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China in the South Caucasus and Uzbekistan (20-26 July)

Weekly news / /
Georgia

China Becomes Georgia’s Top Market for Domestic Exports

20 July

On 20 July, Georgia’s National Statistics Office, Geostat, released foreign-trade figures for the first half of 2026. According to the report, Georgia exported $428.6 million worth of goods to China during the period, up about 143% from a year earlier.

China became the leading destination for Georgia’s domestic exports, goods of Georgian origin excluding re-exports, with shipments worth $417 million. Ores and concentrates of precious metals, petroleum products and copper ores were the leading export categories.

Imports from China rose 22.5% to $1.07 billion, according to the published figures. Bilateral trade totalled nearly $1.5 billion, making China Georgia’s third-largest trading partner after Turkey and Russia.

 

Bronze Collection from China’s Shanxi Province Goes on Display in Tbilisi

20 July

An exhibition titled “From the Yellow River to the Caucasus: The Bronze Civilisation of Shanxi, China” opened at the Georgian National Museum on 20 July. The display introduces visitors to the bronze art and historical heritage of Shanxi Province, one of China’s oldest cultural centres.

The exhibition features 36 ancient bronze artefacts brought from the Shanxi Museum. The objects represent different stages of China’s bronze civilisation, as well as its ritual traditions and artistic techniques.

The opening ceremony was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Georgia Zhou Qian, Georgia’s deputy culture minister, and representatives of the Georgian National Museum and the Shanxi Museum. Speakers highlighted the expansion of cultural cooperation between Georgia and China and the importance of closer ties between their museums. The exhibition will remain open at the Georgian National Museum until 18 October.

 

Georgian Ambassador Meets Chinese Bus Manufacturer Yutong Group

23 July

Georgia’s Ambassador to China, Paata Kalandadze, hosted a delegation from Chinese vehicle manufacturer Yutong Group on 23 July. The sides discussed the company’s operations in Georgia and opportunities to expand future cooperation.

The Chinese delegation was led by Yutong Group regional manager Cai Tang. According to the Georgian Embassy, the company has operated in the Georgian market since 2012 and manufactures buses and other vehicles.

 

Chinese Ambassador Holds Farewell Meeting with Georgian President

23 July

Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili met Chinese Ambassador Zhou Qian on 23 July as the diplomat prepared to conclude his posting in Georgia. The talks focused on progress in Georgia-China relations in recent years and prospects for further cooperation.

The sides highlighted the introduction of visa-free travel, the expansion of direct flights, opportunities created by free trade, and the mutual recognition of academic diplomas. They said these measures had created additional opportunities for travel, business links and educational cooperation between the two countries.

Priorities for future cooperation included stronger ties between scientific and research institutions, joint initiatives in technology, and the continuation of high-level political dialogue.

Azerbaijan

 

Chinese Communist Party Delegation Visits Azerbaijan

23 July

A delegation from the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China arrived in Baku on 20 July at the invitation of the New Azerbaijan Party. The delegation was led by Kan Shuai, a representative of the party’s International Department.

During the visit, the delegation met the ruling party’s youth organisation, attended an event at the Academy of Public Administration on China’s experience in state governance, and discussed party-to-party and youth cooperation.

Speaker of Azerbaijan’s parliament Sahiba Gafarova received the delegation on 21 July. The sides discussed stronger parliamentary and party ties, as well as cooperation in the economy, trade, education, culture and youth policy. The visit concluded on 23 July with a final meeting with Tahir Budagov, deputy chairman of the New Azerbaijan Party.

 

Azerbaijan and PowerChina Resources Discuss Green Energy Projects

23 July

Azerbaijan is exploring expanded cooperation with China’s PowerChina Resources in renewable energy. A meeting in Baku on 23 July focused on the development of solar and wind power plants, electricity exports, and new projects under public-private partnership arrangements.

Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov met company president Yan Tianfu. The sides assessed the Chinese firm’s potential participation in Azerbaijan’s energy projects and discussed practical areas of cooperation.

The talks also covered the efficient management of mineral resources and water reserves. Azerbaijan’s Economy Ministry said renewable energy and the sustainable use of resources remained among the most promising areas of Azerbaijan-China economic cooperation.

 

Baku State University Begins Cooperation with China’s Liaodong University

23 July

Baku State University signed a memorandum on academic and scientific cooperation with China’s Liaodong University on 23 July. The agreement provides for the development of research, education and exchange programmes between the two institutions.

Under the memorandum, the universities plan to organise joint research and conferences, develop academic programmes and prepare scholarly publications. The document also provides for exchanges of students, researchers and administrative staff.

