World Today

①China and the US have wrapped up two days of trade talks in Stockholm. What are the key outcomes?②The IMF has raised its economic growth forecast for China this year. What's driving this revision? ③Britain says it'll recognize Palestine as a state unless Israel agrees to an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza. ④Trump sets a new deadline of 10 or 12 days for Russia to act on Ukraine. ⑤China has unveiled childcare subsidies to boost its birth rate. How effective could the policy be?

①Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng meets with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Stockholm. What's on the agenda? (00:41)②Thailand and Cambodia agree to an "immediate and unconditional" ceasefire. Can it pave the way to ending the conflict? (11:38)③Germany plans to establish an airlift to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip with the support of Jordan. (24:34)④China designates "Drone Flight Planner" as a new profession. (33:53)⑤US government probes Duke University in latest federal funding threat. (43:36)

①China and the US are entering a fresh round of trade talks in Stockholm. What can we expect? (00:39)②China has proposed the creation of a global AI cooperation organization. What's behind the initiative? (11:16)③The US and EU have agreed to a trade deal with a 15% US tariff on most EU goods. Who are the winners and losers? (24:14)④China's tax and fee revenue during 14th Five-Year Plan is expect to top 155 trillion yuan. (34:26)⑤Houthis vow to step up shipping attacks to press Israel on Gaza. (43:32)

China and the European Union have pledged to promote cooperation on trade and investment at the 25th China-EU summit. The two sides have also issued a joint declaration, reaffirming policy continuity to step up efforts in tackling climate change. Meeting EU leaders in Beijing, President Xi Jinping called for providing more certainty for the world through steady China-EU ties.Why does the current international landscape require China and the EU to deepen trust? How can the two sides focus on pragmatic cooperation despite their differences? Host Ding Heng is joined by Dr. Zhou Mi, Senior Research Fellow of Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation; Dr. George Tzogopoulos, Director of EU-China Program at CIFE, a European research organization; Sultan Hali, a Chinese foreign policy analyst and retired Air Force officer in Pakistan.

① How might the latest China–EU talks shape their future ties? (00:48)② What to watch for in the China–U.S. next trade talks in Sweden? (10:30)③ Why is the U.S. redeploying nuclear weapons to the U.K. after 17 years? (24:21)④ Why Russia and Ukraine agree to a prisoner swap but fail to reach a ceasefire in their latest talks? (32:35)

① What does the launch of island-wide independent customs operations in Hainan Free Trade Port this December mean for China's opening-up? (00:47)② What was discussed during the video meeting between China's commerce minister and the EU trade commissioner ahead of the China–EU summit? (13:18)③ Being America's friend in 2025—what does it take? U.S. President Donald Trump announces trade deals with Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines. (24:30)④ Japanese PM Ishiba denies talks of his imminent resignation. (35:03)⑤ Why is the U.S. pulling out of UNESCO again—for the third time? (43:55)

① China-Croatia Ties: Foreign ministers hold talks in Beijing to enhance bilateral ties. (00:48)② What's driving China's better-than-expected job growth, with nearly 7 million new urban jobs added in H1? (14:30)③ 28 countries and EU urging Israel to lift its siege on Gaza — Will it make a difference? (24:44)④ What does Brazil's new tax office in China mean for the future of their economic partnership? (34:46)⑤ What does Unitree Robotics' IPO signal for China's growing robotics industry? (42:53)

① How will EU leaders' visit to China and the 25th China-EU Summit reshape bilateral ties? (00:49)② Japan faces political uncertainty as ruling coalition loses control of both houses: What's next for its political future? (13:03)③ China adds 10,000 km of high-speed railways during 2021-2024. (24:05)④ New Development Bank at 10: A Decade of South-South Cooperation. (33:59)⑤ Why are international banks raising China's GDP forecasts? (44:43)

