The Beijing Hour

China's commerce ministry is weighing trade talks with the U.S., emphasizing the need for genuine tariff reductions. The discussion highlights how these tariffs affect small businesses and consumers both ways. Political shifts in the U.S. are also examined, particularly the removal of a key national security adviser. Moreover, the podcast touches on the burgeoning relationship between the U.S. and Ukraine, as well as significant legislative changes in China aimed at promoting the private sector amidst a challenging economic landscape.

Wang Yi, a senior Chinese diplomat advocating for cooperation among BRICS nations, discusses the surge in domestic tourism expected during the May Day holiday, highlighting trends towards immersive experiences and long-distance travel. He connects this boom to government initiatives aimed at boosting consumer spending. The conversation also touches on political developments in South Korea and economic forecasts, revealing the interconnected nature of travel, economy, and diplomacy in today's global landscape.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is stressing efforts to adapt to the changing environment and scientifically plan for social and economic development goals for the 15th Five Year Plan (01"02). Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has joined his counterparts from BRICS countries in backing a statement by chair Brazil on opposing protectionism (11"56). And China's Shenzhou-19 mission is a success with the safe return of the astronauts (15"28).

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has stressed multilateralism and free trade at a BRICS meeting in Brazil (01:05). The American public has complained about U.S. economic policies barely 100 days after President Donald Trump began his second term in office (12:17). And Canadians have voted to keep Mark Carney as prime minister amid threats from the United States (16:11).

Chinese authorities say they are confident in reaching development targets with policies to stabilize jobs, support foreign trade and boost consumption (01:00). China's top legislature is pushing for a bill to support the country's private economy (39:03). And Iran is mourning the victims of a port blast as authorities deny links with the defense sector (13:57).

China's top leadership has pledged to support companies severely impacted by tariffs, along with measures to boost consumption and expand opening up (01:10). China has once again denied tariff negotiations with the U.S. and called on Washington not to create confusion (01:55). And China’s Shenzhou-20 mission is taking zebra fish experiments in space one step further by studying bone loss and cardiovascular regeneration (12:47).

Gao Junya, a seasoned reporter who spent five years in Africa and visited Kenya multiple times, discusses the deepening ties between China and Kenya as they elevate their partnership for increased collaboration. She highlights Kenya's pivotal role in the Belt and Road Initiative and its efforts to bolster trade amidst global challenges. Gao also delves into China's ambitious Tiangong Space Station, celebrating the successful crewed Shenzhou-20 mission, and the complexities surrounding current U.S.-China trade relations.

China and Azerbaijan have formed a new strategic partnership, focusing on visa exemptions and enhanced cooperation in trade and green energy. As a new crew prepares for the Shenzhou 20 mission, the podcast delves into the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs on global trade and their impact on economic growth forecasts. Additionally, it highlights the struggles faced by small businesses amidst these trade tensions. Exciting developments in China’s space exploration and the automotive sector towards electric vehicles are also discussed.

The International Monetary Fund/World Bank Spring Meetings have opened amid market turmoil stirred up by U.S. tariffs (01:01). Wall Street and the dollar plunged as investor confidence falters in the face of U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs and his attacks against the Federal Reserve chair (37:21). And the presidents of Kenya and Azerbaijan are paying state visits to China starting Tuesday (15:26).

Foreign and defense ministers from China and Indonesia have discussed political security and defense cooperation at the first "2+2 dialogue (01:06)." China says it will counter any tariffs deal that the United States makes at Beijing's expense (05:40). And China has pledged visa-free transit and payment convenience among other measures to accelerate the opening-up of its service sector (38:31).