Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
ASTANA, June 23 (Xinhua) — The Xinhua Research Institute, a think tank under the Xinhua News Agency, on Sunday released a report to the world titled “Developing the Central Asia-China Spirit: Achievements, Opportunities and Prospects of Regional Cooperation,” which provides a comprehensive overview of the important achievements and opportunities as well as challenges and problems of China-Central Asia cooperation in the new era and makes a forward-looking analysis of the future prospects.
Central Asia is connected to China by common nature and destiny. If we look back into the past, we can see how the peoples of China and Central Asia together contributed to the establishment and prosperity of the Great Silk Road, leaving behind vivid evidence of cooperation over the centuries: “Caravans stretched to the horizon, and overseas merchants flocked to the border outposts day after day.”
In the new era, China and Central Asia have become good neighbors, reliable friends, partners and brothers bound by a common destiny. From the quantitative and qualitative growth of trade and economic ties to the interconnectedness of infrastructure, from the joint development of green energy to mutual learning and the joint development of cultural exchanges, China and Central Asian countries have created a new reality of friendly, safe and prosperous neighborliness in the Eurasian space, developing and shaping the “Central Asia-China spirit” characterized by mutual respect, mutual trust, mutual benefit, mutual assistance and the promotion of joint modernization through high-quality development. In this way, China and Central Asia have jointly created a model and pattern of regional cooperation.
The international situation is currently characterized by growing instability, and the world is entering a new period of turbulence and change. The rise of unilateralism and trade protectionism, and the destruction of international production and logistics chains are clouding the prospects for global trade. Despite the fruitful results achieved, cooperation between China and Central Asia faces numerous risks and challenges.
In the face of a complicated and tense external environment, China is relentlessly focused on its own development and firmly promotes a high level of opening up to the outside world. In this process, China has always regarded the Central Asian region as an important area of its good-neighborly diplomacy, striving to expand mutually beneficial cooperation with countries in the region. This not only brings stability to the Central Asian economy, but also serves as a model of peaceful coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation for the world.
With the acceleration of a new wave of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, and the deepening of regional cooperation, China and Central Asian countries are intensifying cooperation in new and diverse areas, striving for joint innovative development.
At the new turn of history, China and Central Asian countries will write a new chapter of regional development together with greater openness and firmness of purpose, bringing more certainty and positive energy to the unstable world, igniting a new light of hope for mankind’s path to a better future, and making greater contributions to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHANGHAI, June 23 (Xinhua) — The full-length film “Kara Kyzyl Sary” (Black, Red, Yellow), directed by Kyrgyz filmmaker Aktan Arym Kubat, won the top prize of the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, the Golden Cup.
The closing ceremony of the festival took place on Saturday. The award in the nomination “Best Film” was presented to the Kyrgyz director by the chairman of the jury, the famous film director Giuseppe Tornatore. The performers of the leading roles Nargiza Mamatkulova and Aigul Busurmankulova also appeared on stage.
According to Kyrgyz media, the film’s plot centers on the life of a weaver whose carpets become a reflection of the fates of the people for whom they are created. In her hands, these products turn into mirrors showing the fates of their owners. The director noted that the main character’s love story unfolds against the backdrop of the collapse of the USSR, when significant changes were taking place in both the political and spiritual spheres, which exacerbated human feelings.
The project “Kara Kyzyl Sary” was created with the support of the National Film Studio “Kyrgyzfilm” and is based on the works of the writer Topchugul Shaidullaeva. Filming took place in the Batken region of Kyrgyzstan.
In addition, in the competition category “Animation”, the joint project of Russia and Kazakhstan “Son” was recognized as the best animated short film.
The main competition program of the Shanghai International Film Festival included 12 full-length films, with veteran Chinese filmmaker Cao Baoping winning the Best Director award for his action-comedy “One Wacky Summer,” the Best Actress award went to Chinese actress Wan Qian for her role in “Wild Nights, Tamed Beasts,” and the Best Actor award went to José Martins for his work in the Portuguese-Brazilian co-production “The Scent of Things Remembered.”
The 27th Shanghai International Film Festival was held in China from June 13 to 22. During this time, more than 400 films from about 70 countries were shown in dozens of Shanghai cinemas. The festival film program consisted of five sections: main competition, new Asian talents, animation, documentary films, and short films.
Let us recall that the Shanghai International Film Festival is the only international category “A” film festival held in China. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Vladivostok, June 23 (Xinhua) — The first flight of China’s Juneyao Air from Shanghai arrived in Vladivostok, the administrative center of Russia’s Primorsky Krai, on Monday, the Russian city’s international airport reported on its website.
Juneyao Air opened a direct flight from Shanghai to Vladivostok on June 23. On the morning of this day, the first Juneyao Air flight from Shanghai was greeted with a water arch at Vladivostok airport.
The Primorye air hub marked the important event with a special edition of limited edition commemorative postcards. The first passengers were given them along with their boarding passes.
The new route uses an Airbus 321 aircraft in a two-class configuration. Flights in the summer schedule are performed twice a week on Mondays and Fridays to Shanghai Pudong Airport. Flight time from Vladivostok to Shanghai is 3 hours 30 minutes.
Taking into account the new Juneyao Air flights, the frequency on the Vladivostok-Shanghai route will reach 8 flights per week. At the moment, flights from Vladivostok airport to the Chinese metropolis are also operated by Russian airlines Rossiya and S7 Airlines. –0–
A recent report by wealth management firm Equirus has underlined India’s structural economic strengths, stating the country is poised to outpace G7 economies in the coming years. The report suggests that global capital can no longer afford to ignore India’s evolving economic landscape.
According to Equirus, India’s growth is being powered by strong macroeconomic fundamentals, government-led capital expenditure, a revival in rural consumption, and a structural shift in manufacturing. These factors, the report notes, are positioning India favourably amid a globally uncertain economic environment.
Equirus Credence Family Office CEO Mitesh Shah said India is no longer just the fastest-growing economy on paper, but is structurally better placed than most of the G7 nations. He described this as a “seismic shift” in global economic dynamics. Highlighting the shift in global macro trends, Shah pointed out that India is expected to contribute over 15 per cent to global GDP growth between 2025 and 2030, whereas traditional global investment strategies are beginning to falter.
The report outlines how India is benefiting from critical structural trends. These include a significant uptick in rural demand, where FMCG consumption in rural areas grew by 6 per cent, compared to 2.8 per cent in urban regions. In addition, government-led capital expenditure is set to increase by 17.4 per cent, alongside a Rs 2.5 lakh crore liquidity infusion currently underway.
Over the last decade, the monthly per capita expenditure gap between rural and urban households has narrowed from 84 per cent to 70 per cent, further supporting the case for a consumption-led recovery in the Indian economy.
Equirus also questions the continued relevance of the traditional 60/40 portfolio strategy, which divides assets between equities and bonds. In an increasingly fragmented global financial landscape, the report argues, dynamic and geography-spanning asset allocation is not just advisable but essential for both capital preservation and alpha generation.
India’s rising global economic stature is evident in its growing contribution to global GDP growth, which now significantly exceeds that of Japan and Germany. The report also highlights broader global shifts that support India’s rise, including a decline of around 6 per cent in the Dollar Index (DXY) from its 2025 peak and stable crude oil prices near $70 per barrel, both of which help ease India’s import burden.
On the manufacturing front, the report notes the gradual materialisation of the ‘China +1’ strategy. With multinational corporations like Apple moving parts of their iPhone production to India, the country is gaining from favourable cost structures, lower attrition rates, and stronger geopolitical alignment.
India’s post-election economic outlook is also bolstered by a capex push led by both central and state governments. With a 17.4 per cent rise in capital spending and liquidity support via phased CRR cuts, the report sees these developments as a key force behind India’s economic momentum.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China to announce plans for marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism
BEIJING, June 23 — China’s State Council Information Office will hold a press conference at 10 a.m. Tuesday to unveil plans for marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung’s approval rating hit about 70 percent last week, a weekly poll showed Monday.
Support for Lee, who took office on June 4, reached 73.4 percent last week, while the negative assessment on Lee’s conduct of state affairs stood at 23.6 percent, according to computer assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) by local pollster Flower Research.
