The Beijing Hour

Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron discuss cooperation for global peace at the ancient Dujiangyan waterworks. Protests erupt in Japan against comments about Taiwan, putting pressure on Prime Minister Takaichi. Meanwhile, Putin’s visit to India marks a significant diplomatic moment amidst energy discussions. The podcast also highlights fresh insights into China’s green energy growth and the potential for France-China collaboration in AI and climate initiatives.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron discuss their nations' roles in fostering a multipolar world, emphasizing trade and cultural cooperation. Japan faces criticism for remarks on Taiwan, sparking international backlash. China Eastern Airlines launches the world's longest commercial flight from Shanghai to Buenos Aires, promising new tourism and trade opportunities. The podcast also dives into contemporary Chinese cuisine in Paris and highlights cultural exchanges post-Macron's visit.

In this discussion, Alosha Milenkovic, a reporter in Moscow, sheds light on the recent agreement between the foreign ministers of China and Russia to uphold WWII outcomes. They emphasize cooperation against Japan's far-right influences. The conversation also touches on French President Macron's state visit, aiming to strengthen ties with China. Additionally, Milenkovic highlights ongoing turmoil regarding the Ukraine conflict following discussions between Putin and a U.S. envoy, revealing that no compromise has been reached yet.

Wang Zhehan, a business segment contributor focusing on economic developments, shares insights on the upcoming state visit of French President Macron to China. He highlights expectations from former French prime ministers regarding the strengthening of bilateral ties and multilateralism. Zhehan also discusses China's substantial 2 trillion yuan investment in rural infrastructure, emphasizing its social impact. The conversation touches on regional connectivity through projects like the China-Laos Railway, illustrating China's growing influence in international infrastructure.

In this insightful discussion, Sun Tianyuan, a seasoned field reporter, sheds light on China's concerns regarding Japan's increased defense spending. He critiques Japan's shift towards militarization, linking these developments to historical post-war agreements. The conversation delves into regional tensions related to Taiwan, examining the diplomatic implications. Additionally, insights emerge about China's tourism strategies in Hainan, hinting at a broader economic context in the face of geopolitical shifts.

In this discussion, Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasizes the importance of China and France supporting each other on core issues and preserving WWII outcomes. Field reporters, including Zheng Ibing and Stephen Gibbs, provide insights on Taiwan's reactions to Japan's comments and the U.S. increasing military action against Venezuelan drug cartels. Additionally, Hong Kong authorities report on the tragic high-rise fire that resulted in 128 deaths, while AI expert Andy Mock analyzes generative AI's impact on various industries.

In this engaging discussion, Ann Chung, a field reporter known for her on-the-ground insights, shares details about the heartbreaking high-rise fire in Hong Kong and the community's courageous rescue efforts. Meanwhile, Leo Xiamin, a contributor focused on consumer trends, dives into China's ambitious plans for a trillion-yuan consumption sector, spotlighting the growing demand for products catering to the elderly and how first-store launches are shaping urban retail dynamics. The blend of local tragedy and economic innovation makes for a thought-provoking listen.

Tensions rise as China questions Japan's stance on Taiwan, scrutinizing its adherence to the one-China principle. Meanwhile, Tonga and China strengthen their ties through major development projects and cultural cooperation. In global news, Ukraine and the U.S. progress towards a potential peace deal, stirring diplomatic conversations. Amidst this, Japan faces protests over military actions near Taiwan, highlighting historical grievances that continue to affect regional dynamics.

Chinese President Xi Jinping discusses the integral role of Taiwan in post-war order during a call with U.S. President Trump, with both leaders acknowledging its significance. Xi also reaffirms China's commitment to supporting Tonga, aiming for collaborative future development. Meanwhile, the Shenzhou-22 spacecraft successfully arrives at the Tiangong Space Station, overcoming the challenges posed by space debris. The podcast delves into historical ties and the ongoing impact of World War II on modern geopolitics.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has stressed unity, openness and cooperation among the G20 to face global challenges (01:08). Flights on 12 routes between China and Japan have been cancelled under diplomatic tensions (15:06). And negotiations continue on a 28-point U.S. peace plan between Russia and Ukraine, as Europe calls for it to favor Kyiv, and Moscow signals openness to talks without compromising its interests (23:36).