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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans a visit to Beijing next week to revive economic and diplomatic relations. The trip aims to deepen trade cooperation, especially in services, green tech, and science, despite ongoing tensions over embassy plans and global geopolitical shifts. Canada also seeks to diversify away from US reliance during this period of trade disruption.
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Taiwan's president affirms strong US ties amid China's warnings on arms sales. US and China exchange diplomatic signals, with Taiwan preparing for increased military pressure and the UK weighing Chinese energy investments amid geopolitical tensions. The story highlights escalating security concerns and diplomatic maneuvers.
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China asserts sovereignty over Taiwan, condemning U.S. support and military drills. Taiwan's government rejects China's claims, emphasizing its sovereignty and regional security concerns. Recent Chinese military exercises and political statements highlight escalating tensions ahead of Taiwan's elections.
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The US and Taiwan have announced a trade agreement reducing tariffs on Taiwanese goods from 20% to 15%, aligning with South Korea and Japan. The deal includes commitments for Taiwan to purchase US energy, aircraft, and equipment, and to significantly boost investments in semiconductors and high-tech sectors. The agreement aims to strengthen supply chains amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Japan's fisheries agency detained a Chinese vessel near the Goto Islands after it failed to stop for inspection, marking the first such seizure since 2022. China responded by calling for respect of Chinese crew rights and warning of broader diplomatic tensions, amid ongoing disputes over Taiwan and regional security.
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Taiwan's opposition blocks proposed $40 billion defense budget aimed at countering China. Despite U.S. lawmakers' concerns, Taiwanese parliament plans to prioritize negotiations once the new session begins. President Lai emphasizes the urgency of strengthening defenses amid ongoing tensions with China.
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Recent Chinese military flights around Taiwan have sharply decreased over the past two weeks, with no flights recorded since February 27. The decline coincides with China's legislative meetings and possible strategic shifts, raising questions about Beijing's intentions amid ongoing tensions. Small flights resumed recently, but activity remains low.
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European Parliament members visited China to discuss safety concerns over Chinese e-commerce platforms and the high volume of unsafe products entering the EU. The trip follows the EU's recent overhaul of customs rules targeting illegal goods, especially from China, to improve market access and consumer protection.
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Taiwan's parliament continues to debate a proposed $40 billion increase in defense spending, with opposition parties demanding more oversight. U.S. lawmakers are urging faster approval of military aid, while Taiwan's government emphasizes the need for increased military capabilities to counter China. The delay impacts key defense programs.
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Taiwan's president has postponed a planned visit to Eswatini after Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar revoke overflight permits under Chinese pressure. China claims Taiwan as its territory and is increasing efforts to isolate Taipei diplomatically, using economic coercion to influence regional overflight decisions. The move marks the first time a Taiwanese president has had to cancel an overseas trip due to Chinese pressure.
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Pope Leo XIV has celebrated a mass in Mongomo, Equatorial Guinea, calling for justice, freedom, and dignity. He has highlighted ongoing human rights abuses and inequality, and plans to visit a prison in Bata. The visit concludes an 11-day Africa tour amid concerns over the country's justice system and political detention.