The 2025 International Congress of Basic Science is now underway in Beijing. The event draws over a thousand scholars from China and abroad, including Nobel Laureates, Fields Medalists, and Turing award winners. But in a world increasingly driven by fast results and commercial returns, why does basic science still matter? What happens when artificial intelligence begins solving problems that once took humans years or even decades? And can science still be a shared human endeavor in an era of rising geopolitical tension?Host Zhao Ying is joined by Zhang Fan, Associate Professor of Astronomy Department of Beijing Normal University; Quentin Parker, Director of Laboratory for Space Research, University of Hong Kong; Andy Mok, Tech Analyst and Senior Research Fellow at the Center for China and Globalization

① China has rejected NATO chief Mark Rutte's warning that Brazil, China and India could be hit by secondary US sanctions if they maintain trade with Russia. Why is Rutte's remark unhelpful to ending the Ukraine crisis? (00:55)② China has established partnerships with over 80 countries and regions in intellectual property cooperation over the past five years. We take a look at what China has achieved in IPR protection during its 14th five-year plan. (13:27)③ We speak to Benjamin Wong, Head of Transport & Logistics and Industrials at InvestHK, on how Hong Kong is positioning itself as a global supply chain hub. (24:59)④ Israel has launched heavy airstrikes on Syria, claiming to defend Druze minorities. What could happen next? (34:03)⑤ What has prompted the Trump administration to revoke federal funding for California's high-speed rail project? Do high-speed railways fit America's economic conditions? (42:12)

① The third China International Supply Chain Expo has opened in Beijing. How much does the willingness of the business community matter when it comes to safeguarding the stability of global supply chains? (00:57)② China has announced that it will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit from August 31 to September 1. How can SCO stay true to its original aspiration and carry forward the Shanghai Spirit? (13:20)③ A conversation with David Jonathan Gross, a Nobel Laureate and preeminent figure in theoretical physics. (25:12)④ China is slamming Japan's new defense white paper over allegations of the so-called China threat. Does it make sense to describe China as Tokyo's “greatest strategic challenge”? (34:22)⑤ The Trump administration is launching a probe into Brazil's trade practices. Does Brazil deserve such a treatment? (43:19)

① We take a look at China's recent Central Urban Work Conference and how it plans to build modern Chinese cities that are innovative, livable, beautiful, resilient and smart. (00:51)② Meeting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Beijing, President Xi Jinping said China is willing to work with Australia to further advance bilateral relations. What benefits have been brought to the two sides after bilateral ties achieved a turnaround? (14:32)③ China's economy grew at an annual rate of 5.3% in the first half of 2025. We explore the driving force of the steady growth. (24:48)④ Nvidia will soon resume H20 AI chip sales to China following US government assurances. What does it mean to the US tech giant? (34:01)⑤ On the 10th anniversary of World Youth Skills Day, we explore what skills young people really need for the future? (44:36)

① We take a look at Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's visit to China and how it will shore up trade relations between the two countries. (00:53)② India's foreign minister is making his first trip to China in five years. Will the positive trajectory in China-India relations continue? (13:38)③ China's exports growth beat expectations in June, driven by robust shipments to non-US markets. How resilient are China's exports in the face of US tariffs? (24:24)④ After the US threatened new tariffs of 30% on goods from the EU, Brussels decided to delay its retaliatory tariffs in hopes of reaching a deal with Washington by the end of this month. Will the EU make it? (34:23)⑤ New Zealand has announced plans to double its international education market by 2034. What is driving New Zealand to pursue this goal? (43:16)

Over 600 guests from around 140 countries and regions have gathered in Beijing for the Global Civilization Dialogue Ministerial Meeting, held under the theme: “Safeguarding the Diversity of Human Civilizations for World Peace and Development.” What does this renewed call for civilization dialogue mean for global governance, cultural innovation, and peacebuilding? Host Ge Anna is joined by Gordon Dumoulin, Consultant and analyst on China perspectives and Entrepreneur in Chinese Medicinal Herbs; Prof Qu Qiang, Fellow of Belt and Road Research Centre at Minzu University of China; Prof Warwick Powell Senior Fellow at Taihe Institute and Adjunct Professor at Queensland University of Technology.

