Author: Dang Yuan
China and EU in Talks Over Electric Vehicle Tariffs China’s minister of commerce, Wang Wentao, engaged in discussions with the European Union this week to address the impending import tariffs on Chinese battery electric vehicles (BEVs). These talks were described as “constructive,” emphasizing the shared determination to find a solution and reevaluate pricing commitments. Despite this, the talks will not impact the ongoing tariff proceedings. In response to the European Commission’s investigation into Chinese subsidies for BEVs, Brussels imposed provisional countervailing duties, ranging between 17.4% and 38.1%. An exemption with reduced tariffs applies to Tesla, with the US company’s Shanghai…
The Complex Relationship Between China and the Catholic Church China is home to around 6 million Catholics, divided between the state-sanctioned “Patriotic Catholic Church” and the underground church loyal to the pope. The Vatican’s refusal to recognize Beijing’s government complicates the situation, as the Communist Party exerts control over religious groups in China. Recent agreements between China and the Vatican regarding the appointment of bishops aim to find a middle ground, but are controversial within the Catholic Church. Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin has expressed optimism about the agreements with China, despite concerns over potential ties with Taiwan. The…
China’s Influence in Bangladesh: A Balancing Act in South Asia On International Children’s Day in 2023, Alifa Chin, born on a Chinese navy ship in Bangladesh, received a letter from President Xi Jinping, encouraging her dreams of studying medicine in China. The strategic partnership between China and Bangladesh is vital, as the latter’s location in the Indian Ocean is key for China’s Belt and Road Initiative. With 172 million people, Bangladesh offers a large market for China, but also poses competitive challenges due to its border disputes. China’s extensive investments in infrastructure development in Bangladesh strengthen their trade ties. Additionally,…
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit: A Deep Dive The recent summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Astana brought together leaders from various countries, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kazakh President Kassym-Shomart Tokayev. President Tokayev, who greeted President Xi in fluent Chinese, has a strong bond with the Chinese leader as they share common interests beyond just language. Established in 2001, the SCO aims to enhance mutual trust, promote cooperation, and reduce regional tensions, especially in the aftermath of the Soviet Union’s collapse. Originally founded by Russia, China, and Central Asian states, the organization has expanded to include…
In the heart of Xian, China lies the Grand Mosque, a former capital known for its historical significance as “Chang’an” or “Eternal Peace.” Despite being a tourist attraction, the mosque still holds deep cultural and religious roots. As a non-Muslim visitor, I was greeted warmly at the entrance by a gentleman who, upon hearing my Arabic greeting, welcomed me inside free of charge. This gesture highlighted the rich history of the mosque, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty in the 7th century. Although visually unique with its blended Islamic and Chinese architectural styles, the mosque’s significance cannot be understated.…