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.
In Global First, China’s Lunar Probe Returns to Earth With Samples From the Far Side of the Moon
By Huizhong Wu
Chang’e 6 is the first lunar mission to have collected samples from the far side of the moon.
Lai Ching-te’s View on History
By KAWASHIMA Shin
The new Taiwanese president revealed a shift in perspective.
Xi Jinping’s Ideologization of the Chinese Academy
By Daniel Fu
Several policy measures and guiding documents issued by Beijing have indicated a decisive shift toward political indoctrination and insularity in Chinese universities.
Caught Between Allies: China’s North Korea Dilemma
By Anny Boc
Rapprochement between Moscow and Pyongyang has caused mixed feelings in Beijing, as China’s own relations with North Korea are far from close.
China Sets the Stage for the Third Plenum by Unveiling Financial Reforms and Monetary Policy Direction
By Lizzi C. Lee
At the Lujiazui Forum, China’s central bank chief hinted at an expanded monetary policy toolkit, while the CSRC chair emphasized support for “hard tech” and the fostering of patient capital.
Malaysian PM Says China a ‘True Friend’ and Not to be Feared as Chinese Premier Ends Visit
By Associated Press
As China’s Li Qiang wrapped up his visit, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim dismissed concerns that Beijing sought to “abuse its privilege and extort” Malaysia.
Fear A Militarily Weak China
By David Hutt
Is China's military the juggernaut some imagine, or a paper tiger like Russia's degraded armed forces? Either way, getting a definitive answer would be terrible for almost everyone.
Hong Kong Is Chiming in on China-US Tech Competition
By Sunny Cheung
Hong Kong’s investments in semiconductors and technology highlight a deliberate strategy to align with China’s objectives while exploiting gaps in U.S. regulations.
Taiwan’s Coast Guard Under Fire After Chinese National Rides a Speedboat to New Taipei
By Brian Hioe
A former PLAN officer, surnamed Ruan, reportedly wanted to defect to Taiwan, but the incident has raised concerns about Taiwan's coastal defense.
Chinese Leadership’s In-House Lecture Offers Valuable Insights into China’s AI Strategy
By Lizzi C. Lee
In a lecture to China’s top legislative body, a leading computer scientist outlined a national AI strategy focused on developing the real economy and overcoming U.S. tech restrictions.
How China Gained a Foothold in Eastern Taiwan
By Nien-Ju Tsai and Tara Lee
Led by “King” Fu Kun-chi, Hualien County has become a nexus for political and economic connections with the PRC.
Taiwan’s Energy Security Under Threat
By Tsuyoshi Minami
Facing the potential of a maritime blockade, can Taiwan reduce the vulnerabilities in its power system and establish energy security?