The ruling liberal Democratic Party’s approval score recorded this year’s high of 53.7 percent, 28.5 percentage points higher than the conservative opposition People Power Party’s 25.2 percent.
Support rate for both the minor left-leaning Rebuilding Korea Party and the minor rightist New Reform Party logged 4.2 percent last week.
The pollster’s separate survey of automated response system (ARS) showed that Lee’s approval rating came to 69.1 percent last week.
Both the CATI and the ARS surveyed 1,006 voters from Friday to Saturday. They had plus and minus 3.1 percentage points in margin of error with a 95-percent confidence level.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Despite a hard-fought loss in her first-ever WTA Tour singles final, China’s Wang Xinyu is leaving Berlin with a career-best result and a “dream week” to build on.
In a grueling three-set final, Wang was edged out by former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova, 7-6 (10), 4-6, 6-2 in the WTA 500 Berlin Open final on Sunday, but the 23-year-old delivered a career-best performance on grass and signaled her growing presence among the game’s elites.
Wang Xinyu capped off a milestone week at the WTA 500 Berlin Open with a runner-up finish on Sunday, following a fierce three-set battle against former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova.
“This week has been a dream for me. I’ve been playing unbelievable tennis here,” Wang said.
It marked Wang’s first appearance in a tour-level singles championship match after six previous attempts ended in the semifinal stage.
The journey to the final was a story of resilience and giant-killing upsets.
After navigating two rounds of qualifying, the Chinese ousted world No. 16 Daria Kasatkina in the first round, then stunned newly-crowned French Open champion and world No. 2 Coco Gauff 6-3, 6-3 for her first career victory against a top-two player.
In the quarterfinals, Wang took the first set 6-1 before Paula Badosa was forced to retire due to injury. Wang’s subsequent 6-4, 6-1 win over Liudmila Samsonova in the semifinals marked her fourth consecutive victory over a top-20 opponent this week.
But Wang’s week almost ended before it truly began.
Behind this string of victories was a moment of doubt that almost sent her home. Wang revealed that her team had to practically force her to continue playing during that first qualifying match.
“Coming to this match [the semifinal], and coming to every match here I wasn’t expecting anything. For me, it’s really just to enjoy the stage. They [My team] literally pushed me back out there [in the first qualifying round]. I was walking towards the net, thinking, ‘That’s it, it’s not my day,’ but they said, ‘No, no, no, get back out there and play!’” Wang said.
She got back out there, and reeled off six straight wins.
“Enjoy the match” became her mantra throughout the week. Even after the final loss, Wang was quick to focus on the positives she had built.
“People might focus more on the parts of the match where you didn’t play well, and you remember the tough losses,” Wang reflected. “But I have to remind myself to remember the great shots I played this week, to focus on the positive aspects, and to enjoy the upcoming tournaments.”
This resilient mindset isn’t new.
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Wang and her mixed doubles partner Zhang Zhizhen made a surprise run to the final. The Chinese mixed doubles pair lost a nailbiter 6-2, 5-7, 10-8 to the Czech Republic’s Tomas Machac and nine-time Grand Slam doubles winner and Tokyo women’s doubles gold medalist Katerina Siniakova.
A day later, Wang had already come to terms with the result.
“We had many opportunities to take the lead, and we did our best in those moments. Of course, there are some regrets,” she said at the time. “But looking back, I think we need to give ourselves more encouragement and affirmation.”
It is this calm nature that allows Wang to take wins and losses in stride.
In her own words, it’s a simple philosophy that keeps her moving forward –“If you lose a match, there’s always a new opportunity next week to go chase a victory.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Projects jointly funded by Guangdong-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong under Mainland-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme open for application All applications must fit the specific themes/topics, and be submitted simultaneously by the Hong Kong and Mainland applicant organisations to the ITC and relevant Mainland authorities respectively.
To facilitate participating institutes and companies in submitting funding applications, the Mainland-Hong Kong Joint Funding Scheme and the Guangdong-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme have been merged as the MHKTCFS to support and encourage collaboration among universities, research institutes and technology enterprises in Hong Kong and Mainland China. There are three categories of projects under the MHKTCFS: Application details for projects jointly funded by the Mainland and Hong Kong will be announced in due course.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sanjoy Paul, Associate Professor in Operations and Supply Chain Management, UTS Business School, University of Technology Sydney
The Iranian parliament has approved the closure of key shipping route the Strait of Hormuz, in a move that could further escalate the Israel/Iran war.
The strait lies between Iran and its Gulf Arab neighbours and is used to transport about 20 million barrels per day of oil – the equivalent of 20% of global daily oil consumption.
Since 2020, this critical route has been used to transport an average of 14.8 million barrels a day of crude oil and natural gas liquids, 5.5 million barrels a day of petroleum products and 10.8 billion cubic feet per day of LNG.
The closure of the strait, which will not take effect until endorsed by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, will significantly impact global oil and gas supplies and could potentially create energy crises.
An important route for Asia
In 2024, 84% of the crude oil and natural gas liquids, and 83% of the LNG passed through this channel were destined for Asian countries including China, India, Japan and South Korea.
In the first quarter of 2025, China alone imported about 38% of crude oil shipped through the strait.
It is likely these countries will be directly impacted by a closure.
What it means for Australia
Only about 15% of Australia’s crude oil and 5% of petroleum products are imported from Middle Eastern countries including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
However, 30% of Australia’s refined oil effectively transits through the Strait of Hormuz. This is because Australia sources refined oil from the Republic of Korea and Singapore that is refined from crude oil from the Middle East.
If Australia’s key suppliers are affected by the closure, there could be devastating flow-on effects for the country’s oil supply.
Since the conflict between Iran and Israel started, the oil price has increased by 10%. The closure of the strait could further inflate the oil price globally
Though Australia does not rely directly on crude oil from the Middle East, its reliance on South Korea and Singapore for refined oil is significant. The increased oil price and its impact on the cost of goods and services could also hurt Australia’s fight to control inflation.
Past tensions in the strait
The Strait of Hormuz has never been fully closed. However, it has been disrupted a few times leading to reduced capacity.
Notable disruptions include attacks on commercial ships including oil tankers during the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s and the tension in the strait between Iranian and US navies in 2007.
None of these disruptions led to the closure of the channel so the impact of these disruptions on global oil supply was minimal.
Bypassing the strait
Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have established oil pipelines that could bypass the Strait of Hormuz if it is closed or compromised.
Saudi Arabia’s pipeline can carry five million barrels per day and the emirates’ capacity is 1.5 million barrels per day. This is compared to their production capacities of nine and 3.3 million barrels per day respectively.
This could significantly slow down the transportation of crude oil from both countries.
Qatar relies on the Strait of Hormuz to transport nearly all of its LNG shipments. Last week Qatar instructed all LNG carriers to hold off transiting through the strait until the day before loading and to remain east of Hormuz. This has kept their carriers outside the impacted regions.
The limited alternative options and reduced capacities of pipelines could potentially disrupt the global oil and LNG supply.
Potential strategies
If the strait is fully closed, the impacts could be severe, especially for Asian countries which rely on energy from the Middle East.
Many countries, such as China, have oil reserves that can sustain their current oil consumption for about five years. However, many developing countries don’t keep supply inventories.
Supply countries should focus on expanding alternative routes such as pipelines connected to alternative ports.
Most importantly, countries should focus on creating renewable energy sources and speed up their adoption to meet energy needs. In future, renewable energies will be the most viable alternatives to crude oil and LNG amid geopolitical tensions.
Sanjoy Paul does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 23 (Xinhua) — The China-Russia-Mongolia New Landscape of International Communications Academic Forum was held in Hohhot, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, from June 21 to 22, where participants jointly discussed the new architecture and new opportunities in international communication, Zhongxinshe News Agency reported.
The event featured a total of 5 sub-forums, covering topics such as mutual learning and content dissemination among media outlets of the three countries under the Belt and Road Initiative, the Northern Corridor in the digital era, the global value of the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, and the mission of the media of China, Russia and Mongolia.
Renmin University of China professor Wang Bin said local media should rely on news topics and specific practices to project to the world an image of China that is trustworthy, commendable and respected.
