China Roundup: Ambassador to UK summoned, AI talks with US, Putin’s state visit
Chinese Ambassador to the UK summoned
The Chinese Ambassador Zheng Zeguang has been summoned to the UK Foreign Office over allegations of foreign interference on UK soil. Three men have been charged with assisting the Hong Kong intelligence service. A Foreign Office official said the office has been "unequivocal in setting out that the recent pattern of behaviour directed by China against the UK including cyberattacks, reports of espionage links, and the issuing of bounties is not acceptable." The Chinese Embassy has denied the charges and accused the UK of harassment and provocation. The UK government has also accused China of cyber espionage.
COVID-19 lockdown vlogger to be freed
Zhan Zhang, a Chinese citizen journalist, has served a four-year sentence for covering the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan. Despite expectations of her release, her whereabouts are still unknown, according to the BBC. Zhang was found guilty of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble," and her health deteriorated while in detention. Support for her release has been widespread, with concerns about her safety and continued restriction of her personal freedom. Her case is significant in shedding light on the suppression of independent journalism in China. "In China, journalists detained for their work often remain under detention or surveillance even upon completion of their prison terms," Reporters Without Borders advocacy officer Aleksandra Bielakowska said.
US hikes tariffs on goods from China
US President Joe Biden imposed new tariff hikes on goods from China, including electric vehicles, semiconductors, and other items. The goal is to create a level playing field for U.S. manufacturing in clean energy and catch up with China. "Bottom line is I want fair competition with China, not conflict," Biden said. Former President Trump criticised the move, and analysts warn it may affect inflation, USA Today reports.
First AI talks between Chinese and US envoys
US and Chinese envoys met on May 14 in Geneva to discuss national approaches to the use of artificial intelligence. The talks aim to open up dialogue between the two countries on the fast-growing technology, with a focus on potential risks and the need for safeguards, Fox News reports. The meeting is the first under an agreed-upon dialogue by Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping in 2023.
Putin to make state visit
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit China on May 16 to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The two allies will discuss cooperation in various fields and international issues. China has backed Russia in the conflict in Ukraine and continues to support Russia economically. Putin’s visit comes just ahead of the inauguration of Taiwan's next president and after Xi returned from a five-day trip to Europe, including visits to Serbia and Hungary, two nations perceived to be Russian allies, AP News reports.
