World Today

① We take a look at China’s newly announced high-tech fund and how it can help the country’s emerging industries grow. (00:54)② SDF, a Kurdish-led militia alliance, has agreed a deal to integrate all military and civilian institutions into the Syrian state. How big of a step forward does the deal represent in Syria’s political process? (13:15)③ We explore why Citi analysts have upgraded their recommendation for China equities from “neutral” to “overweight”. (26:00)④ Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a visit to Mauritius, with a major issue at stake: New Delhi’s stance on Mauritius’ claims over the Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean. (34:42)⑤ Data compiled by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute shows that the war in Ukraine has helped grow US dominance of the global arms industry. Will this finding alter President Donald Trump’s thinking on whether to withdraw military support for Ukraine? (45:07)

Dr. Yao Shujian, an economist focused on employment in China, discusses how China plans to stabilize its job market amid growth targets. Dr. Joseph Syracuse examines Canada's new political landscape under Mark Carney as he prepares for trade battles with the U.S. Dr. Zhang Chuchu analyzes the escalating violence in Syria and its political implications. Meanwhile, Dr. Yan Liang highlights the Eurozone's economic challenges from U.S. tariffs. Lastly, Chen Xi critiques the impact of U.S. funding cuts on Australia's anti-China narrative.

In this discussion, Warwick Powell, a Senior Fellow at Taihe Institute, Yao Shujie from Chongqing University, and Wang Zhengxu from Zhejiang University analyze China's foreign policy as articulated by Foreign Minister Wang Yi. They explore China's commitment to stability and diplomatic resolutions amid global tensions. The panel delves into the U.S.-China relationship, the impact of trade wars, and the evolving dynamics between China and Europe. Additionally, they discuss China's efforts to engage with the global south, emphasizing mutual benefits and collaboration for a stable world.

①Two Sessions: An interview with CPPCC member, former WHO chief Margaret Chan (00:33)②The United States has paused intelligence sharing with Ukraine. (14:28)③France considers protecting European allies with its nuclear arsenal. (24:59)④Arab leaders have approved a 53-billion-US-dollar plan for Gaza's reconstruction. Can the plan become reality? (34:09)⑤Panama president says "Trump is lying" about reclaiming canal. (43:17)

①China targets economic growth of around 5% in 2025. How achievable is this goal? (00:35)②How can tech innovations help improve senior wellbeing? (25:00)③European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed an 800 billion euro plan to "rearm" Europe. Does this mark a turning point in transatlantic relations? (35:07)④The Mobile World Congress is underway in Barcelona. What trends will shape the future mobile economy? (41:55)

Joining the discussion are Ko Gang, an expert in AI from Southwestern University, and You Tianlong, an international trade specialist at Yunnan University, among others. They dive into Austria's unprecedented coalition government formed after a political deadlock, discussing its potential hurdles and implications for social and economic policies. The panel also examines the escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, including retaliatory tariffs and their global impact. Additionally, they explore China's ambitious plans for AI development and data protection.

Dr. George Zugoplus, an expert on EU-China relations, and Colonel Zhoubo, a security strategist, discuss the new Ukraine peace plan being tailored for U.S. support amidst ongoing tensions. They emphasize the importance of international unity and the role of U.S. diplomacy. Meanwhile, Ding Hong analyzes the impact of Israel's aid suspension in Gaza on humanitarian conditions. Dr. Zhou Mi reveals China's manufacturing revival with strong PMIs, while Zhang Fan shares insights into China's upcoming astronaut training for its Tiangong space station.

French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have in recent days travelled to the White House with a key message to US President Donald Trump: don’s abandon Europe. Trump’s shift on Ukraine is shaking the transatlantic alliance, causing panic on a continent that has depended on US security assurance for 80 years. Suspicions are deepening that Trump is effectively pulling the plug on decades of US support for Europe.So, are transatlantic relations over? What are the challenges that Europe must overcome if it wants to pursue strategic autonomy? Host Ding Heng is joined by Kathleen Burk, Professor Emeritus of Modern and Contemporary History, University College London; Professor Doug Guthrie from Thunderbird School of Global Management; Christis Tombazos, Associate Professor at Monash University.

① Chinese FM calls on China, New Zealand to adhere to cooperation, dialogue. (00:49)② Ukraine approved agreement with U.S. on critical minerals. (14:04)③ China slams U.S. military aid to Taiwan. (24:49)④ Apple plans to invest $500 billion in U.S. as tariff era nears. (35:12)⑤ China’s marine economy achieved a landmark in 2024, driving national growth. (44:25)

① Both Trump and the EU set their sights on Ukraine's mineral resources. (00:50)② China continues as an attractive investment destination: AmCham South China. (13:06 )③ Iran and Russia's FMs condemn the unilateral sanctions by the U.S. and the West. (24:17)④ Syria’s interim president calls for unity and the rebuilding of the fractured nation. (34:00)⑤ The German economy contracted in the final quarter of 2024. (42:30)