According to Zhang Jun, director of Inner Mongolia Normal University, his university will take this event as an opportunity to further deepen exchanges and cooperation between higher education institutions in China, Russia and Mongolia, and accelerate the practical application of its achievements in scientific research.
The forum was organized by the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Normal University.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 23 (Xinhua) — The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Community of Shared Future Study Center was established in Tianjin, north China, local newspaper Tianjin Ribao reported on Saturday.
The new research center is based at Tianjin Foreign Studies University (TFISU). Its establishment was initiated by TFISU together with the Foreign Affairs Office of the Tianjin Municipal People’s Government and the Tianjin Academy of Social Sciences.
According to the publication, the center will combine the scientific and external relations resources of the above-mentioned three organizations. It is planned that within the framework of the joint meeting mechanism, the center will annually convene a plenary meeting 1-2 times, and working meetings – on an unspecified schedule.
The work of the center will be aimed at providing intellectual support in achieving the goals of sustainable development of the SCO and realizing the vision of building a closer community of a common destiny of the SCO, as well as creating a platform of new types of analytical centers with international influence.
The center will focus on studying the theory and practice related to the SCO community of shared destiny, international cooperation in education and training of specialists in multilateral governance, inheriting and developing the core values of the “Shanghai Spirit”, researching issues of regional governance and multilateral cooperation, and serving state strategies and regional development, the newspaper notes.
Let us recall that the next SCO summit is planned to be held in Tianjin this fall. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 23 (Xinhua) — The number of freight train departures on China-Central Asia international freight routes increased 23 percent year-on-year in the first five months of 2025, according to China Railways (CR).
According to the department, from January to May this year, the China-Europe freight train sector maintained stable dynamics, with 6,046 China-Central Asia freight train trips completed.
In addition, an increase in the volume of freight transportation was recorded. In January-May of this year, about 1.64 billion tons of freight were transported by rail, which is 3.1 percent more in annual terms.
During the reporting period, the average daily number of loaded wagons amounted to 181 thousand units, which is 4.2 percent more than in January-May last year, according to KZhD data. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
UNITED NATIONS, June 23 (Xinhua) — China’s permanent representative to the United Nations Fu Cong condemned the United States at an emergency meeting of the Security Council on Sunday for attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities.
“Yesterday (Saturday) the United States attacked three Iranian nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan. China strongly condemns the US attacks on Iran and the bombing of nuclear sites under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards,” the Chinese diplomat said.
According to him, the US actions grossly violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, and also infringe on the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Iran. These strikes have increased tensions in the Middle East and caused serious damage to the international nuclear non-proliferation regime.
Fu Cong stressed that the international community must uphold justice and make genuine efforts to de-escalate the situation and restore peace and stability.
He also called for an immediate ceasefire and ceasefire.
“With tensions in the Middle East sharply escalating, China is deeply concerned about the risk of the situation spiraling out of control. All parties to the conflict, especially Israel, should immediately cease fire to prevent further escalation and resolutely prevent the war from spreading,” Fu Cong said.
“The parties concerned must respect international law, restrain the urge to use force and avoid escalating conflicts and adding fuel to the fire,” he added. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
UNITED NATIONS, June 23 (Xinhua) — China’s permanent representative to the United Nations Fu Cong condemned the United States at an emergency meeting of the Security Council on Sunday for striking Iran’s nuclear facilities.
“Yesterday (Saturday) the United States attacked three Iranian nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan. China strongly condemns the US attacks on Iran and the bombing of nuclear sites under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards,” the Chinese diplomat said.
According to him, the US actions grossly violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, and also infringe on the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Iran. These strikes have increased tensions in the Middle East and caused serious damage to the international nuclear non-proliferation regime.
Fu Cong stressed that the international community must uphold justice and make genuine efforts to de-escalate the situation and restore peace and stability.
He also called for an immediate ceasefire and ceasefire.
“With tensions in the Middle East sharply escalating, China is deeply concerned about the risk of the situation spiraling out of control. All parties to the conflict, especially Israel, should immediately cease fire to prevent further escalation and resolutely prevent the war from spreading,” Fu Cong said.
“The parties concerned must respect international law, restrain the urge to use force and avoid escalating conflicts and adding fuel to the fire,” he added. –0–
BEIJING, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On June 17, 2025, Boyuan Capital (the market-oriented investment platform under the Bosch Group), announced a joint venture named BOYIN INNOVATION ALLIANCE with Galbot, a market leading innovator in building general-purpose humanoid robots powered by Embodied AI.
The collaboration was officially unveiled at the “Open Bosch: Embodied AI Day” event on June 17. On the same day, Bosch China, Boyuan Capital, and Galbot signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly advance the R&D and commercialization of Embodied Intelligent Robotics.
The joint venture will focus on industrial applications with Embodied AI in high-precision manufacturing—such as complex assembly— aiming at promoting the large-scale industrial deployment of Embodied AI and accelerating the global adoption of Embodied AI technologies. It will leverage Galbot’s proprietary Embodied AI technology, replace traditional rule-based and programmed automation deployment methods with Embodied AI models trained on real industrial scenario data, and develop next-generation intelligent robot systems for industrial scenarios. This initiative marks a significant milestone in transitioning Embodied AI from pilot testing to scaled industrial deployment, aligning with the global acceleration of smart manufacturing.
Galbot: A pioneer in Embodied AI
Galbot—recognized by The Information as one of the Top Asia Startups of 2024 has emerged as a leader in Embodied AI. Galbot is Founded in May 2023 by Prof. He Wang from Peking University, who gained his PhD from Stanford.
At the event, Galbot demonstrated its Embodied AI robots, showcasing fully autonomous capabilities in complex automotive and retail scenarios. The live demonstrations received widespread acclaim from key partners, including Bosch China, BoYuan Capital and United Automotive Electronic Systems (UAES), underscoring the maturity of Galbot’s Embodied AI technologies.
These demonstrations showcased the maturity of Galbot’s technology stack, which includes: End-to-End VLA (Vision-Language-Action) Large Models with strong generalization capabilities; A proprietary simulation dataset containing over 10 billion high-quality robotic action data points; Advanced hardware systems featuring high-precision control and scenario adaptability.
Strategic Collaboration and Global Reach
As a key early milestone, BOYIN INNOVATION ALLIANCE signed a memorandum of understanding with UAES to establish RoboFab, a joint laboratory dedicated to cultivating automotive-operations related expertise in Embodied AI and redefining industrialization.
“Embodied AI holds transformative potential to redefine manufacturing processes. We’re already witnessing its remarkable capabilities across diverse production stages. Through this powerful synergy between Boyuan Capital and Galbot, we anticipate delivering commercially viable, scalable robotics solutions with real industry impact,” said Dr. Ingo Ramesohl, Managing Partner of Bosch Ventures.
“The future of manufacturing lies in intelligent, adaptive systems that can learn from real-world data,” said Professor He Wang, founder of Galbot. “Through this collaboration with Bosch and Boyuan Capital, we’re building an end-to-end value chain that will deliver globally competitive Embodied AI solutions for smart manufacturing.”
The joint venture adopts a “global design, local production” strategy, positioning it to serve key international markets including Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia.
Industry analysts view this collaboration as a significant development in the Embodied AI sector, potentially accelerating the industrialization of AI-driven robot system in manufacturing. The partnership brings together complementary strengths: Bosch’s industrial experience, Boyuan’s financial resources and eco-system, and Galbot’s technological innovations in Embodied AI.
Contact Person: Xiaokang Li Email: business@galbot.com
BEIJING, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On June 17, 2025, Boyuan Capital (the market-oriented investment platform under the Bosch Group), announced a joint venture named BOYIN INNOVATION ALLIANCE with Galbot, a market leading innovator in building general-purpose humanoid robots powered by Embodied AI.
The collaboration was officially unveiled at the “Open Bosch: Embodied AI Day” event on June 17. On the same day, Bosch China, Boyuan Capital, and Galbot signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly advance the R&D and commercialization of Embodied Intelligent Robotics.