①Chinese Premier Li Qiang calls on China, Egypt to deepen strategic coordination to safeguard common interests. (00:37)②The 11th Nishan Forum on World Civilizations takes place in China's Shandong province. How does it contribute to mutual understanding in today's polarized world? (12:19)③Donald Trump says the 50% tariff on copper imports will take effect on August 1. How will it impact US industries and consumers? (24:58)④Scientists warn that climate change is fueling more extreme weather. (34:46)⑤An interview with European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde (44:40)

①China's economy expanded at an average annual rate of 5.5 percent from 2021 to 2024. What's driving this strong momentum? (00:47)②Once known for its rural terrain and underdeveloped economy, how has Guizhou transformed into China's big-data hub? (14:17)③Emmanuel Macron is on a three-day visit to the UK, as he stresses a special responsibility of the two countries to safeguard European security. (25:06)④Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibranhim has urged Southeast Asian countries to enhance trade among each other amid global uncertainty. (34:53)⑤Donald Trump has stepped up his criticism of Vladimir Putin after restoring arms shipments to Ukraine. What does this mean for the prospects of a negotiated ceasefire? (45:36)

① BRICS leaders call for global cooperation on AI governance and climate action. How are voices from the Global South shaping global conversations? (00:46)② Donald Trump has announced new tariffs on a growing number of countries. Is this fueling greater uncertainty in global trade? (14:59)③ Netanyahu meets Trump at White House as Israel, Hamas hold ceasefire talks. (24:59)④ AI chipmaker Nvidia is on the verge of becoming the most valuable company in the world. (34:24)⑤ Suriname has elected Jennifer Geerlings-Simons as its first female president. How significant is this moment for the country? (45:06)

①The 17th BRICS Summit takes place in Rio de Janeiro. With its growing influence on the global stage, what role can BRICS play in reforming global governance? (00:46)②US President Donald Trump has signed his huge tax and spending bill into law. What's in it, and who stands to gain or lose? (13:48)③Elon Musk says he has formed a new US political party, the "America Party". Can it gain traction and reshape the American political landscape? (24:33)④South Korea's prosecutors has filed request to detain ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol. (32:22)⑤Latest round of Israel-Hamas ceasefire talks have ended without breakthrough. (43:30)

It's been five years since the enactment of a national security law in Hong Kong following the unrest in the city in 2019. The law defines four categories of offenses: secession, subversion, terrorist activities, and collusion with external forces to endanger national security. In a recent signed article, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the Hong Kong society has remained stable and prosperous since the law's implementation.How has the law safeguarded the practice of “One Country, Two Systems” in Hong Kong? How has the restoration of stability revitalized the city's development dynamics? Host Ding Heng is joined by Professor Yao Shujie, Deputy Director of the Department of Social Sciences, Chongqing University; Edward Lehman, Managing Director of LEHMAN, LEE & Xu Law Firm; Einar Tangen, Senior Fellow of Taihe Institute and Chairman of Asia Narratives Substack.

① Wang Yi calls on EU to establish objective, rational perception of China. (00:47)② Lee Jae-myung: opportunity for a China-South Korea reset? (12:58)③ Former IMF Executive Director urges BRICS summit to deliver financial reform and unified Global South stance. (23:52)④ Top chip design software developers say U.S. export restrictions to China from May have been lifted. (33:30)⑤ Is Xiaomi's wait-and-see EV strategy a missed opportunity—or a calculated move for global success? (42:59)

① Belgium backs push for a greater European autonomy in talks with China's top diplomat. (00:45)② Is Hong Kong reclaiming its IPO crown? City set to lead global fundraising in 2025. (14:13)③ Is Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill” bold reform or a risky bet for America's future? (24:02)④ Putin and Macron speak for the first time in nearly three years—what's behind the call, and what does it signal for Europe's diplomacy? (33:48)⑤ Why is Malaysia banning U.S. plastic waste—and what does it reveal about global environmental justice? (46:17)

