The Beijing Hour

Joining the discussion are Natalie Carney, a reporter on EU tariffs and Chinese electric vehicles, Ross Cullen, covering the Paris Auto Show's electric vehicle trends, Ann Chung, focusing on Hong Kong's economic policies, and Sabrina Singh, the Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary. They delve into the implications of U.S. troops arriving in Israel with THAAD components, address the impact of trade tensions between China and Europe, and explore economic reforms in Hong Kong that aim for growth amid geopolitical challenges.

Ross Cullen, a reporter covering the Paris Auto Show, sheds light on the bustling Canton Fair in Guangzhou, which hosts nearly 4,600 companies for the first time. He discusses the impact of new EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, raising concerns for local manufacturers. The podcast also touches on South Korea's response to North Korea's recent actions, along with China's ongoing diplomatic engagement with both Israel and Iran, highlighting the broader implications for global trade and security.

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army has carried out drills around Taiwan with the Coast Guard patrolling the waters in the region(01:06). Chinese Premier Li Qiang is in Pakistan for an SCO meeting and to pay an official visit(09:05). And the United Nations says Israeli tanks have entered its peacekeeping post in Lebanon, as the Israeli military says it was helping evacuate casualties(19:12).

Chinese Premier Li Qiang is calling for unity in Asia to pursue shared prosperity(05:40). An Israeli attack on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon has drawn international condemnation including from China, which called it unacceptable(10:09). And Hurricane Milton has killed at least 14 people in Florida and left millions without power or water(21:53).

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has told the China-ASEAN Summit in Laos that negotiations for Version 3.0 of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area have achieved substantial progress(01:04). Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden have discussed potential Israeli retaliation against Iran, as Tehran warns of a fierce response(09:45). Millions on Florida's central west coast are taking shelter after Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key(22:24).

Chinese Premier Li Qiang is visiting Laos for a series of ASEAN meetings and an official visit(01:01). China's commerce ministry says it launched anti-dumping investigations on brandy imports from the European Union at the requests of industry(08:06). And Hurricane Milton has regained strength and is threatening the Tampa Bay region in Florida(11:13).

China’s top economic regulator is stressing expanding demand, supporting businesses, and boosting the property and capital markets in efforts to ensure continuous and sound economic growth(01:04). China and the European Union have resumed talks on EV tariffs with the hope of finding an alternative solution(19:47). Israel and Hamas are not backing down one year after the Gaza conflict started(10:29).

The current humanitarian crisis in Gaza is dire, with escalating violence and increasing desperation for aid. Meanwhile, China has seen a significant travel surge during its National Day holiday, with a vibrant cinema culture boosted by popular films. In addition, recent policy changes in China's real estate market signal potential recovery. The podcast also delves into military strategies, emphasizing ancient wisdom and storytelling, and highlights the inspiring journey of a BMX coach shaping young athletes in China.

China is experiencing a surge in international travel thanks to new visa policies, especially noted at major ports like Zhuhai and Urumqi. Hezbollah is considering a truce proposal with Israel, raising hopes for a ceasefire amid ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, U.S. dockworkers have paused their strike to allow for further negotiations, reflecting the complexities of labor relations. The discussion also highlights advancements like AI robotic guide dogs and reassessments in real estate policies aimed at boosting property purchases.

Carlos Alcaraz, the recent champion of the China Open, discusses his thrilling victory and the atmosphere of the tournament. Zheng Qinwen, the rising star from the home team, shares her experience reaching the quarterfinals. Both athletes reflect on the growing popularity of tennis in China and the excitement surrounding sports during the National Day Golden Week. They also highlight how the entertainment industry is booming, with Chinese audiences flocking to comedy and patriotic films, contributing to record box office earnings.