The joint venture will focus on industrial applications with Embodied AI in high-precision manufacturing—such as complex assembly— aiming at promoting the large-scale industrial deployment of Embodied AI and accelerating the global adoption of Embodied AI technologies. It will leverage Galbot’s proprietary Embodied AI technology, replace traditional rule-based and programmed automation deployment methods with Embodied AI models trained on real industrial scenario data, and develop next-generation intelligent robot systems for industrial scenarios. This initiative marks a significant milestone in transitioning Embodied AI from pilot testing to scaled industrial deployment, aligning with the global acceleration of smart manufacturing.
Galbot: A pioneer in Embodied AI
Galbot—recognized by The Information as one of the Top Asia Startups of 2024 has emerged as a leader in Embodied AI. Galbot is Founded in May 2023 by Prof. He Wang from Peking University, who gained his PhD from Stanford.
At the event, Galbot demonstrated its Embodied AI robots, showcasing fully autonomous capabilities in complex automotive and retail scenarios. The live demonstrations received widespread acclaim from key partners, including Bosch China, BoYuan Capital and United Automotive Electronic Systems (UAES), underscoring the maturity of Galbot’s Embodied AI technologies.
These demonstrations showcased the maturity of Galbot’s technology stack, which includes: End-to-End VLA (Vision-Language-Action) Large Models with strong generalization capabilities; A proprietary simulation dataset containing over 10 billion high-quality robotic action data points; Advanced hardware systems featuring high-precision control and scenario adaptability.
Strategic Collaboration and Global Reach
As a key early milestone, BOYIN INNOVATION ALLIANCE signed a memorandum of understanding with UAES to establish RoboFab, a joint laboratory dedicated to cultivating automotive-operations related expertise in Embodied AI and redefining industrialization.
“Embodied AI holds transformative potential to redefine manufacturing processes. We’re already witnessing its remarkable capabilities across diverse production stages. Through this powerful synergy between Boyuan Capital and Galbot, we anticipate delivering commercially viable, scalable robotics solutions with real industry impact,” said Dr. Ingo Ramesohl, Managing Partner of Bosch Ventures.
“The future of manufacturing lies in intelligent, adaptive systems that can learn from real-world data,” said Professor He Wang, founder of Galbot. “Through this collaboration with Bosch and Boyuan Capital, we’re building an end-to-end value chain that will deliver globally competitive Embodied AI solutions for smart manufacturing.”
The joint venture adopts a “global design, local production” strategy, positioning it to serve key international markets including Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia.
Industry analysts view this collaboration as a significant development in the Embodied AI sector, potentially accelerating the industrialization of AI-driven robot system in manufacturing. The partnership brings together complementary strengths: Bosch’s industrial experience, Boyuan’s financial resources and eco-system, and Galbot’s technological innovations in Embodied AI.
Contact Person: Xiaokang Li Email: business@galbot.com
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The U.S. State Department on Sunday issued a Worldwide Caution Security Alert, advising U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution.
“The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East,” said the notice posted on the State Department’s website.
“There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution,” it said.
The United States struck three key nuclear facilities in Iran on Saturday, claiming that it had obliterated Iran’s nuclear program.
Late Saturday night, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that any retaliation by Iran against the United States “will be met with force far greater than what was witnessed tonight.”
The State Department last week warned U.S. travelers not to travel to Israel, Gaza and the West Bank because of armed conflict, terrorism and civil unrest.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 23 (Xinhua) — Copper powder from Russia was imported into China via a river cargo port in Fuyuan, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, the first time the commodity has been imported into China via a waterway port in the province, which borders Russia, Zhongxinwang reported, citing local authorities.
A cargo ship carrying 3,700 tons of copper powder has arrived at Manjita Port in Fuyuan City, marking the first time such products have been imported through the city’s cargo port.
After the cargo arrived at the port, the customs service conducted sampling according to standard procedures. After inspection, this batch of copper powder will be delivered to Chinese enterprises by rail as part of the rail-sea intermodal transportation.
As noted by the port administration, the successful import of this batch of cargo is of great importance for optimizing the structure of cargo transportation in the port and increasing its comprehensive competitiveness, and also gave a powerful impetus to Chinese-Russian trade and economic cooperation. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
ASTANA, June 23 (Xinhua) — China and Central Asian countries have deepened comprehensive cooperation, achieving successful results on a wide range of issues, according to a report released by the Xinhua Think Tank on Sunday.
Tremendous achievements have been made in developing ties in seven key areas: economic and trade exchanges, infrastructure connectivity, energy cooperation, developing sectors, capacity building for development, mutual learning among civilizations, and peace and security, according to a report titled “Developing the Central Asia-China Spirit: Achievements, Possibilities and Prospects of Regional Cooperation” released by the Xinhua News Agency Research Institute, a think tank affiliated with the Xinhua News Agency.
From rail corridors to renewable energy, from education to cultural exchanges, China-Central Asia cooperation is delivering real benefits on the ground, laying a stronger foundation for shared growth.
According to the report, the volume and quality of trade and economic cooperation between China and Central Asian countries has increased in recent years, and China has become Central Asia’s largest trading partner and a significant source of investment.
To promote sustainable growth, China and Central Asian countries have expanded cooperation in science, technology and education. The Lu Ban Workshop has become a new platform for cooperation in international vocational education. Based on local development needs, the Lu Ban Workshops in Central Asia have created demand-driven training models to promote regional poverty reduction and industrialization.
Humanitarian exchanges are also flourishing. Central Asian tourism, culture and art festivals are growing in popularity in China. Chinese films and TV dramas have become hits in Central Asia. –0–
After the United States bombed Iran’s three nuclear facilities on Sunday, US President Donald Trump said its objective was a “stop to the nuclear threat posed by the world’s number one state sponsor of terror”.
The president authorised a precision operation to neutralise the threats to our national interest posed by the Iranian nuclear program and the collective self-defence of our troops and our ally Israel.
Is this a legitimate justification for a state to launch an attack on another?
I believe, looking at the evidence, it is not.
Was it self defence?
Under the UN Charter, there are two ways in which a state can lawfully use force against another state:
the UN Security Council authorises force in exceptional circumstances to restore or maintain international peace and security under Chapter 7
the right of self defence when a state is attacked by another, as outlined in Article 51.
On the first point, there was no UN Security Council authorisation for either Israel or the US to launch an attack on Iran to maintain international peace and security. The security council has long been concerned about Iran’s nuclear program and adopted a series of resolutions related to it. However, none of those resolutions authorised the use of military force.
With regard to self defence, this right is activated if there is an armed attack against a nation. And there’s no evidence of any recent Iranian attacks on the US.
There have been incidents involving attacks on US assets by Iranian-backed proxy groups in the region, such as the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hezbollah. In his address to the nation on Saturday night, Trump made reference to historical incidents the US believes the Iranians were responsible for over the years.
However, none of these actions is directly related to the strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
What about a preemptive strike?
Another possible ground the US can use to mount a case for its bombardments is anticipatory or preemptive self defence.
Both of these aspects of self defence are controversial. They have never been clearly endorsed by the UN Security Council or the International Court of Justice.
The US has sought to assert a fairly wide-ranging, robust interpretation of the right of self defence over many years, including both anticipatory self defence and preemptive self defence (which is particularly relevant in the Iran strikes).
The major point of distinction between the two is whether a potential attack is imminent. Anticipatory self defence is in response to an attack on the brink of happening, such as when armed forces are massing on a border. Preemptive self defence is a step further removed, before a genuine threat materialises.
Famously, in 2002, the administration of President George W. Bush adopted what is known as the “Bush doctrine” following the September 11 terrorist attacks.
This doctrine was framed around the notion of preemptive self defence justifying a strike on another nation. This was one of the grounds the US used to justify its military intervention of Iraq in 2003 – that Iraq’s alleged program of weapons of mass destruction posed an imminent threat to the US.
However, this justification was widely discredited when no evidence of these weapons was found.
Did Iran pose an imminent threat?
With regard to Iran’s nuclear program, an imminent threat would require two things: Iran having nuclear weapons capability, and an intent to use them.
On capability, there have been debates about Iran’s transparency with respect to its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
But, importantly, the IAEA is the body that has the authorisation and capability to make judgements about a nation’s nuclear program. And it said, at this point in time, Iran did not yet have nuclear weapons capability.
As Rafael Grossi, the head of the IAEA told the BBC:
[…]whereas until the early 2000s there used to be […] a structured and systematic effort in the direction of a nuclear device, that is not the case now.
