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Challenges Facing TikTok in the US and Canada

Newswire / /

In April 2024, the United States enacted a law requiring TikTok’s transfer to a U.S.-based owner. Originally set to take effect in January, the law’s implementation was postponed by President Trump, who granted an additional 90 days to facilitate a potential agreement.

According to the law, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, would be permitted to retain only a 20% stake in the „American TikTok “. Crucially, ByteDance would be prohibited from controlling American TikTok’s algorithm or accessing its user data.

On July 4, President Trump told reporters that a deal was “pretty much” finalized. However, he noted that it would likely require approval from the Chinese Communist Party and added that talks with the Chinese side, either President Xi Jinping or one of his representatives, were expected to begin on July 7 or 8.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning refrained from commenting directly on Trump’s remarks. Instead, she reiterated China’s general stance:

“China has reiterated its principle and position on issues related to TikTok on multiple occasions.”

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has consistently urged the United States to provide an “open, fair, and non-discriminatory business environment.” It maintains that acquisitions and business operations, including those involving TikTok, should be determined independently by companies in accordance with market principles.

TikTok remains a key point of tension in U.S.–China relations. As of July 15, no final agreement has been reached. Under current U.S. law, ByteDance must divest from the American branch of TikTok by September 17, or the app will be banned in the U.S..

Meanwhile, TikTok is also facing regulatory challenges in Canada. In November 2024, the Canadian government ordered a suspension of TikTok’s operations due to national security concerns stemming from ByteDance’s ownership.

On July 2, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew sent a letter to Canadian Industry Minister Mélanie Joly requesting a meeting regarding the federal order. Chew warned that if the law takes effect, TikTok would be forced to halt operations in Canada, resulting in the layoff of 350 employees, the end of direct investments, and the suspension of support for Canadian content creators.

Chew argued that the previous Canadian administration’s decision was heavily influenced by developments in the United States. He emphasized that the order was issued by “a different government” under different circumstances and urged the new administration to review the decision. However, as of mid-July, Canadian officials have not responded to TikTok’s appeal.

Challenges Facing TikTok in the US and Canada Read More »

Intensified Sino-Russian Diplomatic Ties: Sergey Lavrov meets Wang Yi

Newswire / /

A recent series of high-level diplomatic engagements between Russian and Chinese foreign ministry officials has drawn considerable international attention. Despite officially maintaining a “neutral” stance on the war in Ukraine, Beijing appears to be deepening its diplomatic alignment with the Kremlin.

Following their meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on July 10, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met again with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, on July 12. Lavrov’s visit is part of a broader trip that includes participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) foreign ministers’ meeting.

During the bilateral meeting on July 12, Wang Yi underscored the strategic significance of Sino-Russian relations, stating:

“China-Russia relations represent the most stable, mature, and strategically significant major-country relationship in the world today, and both sides consistently view and advance cooperation across all domains from a historical, strategic, and long-term perspective.”

According to a statement released by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the two countries’ current diplomatic priorities include preparing for upcoming high-level exchanges, strengthening comprehensive strategic coordination, and jointly addressing the challenges of an increasingly turbulent and complex global environment.

In this context, Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov has confirmed that President Vladimir Putin will make an official visit to Beijing from August 31 to September 3. During the visit, Putin is expected to attend the SCO Leaders’ Summit and hold bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Subsequently, on July 13, Lavrov and Wang Yi continued their discussions, focusing on the current dynamics of their respective countries’ relations with the United States and the prospects for ending the war in Ukraine. Both ministers also reaffirmed their intention to enhance coordination within major international forums, including the United Nations, G20, BRICS, and APEC.

These intensified diplomatic efforts between Moscow and Beijing come amid mounting Western pressure on Russia. The European Union is reportedly preparing its 18th package of sanctions against Moscow. Concurrently, U.S. President Donald Trump has recently intensified his criticism of Russian leadership. Furthermore, reports suggest that Trump is expected to announce a new aid package for Ukraine on July 14.

Intensified Sino-Russian Diplomatic Ties: Sergey Lavrov meets Wang Yi Read More »

US-China Dialogue at ASEAN: Tariffs and Geopolitical Challenges

Newswire / /

On July 11, 2025, a high-level meeting took place between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

The primary topic of discussion at the meeting was the extensive tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, which have led to global economic uncertainty. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi strongly criticized these measures, calling them “typical unilateral bullying behavior” and noting that they undermine the free trade system and hinder the stability of the global supply chain. He also stated that these U.S. actions deprive Southeast Asian countries of their legitimate right to development.

Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan emphasized the need to deepen regional economic integration to better protect against external shocks, as ASEAN countries are among the most affected by U.S. tariffs, potentially impacting the region’s projected economic growth. In a joint communiqué, ASEAN foreign ministers affirmed that unilateral tariffs are “counterproductive and increase the risk of global economic fragmentation.”

Beyond trade issues, other pressing geopolitical matters were on the agenda for the U.S.-China dialogue. U.S. concerns about China’s support for Russia in the war in Ukraine were highlighted, with the observation that China is “ready to help them as much as possible.” China, however, consistently maintains a neutral stance regarding the Ukraine conflict.

The issue of Taiwan was also discussed. The U.S. expressed concern about China’s increasing military pressure on the island. Regarding the South China Sea, Wang Yi stated that the territory is a “common home” for regional countries and not an “arena for major powers to demonstrate,” emphasizing the need for cooperation and peaceful resolution. Furthermore, China expressed readiness to expand cooperation with ASEAN countries in marine environmental protection, navigation safety, and maritime law enforcement. However, Rubio noted that many Southeast Asian countries are concerned about China’s dominance and wish to cooperate with the U.S.

At the ASEAN meeting, Wang Yi emphasized China’s importance as “the most reliable stabilizing force in a turbulent world” and “the most reliable partner for ASEAN members to overcome challenges.” He called on all parties to support multilateralism and strengthen cooperation in the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and green development. Although no detailed joint statement was released after the U.S.-China meeting, Rubio described the talks as “very constructive and positive.”

US-China Dialogue at ASEAN: Tariffs and Geopolitical Challenges Read More »

China: A Hidden Actor in the Ukraine War

Newswire / /

While officially maintaining a stance of neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, China is increasingly under international scrutiny for its alleged support of Russian aggression. Recent developments suggest that Beijing is covertly leveraging the war for economic and political advantage, while simultaneously aiding Russia’s military efforts.

On July 9, Ukrainian authorities detained two Chinese nationals accused of attempting to transfer classified information to Chinese intelligence. According to Ukrainian officials, the individuals had recruited a Ukrainian citizen with access to sensitive defense technologies, including data related to the Neptune missile system.

In response, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated on July 10 that Beijing was “verifying” the information provided by Ukraine. The spokesperson added that if Chinese citizens were involved, their “lawful rights of Chinese citizens need to be safeguarded.”

These developments followed a July 8 Bloomberg investigation revealing a covert collaboration between the Russian drone manufacturer Aero-HIT, currently under international sanctions, and the Chinese company Autel Robotics. According to the report, the two firms have been in negotiations since 2023 with the goal of manufacturing 10,000 drones annually in Russia.

That same day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky imposed sanctions on five Chinese companies: Central Asia Silk Road International Trade, Suzhou Ecod Precision Manufacturing, Shenzhen Royo Technology, Shenzhen Jinduobang Technology, and Ningbo BLIN Machinery. These firms were found to be supplying components to Russian entities for drone production. Some of these parts were reportedly discovered in Shahed drones used by Russia in airstrikes on Kyiv on July 4.

Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, numerous reports have emerged alleging that Chinese companies and nationals are aiding Moscow’s war effort. Despite this, Beijing continues to deny any involvement, insisting it remains a neutral party. However, on July 4, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with European Union representative Kaya Kallas and reportedly declared that a Russian defeat in the conflict would be unacceptable to Beijing. Accounts of the meeting confirm that China is making every effort to prevent such an outcome.

China: A Hidden Actor in the Ukraine War Read More »

Georgian Dream’s anti-western policy: How Iranian companies are using Georgia to bypass sanctions

New, Research / /

HOW IRANIAN COMPANIES ARE USING GEORGIA TO BYPASS SANCTIONS?

Civic IDEA’s latest investigation sheds light on a little-known but deeply troubling dimension of Iran-Georgia relations. The report exposes how Iranian businessmen are using Georgia as a strategic transit point to evade international sanctions and channel funds back to the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Our findings reveal that as diplomatic ties between the Georgian Dream government and Iran have grown closer, several Georgian-registered companies have emerged with direct links to Iran’s Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces Logistics Agency.

