Blog
China Power
China's rise inspires a mix of awe, fear and skepticism. But what will its global role be? Are we on the brink of a bipolar world? How will its neighbors respond? Will it all come crashing down? The Diplomat's daily China blog will try to find some answers.
Bitcoin Mining and Blackouts Add to Anti-Chinese Sentiments in Iran
By Reza Khaasteh
Amid energy shortages in Iran, Iranians are pointing the finger at Chinese-run bitcoin mining operations.
Hong Kong’s Present Echoes Tibet’s Past
By Simon Shen
In both 1959 Tibet and 2019 Hong Kong, popular dissent became a flashpoint for the end of meaningful autonomy - just as Beijing had planned.
Taiwan Tightens COVID-19 Regulations Amid String of Hospital Infections
By Nick Aspinwall
Taiwan is working to contain a domestic outbreak and maintain its remarkable success in containing the coronavirus.
2 Films Offer 2 Tales of Wuhan Lockdown Ahead of 1-Year Anniversary
By Associated Press
A government-sanctioned look back at the early fight against COVID-19 differs sharply from a documentary directed by artist and dissident Ai Weiwei.
What’s Ahead for China’s Space Program in 2021?
By Namrata Goswami and Namrata Goswami
From a Mars mission to the beginnings of a new space station, this year will be full of milestones for China.
China’s Ocean Policy Specialist to Miss Out on 20th Central Committee
By Tristan Kenderdine
Liu Cigui’s promotion from Hainan party secretary effectively takes him out of the running for the ultimate prize: membership in the CCP Politburo.
China Bids Farewell to Trump Administration’s ‘Lies and Madness’
By Shannon Tiezzi
China’s Foreign Ministry hit a group of outgoing officials, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, with sanctions.
UK: ‘Genocide’ Clause to China Trade Deals Narrowly Defeated
By Associated Press
The proposal would have made the U.K. the first country in the world to allow genocide cases to be considered in domestic courts.
On Final Day in Office, Secretary Pompeo Declares China Has Committed ‘Genocide’
By Shannon Tiezzi
It will fall to the Biden administration to deal with the consequences of Pompeo’s statement on the crackdown in Xinjiang.
Is a China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Likely in 2021?
By Huynh Tam Sang
Things look promising for an expansion of ASEAN-China ties – but some formidable hurdles remain.
China Economy Grows in 2020 As Rebound From Virus Gains
By Associated Press
While most major economies struggle to recover from the pandemic, the Chinese economy shows signs of growth across sectors.
Taiwan Visit by Trump’s UN Envoy Canceled, Ending a Wild Ride in Taiwan-US Relations
By Nick Aspinwall
The canceled visit by Ambassador Kelly Craft spared Taiwan an enlarged domestic controversy over its handling of the final days of the Trump administration.