Trump’s statement in which he referred to the US military operation against Iran’s “nuclear enrichment facilities” was particularly striking. There was no reference to weapons. So, even the language coming out of the White House does not make reference to Iran possessing weapons at this point in time.
Trump’s address to the nation after the Iran strikes.
Further, many states have nuclear weapons capability, but they’re not necessarily showing intent to use them.
Iran has a long track record of aggressive rhetoric against Israel and the US. But the critical question here is whether this equates to an intent to strike.
What about collective defence?
Israel began its military campaign against Iran on June 13, also arguing for the need for anticipatory or preemptive self defence to counter the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program.
If Israel is exercising its right to self defence consistently with the UN Charter, as it claims, it can legitimately call on the assistance of its allies to mount what is known as “collective self defence” against an attack.
On all the available evidence, there’s no doubt the Israelis and Americans coordinated with respect to the US strikes on June 22. At face value, this is a case of collective self defence.
But, importantly, this right is only valid under international law if the original Israeli right to self defence is legitimate.
And here, we encounter the same legal difficulties as we do with the US claim of self defence. Israel’s claim of an imminent attack from Iran is very dubious and contentious on the facts.
The overarching concern is these strikes can set a precedent. Other states can use this interpretation of the right of self defence to launch anticipatory or preemptive strikes against other nations any time they want.
If this practice is allowed to go unchecked and is not subject to widespread condemnation, it can seen by the international community as an endorsement – that this type of conduct is legitimate.
There are many states acquiring conventional weapons that could be seen to pose a potential threat to their neighbours or other states. And there are several states considering the acquisition of nuclear weapons.
One example is Japan, where there has been some debate about nuclear weapons as a deterrence to future possible threats from China.
So, how might Japan’s actions be seen by its neighbours – namely China and North Korea? And how might these countries respond in light of the precedent that’s been set by the US and Israel?
Should Australia condemn the US strikes?
Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong has come out in support for the US action, saying “we cannot allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon”. She hasn’t, however, addressed the legality of the US strikes.
The Albanese government should be discussing this. There’s an expectation, in particular, on the part of Labor governments, given former leader Doc Evatt’s role in the creation of the UN Charter, that they show strong support for the rules-based international order.
Labor governments were very critical of the way in which the Howard government engaged in the US-led invasion of Iraq, asserting there was no basis for it under international law.
Accordingly, there’s an expectation that Labor governments should be holding all states accountable for egregious breaches of international law. And, when viewed through the lens of international law, there’s no other way you can characterise the US strikes on Iran.
Donald Rothwell receives funding from Australian Research Council
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies (ACCWS) hosted the closing ceremony for the 2025 Delegation of Young Leaders from Bangladesh to China on June 20 in Beijing. The event marked the end of a 10-day exchange program across Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing. The visit was organized by ACCWS to deepen the understanding of China’s development achievements and philosophy among the younger generation of Bangladeshi leaders.
The exchange comes as China and Bangladesh celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations and the China-Bangladesh Year of People-to-People Exchanges, highlighting the growing importance of bilateral ties and youth engagement.
The program brought together over 20 young representatives from Bangladeshi universities, media outlets, think tanks and political organizations. During their stay in China, the delegates participated in seminars, field visits and cultural exchanges, exploring topics such as governance, innovation, development and international cooperation.
Yu Tao, vice president of China International Communications Group (CICG), delivers a speech at the closing ceremony in Beijing, June 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of ACCWS]
Yu Tao, vice president of China International Communications Group (CICG), emphasized that young people are key participants in shaping the future of China-Bangladesh relations. “Young people are not only witnesses to our friendship, but also the bridge to its future,” Yu said.
He called on delegates to strengthen people-to-people ties through mutual learning, cross-cultural storytelling and enhanced cooperation within the Global South.
Md Abbas, journalist from The Daily Star, shares his views during the closing ceremony in Beijing, June 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of ACCWS]
Md Abbas, a journalist from Bangladeshi newspaper The Daily Star, described the visit as transformative. “We exchanged not just ideas, but values, visions and dreams,” Abbas said during the closing ceremony.
Abdul Karim, a lecturer at Noakhali Science and Technology University, expressed his admiration for China’s urban development and its long-term planning mindset.
Liu Zongyi, director at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (SIIS), speaks at the closing ceremony in Beijing, June 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of ACCWS]
Liu Zongyi, director of the Center for South Asia Studies and the Research Office of Major Power Relations at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (SIIS), and director of the Centre for China Studies (Bangladesh), encouraged delegates to view China’s experience as a reference — not a model — and adapt what they had learned to their own national context.
“Understanding each other’s realities is the starting point for meaningful cooperation,” Liu said.
Delegates pose for a group photo after receiving certificates at the closing ceremony in Beijing, June 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of ACCWS]
Participants voiced hopes of carrying the spirit of the visit back to Bangladesh, promoting dialogue, mutual respect and a closer China-Bangladesh community with a shared future.
The Indian equity markets opened on a weak note Monday, tracking negative global cues as escalating tensions in the Middle East weighed on investor sentiment. Early trade witnessed selling pressure across key sectors, including IT and auto.
As of 9:30 am, the BSE Sensex was down by 677.10 points or 0.82%, trading at 81,731.07. The NSE Nifty declined by 204.60 points or 0.81%, settling at 24,907.75.
The Nifty Bank index also traded lower, shedding 387.75 points or 0.69% to reach 55,865.10. Meanwhile, the Nifty Midcap 100 dropped 219.45 points or 0.38% to 57,776.05, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 slipped 45.25 points or 0.25% to 18,148.95.
According to market analysts, the worsening geopolitical crisis—triggered by reports of the US bombing three of Iran’s nuclear facilities—is unlikely to have a deep, long-term impact on the markets unless the situation escalates significantly.
“If Iran targets and damages US defence facilities in the region or seriously harms US military personnel, Washington’s response could be massive and might aggravate the crisis. However, the current market view is that Iran’s ability to retaliate meaningfully against the US and Israel is limited,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.
He added that the closure of the strategic Hormuz Strait would likely hurt Iran and its ally China more than others, reinforcing a market outlook that still supports a “buy on dips” approach.
Among the Sensex constituents, major laggards included Infosys, HCL Tech, Hindustan Unilever, TCS, Asian Paints, Power Grid, Reliance, and ITC. On the other hand, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharti Airtel, and Trent were among the top gainers.
Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their buying streak for the fourth consecutive day on June 20, purchasing equities worth ₹7,940.70 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded equities worth ₹3,049.88 crore during the same session.
“We expect our markets to open lower in reaction to global developments but may attempt to recover from the initial losses. Immediate resistance is seen at 25,222, while support has moved up to 24,800,” said Devarsh Vakil, Head of Prime Research at HDFC Securities.
Asian markets also reflected the cautious mood, with indices in Bangkok, Japan, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Jakarta trading in the red. Only China bucked the trend by trading in the green.
On Wall Street, the Dow Jones closed at 42,206.82 on Friday, gaining 35.16 points or 0.08%. The S&P 500 fell by 13.03 points or 0.22% to 5,967.84, while the Nasdaq declined by 98.86 points or 0.51% to end at 19,447.41.
The Indian equity markets opened on a weak note Monday, tracking negative global cues as escalating tensions in the Middle East weighed on investor sentiment. Early trade witnessed selling pressure across key sectors, including IT and auto.
As of 9:30 am, the BSE Sensex was down by 677.10 points or 0.82%, trading at 81,731.07. The NSE Nifty declined by 204.60 points or 0.81%, settling at 24,907.75.
The Nifty Bank index also traded lower, shedding 387.75 points or 0.69% to reach 55,865.10. Meanwhile, the Nifty Midcap 100 dropped 219.45 points or 0.38% to 57,776.05, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 slipped 45.25 points or 0.25% to 18,148.95.
According to market analysts, the worsening geopolitical crisis—triggered by reports of the US bombing three of Iran’s nuclear facilities—is unlikely to have a deep, long-term impact on the markets unless the situation escalates significantly.
“If Iran targets and damages US defence facilities in the region or seriously harms US military personnel, Washington’s response could be massive and might aggravate the crisis. However, the current market view is that Iran’s ability to retaliate meaningfully against the US and Israel is limited,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.