The agreement was signed by Baku State University Rector Elchin Babayev and Liaodong University Rector Fu Libin. The universities said the partnership would deepen academic ties and support joint projects.

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Pakistan Seeks to Revive US-Iran Talks at China’s Initiative

Newswire / /

Pakistan is holding preliminary diplomatic consultations aimed at reviving suspended talks between the United States and Iran. According to Reuters, the initiative originated with China, which is seeking to end nearly five months of military confrontation and restore key regional trade routes.

Foreign media report that the possibility of renewed US-Iran talks was discussed during Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni’s visit to Islamabad. It was his second visit to Pakistan in the past ten days. Momeni met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Asim Munir. According to a Pakistani official, one of the conditions for restarting negotiations is an end to attacks against Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states.

China’s interest is directly linked to its economic and energy priorities. Beijing is Iran’s largest trading partner and the main buyer of its exported oil. The near closure of the Strait of Hormuz and threats to shipping in the Red Sea are disrupting energy and trade routes that are critical to China.

China’s Foreign Ministry says Beijing supports mediation efforts by Pakistan and other parties and will continue to play an active role in restoring peace in the Gulf region. On July 16, China and Pakistan also called on the United States and Iran to halt hostilities and return to dialogue.

Pakistan Seeks to Revive US-Iran Talks at China’s Initiative Read More »

Wang Yi and Marco Rubio Discussed Xi Jinping’s Visit to the United States

Newswire / /

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met in Manila on July 22 on the sidelines of ASEAN meetings. One of the main topics of the talks was preparation for Chinese President Xi Jinping’s planned visit to Washington in September.

The two sides also discussed U.S.-China trade relations, Taiwan, and tensions in the South China Sea. Rubio said that despite the differences between the two countries, Washington and Beijing should not allow their disagreements to escalate beyond control.

According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wang urged the U.S. side to respect China’s “core interests,” uphold the “One China” principle, and refrain from actions that could deepen tensions in bilateral relations.

Both sides described the meeting as pragmatic, positive, and constructive. The talks took place amid ongoing tensions in U.S.-China relations and were aimed at maintaining high-level communication between the two countries.

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China and the Philippines Clash Near Second Thomas Shoal

Newswire / /

A physical confrontation occurred in the South China Sea between members of the Chinese Coast Guard and the Philippine Navy. A Filipino sailor was injured in the incident, while the two sides blamed each other for what happened.

According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, on July 20, a small Chinese Coast Guard vessel approached a Philippine military outpost near Second Thomas Shoal. During the confrontation, a Chinese Coast Guard officer struck a Filipino sailor several times on the head with a wooden baton and also damaged his inflatable boat. The injured sailor sustained wounds to the head.

Beijing rejected Manila’s account. According to the Chinese Coast Guard, two Philippine vessels ignored warnings, deliberately collided with a Chinese patrol boat and attacked Chinese personnel first. The Chinese side maintains that its actions were lawful and defensive in nature.

The incident occurred near Second Thomas Shoal, known in the Philippines as Ayungin Shoal. The reef is one of the main flashpoints between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea. Manila has maintained a presence there since 1999, while China considers the reef part of its territory. In 2016, an international arbitral tribunal ruled that Beijing’s territorial claims over most of the South China Sea had no legal basis. China does not recognise the ruling.

The confrontation occurred ahead of a meeting of foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Manila. One of the main issues on the agenda is the management of tensions in the South China Sea and ongoing negotiations on a regional code of conduct. The incident once again showed that maritime tensions between the two sides could escalate into physical violence and a broader regional confrontation.

China and the Philippines Clash Near Second Thomas Shoal Read More »

China in the South Caucasus and Kyrgyzstan (13-19 july)

Weekly news / /
Georgia

 

Direct scheduled flights launched between Tbilisi and Shanghai

15 July

On 15 July, China Eastern Airlines operated the first direct scheduled service on the Shanghai-Tbilisi-Shanghai route. Flight MU285 landed at Tbilisi International Airport from Shanghai Pudong International Airport at around 7 p.m. local time, carrying 274 passengers.

China Eastern Airlines will operate the route three times a week – on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays – using wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft. It is the third Chinese carrier to launch scheduled passenger services between Georgia and China, joining China Southern Airlines and Air China.

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Economy Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili, Chinese Ambassador Zhou Qian and China Eastern Airlines Vice President He Xiaozun attended the launch ceremony. Georgian and Chinese officials described the new route as an opportunity to boost tourism, business ties and investment.

 

Georgia takes part in World AI Conference in Shanghai

18 July

A Georgian delegation led by Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Mariam Kvrivishvili attended the World Artificial Intelligence Conference and the High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai.

