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

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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.

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China-US Tensions Over Taiwan

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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.

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China Launches New Economic Cooperation with ASEAN and GCC

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China, together with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), announced new plans for economic cooperation during a trilateral summit held in Kuala Lumpur. This initiative comes in response to the high tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which have heightened tensions in global trade.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang stated at the summit that ASEAN and the GCC will jointly establish a “vibrant economic circle.” This cooperation aims to strengthen free trade and promote the free flow of resources, technologies, and investments.

The trilateral summit, held in Malaysia’s capital, highlights the unity among countries of the Global South. The combined GDP of ASEAN, the GCC, and China stands at $24.87 trillion, with a total population of 2.15 billion, accounting for a quarter of the global economy. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that this collaboration creates “tremendous opportunities” for innovation and investment.

China underlined the importance of free trade agreements. It was announced at the summit that the upgrade of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement has been completed, while negotiations for a GCC-China agreement are nearing conclusion. These developments aim to reduce dependence on the U.S. market and enhance the economic resilience of the Global South. China also seeks to deepen cooperation in areas such as the digital economy, green energy, and finance. Premier Li Qiang proposed a “deep strategic development” framework with ASEAN and GCC countries and encouraged the use of local currencies to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar.

Under Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN for 2025, the summit also addressed global challenges, including the 32–49% tariffs imposed by the U.S., which have significantly affected six ASEAN member states. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that ASEAN remains neutral but views cooperation with China as a “stable partnership”.

Other issues discussed at the summit included the civil war in Myanmar, where participants expressed support for bilateral solutions and ceasefire initiatives. China also backed Malaysia’s proposed Confucian-Islamic civilizations dialogue, aimed at fostering people-to-people exchanges and deeper civilizational integration.

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China Urges Philippines to Cease Confrontation in South China Sea

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China has called on the Philippines to immediately halt “infringements and provocations” in the South China Sea, warning of a “resolute response” otherwise. The statement follows a collision between vessels of the two nations in disputed waters, sparking mutual accusations. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the “control measures” taken by China’s Coast Guard were lawful, while the Philippines’ actions threaten regional stability.

The incident, which occurred on May 22, followed the entry of Philippine vessels into disputed waters, prompting China’s Coast Guard to take “necessary measures,” including expelling the vessel. China claims these actions violate international law. Meanwhile, the Philippines accused China of “aggressive” behavior, a stance supported by the U.S. Ambassador to Manila, MaryKay Carlson, who described China’s actions as “life-threatening” and a “threat to regional stability.”

China urged the U.S. to stop using the Philippines to “stir up trouble” in the South China Sea. According to Mao Ning, U.S. involvement, including joint maritime exercises with the Philippines and Japan conducted this week, heightens regional tensions. These exercises, held for the first time, involved the Philippine and U.S. Coast Guards, as well as naval and air forces. China argues that such actions contradict the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling, which deemed China’s historical claims in the South China Sea “baseless,” a decision China does not recognize.

China’s stance remains consistent: it rejects the Philippines’ provocations, asserting that its sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea is being violated. In April, Zhao Zhiwei, spokesperson for the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command, stated in response to a similar incident that the Philippines’ “illegal intrusion” into waters near Huangyan Island violates China’s sovereignty and international law. The PLA affirmed it remains “on constant high alert” to safeguard national security.

Joint exercises by the Philippines, the U.S., and Japan in disputed waters drew sharp criticism from China. China accuses the U.S. of sowing “discord” in the region, while the Philippines and other neighboring countries, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, also claim parts of the South China Sea. This confrontation increases the risk of global tensions, particularly as China exerts growing economic and military influence in the region.

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China’s Harsh Response to EU Sanctions Against Russia and China

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The European Union has approved its 17th sanctions package in response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, aiming to curb Russia’s economic and military capabilities. This time, the sanctions target not only Russia’s “shadow fleet” and energy sector but also Chinese companies, prompting a strong protest from China. China deems these measures “unfounded” and accuses the EU of “double standards,” escalating global economic tensions.

The EU’s 17th sanctions package includes restrictions on 189 vessels belonging to Russia’s “shadow fleet,” which are involved in transporting Russian oil. Additionally, the sanctions target three Chinese entities, including state-owned companies, which the EU claims supply Russia with components for unmanned aerial vehicles.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, stated that the EU’s sanctions are “unfounded” and violate international law and UN Security Council resolutions. She emphasized China’s support for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis and its strict control over the export of dual-use products. Mao also noted that European and North American countries, including the US, continue trade relations with Russia, which she called a sign of “double standards.” China declared it would take “necessary measures” to protect its legitimate interests, though specific actions were not detailed.