He added that the closure of the strategic Hormuz Strait would likely hurt Iran and its ally China more than others, reinforcing a market outlook that still supports a “buy on dips” approach.
Among the Sensex constituents, major laggards included Infosys, HCL Tech, Hindustan Unilever, TCS, Asian Paints, Power Grid, Reliance, and ITC. On the other hand, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharti Airtel, and Trent were among the top gainers.
Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their buying streak for the fourth consecutive day on June 20, purchasing equities worth ₹7,940.70 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded equities worth ₹3,049.88 crore during the same session.
“We expect our markets to open lower in reaction to global developments but may attempt to recover from the initial losses. Immediate resistance is seen at 25,222, while support has moved up to 24,800,” said Devarsh Vakil, Head of Prime Research at HDFC Securities.
Asian markets also reflected the cautious mood, with indices in Bangkok, Japan, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Jakarta trading in the red. Only China bucked the trend by trading in the green.
On Wall Street, the Dow Jones closed at 42,206.82 on Friday, gaining 35.16 points or 0.08%. The S&P 500 fell by 13.03 points or 0.22% to 5,967.84, while the Nasdaq declined by 98.86 points or 0.51% to end at 19,447.41.
Electronics Standards and Certifications Leader Unveils New Vision and Mission for Supply Chain Harmonization and Advocacy, Releases Global Trade Flows Study
BANNOCKBURN, Ill., June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today begins a new chapter for IPC as it officially becomes the Global Electronics Association, reflecting its role as the voice of the electronics industry. Guided by the vision of “Better electronics for a better world,” the Global Electronics Association (electronics.org) is dedicated to enhancing supply chain resilience and promoting accelerated growth through engagement with more than 3,000 member companies, thousands of partners, and dozens of governments across the globe.
“The Board’s support and approval of this transformation shows our collective recognition that the electronics industry has fundamentally changed. The Association has expanded well beyond its beginning in printed circuit boards – we’re enabling AI, autonomous vehicles, next-generation communications, and much more,” said Tom Edman, board chair of the Global Electronics Association and president and CEO of TTM Technologies. “As we chart our path forward with our new name, we will continue and elevate our efforts to build partnerships between governments and industries, foster new investment, drive innovation across the industry, and minimize disruptions in the electronics supply chain.”
As part of its new mission, the Association is increasing resources to strengthen advocacy, deepen industry insights, and enhance stakeholder communications — all aimed at advancing and elevating the electronics industry. To champion a resilient and growing supply chain, the Association represents the entire ecosystem of diverse subsectors that contribute to this complex industry.
“Electronics today are the backbone of all industries, which makes its supply chain crucial to economies, governments, and everyday life,” said Dr. John W. Mitchell, president and CEO of the Global Electronics Association. “Our new mission and vision position us to work more deeply with industry and our members globally to advocate for the importance of electronics in our continuously changing world.”
The Global Electronics Association will retain the IPC brand for the industry’s standards and certification programs, which are vital to ensure product reliability and consistency. The IPC Education Foundation is now known as the Electronics Foundation, continuing to focus on solving the talent challenges for the electronics industry.
Global Electronics Trade Flows The Global Electronics Association also released a trade flows study of the global electronics industry, which now represents more than $1 in every $5 of global merchandise trade.
Key findings include:
Electronics supply chains are more globally integrated than any other industry, surpassing even the automotive sector in cross-border complexity.
Trade inputs like semiconductors and connectors now exceed trade in finished products such as smartphones and laptops, with global electronics trade totaling $4.5 trillion in 2023, including $2.5 trillion in components alone.
Top exporters such as China, Vietnam, and India are among the fastest-growing importers of electronic inputs, underscoring the deep interdependence embedded in global electronics production.
This mutual reliance challenges the viability of reshoring and decoupling strategies, as rising export powers depend on components from across the world.
Mitchell concluded: “Our trade flows analysis reinforces that resilience, not self-sufficiency, is the foundation of competitiveness in the electronics age. No single company or country can stand alone. The complexities of the electronics ecosystem require collaboration and partnership with others. The Global Electronics Association is here to help create a vital and thriving global electronics supply chain through industry, government, and stakeholder collaboration.”
Global Operations Supporting Entire Value Chain The electronics value chain supported by the Global Electronics Association – from design to final product – encompasses original equipment manufacturers, semiconductors, printed circuit boards, assembly and manufacturing services, harnesses, materials, and equipment suppliers. The Association has operations in Belgium, China, Germany, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Taiwan, and the United States, and a presence across dozens more countries to support its members.
About the Global Electronics Association The Global Electronics Association is the voice of the electronics industry, working with thousands of members and partners to build a more resilient supply chain and drive sustainable growth. We advocate for fair trade, smart regulation, and regional manufacturing, and educate on industry practices, actionable intelligence and technical innovations to empower the future. The Association collaborates with governments and companies worldwide to advance a trusted and prosperous electronics industry. Formerly known as IPC, the organization serves a $6 trillion market and operates from offices across Asia-Pacific, Europe and North and South America. Learn more at www.electronics.org.
Attracting more Chinese tourists to New Zealand, including during the off-season, was a major part of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s trade agenda during his visit to China last week. As Tourism Minister Louise Upston put it: “we welcome anyone, from anywhere, anytime”.
It’s all part of the government’s plan to “turbocharge” the tourism sector with an additional NZ$13.5 million for marketing this year. The hope is this will help double the value of tourism as an export earner by 2034.
The China visit built on the government’s Tourism Growth Roadmap which aims to attract 3.89 million visitors by 2026, and 4.78 million by 2030-34.
Ironically, the release of the roadmap coincided with unprecedented, organised push-back against mass tourism across southern Europe this month. Fed up with the economic and cultural impact of too much “touristification”, residents of popular cities and islands in Italy, Portugal and Spain took part in coordinated protests, some even spraying tourists with water pistols.
Before COVID upended international tourism in 2020, similar serious concerns were voiced in New Zealand about environmental degradation, crowding and congestion, and declining public support for tourism.
But the plan to turbocharge tourism specifically aims to return international visitor arrivals to pre-COVID levels.
From destination management to marketing
As part of the government’s Tourism Boost Package, money generated by the International Visitor Levy (IVL) will be spent driving demand in Australia and elsewhere over the next two years.
But this use of the visitor levy (which was raised to $100 in October last year) seems at odds with its stated purpose. According to New Zealand Immigration, “The IVL is your contribution to maintaining the facilities and natural environment you will use and enjoy during your stay”.
Visitor levy revenue was strategically intended to support tourism regions to protect their natural environments and maintain crucial infrastructure.
Diverting visitor levy income to fund overall tourism growth also seems to turn a deaf ear to the 2020 interim report from the Tourism Futures Taskforce and the 2023 Tourism Adaptation Roadmap from the Aotearoa Circle industry group.
Both were widely acknowledged for their vision and ambition to create a future tourism that served the aspirations of Māori and local communities.
Anti-tourism protesters in Barcelona brandish water pistols, June 15. Getty Images
Redefining tourism ‘value’
There are several key questions about the practical implications of the government’s growth-oriented tourism development approach.
Firstly, staff and infrastructure limitations mean destinations and business will struggle to accommodate more numbers. As the acting mayor of MacKenzie District has noted, several businesses around Tekapo were forced to operate below capacity last summer because there was no suitable housing available for the staff, only up-market holiday rentals.
New Zealand also faces a tourism workforce crisis. Over the past ten years, there has been a 63% drop in the number of students taking tourism-related tertiary courses, and a 73% decrease in those completing hospitality courses.
Meanwhile, from Northland to Queenstown, basic utilities such as electricity and drinking water are being stretched beyond capacity during peak visitation times.
Secondly, there is a real risk of environmental damage from overtourism compromising the appeal of iconic attractions and destinations.
But despite concern over growing visitor pressure at Piopiotahi/Milford Sound over the past decade, the government recently rejected a plan to manage numbers and ban cruise ships in the inner sound.
Thirdly, there is the risk of tourism losing its social licence, as is happening in parts of Europe, given the huge burdens on small communities. As the mayor of Queenstown said recently: “When I first started as the mayor, I think it was one resident night to every 30 visitor nights. It is now one to 47.”