① What does Hong Kong's 28th anniversary reveal about its evolving role in China's national development strategy? (00:38)② Is Macron's criticism of tariffs as “blackmail” revealing deeper rifts between the EU and the U.S. on trade? (12:40)③ Why are Obama and Bush breaking their silence on Trump's dismantling of USAID—and what's really at stake? (23:33)④ What exactly are stablecoins—and could they reshape the future of global finance? (33:09)⑤ With travel orders surging, is China's tourism revival a sign of deeper shifts in domestic consumption and global mobility? (43:13)

① Chinese FM Wang Yi begins official visit to Europe, with stops at EU headquarters, Germany, and France. (00:45)② U.S. economy shrinks in first quarter — first contraction in three years. (12:25)③ U.S. Senate begins debate on Trump's “Big, Beautiful Bill.” (24:07)④ Canada rescinds digital services tax following Washington's trade threat. (36:27)⑤ Prominent British entrepreneur hails China visit as a catalyst for global trust and dialogue. (46:20)

NATO leaders have agreed to ramp up military spending to 5% of their national GDP by 2035.They made the pledge at a summit in The Hague, following months of pressure from US President Donald Trump.Is NATO bending too far to keep Trump on board, or is this just what modern transatlantic alliance looks like? And does more military spending really make Europe safer, or does it risk triggering a new arms race and provoking more conflicts?Host Zhao Ying is joined by Ruud van Dijk, Professor in History of International Relations, University of Amsterdam; Chen Weihua, China Daily EU Bureau Chief based in Brussels; Kamal Makili-Aliyev, Associate Professor at the School of Global Studies, University of Gothenburg.

① The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has held the 10th annual meeting of its board of governors. How should we characterize the bank's operations since it was founded a decade ago? (00:55)② We talk to Ni Jun, Chief Manufacturing Officer of EV battery giant CATL, on global EV expansion. (15:12)③ We take a look at China's move to strengthen controls on two chemicals that can be used to make fentanyl. (24:56)④ A recent China-EU seminar on human rights adopted a consensus document calling for countering technological dominance and closing digital gaps to better safeguard human rights. We speak to a keynote speaker at the event. (33:07)⑤ In shock to Democratic politics in the US, socialist Zohran Mamdani has won the New York City mayoral primary. What does this tell us about socialist movement in America? (43:43)

① At the Summer Davos Forum, China's premier calls on countries to collaborate on trade despite rising barriers. Why is China determined to be a guardian of free trade and multilateralism? (00:54)② We talk to Battushig Myanganbayar, an AI strategy advisor to a former prime minister of Mongolia, on how to make artificial intelligence safer and more inclusive for the developing world. (14:36)③ China's foreign minister says Beijing calls for genuine de-escalation in the Middle East. What conditions can lead to a genuine ceasefire between Israel and Iran? (24:56)④ Mainland slams recent remarks made by Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te on cross-strait relations as a monologue advocating “Taiwan independence”. What is driving Lai to continuously make provocative remarks? (33:39)⑤ How could China's move to revise its aviation law help boost its low-altitude economy? (42:25)

① Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is on a five-day trip to China, his first to a non-ASEAN country since assuming office. Is China-Singapore relationship more important than before in times of global turbulence? (00:50)② China says it is closely following developments in the Middle East and doesn't hope to see escalations of tensions. We explore the uncertainties shrouding possible ceasefire between Iran and Israel. (14:40)③ We speak to James Zhan, Chairman of the World Investment Conference's Executive Board, on whether China will remain a key destination for foreign direct investment. (24:26)④ Morgan Stanley predicts that China's robotics market will double in four years. What's driving the surge? (34:54)⑤ On the eve of a NATO summit, the European Union and Canada signed a wide-ranging defense pact. Is US President Donald Trump the biggest factor prompting the two sides to do so? (46:25)

① Israel and Iran have continued to trade strikes after the United States attacked three Iranian nuclear sites. Have the US attacks added coal to the fire? (00:51)② NATO allies have reached a deal on setting a new defense spending target of 5% of GDP, but Spain will be exempted from the commitment to meeting the new target. Has Spain set a precedent that might prompt other countries to follow suit in the future? (25:01)③ We explore why, according to official data, China's appeal to global investors remained strong in this year's first five months. (35:52)④ The Chinese mainland and Hong Kong have launched a new cross-border payment system. How will the system benefit residents on both sides? (45:03)