Addressing the high-level meeting on 18 July, Kvrivishvili said Georgia was developing a national artificial intelligence strategy and planned to establish the country’s first AI research centre at the Kutaisi Technology Hub. The centre is expected to bring together researchers, start-ups and international technology companies.

She said a joint working group on artificial intelligence had been established under a memorandum between Georgia’s Economy Ministry and China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC). Kvrivishvili also highlighted plans for a Black Sea submarine fibre-optic cable and data centres, initiatives aimed at positioning Georgia as a regional digital hub.

Azerbaijan

Aliyev calls for expanded military-technical cooperation with China

13 July

The Fourth Shusha Global Media Forum was held on 13-14 July in Shusha, in Azerbaijan’s Karabakh region. President Ilham Aliyev attended the opening and, responding to participants’ questions, discussed expanding military-technical and economic cooperation with China.

Aliyev said the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership with China had opened a “new chapter” in bilateral relations. He said cooperation extended beyond infrastructure, transport and energy to the military and military-technical sectors. The president also highlighted Chinese companies’ participation in infrastructure projects, rising freight volumes along the Middle Corridor and plans to establish a solar-panel plant.

The Shusha Global Media Forum has been held annually since 2023. This year’s event brought together around 160 media representatives, experts and officials from 53 countries.

 

Azerbaijan’s Academy of Sciences signs memorandum with Hebei organisation

13 July

On 13 July, the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences and the Hebei Association for International Exchange of Personnel signed a memorandum of cooperation. The document provides for stronger scientific and professional ties, exchanges of researchers and specialists, and the implementation of joint projects.

Under the memorandum, the parties plan to share expertise and expand cooperation in science, education and innovation. The agreement is expected to support direct links between Azerbaijani and Chinese scientific institutions.

 

President of Azerbaijan’s Academy of Sciences attends international conference in China

13 July

On 13 July, Isa Habibbeyli, president of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, attended an international conference in Xiong’an, China. Participants discussed deepening international scientific cooperation, developing innovative projects and sharing expertise among specialists from different countries.

The conference aimed to strengthen ties between scientific institutions and create new opportunities for joint initiatives. More than 400 scientists, experts and representatives of various organisations from 30 countries attended the event.

 

Azerbaijan represented at literature congress in Beijing

15 July

On 15 July, Agshin Aliyev, head of the Azerbaijani Language Department at Beijing Foreign Studies University, took part in the China Literature Congress in Beijing.

He presented a paper on the development of Azerbaijani-Chinese literary relations in the context of the Silk Road and the representation of Chinese motifs in Azerbaijani literature.

More than 100 researchers from China and other countries attended the event. Discussions focused on literary ties, intercultural dialogue and the study of national literary traditions.

 

 

 

Azerbaijan and UnionPay discuss QR payment integration

17 July

Representatives of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan and China’s UnionPay International met on 17 July to discuss the development of QR code-based payments and further integration of payment systems in Azerbaijan.

The parties reviewed projects under a memorandum signed in January 2026 and outlined future areas of cooperation. Alongside the issuance and servicing of bank cards, the agreement covers interoperability between QR payment systems, cross-border money transfers and the introduction of tokenisation technologies.

Discussions focused on expanding access to digital payments and linking Azerbaijan’s payment infrastructure with international systems.

 

China donates X-ray equipment to Azerbaijan for demining operations

17 July

China donated two X-ray devices to Azerbaijan’s Mine Action Agency, ANAMA. The agency said the equipment would be used to detect and neutralise explosive devices in enclosed spaces and buildings.

The handover followed a visit to China by ANAMA representatives, who tested the equipment and discussed its technical capabilities with Chinese specialists. The agency said the new equipment would improve the safety and efficiency of demining operations.

Armenia

Armenian delegation studies use of AI in China’s customs system

17 July

On 17 July, a delegation from Armenia’s State Revenue Committee took part in a training programme in Shanghai focused on introducing and managing artificial intelligence in Armenia’s customs system.

The delegation examined the use of artificial intelligence, automated inspections and “smart” cameras in Chinese customs operations. It included representatives of the State Revenue Committee and two ministries.

The parties also discussed a draft agreement to simplify customs procedures for trusted importers and exporters in Armenia and China. The training programme was funded by the Chinese government and organised by China Customs and Shanghai Customs University.

 

Armenian Investigative Committee delegation visits China’s Hunan province

17 July

On 17 July, a delegation from Armenia’s Investigative Committee, led by Deputy Chairman Armen Gevorgyan, paid a working visit to China’s Hunan province. Armenian officials met Wang You, Hunan’s vice-governor and head of the provincial Department of Public Security.