The investigation also highlights the role of Georgian citizens and businesses who, in collaboration with Iranian partners, are allegedly involved in arms trafficking and high-risk financial operations.

Read the full report for in-depth evidence of the growing national security risks posed by this opaque and dangerous partnership between Tbilisi and Tehran:

Georgian Dream’s anti-western policy: How Iranian companies are using Georgia to bypass sanctions Read More »

Georgia’s Energy Sector Without Western Support: A Road to Russian Dependence

New, Research / /

“Today, we have decided not to put the issue of opening negotiations with the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028. We are also refusing any budget grants from the EU until the end of 2028.” 

“We intend not to enter the EU begging and standing on one leg, but to join the EU with dignity, with a functioning democratic system and a strong economy.“ 

With this statement, the Georgian Dream government seeks to downplay the vital role that Western institutions have played in Georgia’s political, economic, educational, and infrastructural development. In reality, by rejecting EU assistance, the government is not only jeopardizing Georgia’s future in the EU’s political and economic structures but also undermining the country’s opportunity to develop in line with European standards. 

To illustrate this, the report analyzes the European Union’s contribution to Georgia’s energy independence. It is based on both quantitative and qualitative assessments of energy-related projects implemented between 2013 and 20241. Stay tuned for upcoming reports on EU assistance in agriculture, education, and other key sectors.

Full Report:

Georgia’s Energy Sector Without Western Support: A Road to Russian Dependence Read More »

China and South Korea seek to keep relations on the “right track”

Newswire / /

A telephone conversation on June 11 between Chinese President Xi Jinping and new South Korean President Lee Jae-myung aimed to deepen strategic cooperation. Xi Jinping noted that stable relations between the two countries contribute to regional and global peace.

The Chinese leader emphasized that China and South Korea are “close neighbors” who have successfully overcome ideological differences and achieved common development over 33 years of diplomatic relations. Both sides agreed to strengthen exchanges to foster strategic mutual trust. They also highlighted the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation to protect the multilateral system and free trade, which ensures the stability of global supply chains.

For many countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including South Korea, China is a critical economic partner. Regional countries are significantly dependent on China’s market for their exports, as well as on Chinese investments and tourism. China’s economic growth and industrial power strengthen regional supply chains. Due to this interdependence, regional countries often try to balance their security interests within alliances with the U.S. and their economic interests with China, which necessitates a pragmatic diplomatic approach.

Lee Jae-myung’s victory in the South Korean elections potentially shifts Seoul’s foreign policy, particularly concerning China. Relations were strained under the previous administration due to the U.S. deployment of the THAAD missile system in Korea and South Korea’s participation in technology sanctions against China. Lee Jae-myung, who supports “pragmatic diplomacy,” seeks to balance relations between the U.S. and China. His government’s priority is to restore partnership with China, as China is South Korea’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching 328.08 billion USD in 2024. Lee Jae-myung also urged China to play a “constructive role” in the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

During the telephone conversation, Lee Jae-myung noted that he affirmed his readiness to work with the Chinese side to deepen bilateral relations, including supporting the Confucian-Islamic Civilizations Dialogue initiative, which aims to enhance exchanges between peoples and deepen the integration of civilizations. This initiative, proposed by Malaysia, underscores the potential for strengthening cultural exchanges in the region.

Western analysts are cautiously assessing the diplomatic maneuvers of South Korea’s new president, Lee Jae-myung. Although Seoul supports “pragmatic diplomacy” and seeks to improve relations with China, there are concerns in the West that this approach could come at the expense of weakening its strategic alliance with the United States, especially as Washington seeks to contain China’s growing influence in the region. Furthermore, China’s role in the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula is often viewed skeptically in the West, as Beijing remains North Korea’s main diplomatic and economic ally.

China and South Korea seek to keep relations on the “right track” Read More »

China-US Tensions Over Taiwan

Newswire / /

Tensions continue to escalate in the relationship between the United States and China, particularly concerning the issue of Taiwan. The administration of US President Donald Trump actively supports Taiwan, which draws sharp reactions from Beijing. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly protested over the weekend against the US Secretary of Defense’s statement, where he noted that China poses an imminent threat to Taiwan – a self-governing island that Beijing considers its own territory.