Ukraine, for its part, presented the EU with a “White Paper” proposing strengthened sanctions, including secondary sanctions on countries like China that purchase Russian oil. This initiative stems from uncertainty in US sanctions policy, positioning the EU as a leader. However, imposing secondary sanctions on China is challenging due to the significant trade relationship between the EU and China and China’s growing economic influence on global markets.

China’s protest against sanctions is not new. In February 2025, following the EU’s 16th sanctions package, China’s Commerce Ministry stated that such measures “negatively impact” trade relations with the EU. It called on the EU to stop sanctioning Chinese companies and individuals, arguing that this contradicts the consensus reached between the two sides’ leaders. China’s consistent stance is that it will not accept sanctions without a response, which could lead to trade restrictions against the EU.

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How Did Brazil’s First Lady Criticize TikTok in Beijing?

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Tensions have escalated following a state dinner in Beijing between Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The dinner, hosted by President Xi, did not feature any formal speeches or official statements. Nevertheless, President Lula raised the issue of regulating digital platforms and inquired whether the Chinese government could send an official representative to Brazil to discuss the matter further.

In the wake of this request, Brazil’s First Lady, Rosangela “Janja” da Silva, openly criticized TikTok for promoting what she described as “harmful content.” She cited the tragic case of an 8-year-old Brazilian girl who died after inhaling spray deodorant while participating in a dangerous “deodorant challenge” circulated on the platform. Additionally, media reports indicate that Janja expressed concern over TikTok’s algorithm, claiming it disproportionately promotes right-wing content in Brazil, thereby contributing to political polarization and the spread of disinformation.

Eyewitnesses to the event reported that China’s First Lady, Peng Liyuan, appeared visibly disturbed by Janja’s remarks, reportedly describing them as “disrespectful to Xi Jinping.”

Although the dinner took place behind closed doors, details of the incident were leaked to the media afterward. The presence of official representatives from both countries, including several Brazilian ministers, has raised internal questions and concerns within the Brazilian government. As of now, neither the Chinese delegation nor the Chinese Embassy in Brazil has issued any public statements regarding the matter.

Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3310985/amid-furore-brazils-first-lady-defends-tiktok-remarks-china-state-dinner-hosted-xi

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Increasing Threat: Space Arms Race Between Great Powers

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The strategic competition between China and the United States is rapidly expanding beyond Earth’s boundaries and into space. Both Chinese and American authorities are raising alarms over escalating military threats in orbit.

In a May 2025 article, China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) warned that the United States’ growing space warfare capabilities are intensifying military rivalry and undermining space security.

The U.S. Space Force recently awarded a $60 million contract to American company Gravitics to develop an advanced orbital transport system capable of launching maneuverable spacecraft within hours. Gravitics aims to demonstrate this “game-changing” system in early 2026.

Michael Guetlein, Vice Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, acknowledged the rising military threats in space. He cited China’s 2024 “dogfighting” exercises as a concerning example, along with the potential development of nuclear-armed satellites by Russia.

Newly released documents from the U.S. Space Force reveal Washington’s intent to significantly enhance its military capabilities in orbit. The plans emphasize strengthening command and control mechanisms, achieving space superiority, and minimizing the risk of foreign interference during U.S. space operations.

China’s PLA has expressed deep concern over these developments, viewing America’s initiatives with suspicion. With these rising tensions, space is increasingly becoming a new frontier in the great power competition.

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China’s Strategic Expansion: Visa-Free Travel for Five Latin American Countries

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The People’s Republic of China has announced that, effective June 1, 2025, for a period of one year, citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay will be exempt from visa requirements, integrating these Latin American nations into China’s global economic and cultural network alongside strategic partners such as Japan, South Korea, and European states. This initiative, driven by China’s leadership, aims to deepen cooperation with over 150 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America. According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the policy, which permits stays of up to 30 days for tourism, business, or personal purposes, was activated following the China-Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) Forum in Beijing, where a $9.2 billion financial support package and infrastructure investments were announced, underscoring China’s long-term regional ambitions.

Latin America remains a pivotal arena for geopolitical competition between China and the United States, with China emerging as a significant trade partner for regional economic leaders such as Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. This policy facilitates increased imports of high-quality products and supports infrastructure projects, such as Peru’s Chancay Port, which streamlines trade linkages between South America and China. The growth in bilateral trade indicators in early 2025 highlights the economic potential of this cooperation, though restrictive measures imposed by the United States, as observed in other regions, pose certain challenges. Regional analysts note that China’s openness enhances its cultural influence, particularly through the promotion of its arts and traditional cuisine.

The year 2025 marks a significant milestone in strengthening China-Latin America relations, with China’s leadership emphasizing the expansion of cooperation in education, culture, and tourism to foster people-to-people connections. According to regional experts, the visa waiver will boost tourist flows, activate trade exhibitions, and enhance economic collaboration, particularly through support for projects like the Chancay Port, which optimizes trade logistics. However, experts indicate that realizing the policy’s full potential requires the implementation of exchange programs in education and business to ensure long-term benefits are maximized. 