The 2nd China–Central Asia Summit marked a milestone in regional diplomacy, with President Xi Jinping introducing the “China–Central Asia Spirit” of mutual respect, trust, benefit, and assistance. Other key outcomes include the signing of the Treaty of Permanent Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation; the delivery of over 110 initiatives. Cooperation will focus on six priority areas: trade, connectivity, green minerals, agriculture, investment, and people-to-people ties — with expansion into AI and satellite navigation. What do these developments mean for the region and beyond?Host Ge Anna is joined by Zoon Ahmed Khan, Research Fellow at Center for China and Globalization; Dr. Wang Jin, Associate Professor at Northwest University in Xi'an, China; Dr. Zhou Mi, Senior Research Fellow with Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation.

①Israel and Iran have intensified attacks as Trump says he "may or may not" strike Iran. How close is the US in entering the war? (00:39)②New Zealand's prime minister is on a visit to China. What's on his agenda? (12:25)③The Federal Reserve cuts outlook for US economy but holds interest rates steady. What's behind this decision? (24:31)④US states are sending delegates to EU for advice on green policy. (32:05)⑤An interview with Renat Bekturov, Governor of the Astana International Financial Centre (42:17)

① At the second China-Central Asia Summit, President Xi Jinping called on the two sides to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. How can China and Central Asian nations make their cooperation more results-oriented and efficient? (00:56)② At the 2025 Lujiazui Forum in Shanghai, China's central bank has unveiled eight measures to further open the country's financial market. How will they advance the construction of a modern financial system in China? (14:49)③ We take a look at new research by the International Council on Clean Transportation that shows Chinese automakers have built significant leads in the zero-emission vehicle market. (24:43)④ What is prompting the European Union and Australia to begin negotiations on a new security and defense partnership? (34:46)⑤ The premier of Canada's Manitoba Province is urging Ottawa to spell out a clear strategy for repairing ties with China. Why is Manitoba eager to see tensions between China and Canada resolved? (45:07)

①President Xi says China is ready to work with Kazakhstan to contribute to regional and world peace and development. (00:45)②21 Arab and Muslim countries have issued a joint statement calling for de-escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict. Does diplomacy still have a chance? (13:43)③The US and UK have agreed to move ahead with the AUKUS pact despite a Pentagon review. Does this fully settle the uncertainty around Washington's commitment to the deal? (24:36)④Gold has surpassed the euro to become the world's second-most important reserve asset held by central banks. (33:13)⑤US chip giant Nvidia will attend a major supply-chain expo in China for the first time. (44:03)

①President Xi has arrived in Kazakhstan to attend the second China-Central Asia Summit. What to expect? (00:41)②Israel vows Iran will "pay the price" as both countries intensify cross-border strikes. How might the situation further escalate? (14:56)③As G7 leaders gather in Canada, is the divide within the alliance deepening with a more unilateral United States? (24:34)④China's economy registered steady growth in May. (33:31)⑤China showcases some of its top aviation products at the Paris Air Show. (43:42)

In the United States, the conflict between California and the Trump administration over immigration appears to be further intensifying. Federal immigration officials are carrying out enforcement activities in California, especially the Los Angeles area, as part of President Donald Trump's mass deportation policy. The raids have been sharply criticized by local officials who say everything in their daily life is being affected by the activities targeting immigrant families. At the center of the clash is the federal government's decision to order the deployment of National Guard members and Marines to LA after days of protests driven by anger over the raids.What does the clash tell us about the social and political divisions in the United States? Host Ding Heng is joined by Joseph Siracusa, Professor of Global Futures at Curtin University, and Andy Mok, Senior Research Fellow at the Center for China and Globalization.