The two sides discussed deepening cooperation between law-enforcement agencies, sharing professional expertise and coordinating on legal matters. The delegation also included officials responsible for international cooperation and organisational affairs at the Investigative Committee.

Kyrgyzstan

 

Fifth volume of Xi Jinping’s book on governance launched in Bishkek

13 July

An event was held in Bishkek on 13 July to present the fifth volume of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s book The Governance of China. Participants discussed China’s development vision and opportunities for Kyrgyzstan and China to exchange experience in public administration.

The event was attended by Kyrgyz State Secretary Arslan Koichiev, former president Roza Otunbayeva, and representatives of the diplomatic corps, media and academia.

Participants also discussed how greater familiarity with China’s governance and development experience could help broaden intellectual and public ties between Kyrgyzstan and China.

 

 

 

Kyrgyzstan presents investment opportunities in China

16 July

At the international trade and economic conference “Foshan Quality Products – Connecting with Central Asia” in Foshan on 16 July, Kyrgyz representatives presented the country’s investment and export opportunities.

The event focused on strengthening economic links between Chinese businesses and Central Asian countries. Participants discussed expanding trade cooperation, launching new investment projects and establishing direct partnerships between companies.

The Kyrgyz side highlighted the country’s advantageous geographical location, investment climate and prospects for exporting local products to the Chinese market. The conference also served to promote Foshan-made goods in Central Asian markets and establish business links with regional companies.

 

Kyrgyzstan and China agree to advance major infrastructure projects

16 July

Deputy Chairman of Kyrgyzstan’s Cabinet of Ministers Erlist Akunbekov met Chen Xiaodong, head of the China International Development Cooperation Agency.

The two sides discussed 11 major projects covering agriculture, upgrades to healthcare facilities, the modernisation of transport and customs infrastructure, the supply of specialised equipment and environmental protection.

Talks also covered the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, the Bedel border crossing and the Barskoon-Bedel highway. The parties agreed to review project-related issues in greater detail at a meeting of the intergovernmental commission.

 

Air China launches direct Beijing-Bishkek flights

17 July

Air China operated its first direct flight from Beijing to Bishkek’s Manas International Airport on 17 July. It is the airline’s first non-stop route between the Chinese and Kyrgyz capitals.

Flights will operate three times a week, on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays, using Airbus A321 aircraft. Chinese Ambassador Liu Jiangping described the new route as an important step towards strengthening economic, trade and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

 

 

Chinese delegation takes part in SCO cultural events at Issyk-Kul

19 July

Cultural events involving member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation were held on 18-19 July at the Rukh Ordo Cultural Centre in Cholpon-Ata. The programme featured concerts and artistic performances by delegations from Kyrgyzstan, China and other SCO member states.

Participating countries presented national music and dance performances. The programme aimed to strengthen cultural ties among SCO member states and bring their societies closer together. The events were held as part of Kyrgyzstan’s SCO chairmanship and were linked to a meeting of culture ministers from the organisation’s member states.



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Beijing Calls Trump’s Allegations a “Complete Fabrication”

Newswire / /

China has rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Beijing sought to interfere in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, calling it a “complete fabrication”.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a July 17 briefing that the allegation was part of a campaign directed against China. According to him, Beijing has never interfered in U.S. elections and has had no interest in doing so.

Trump made the allegation a day earlier during an address to the nation from the White House. He claimed that China had illegally obtained the data of approximately 220 million American voters. The U.S. president described the incident as an unprecedented threat to election security and also accused intelligence officials of concealing information.

According to CBS News, a significant portion of U.S. voter registration data is publicly or commercially available. Access to such information, therefore, does not in itself provide the ability to influence election results.

A 2021 assessment by the U.S. intelligence community found no evidence that any foreign actor had attempted to alter the technical process of the 2020 election. The same document stated that China was likely continuing to collect information on American voters, public opinion, political parties, candidates and their staff.

The dispute has resurfaced against the backdrop of relative stability in U.S.-China relations. Trade tensions between the two sides, which escalated in 2025, temporarily eased after Trump met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing in May 2026.

Beijing Calls Trump’s Allegations a “Complete Fabrication” Read More »

Beijing Criticizes New US Sanctions Bill and Warns of Countermeasures

Newswire / /

China has strongly criticized a bill introduced in the US Senate that threatens to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the largest buyers of Russian energy resources. Beijing stated that it would take “necessary measures” to protect the interests of Chinese companies and citizens.

At a press briefing on July 15, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that Beijing firmly opposed unilateral sanctions that lacked a basis in international law and had not been authorized by the United Nations Security Council.