New initiatives aimed at strengthening Taiwan’s defense capabilities are likely being discussed in the American legislative bodies. These steps, set against the backdrop of restrictions imposed by the Trump administration on China (such as hindering access to critical technologies), further exacerbate the situation. China views any US interference in the Taiwan issue as a “serious provocation” and warns Washington that such actions threaten regional stability. Beijing firmly adheres to the “One China” principle, which it considers the inviolable foundation of its national sovereignty.

The White House asserts that President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will likely speak this week, though there has been no confirmation from the Chinese side. A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Beijing has no information regarding such a call. Analysts speculate that China will only agree to such a call if assured that there will be no unexpected statements or actions from the US regarding the Taiwan issue.

Amidst this tension, US President Donald Trump noted in his Truth Social post that Xi Jinping is “extremely hard to make a deal with,” despite the fact that he has “always liked” the Chinese leader. This rhetoric once again highlights the deep disagreements between the two countries, particularly on issues of sovereignty and regional influence, where Taiwan occupies a central place.

The geopolitical tension is further amplified by the White House’s confirmation that a call between Trump and Xi will likely take place this week, as the two countries continue to argue over trade. The main point of contention appears to be critical minerals, as US officials complain that Beijing hasn’t accelerated the export of materials needed for cutting-edge electronics. These trade disputes are directly linked to the Taiwan issue, as Taiwan is a leading global producer of microchips, further increasing its strategic importance in global competition.

China-US Tensions Over Taiwan Read More »

Georgian Dream is watching: how AI-powered surveillance is used against Tbilisi protesters – OC Media’s article

New / /

An investigative article by OC Media reveals how the Georgian government is increasingly relying on AI-powered surveillance technologies to monitor and penalize peaceful protesters in Tbilisi.

Following the withdrawal of police forces from the streets, the number of surveillance cameras has grown significantly—many of them Chinese-made—now playing a central role in identifying protesters and imposing steep fines. This trend raises serious concerns about the use of facial recognition technologies and the large-scale processing of biometric data, threatening citizens’ rights to privacy, free expression, and peaceful assembly. The use of surveillance to intimidate and suppress civic activism marks a dangerous shift toward authoritarian control, undermining the foundations of a democratic society.

‘There are countries where this might not be a problem, given that they’re not on the frontline and don’t have a hostile state that is also China’s major strategic partner’, Tinatin Khidasheli, Georgia’s former Defence Minister and chairperson of Civic IDEA, which monitors growing Georgia-China relations, says in the article.

Full article

This issue has been the focus of several Civic IDEA publications as well. If you are interested in finding out more, check out our recent reports:

Report 1. 👉 EMERGING CONCERN: Chinese Surveillance Cameras in Georgia

Report 2. 👉 Georgian Dream’s Surveillance of Protesterst hrough Chinese Camera

Georgian Dream is watching: how AI-powered surveillance is used against Tbilisi protesters – OC Media’s article Read More »

Ambassador’s talks” project

New, Project / /
🎉 The third edition of the “Ambassador’s talks” project has officially concluded!
 
📅 “Ambassador’s talks” is a Civic IDEA initiative that gives selected participants the opportunity to engage in weekly meetings with ambassadors of various countries over a two-month period.

💡 This was the third time the project was held, and during this round, participants had the chance to meet the ambassadors of Georgia, Germany, the European Union, Latvia, Norway, the Czech Republic, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Denmark, Estonia, and more. The meetings took place in a lecture-discussion format, allowing for insightful conversations and exchanges.

🎉 On May 23, a special closing event was held to wrap up the series, where the winners of the project’s writing competition were announced. Participants presented their work in a storytelling format, highlighting the challenges faced by religious minorities in Georgia and emphasizing the need for inclusive solutions.
 
🏆 The winning participants were awarded prizes by the ambassadors themselves, who attended the final event and listened with great interest to the presentations. All participants received certificates of completion, and the evening concluded with a festive dinner.
 
Civic IDEA extends heartfelt thanks to all the participants, ambassadors, guests, and supporters who made this project possible! 💜

Ambassador’s talks” project Read More »

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