority, but also as a diplomatic achievement that contributes to the overall development of relations between Baku and Beijing.

Aliev stressed that educational and cultural exchanges remain a key pillar of long-term bilateral cooperation.

Source: Azertag.az

Armenia

In Armenia the leaders in terms of export volumes are Russia, the UAE and China

23 January

Armenia’s export volumes fell by 40.6% in the first eleven months of 2025, while Russia, the United Arab Emirates, and China remained the country’s leading export destinations.

According to official data, Armenia’s foreign trade turnover in January-November 2025 totaled $18.9 billion, representing a 33.2% decline compared to the same period in 2024. Exports amounted to $7.35 billion, while imports stood at $11.56 billion, reflecting decreases of 40.6% and 27.4%, respectively.

China was the third largest importer,, while Armenian exports declined by 38.1 %, amounting to $648.5 million.

Source: armenpress.am

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Expands Energy Cooperation with China

23 January

Kyrgyzstan is increasingly strengthening cooperation with China in the coal sector as it seeks to address its energy deficit, particularly during the winter months, when electricity consumption rises and hydropower generation declines.

According to the Ministry of Energy, climate change-driven instability in hydropower output has increased the importance of thermal power plants. Authorities view coal-based generation as a stable, transitional energy solution until long-term projects are implemented.

On January 22, Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibrayev met with representatives of an international consortium and proposed the construction of thermal power plants directly at coal deposits, this model is widely used in China. The consortium expressed readiness to build three coal-fired power plants with a combined capacity of 1,050 MW, using modern “clean coal” technologies.

China is also becoming an increasingly important market for Kyrgyz coal exports. In 2024, exports to China rose to 118,200 tons, marking a sharp increase compared to the previous year. Authorities say this trend reflects deepening energy cooperation between the two countries.

Source: The Times Of Central Asia

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (January 19-25) Read More »

CHINESE COMPANIES IN GEORGIA

New, Research / /

Civic IDEA presents a comprehensive report examining the activities of Chinese companies currently operating in Georgia and their partnerships with the “Georgian Dream” party

Since 2017, Civic IDEA has systematically monitored cooperation between Chinese companies and Georgian state institutions. This paper consolidates our key findings, drawing on both Georgia’s experience and relevant international cases; 

Alarming evidence shows that every single PRC company cooperating with Georgian Dream government has been implicated in at least one serious legal, financial, or ethical violation.

Read the Full Report

CHINESE COMPANIES IN GEORGIA Read More »

China Discusses Global Economic Cooperation in Davos

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

On January 20 in Davos, within the framework of the World Economic Forum (WEF), He Lifeng, Vice Premier of China, presented the country’s key economic messages, centered on expanding open markets, deepening multilateral cooperation, and supporting sustainable global economic growth.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an international non-profit organization that annually convenes government leaders, senior officials from international organizations, as well as representatives of the business community and academic circles, to engage in dialogue on pressing global economic and political issues.

In his special address, He Lifeng stated that China will continue to advance the opening-up of its economy and further improve market access for foreign businesses. According to him, the country will pursue a policy of high-level openness, enhance alignment with international standards, and ensure equal conditions and competitive business environment for both domestic and foreign enterprises.

The Vice Premier emphasized that China’s development “does not pose a threat, but rather represents an opportunity” for the global economy. He noted that Beijing stands ready to expand imports, a step that would creat broader economic opportunities for international partners and contribute to balanced global growth.

He Lifeng also addressed the challenges confronting the global economy, stressing that dialogue and cooperation are essential alternatives to protectionism and economic isolation, and remain among the key prerequisites for maintaining global economic stability.

Within the same forum, other leaders also addressed issues related to China’s role in the global economy. In particular, French President Emmanuel Macron stated in his address in Davos that global economic competition requires clear rules and fair frameworks in order for the international economic system to remain stable and predictable.

In this context, he referred to China as one of the key actors in the global economy and spoke more broadly about risks that may arise in international markets as a result of state support and industrial policies. According to Macron, such factors can affect the fairness of competition and create additional pressure on European industries, highlighting the need for clearer and more consistently applied international economic rules.

The French president also stressed that the response to global economic challenges should not be confrontation, but policies based on dialogue, cooperation, and rules-based international frameworks, which he described as essential for ensuring fair and predictable global economic relations.

At the same forum, Børge Brende, the President and CEO of the World Economic Forum, emphasized that in conditions of global uncertainty, “dialogue is not a luxury in times of uncertainty, it is a necessity”. He underscored the importance of cooperation in the face of economic fragmentation and geopolitical tensions.

Meanwhile, according to information released by the World Economic Forum, the Davos meeting will be held from January 20 to 24 and is expected to bring together up to 3,000 participants from 130 countries and international organizations.

 

Source:

China Global Television Network

The World Economic Forum

CNBC-TV18 

Author: Mariam Simsive

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China accuses foreign forces of covertly stealing sensitive geospatial data

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

China’s Ministry of State Security says foreign forces are covertly attempting to obtain and transfer the country’s sensitive geographic data, warning that such actions pose a threat to China’s national security.

According to the ministry, so-called “anti-China hostile forces” are using various methods, including covert mapping activities and the illegal collection and transmission of data, to gain information about China’s terrain, natural resources, and critical infrastructure.

The ministry says such geospatial data plays a significant role in economic planning as well as military and logistical operations, which is why any leakage is considered a serious security risk. It also highlights inadequate data protection practices that increase the risk of unauthorized access by foreign actors.