① China to offer zero-tariff access to 53 African countries. (00:46)② China unveils guidelines to deepen reforms in Shenzhen. (24:38)③ Pentagon launches review of US-UK-Australia Aukus security alliance. (34:17)④ From China to the world – how Pop Mart turned Labubu into a $150,000USD sensation. (44:04)

① China and U.S. agree on a framework to implement leaders' consensus, says China's trade representative. (00:46)② Chinese Vice President: China is ready to work with the UN to practice genuine multilateralism. (13:33)③ Los Angeles Mayor announces curfew in downtown amid protests. (24:39)④ China's NEV exports continue to surge, with an 80.9% increase in May. (34:39)⑤ China marks Population Day with a focus on elderly care and healthy aging. (44:02)

① President Xi holds phone talks with South Korean President Lee. (00:46)② First China-U.S. economic, trade consultation mechanism meeting underway in London. (12:17)③ About 700 U.S. Marines being mobilized in response to protests in Los Angeles. (25:25)④ Top Chinese tech firms unveil innovative approaches to boost AI talent training and hiring. (35:54)⑤ Iran says it's sending a counter-proposal to the U.S. after rejecting Washington's latest offer as “unacceptable.” (45:54)

① What's driving China's 2.5% rise in foreign trade over the first five months? (00:48)② UNESCO expert emphasizes global cooperation, China's leadership in ocean governance. (13:42)③ What's fueling the unrest in Los Angeles—and where is it headed next? (23:39)④ The ECB lowers rates for the eighth time as trade tensions threaten growth. (34:07)⑤ China's tourism industry could hit one trillion yuan by 2026: Citi. (45:05)

South Korea has elected a new leader after six months of political turmoil.New President Lee Jae-myung began his term on Wednesday.He pledged to raise the country from what he described as the near destruction caused by a martial law crisis and revive an economy facing global protectionism.Lee also emphasized a pragmatic and national-interest-centered approach in diplomacy.How will President Lee unite a divided country and revive a slumping economy? Could we see a reorientation in South Korea's foreign policy?Host Zhao Ying is joined by Rong Ying, Chair Professor with the School of International Studies, Sichuan University; Josef Gregory Mahoney, Professor of Politics and International Relations at East China Normal University; Einar Tangen, Senior Fellow at Taihe Institute and Chairman of Asia Narratives Substack.

① Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko has paid a three-day visit to China. Why does China view its ties with Belarus from a strategic and long-term perspective? (00:52)② US defense chief Pete Hegseth has skipped a meeting of 50 defense ministers at NATO headquarters that was aimed at coordinating military aid for Ukraine. What does his absence indicate? (13:34)③ The US has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Does Washing have a legitimate concern that the resolution would embolden Hamas? (24:09)④ Thursday marks the World Environment Day. We take a look at how environmental protection and ecological restoration are advancing in China and beyond. (34:11)⑤ We explore the vitality of China's inbound tourism. (42:42)

① South Korea's new president Lee Jae-myung has vowed to raise the country from the turmoil of a martial law crisis and revive the economy. How will he tackle the challenges awaiting his presidency? (00:47)② The US is facing international criticism after President Donald Trump signed an order to double tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 50%. What's fundamentally wrong with the logic of the tariffs? (13:23)③ Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called on the new US ambassador to China to serve as a promoter of bilateral cooperation. How can Washington work toward equality and respect in its relationship with Beijing? (24:14)④ DeepSeek has released its upgraded R1 AI model. How will the revised model help the Chinese AI startup ramp up competition with OpenAI? (32:56)⑤ We take a look at the Netherlands' government collapse trigged by the withdrawal of far-right leader Geert Wilders from the governing coalition. (43:14)

① It's estimated that China saw 119 million passenger trips during its three-day Dragon Boat Festival, a year-on-year increase of 5.7%. What does it tell us about the consumer confidence in China? (00:52)② We take a look at how, thanks to a trade-in program, China saw strong growth in retail sales for consumer products in this year's first five months. (14:39)③ What's behind the chaos of an Israeli-backed initiative to establish aid distribution sites in Gaza? (24:58)④ Iranian diplomatic sources say Tehran is poised to dismiss a US nuclear proposal. What's the calculus of Tehran? (36:31)⑤ Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has described her country's unprecedented judicial elections as a complete success. Will Mexico's ongoing judicial reform reduce corruption and impunity in the judicial system? (45:24)