The Beijing Hour

China's recent political season concluded with ambitious development plans for 2025, emphasizing innovation and AI as essential growth drivers. The nation aims to leap ahead in the AI race, competing vigorously with the U.S. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are underway in Saudi Arabia, where officials from Ukraine and the U.S. seek solutions for the ongoing conflict with Russia. Additionally, a focus on aging communities highlights cultural revival and economic initiatives to support both elder and younger generations.

In this discussion, journalist Adel Al-Marouki offers insights into Egypt's ambitious reconstruction plans for Gaza amid ongoing international tensions. He highlights the challenges posed by recent violence and Israel's electricity cuts, which Hamas views as coercive. The conversation further delves into the broader implications of international support for these rebuilding efforts and the intricate balance of politics affecting the humanitarian crises in the region. Al-Marouki's unique perspective sheds light on the urgent need for solutions in this complex landscape.

Huang Chengde, a veteran journalist with over two decades of experience documenting the Yellow River, shares his profound journey along this vital waterway. He reflects on the urgent need for environmental protection, intertwining personal anecdotes with broader themes of climate change. His quest not only emphasizes the river's cultural significance but also showcases inspiring community efforts and sustainable initiatives. Huang's emotional ties to the river illustrate a deep respect for its heritage, making a powerful case for collective conservation.

Wang Yi, China's Foreign Minister, emphasizes Beijing's dedication to peaceful development and global stability. He discusses AI's impact on the senior care industry and how China is positioning itself in international relations, especially with the U.S. and Russia. The recent temporary suspension of tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods is also highlighted, showcasing collaborations aimed at tackling issues like illegal immigration and the fentanyl crisis. Wang's insights probe the complexities of diplomacy in today's uncertain landscape.

Hongguang New Village is one of a dozen settlements located at the mouth of the Yellow River. In this episode, we get a glimpse of how lives have been changing in places where fishing is still very much alive against the backdrop of a world of digital transformation.

China says it is fully confident in achieving the economic growth target of around five percent as there is solid foundation and support for the economy(1:12). Trade tensions are a major topic at the Two Sessions meetings in Beijing, with experts saying China is resilient and can navigate these challenges(11:18). The World Trade Organization says Canada has formally requested a hearing regarding U.S. tariffs enacted this week(19:39).

Deep in the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, children from herders’ families lead a life far different from the tech-linked world. At an altitude of 4,500 meters above sea level, and with winter temperatures dropping to minus 40 degrees Celsius, the teachers and students there strive for their dreams with love, resilience, and devotion.

Wang Xin-sung, an associate professor at Beijing Normal University, and reporter Do Hongyu delve into China's ambitious economic goals, setting a 5% GDP growth target for 2025. They discuss local authorities' strategies to bolster businesses for global expansion and the impact of U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods. The conversation highlights China's focus on enhancing AI and 6G technologies, while navigating geopolitical challenges in trade. Their insights reveal a nuanced perspective on the nation's evolving economic landscape.

The Mu Us Desert, one of the four major deserts along the Yellow River, was once a lifeless expanse. Now, it’s turning green, thanks to decades-long efforts by the locals to combat desertification. In this episode, we meet a centenarian who spent his life planting trees in Jingbian, the first county in Shaanxi Province to stop discharging silt into the Yellow River.

The NPC spokesperson says China has a huge market and a complete industrial system, ensuring sufficient flexibility to navigate various risks and challenges (05:02). The “Two Sessions” have drawn attention from thousands of journalists from home and abroad (10:30). China has responded to U.S. tariffs that took effect on Tuesday with retaliatory levies of up to 15 percent on a range of American goods (20:05).