The Beijing Hour

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attends the ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Malaysia, urging efforts to advance regional integration (01:13). U.S. President Donald Trump announces a 35-percent tariff for goods imported from Canada starting August 1st (09:26). Safeguarding the diversity of human civilizations for world peace and development is the central theme of the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing (16:19).

Chinese Premier Li Qiang expresses the country's support for Arab countries in strengthening strategic autonomy, during a meeting with Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit in Cairo (01:12). U.S. President Donald Trump is set to impose tariffs on eight more countries, including a 50-percent levy on Brazil (16:35). Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol returns to jail after a court approved a warrant sought by prosecutors (25:38).

Chu Chang, a professor at the Belt and Road Research Center at Mingzu University of China, dives into the robust outlook of the Chinese economy amid global fluctuations. He discusses the ambitious targets set in the 14th Five-Year Plan, projecting over 35 trillion yuan in economic growth. The conversation highlights China's strengthening ties with Egypt and the implications of U.S. tariff threats on international trade. Chu also sheds light on the resilience displayed by the Chinese market in adapting to geopolitical challenges, showcasing innovation as a key driver.

BRICS countries have sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose an additional 10 percent tariff on any country aligning with the bloc (01:55). President Trump extends the pause on the so-called reciprocal tariffs to August 1st while announcing new levies on 14 countries (07:35). Hopes are fading for finding survivors after deadly flash floods devastated parts of Texas (22:45).

Chinese Premier Li Qiang calls on BRICS nations to be the vanguard in advancing global governance reform, as leaders gathered in Brazil for the group's summit (01:09). China commemorates the 88th anniversary of the Lugou Bridge Incident which marked the start of Japan's full-scale invasion and the beginning of China’s whole-nation war of resistance (11:05). Gaza's health authorities say over 6,800 Palestinians have died since Israel resumed military operation in the strip on March 18th after a brief ceasefire. (21:36)

China and Germany hold the eighth round of Strategic Dialogue on Diplomacy and Security in Berlin (01:10). The western and northeastern parts of China face heavy rain storms (15:36). The U.S. House of Representatives passes President Donald Trump's tax cut and spending bill (17:41).

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi calls for dialogue over division in his meetings with EU leaders in Brussels (01:11). South Korean President Lee Jae-myung says his administration will rapidly improve relations with China (08:52). At least four people are dead after a ferry carrying 65 people capsized near Bali, Indonesia (22:35).

The podcast dives into President Xi Jinping's vision for a unified national market and sustainable marine development. It highlights Iran's controversial suspension of cooperation with the IAEA, raising tensions in the Middle East. Meanwhile, it discusses China's economic evolution in the marine sector and the implications of U.S. sanctions on Syria. The impact of political unrest in Thailand and global economic shifts are also examined, providing a broad overview of current geopolitical dynamics and their international repercussions.

Huang Fei, a reporter specializing in Hong Kong's role within the Greater Bay Area, and Wu Yunluo, who reported on cultural initiatives in Sichuan, delve into the significance of Hong Kong's 28th anniversary of returning to China. They discuss Xi Jinping's recent call for self-governance and modernization within the Communist Party. The conversation also touches on Hong Kong's advancements in AI and manufacturing, and its position amid geopolitical tensions, emphasizing community engagement and innovative strategies for sustainable development.

Tensions intensify in Gaza as the Israeli army orders evacuations in Jabalia, highlighting a humanitarian crisis amidst ongoing violence. The geopolitical fallout is significant, particularly concerning U.S.-Iran relations. Meanwhile, China faces severe flooding, forcing thousands into temporary shelters, while Europe grapples with an unprecedented heatwave. The discussion also touches on various global events, economic trends, and cultural highlights, showcasing the interconnectedness of today's pressing issues.