The government’s focus on “turbocharging” economic growth through tourism now puts at risk what little progress has been made toward a sustainable tourism model and giving the regions most affected a voice.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Iran’s parliament has unanimously approved a dramatic proposal to close the Strait of Hormuz—the world’s most critical oil and gas shipping route—in direct retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. While the decision signals a potentially catastrophic escalation with global repercussions, final authority to implement the closure lies with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, which has not yet issued a formal order.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the move as “economic suicide” and warned it would provoke a strong American and allied military response. He urged China to use its influence with Tehran to prevent the closure, citing Beijing’s heavy dependence on the waterway for oil imports. Oil prices have already begun spiking on global markets, with analysts predicting a surge well above $100 per barrel if the blockade is enforced.
The Strait of Hormuz handles approximately 20 percent of global oil exports and a significant share of liquefied natural gas shipments, making it one of the most strategically vital maritime chokepoints in the world. Senior Iranian lawmaker and Revolutionary Guards commander Esmaeil Kowsari confirmed that parliament concluded the strait should be closed but reiterated that the Supreme National Security Council holds final decision-making authority.
Economists warn that a full closure could trigger cascading effects on global inflation and economic stability. Major economies in Asia and Europe—heavily reliant on West Asian energy supplies—face the prospect of severe supply disruptions that could cripple industrial output and consumer markets.
The Chinese government now faces the delicate task of balancing its strategic partnership with Iran against the potentially devastating impact on its own energy security. While Beijing has not yet issued an official statement, American diplomats are actively engaging with Chinese counterparts to urge intervention before the crisis escalates further.
In response, U.S. military forces throughout the region have been placed on heightened alert. The Pentagon is reportedly preparing for potential naval confrontations, as any sustained closure of the Strait of Hormuz would pose an existential threat to global energy security.
The Iranian parliament’s decision marks the most serious threat to global energy supplies since the 1980s Tanker War, when Iran and Iraq targeted commercial shipping. Current tensions in West Asia have already disrupted aviation and shipping patterns, but a Hormuz closure would represent an unprecedented blow to the global economy amid an already volatile energy landscape.
Iran and Israel traded air and missile strikes as the world braced on Monday for Tehran’s response to the U.S. attack on its nuclear sites and U.S. President Donald Trump raised the idea of regime change in the Islamic republic.
Iran vowed to defend itself on Sunday, a day after the U.S. joined Israel in the biggest Western military action against the country since its 1979 Islamic Revolution, despite calls for restraint and a return to diplomacy from around the world.
Commercial satellite imagery indicated the U.S. attack on Saturday on Iran’s subterranean Fordow nuclear plant severely damaged or destroyed the deeply buried site and the uranium-enriching centrifuges it housed, but the status of the site remained unconfirmed, experts said.
In his latest social media comments on the U.S. strikes, Trump said “Monumental Damage was done to all Nuclear sites in Iran.”
“The biggest damage took place far below ground level. Bullseye!!!” he wrote on his Truth Social platform.
Trump earlier called on Iran to forgo any retaliation and said the government “must now make peace” or “future attacks would be far greater and a lot easier.”
The U.S. launched 75 precision-guided munitions including bunker-buster bombs and more than two dozen Tomahawk missiles against three Iranian nuclear sites, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, told reporters.
The U.N. nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, said no increases in off-site radiation levels had been reported after the U.S. strikes. Rafael Grossi, the agency’s director general, told CNN that it was not yet possible to assess the damage done underground.
A senior Iranian source told Reuters that most of the highly enriched uranium at Fordow had been moved elsewhere before the attack. Reuters could not immediately corroborate the claim.
Tehran, which denies its nuclear programme is for anything other than peaceful purposes, sent a volley of missiles at Israel in the aftermath of the U.S. attack, wounding scores of people and destroying buildings in Tel Aviv.
But it had not acted on its main threats of retaliation, to target U.S. bases or choke off oil shipments that pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Attempting to strangle Gulf oil supply by closing the strait could send global oil prices skyrocketing, derail the world economy and invite conflict with the U.S. Navy’s massive Fifth Fleet based in the Gulf.
Oil prices jumped on Monday to their highest since January. Brent crude futures rose $1.88 or 2.44% at $78.89 a barrel as of 1122 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude advanced $1.87 or 2.53% at $75.71.
Iran’s parliament has approved a move to close the strait, which Iran shares with Oman and the United Arab Emirates. Iran’s Press TV said closing the strait would require approval from the Supreme National Security Council, a body led by an appointee of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Caine said the U.S. military had increased protection of troops in the region, including in Iraq and Syria. The U.S. State Department issued a security alert for all U.S. citizens abroad, calling on them to “exercise increased caution.”
The United States already has a sizeable force in the Middle East, with nearly 40,000 troops and warships that can shoot down enemy missiles.
The Israeli military reported a missile launch from Iran in the early hours of Monday morning, saying it was intercepted by Israeli defences.
Air raid sirens blared in Tel Aviv and other parts of central Israel. Iran has repeatedly targeted the Greater Tel Aviv – a metropolitan area of around 4 million people – the business and economic hub of Israel where there are also critical military assets.
Iranian news agencies reported air defences were activated in central Tehran districts to counter “enemy targets”, and that Israeli air strikes hit Parchin, the location of a military complex southeast of the capital.
REGIME CHANGE
In a post to the Truth Social platform on Sunday, Trump raised the idea of regime change in Iran.
“It’s not politically correct to use the term, ‘Regime Change,’ but if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!” he wrote.
Trump’s post came after officials in his administration, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, stressed they were not working to overthrow Iran’s government.
Israeli officials, who began the hostilities with a surprise attack on Iran on June 13, have increasingly spoken of their ambition to topple the hardline Shi’ite Muslim clerical establishment.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is expected to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Monday. The Kremlin has a strategic partnership with Iran, but also close links with Israel.
Speaking in Istanbul on Sunday, Araqchi said his country would consider all possible responses and there would be no return to diplomacy until it had retaliated.
Russia’s foreign ministry condemned the U.S. attacks which it said had undermined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
“The risk of the conflict spreading in the Middle East, which is already gripped by multiple crises, has increased significantly,” it said.
The U.N. Security Council met on Sunday to discuss the U.S. strikes as Russia, China and Pakistan proposed the 15-member body adopt a resolution calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the Middle East.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the Security Council the U.S. bombings in Iran marked a perilous turn in the region and urged a return to negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
National Geographic hosted a special screening of its documentary “Blink” on June 20 during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, with an executive outlining the brand’s vision for the Chinese market.
A still from “Blink.” [Photo courtesy of National Geographic]
Directed by Edmund Stenson and Daniel Roher, “Blink” follows French Canadian couple Edith Lemay and Sebastien Pelletier and their four children — Mia, Leo, Colin and Laurent — after three of the siblings are diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a rare, incurable disease that causes vision loss. To help their children preserve a lifetime of visual memories, the family embarks on a yearlong bucket-list journey across 24 countries, ranging from Botswana and Mongolia to the United States.
Minimizing air travel and choosing local stays, the family’s adventure includes hot air balloon rides, mountain sunrises and even sipping juice atop a camel. Despite facing an uncertain future, their trip overflows with love, emotional moments, healing and awe — showing that true brightness shines from the memories built on love and hope.
At its core, “Blink” is a testament to resilience, human connection and living in the moment. The film also raises awareness of retinitis pigmentosa and offers a rare onscreen look at life with visual impairment.
The Shanghai screening presented the film on the big screen to highlight its bold storytelling and National Geographic’s emphasis on fresh perspectives, Wang Yan, director of branded content at National Geographic, said.
She added that the event aimed to inspire audiences, echoing the brand’s core message that the spirit of adventure is not just about distant places but also about finding beauty in everyday life through curiosity and kindness.
“Blink” will have additional screenings during the Shanghai International Film Festival and has received a wave of positive feedback and rave reviews from audiences and critics.
“This screening is not just about showcasing a film; it is National Geographic’s contemporary interpretation of the spirit of adventure,” Wang said. “We encourage everyone to become a ‘life adventurer’ — to see, discover, cherish, remember and ultimately protect the beauty of our planet.”
