Pan Guang provides insights into Beijing's role in conflict mediation, its strategic engagement with the Global South, and the security aspects of the Belt and Road Initiative. The discussion highlights China's diplomatic strategies and its efforts to foster international cooperation.

Advocates highlight the potential of a site 100km south of Beijing, though current conditions show underdevelopment. Chinese-American researchers express concern over the possible revival of the China Initiative if Donald Trump returns to the White House. The US trade ban on cotton from Xinjiang has pushed textile manufacturers to focus on domestic consumers, but the ban's impact on exports remains significant.

Dozens of researchers specializing in high-priority fields such as artificial intelligence and quantum physics have been invited to an annual gathering on the Bohai Sea.

Football in Hong Kong is experiencing a decline, reflected in the city's falling FIFA rankings. The article explores the root causes of this downturn and potential solutions to revitalize the sport domestically.

The popularity of ETFs has surged due to their transparency and ease of trading, with a record US$118 billion flowing into ETFs in Asia this year. Philippines’ Senate foreign relations chief Imee Marcos has pledged to closely examine a significant deal. Singapore will host some events of the World Aquatics Championship in a temporary pool in a car park, with initial cost estimates for the hosting bid reportedly underestimated.

China's rapid investment and construction in new energy have outpaced the development of its power grid, leading to inefficiencies and wasted electricity. Analysts suggest that significant reforms are necessary to bridge this gap and support the country's green transition.

Future models are expected to enhance user experience through movements and speech, focusing on emotional connection. Thailand has fallen behind Vietnam and the Philippines as the top Southeast Asian tourism source country. South Korea's military fired warning shots at North Koreans crossing the border. Hong Kong Investment Corporation collaborates with AI specialist SmartMore, with more hi-tech investments anticipated. Infrastructure in Southeast Asia under China's Belt and Road Initiative is tested, with some challenges encountered. Malaysia's PM discusses territorial disputes, US-China tensions, and hopes for a Chinese economic rebound.

The article explores the infrastructure in Southeast Asia developed under China's Belt and Road Initiative by traveling from Hong Kong to Chiang Mai. The journey highlights the effectiveness and challenges of the infrastructure, with a notable shift to van and bus travel due to unforeseen circumstances.

Highlights from SCMP's recent reporting include Cathay Pacific's cadet troubles, travel curbs on China's state workers, and New Delhi's defense strategy. Hong Kong's government is boosting support for tech industries, while the Dragon Boat Festival showcases diverse sticky rice dumplings across East Asia. Hydrogen is explored as a long-term emission reduction solution. John Lee assures judicial independence despite top court resignations. Donald Trump focuses on illegal border crossings in his post-trial rally. Morocco and Gotion sign a gigafactory investment deal. Israel's PM to address the US Congress on the Gaza conflict. The China Import and Export Fair remains vital despite challenges. Kevin Rudd comments on US deterrence's impact on Beijing. Illegal lenders threaten Wong Yock Sang's family despite debt settlement. A stock market rally increases investment activity.

A key chip industry event in China saw a decline in exhibitors, reflecting market challenges and the ongoing Sino-US tech war. The event highlighted the industry's cautious approach amid geopolitical tensions. Dirk Messner emphasized the global threat to climate goals due to eroding trust and a shift away from international cooperation. Israel's military actions in Gaza were noted, with efforts to minimize civilian harm. The article also touched on various global and regional issues, including Singapore's conservative values post-repeal of an anti-gay law, and the attractiveness of new train services.

New types of workplace misconduct complaints have emerged in Japan, including issues related to pregnancy, odour, and mood harassment. Policy adviser Zheng Yongnian emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach in cross-strait relations and warns of a 'dangerous cognitive war' by the US. In Hong Kong, a landmark national security trial involving opposition figures accused of subversion for participating in an unofficial election is set to conclude, with the verdict expected this week.

David Lampton, a long-time China observer, asserts that no rational government would desire the collapse of China. However, he cautions that the mutual expectations between China and the US are unlikely to be fulfilled in the near future, reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The Philippines' defense minister called for arbitration under international law after a stand-off at Second Thomas Shoal. Stories from the weekend include bamboo as a potential protein source, Hong Kong's International Cultural Summit, and the Hong Kong Tourism Board's waterfront art events. The Association clarified Dr. Josephine Ip's remarks, affirming Hong Kong's status as part of China. Holi's origin stories and the optimism surrounding the Princess of Wales' cancer diagnosis were discussed. Japan surpassed China in private equity, and a Chinese teenage girl is set to represent her country in surfing at the 2024 Olympics. Jaemark Tordecilla developed an AI tool for investigative journalism, and painter Stephen Wong discussed his exhibition and views on AI in art.

Kodi Wan Yat-ting, a hairdresser from Hong Kong, has adopted a minimalist lifestyle to reduce waste and promote environmental consciousness. Living in a small beachfront flat on Peng Chau, she uses second-hand furniture, reusable packaging, and homemade cleaning solutions. Wan co-founded JupYeah, a group that facilitates the exchange of used items to encourage less consumption and more reuse. She emphasizes the importance of reducing waste from the source and aims to produce no waste in her daily life, highlighting the broader implications of materialism and environmental responsibility.