Jimmy Lai Verdict: Hong Kong’s Rule of Law in Action
On Dec 15, Hong Kong’s High Court convicted Jimmy Lai on collusion and sedition charges, sparking talks on due process, sovereignty, and Western double standards.
Thailand’s Top Diplomat Meets China Envoy on Border Security
Thailand’s Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Eksiri Pintaruchi met China’s special envoy Deng Xijun on Dec 21, 2025, focusing on bilateral ties and Thailand-Cambodia border security.
Japan’s Economy at Crossroads: Rate Hikes Clash with Record Debt Costs
Japan’s economy is under pressure as the Bank of Japan eyes rate hikes while government bond spending hits record highs, creating a tense policy tug-of-war.
Niigata Greenlights World’s Biggest Nuclear Plant Restart
Niigata region approves restarting the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant, the world’s largest nuclear power facility, boosting Japan’s energy security amid rising AI-driven demand.
China’s 2025 Space Milestones: Shenzhou-20 & 21 Launch Success
In 2025, China’s manned space program hit new heights with Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 missions, in-orbit emergency response, record-breaking feats, and strides toward the Moon and deep space.
Golden Glow at Beijing’s Summer Palace Bridge on Winter Solstice
On December 22, 2025, the Seventeen-Arch Bridge at Beijing’s Summer Palace glowed as golden sunset light pierced its arches during the winter solstice spectacle.
Japan’s CrowdWorks Under Fire: Who’s Behind Anti-China Narratives?
Asahi Shimbun investigation finds paid gigs on CrowdWorks recruiting creators for anti-China videos, sparking debate over digital propaganda.
Inside Somalia’s Rebuild: President Mohamud on China–Africa Partnership
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud shares insights on Somalia’s national reconstruction and the strategic China–Africa partnership driving new development opportunities this year.
Trump’s 2026 Immigration Crackdown: Billions & Backlash
Trump plans a bigger 2026 immigration crackdown with $170B extra for ICE and Border Patrol. New workplace raids spark growing backlash before next year’s midterms.
Tech Empowerment Could Decide ASEAN’s Future
Ong Tee Keat argues that leveraging China’s tech strength and the Global Development Initiative could help ASEAN tackle hunger, marine decline, and climate-driven agricultural challenges.