The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in China officially opened on September 28th, establishing itself as the world’s tallest bridge, soaring 2,050 feet above the Beipan River. Construction took nearly four years and resulted in a significant reduction in travel time across the canyon from two hours to just two minutes. The bridge spans 4,600 feet, and aims to boost tourism and economic development in the Guizhou province. It also offers various attractions like a coffee shop, bungee jumping, and glass walkways for visitors.
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Multiple Pentagon leaders, including General Dan Caine, are raising concerns about Pete Hegseth’s plans to overhaul the National Defense Strategy, particularly his proposal to prioritize homeland defense over global security threats from China and reduce U.S. military presence in Europe and Africa. These plans are expected to be discussed at a meeting in Virginia where hundreds of generals and admirals have been summoned. Sources indicate that military officials believe Hegseth’s strategy is shortsighted and potentially irrelevant, especially given concerns about China’s aggression. Furthermore, the former Fox News host is under scrutiny for his management style and the unusual in-person meeting, which has prompted criticism regarding security and practicality from Democratic Senators.
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A former assistant to a far-right European Parliament member has been convicted of espionage, sentenced to four years and nine months in prison. The individual, identified as Jian G, worked for Maximilian Krah, a member of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, passing information on EU Parliament negotiations to Chinese intelligence since 2002. Beijing has denied accusations of espionage, claiming the reports are intended to smear and suppress China. Krah, also under investigation for alleged money laundering and bribery, was previously barred from EU elections but still secured a seat in the German parliament.
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In a speech to the U.N. General Assembly, Chinese Premier Li Qiang positioned China as a global leader, subtly criticizing the U.S.’s retreat from international cooperation. Li highlighted China’s commitment to global economic growth and addressing climate change, while also advocating for the United Nations. Experts believe this represents a shift in China’s foreign policy, aiming to reshape the world order to better align with its interests and values. Despite this, some analysts point out a disconnect between China’s rhetoric of multilateralism and its actions, particularly concerning its treatment of Hong Kong and its activities in the South China Sea.
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The US Commerce Secretary recently revealed the Trump administration is pressuring Taiwan to relocate 50% of its chip production to the US, citing national security concerns due to China’s threats. The Secretary emphasized that the US’s reliance on Taiwan for nearly all critical chips leaves it vulnerable to economic and defense challenges. While acknowledging the immense difficulty of this endeavor, with experts suggesting it could take decades, the administration’s aim is to significantly boost US chip production to achieve greater supply chain independence. Taiwan must be convinced to abandon its dominance as a global chip supplier for this to work.
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President Xi Jinping is urging the United States to alter its long-standing description of its position on Taiwan’s independence. This demand, if met, would represent a significant diplomatic victory for China. Beijing has requested that the U.S. government formally state its “opposition” to Taiwan’s independence. This information was revealed by a source familiar with the matter, who preferred to remain anonymous.
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According to a classified US military intelligence report, China is rapidly expanding its commercial ferry fleet, potentially for an invasion of Taiwan. The report reveals modifications to these vessels, enabling them to carry tanks and participate in amphibious operations, and China is building over 70 large ferries by the end of 2026. The US intelligence community has expressed concern over these preparations, with a Pentagon report considering these ferries as potential military targets in a conflict scenario. This assessment has prompted debate within the US Indo-Pacific Command, weighing the legality of targeting civilian vessels against the potential military advantage China gains from this dual-use strategy.
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China has eliminated its 30% import duty on Indian pharmaceutical products, allowing for duty-free exports. This strategic move comes in the wake of the US imposing a 100% tariff on pharma imports, offering Indian companies an alternative market. This change is expected to significantly boost Indian pharma exports, potentially increasing them by billions of dollars while providing Indian companies a level playing field in China’s large healthcare market. Trade analysts anticipate this will balance trade relations and strengthen India’s global healthcare supply chain.
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Newly obtained documents reveal a deepening military collaboration between Russia and China. Russia has committed to training and equipping a Chinese airborne battalion, suggesting a significant transfer of military expertise. This includes sharing knowledge on airdropping armored vehicles, which analysts believe could enhance China’s capabilities in potential operations, specifically those involving Taiwan. This cooperation highlights the evolving strategic partnership between the two nations.
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China has pledged to reduce carbon emissions by 7 to 10 percent by 2035, becoming a global leader in climate action while the United States retreats from the Paris Agreement. President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of a green transition, highlighting the country’s shift towards renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, aiming for over 30 percent of its power system to be run by these sources. Furthermore, China plans to make new energy vehicles the mainstream in vehicle sales. This commitment stands in stark contrast to the US stance on climate change.
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John Q. Hosedrinker