China’s statement followed the introduction of the bill by US senators on July 14. The initiative is currently before the Senate, but no vote has yet taken place. According to the bill’s sponsors, the initiative is intended to reduce Russia’s energy revenues and increase pressure on Moscow by limiting the financial resources available to continue its war against Ukraine.

The proposed legislation would authorize the US president to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest purchasers of Russian oil and natural gas. According to information provided by Senate aides, the main buyers of Russian crude oil are China, India, Slovakia, Hungary, and Azerbaijan. China, France, Japan, Hungary, and Belgium are also listed among the largest importers of Russian natural gas.

As one of the largest purchasers of Russian energy resources, China would be directly exposed to the potential restrictions envisaged under the bill, which largely explains Beijing’s sharp response.

If adopted, the US sanctions policy related to the war in Ukraine would also directly affect US-China trade relations. Washington would seek to intensify pressure on Russia’s energy sector by using tariffs against its principal trading partners, while Beijing views energy cooperation with Moscow as part of its economic interests and energy security.

Accordingly, the initiative could not only increase sanctions pressure on Russia but also create a new dimension of trade and political confrontation between the United States and China.

Beijing Criticizes New US Sanctions Bill and Warns of Countermeasures Read More »

China and Kazakhstan Discuss Deepening Cooperation in Trade and Artificial Intelligence

Newswire / /

On 13 July in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Kazakh counterpart, Yermek Kosherbayev. The two sides discussed expanding bilateral trade, strengthening technological cooperation, advancing artificial intelligence, and coordinating within international frameworks.

According to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting reviewed the progress of the China-Kazakhstan “permanent comprehensive strategic partnership” and the implementation of agreements reached by the two countries’ leaders. Particular attention was paid to the goal of doubling bilateral trade turnover.

The meeting comes ahead of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference and the High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, scheduled to take place in Shanghai on 17-20 July. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is also expected to attend. His visit is set to include a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Wang Yi and Kosherbayev also discussed cooperation within the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the China-Central Asia format, and other multilateral platforms. According to China’s Foreign Ministry, the Kazakh side reaffirmed its support for the “One China” principle.

Following the talks, Kosherbayev signed the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation on behalf of the Kazakh government. The China-initiated organization, headquartered in Hong Kong, aims to resolve disputes between states and commercial entities through mediation.

The organization’s founding convention was signed in May 2025 by China and more than 30 other states. Beijing presents it as a complementary mechanism to international judicial and arbitration procedures.

China and Kazakhstan Discuss Deepening Cooperation in Trade and Artificial Intelligence Read More »

Xi Jinping Urges China and North Korea to Maintain “Strategic Resolve”

Newswire / /

On July 10, Chinese President Xi Jinping met North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song in Beijing. The meeting took place ahead of the 65th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between China and North Korea.

Xi said that, amid growing instability in the international environment, Beijing and Pyongyang should maintain “strategic resolve” and confidence in the continued development of bilateral relations. He also called on both sides to accelerate the implementation of the agreements reached with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in June and to expand political, economic and cultural cooperation.

According to the Chinese president, the development of bilateral relations should contribute to strengthening the two countries’ socialist systems and modernization efforts. Pak Thae Song conveyed greetings from Kim Jong Un to Xi and said that the treaty signed in 1961 provides a legal foundation for the long-term development of China-North Korea relations.

The two sides also reaffirmed their readiness to continue supporting each other and to contribute to maintaining regional peace and stability.

Xi Jinping Urges China and North Korea to Maintain “Strategic Resolve” Read More »

China Urges the United States and Iran to Halt Military Escalation

Newswire / /

China has called on the United States and Iran to refrain from the use of force and resolve their disagreements through negotiations. Beijing issued the statement following the renewed military confrontation between the two sides.

At a briefing on 8 July, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that the resumption of hostilities served neither side’s interests and that military means could not resolve the underlying causes of the dispute. She said Washington and Tehran should fully implement the memorandum of understanding they had signed and settle their differences through dialogue and negotiations.

Beijing’s statement followed a new round of US strikes against Iran. According to the US side, American forces targeted more than 80 military sites, an operation Washington justified as necessary to protect freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran described the US strikes as an act of aggression and carried out retaliatory attacks against American military facilities in the region.

The United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding in mid-June. The interim agreement provided for a cessation of hostilities, the gradual restoration of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the launch of 60 days of negotiations. However, the main points of contention between the two sides, including Iran’s nuclear programme, were left for a final agreement.

The renewed clashes have cast doubt on the implementation of the memorandum and on the prospects of preventing a broader military confrontation in the region.

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