China positions itself as a strategic supporter of developing nations, as evidenced by the $9.2 billion financial package announced at the CELAC Forum, focused on advancing infrastructure, clean energy, and economic development. This policy, particularly for countries like Brazil and Chile, which are part of the Belt and Road Initiative, strengthens China’s economic and political presence in the region. Analysts assess this move as a counterbalance to the United States’ restrictive policies, though its long-term success hinges on the stability of cooperation and the engagement of regional partners.

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China’s Strategic Expansion: Colombia Joins the BRI

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China and Colombia have signed a cooperation plan within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), marking Colombia’s official entry into this massive global project. The Belt and Road Initiative, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, aims to revive the historical Silk Road through a modern infrastructure and economic network connecting over 150 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America.

During a meeting with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who was in Beijing for the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum, Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that this agreement offers an opportunity to deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, trade, and sustainable development. This move reflects China’s growing influence in Latin America, where it is already the largest trading partner for several countries.

Latin America has become a key region for geopolitical competition between China and the United States. China, Colombia’s second-largest trading partner after the US, expresses its readiness to increase imports of high-quality Colombian products and support Chinese companies in infrastructure construction, including railway corridors and renewable energy projects. In the first four months of 2025, bilateral trade reached $6.7 billion USD, demonstrating the economic potential of the cooperation. However, US pressure, such as Panama’s withdrawal from the BRI, poses certain challenges to China’s ambitions, especially given the region’s strategic importance to the US. Nevertheless, Colombia’s accession to the BRI confirms the success of China’s diplomatic maneuvers, which simultaneously strengthen economic cooperation and political influence in the Global South.

The year 2025 marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Colombia, which Xi Jinping called a “new historical starting point.” He emphasized the need to strengthen political trust and deepen cooperation in education, culture, and tourism to increase people-to-people exchanges and consolidate the public foundation of bilateral friendship. Gustavo Petro said that Colombia is ready to strengthen its strategic partnership with China, especially in areas such as new energy, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure, which serve to improve people’s lives.

The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described its membership in the BRI as a “historic step” that opens new opportunities for investment, technological cooperation, and sustainable development. Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia stated that this agreement creates “endless possibilities” for trade, investment, and tourism, while Petro noted on social media that “the history of Colombia’s foreign relations is changing,” implying global integration based on equality and freedom. These statements underscore Colombia’s ambition to become a more active player in the global economy with China’s support.

China presents itself as a supporter of the Global South and a multilateral order. Within the framework of the China-CELAC Forum, Xi Jinping announced $9.2 billion USD in development credit, focusing on infrastructure, clean energy, and the fight against transnational crime. Colombia’s contribution as the pro tempore president of CELAC to the forum’s success has strengthened its role in cooperation with China, serving the vision of a “shared future.” This vision is part of South-South cooperation and reflects China’s efforts to strengthen its influence in developing countries.

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US-China Tariff Deal: Agreement Reached, Interpretations Diverge

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On May 12, the negotiations between the United States and China concluded in Switzerland, resulting in a preliminary agreement on tariff reductions. While the agreement has been portrayed as a diplomatic breakthrough by both sides, the long-term trajectory of US-China relations remains uncertain.

According to the terms of the agreement, both countries will implement partial tariff rollbacks. Several tariff restrictions will be suspended for a 90-day period beginning May 14, pending the conclusion of a comprehensive deal. Specifically, the additional tariffs introduced during the Trump administration on Chinese imports will be reduced from 145% to 30%, while China will lower its tariffs on US goods from 125% to 10%.

Despite this progress, many trade barriers remain in place. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that tariff reductions would exclude key sectors such as automobiles, steel, and aluminum. He emphasized that one of the primary objectives for future negotiations would be expanding American business access to the Chinese market.

The two sides have presented divergent interpretations of the agreement. The White House described the outcome as a “victory” for the Trump administration. In contrast, Chinese officials framed the deal as a result of Beijing’s firm negotiating stance. During a meeting on May 13 with representatives from Latin America and the Caribbean, including Brazil, Colombia, and Chile, President Xi Jinping remarked, “There are no winners in a tariff or trade war. Bullying or hegemonism only leads to self-isolation.”

China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a formal statement describing the agreement as being “in the interests of both countries and the common interests of the world.” Nonetheless, in a parallel development, Chinese government agencies, including the Ministries of Commerce and State Security, reportedly discussed plans to introduce tighter controls on the export of strategic minerals.

While the agreement marks a step forward in de-escalating trade tensions, the underlying geopolitical and economic rivalries between Washington and Beijing remain unresolved.

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