In recent years, the Chinese authorities have tightened legislation and oversight related to data security. Officially, Beijing says these measures are necessary to protect national security and regulate the digital space.

The warning was reported by South China Morning Post, which notes that Beijing views geographic and spatial data as a strategic resource and considers control over it a key component of its security policy.

Such statements from China fit into a broader context and reflect rising tensions with Western countries, particularly the United States, in the fields of security and technology.

Source: South China Morning Post

Author: Mariam Simsive

China accuses foreign forces of covertly stealing sensitive geospatial data Read More »

The United States Warns China Not to Expand Its Influence in Latin America

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

The United States has sent a clear message to China to refrain from strengthening its political and economic influence on the American continent. Reuters reports this in connection with a U.S. operation carried out in Venezuela, as a result of which Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were detained on January 3.

According to senior U.S. administration officials, the operation related to Venezuela is part of a broader strategy aimed at limiting the growing influence of China and Russia in Latin America. As Reuters notes, Washington views the region as a key area of its national security and considers the strengthening of any competing power there a strategic challenge.

The report states that the United States is particularly concerned about China’s expanding economic involvement in Latin America, including in the energy sector. In recent years, China has become one of Venezuela’s main economic partners, especially in terms of oil exports and financial support. According to U.S. officials, this cooperation provides Beijing not only with economic leverage but also with political influence in the region.

Reuters writes that the steps taken in Venezuela serve as a direct signal to China that the United States will not allow the consolidation of geopolitical forces in Latin America that run counter to its interests. Officials emphasize that this is not about a single country, but about the entire region, where Washington seeks to maintain the traditional balance of influence.

The tightening of the U.S. position comes amid China’s active expansion of economic ties with Latin American countries through infrastructure projects, loans, and energy cooperation. The American side views this process as a long-term challenge and states that it will counter such moves through both diplomatic and security instruments.

Source: Reuters

Author: Mariam Simsive

The United States Warns China Not to Expand Its Influence in Latin America Read More »

“Europe’s Money, China’s Companies, Georgia’s Authoritarians: The Paradox Undermining Western Leverage” – Tinatin Khidasheli’s New Analysis with CEIAS

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Tinatin Khidasheli, Head of Civic IDEA, has published a new analytical article with CEIAS – Central European Institute of Asian Studies, examining a critical paradox shaping contemporary geopolitics and democratic resilience.

The article, titled “Europe’s Money, China’s Companies, Georgia’s Authoritarians: The Paradox Undermining Western Leverage,” explores how inconsistencies in Western economic and political strategies are weakening democratic conditionality and enabling authoritarian adaptation.

In the analysis, Khidasheli highlights three key dynamics:

  • Erosion of Western leverage through inconsistency: While democratic backsliding is often addressed through political pressure and sanctions, international development financing continues to flow with limited democratic conditions.

     

  • Opportunities for Chinese state-owned companies: Firms restricted or sanctioned in Europe and the United States are successfully securing major infrastructure contracts financed by Western-backed institutions.

     

  • Georgia as a case study of authoritarian adaptation: The country exemplifies a broader pattern in which governments combine Western capital, Chinese companies, and fragmented accountability mechanisms to pursue modernization without democratic governance.

     

Read the full analysis

“Europe’s Money, China’s Companies, Georgia’s Authoritarians: The Paradox Undermining Western Leverage” – Tinatin Khidasheli’s New Analysis with CEIAS Read More »

China has joined talks between Thailand and Cambodia

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

China has joined talks to end the escalating military action between Thailand and Cambodia. Since early December, China has been actively involved in negotiations aimed at halting the intensified military conflict between the two nations. On December 23, the Foreign Ministry’s Special Representative for Asian Affairs, Deng Zijun, concluded a six-day visit to Thailand and Cambodia, reaffirming China’s interest and commitment to ending the military conflict and stabilizing relations between the parties. In addition to this direct visit, Foreign Minister Wang Yi held separate telephone conversations with the Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers last week. 

The dispute between Thailand and Cambodia regarding the territory surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple has been a source of conflict for decades and has escalated alarmingly since July 2025. Reporting indicates that the fighting has claimed at least 60 lives and displaced more than half a million people.

Importantly, this visit represents China’s proactive attempt to play a significant role in stabilizing relations among Southeast Asian states. This marks a departure from its traditional foreign policy, which has largely maintained a “silent” and neutral stance regarding the territorial disputes of other countries. In an official statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed deep sorrow over the devastating consequences of the military actions and the high number of casualties, calling on both countries to end the conflict immediately. Furthermore, China positively evaluated the active involvement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the peace talks, emphasizing its readiness to facilitate conditions and provide a platform for dialogue and negotiations between the two sides. China remains hopeful that both Cambodia and Thailand will work to restore mutual trust and peace along the border.

Notably, the United States was also actively involved in negotiations to end the military conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. Furthermore, in October, Donald Trump included the temporarily suspended military confrontation among the eight conflicts he claimed to have ended. However, shortly after this statement, the confrontation between Thailand and Cambodia escalated once again. In response to Trump’s assertion and the renewed military hostilities, China criticized the United States for its superficial approach. ChinaDaily was highly critical of America’s “transactional mediation,” emphasizing that, unlike the U.S., China’s involvement is aimed at addressing the root causes of the issue and establishing a long-term peace framework. Additionally, the article highlights that in a conflict characterized by complex historical sensitivities, few parties can gain the necessary trust for success. According to the article, China is one such party, capable of resolving this conflict as successfully as its mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia last year.

Author: Mariam Kapanadze

China has joined talks between Thailand and Cambodia Read More »

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