Looking ahead, she said National Geographic will continue to use its lens as a bridge between the distant and the familiar, striving to balance adventure and healing as it opens a new chapter in exploration.
Wang also outlined National Geographic’s brand strategy. She noted that since its founding in 1888, more than 137 years ago, National Geographic has been dedicated to expanding the boundaries of human knowledge. The organization has documented major scientific milestones, such as early 20th-century expeditions to the Arctic and the rediscovery of the Inca citadel Machu Picchu.
Today, as a globally influential documentary entertainment brand, National Geographic aims to continue connecting people and the world through high-quality content in China, awakening a sense of responsibility for the Earth and inspiring curiosity, Wang said.
Wang Yan, director of branded content at National Geographic, speaks at a screening of “Blink” during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, June 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of National Geographic]
Wang said National Geographic has consistently collaborated with top documentary creators worldwide. In the past two years, acclaimed theatrical releases such as “Fire of Love” and “Jane” have been introduced in China. The brand has also co-produced hundreds of hours of China-themed content with local partners.
Documentaries including “Extreme China” and “Ancient China from Above” have been released on National Geographic’s global platforms. Nearly 1,600 hours of original overseas content have also been made available on major domestic streaming platforms such as iQiyi, Bilibili, Tencent Video and Youku, with new shows like “Underdogs” planned for the future.
Additionally, National Geographic’s outdoor clothing brand entered the Chinese mainland market in 2023, offering products designed for both city life and outdoor activities.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Every June, ceramic enterprises in Dehua County, east China’s Fujian Province, enter their busiest production season as international clients place advance orders for Christmas and other holidays.
At Quanzhou Shunmei Group Co., Ltd., rows of Christmas-themed ceramic figurines are being carefully packed for export. “Although international trade remains challenging and some orders have been impacted, we remain confident,” said Zheng Pengfei, the company’s general manager.
“This year, we’re actively exploring emerging markets, reducing dependence on a sole market, and participating in domestic and international expos to tap into new demand,” he added.
Despite rising raw material costs and uncertainties in global demand, Dehua’s ceramic industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience. From January to April this year, the county’s ceramic exports had exceeded 1.2 billion yuan (about 167 million U.S. dollars), representing a 23.69 percent year-on-year increase, according to official data.
An ancient county with centuries of ceramic-making history and famed for its white porcelain, Dehua has established a full industrial chain that spans kaolin mining, clay processing, mold-making, glazing, forming and sales. More than 4,500 ceramic enterprises operate in the county, employing over 100,000 people. Dehua ceramics are now exported to more than 190 countries and regions worldwide.
Industry insiders say Dehua’s success lies in its shift from competing on price to competing on design, branding and production efficiency, driven by a strong focus on innovation and transformation.
“Our output value reached 200 million yuan in 2024, with average annual growth of 20 percent in recent years,” said Zeng Liangwang, deputy general manager of Fujian Dehua Tongxin Ceramics Co., Ltd.
He noted that the company is accelerating the development of “ceramics-plus” products, including artistic and smart flowerpots and festive homeware, which are now sold to over 50 countries and regions.
The Tangfeng Ceramics Co., Ltd. developed a tea set inspired by China’s Dunhuang murals, as part of its efforts to enhance product value through storytelling and cultural integration.
“Teaware with cultural depth is more attractive to consumers and allows us to increase added value,” said the company’s general manager Li Jianyang. “As industry competition intensifies, we must dig deeper into our cultural heritage.”
Likewise, Shunmei is forging cooperation with world-renowned brands like Disney and Universal Studios, whose intellectual property has made its products more appealing to global consumers.
Meanwhile, a wave of intelligent transformation is reshaping the production landscape, with widespread adoption of technologies like 3D clay printing, 5G-enabled smart factories, and automated casting machines.
In Tongxin Ceramics’ 3D printing zone, once the modeling is finished, the data is transmitted to the printer. A hollow, sculptural flower vase that once took hours to craft can now be produced in just 30 minutes.
In addition, Tongxin operates 75 automated production lines at full capacity. It takes just 10 seconds to press a lump of clay into a flowerpot, 15 seconds for a mold to complete the slip-casting process, and only 10 minutes for a fully automated line to complete an entire production cycle.
Dehua Huamao Ceramics Co., Ltd. has established a 5G-enabled network that connects its production equipment and enables real-time monitoring. “Our data system collects key process indicators to support continuous optimization,” said Chen Weibin, deputy general manager of Huamao Ceramics.
The local government is committed to building a complete “ceramic industry ecosystem” covering raw material supply, technological innovation and talent development, with the goal of providing sustained momentum for the industry’s long-term growth.
“Behind the resilience of the ceramics industry is the joint efforts of enterprises and government,” said Zeng Xiansheng, an official with the ceramics development committee of Dehua.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The campaign to promote new energy vehicles in China’s rural areas features a larger and more diversified portfolio this year, catered to evolving consumer demands to unlock consumption potential in the extensive market.
Now in its sixth year, the “NEVs Going to the Countryside” initiative — launched by government bodies including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the Ministry of Commerce — has selected 124 models, 25 more than 2024.
The selected models need to meet essential requirements including good sales performance, high brand recognition, and a well-established network of maintenance service points, said Xu Haidong, vice-chief engineer of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, one of the campaign organizers.
BYD’s Dynasty and Ocean series, along with models from Dongfeng, Geely, Changan and BAIC, have joined in the program with high cost-performance offerings. Their product portfolios span plug-in hybrid SUVs to new energy commercial vehicles, including newcomers such as off-roaders and pickup trucks.
Notably, the Model Y and Model 3 have been selected, marking Tesla’s first inclusion in the initiative.
Other models priced above 200,000 yuan ($27,850) on the list include the Li Auto L6 SUV, Nio ES6 SUV and ET5 sedan, Zeekr 001 shooting brake, and XPeng G9 SUV.
The involvement of the high-end brands indicates the upgrading of rural consumption, Xu said. Many automakers are keen to capture this significant vast market by providing high-performance, cost-effective models.
Cui Dongshu, secretary-general of the China Passenger Car Association, said that counties, towns and villages have a certain level of economic strength, and consumers there are willing to improve their quality of life. The untapped potential for NEV consumption in rural areas could become another driving force of growth in the Chinese automotive market.
At the first stop of the 2025 “NEVs Going to the Countryside” campaign held in Rugao, Jiangsu province, in mid-June, some models on display were tailored for rural consumers.
For those engaged in freight transport, some vehicles featured extra-large cargo spaces. For users balancing personal and commercial needs, there were models that offer five, six, or seven-seat configurations alongside pure electric and range-extended powertrain options.
However, Xu pointed out that the lack of charging infrastructure remains an obstacle to the widespread adoption of NEVs in rural areas, saying the vast geographical area and low population density result in high construction costs and long payback periods for charging stations.
In recent years, relevant departments have issued documents aimed at filling the gaps in county-level charging facilities, specifying annual construction tasks, and investment.
At the event in Rugao, some 10 charging station companies showcased their products and technologies. For example, private charging piles can be shared via apps, providing innovative solutions.
Xu suggested that properly advancing the layout of charging stations could promote NEV popularization, boost rural tourism, and aid the development of commercial vehicles.
He cited examples of automakers piloting integrated solar energy storage charging projects in rural areas, which use photovoltaic power generation to power charging stations, thereby cutting operational costs.
This year, the incentives for “NEVs Going to the Countryside” have been increased. In addition to the national trade-in policy and local government support, automakers such as BYD and Wuling have introduced exclusive discounts, with some models seeing price reductions of more than 10,000 yuan.
Financial institutions are contributing by offering low-interest loans, interest-free installment plans, and other financial solutions.
According to data from the CAAM, NEV sales in rural outreach activities exhibited growth from 2020 to 2024.Sales increased from 397,000 vehicles in 2020 to nearly 7.6 million in 2024, surpassing the sector’s total market growth.
Fu Bingfeng, secretary-general of the CAAM, said over the past five years, there were more than 500 NEV models involved in the program with combined sales totaling 15 million units. Some rural areas have one NEV per five households, driving green mobility transformation in these regions, he added.
From January to May, NEV sales reached 5.61 million units in China, a year-on-year increase of 44 percent. NEVs accounted for 44 percent of the total new car sales during this period.