US Reports Reveal that China is Aiding Russia’s Military Expansion

According to an assessment by US officials, it is revealed that China is playing a significant role in the military expansion of Russia, particularly in its efforts in the war against Ukraine. China has been increasing its sales of various technology and equipment to Russia, which Moscow will use to build up its military arsenal. China has been the major supplier of microelectronics, machine tools, and other crucial technology to Russia. In 2023, around 90% of Russia’s microelectronics came from China, which is essential in the production of tanks, missiles, and aircraft. Additionally, over 70% of Russia’s machine tool imports came from China last year.

To what extent has North Korea achieved Economic Liberalisation?

North Korea has a communist style of governance, and the role of market allocation schemes is limited. Basically, the country has a centrally planned economy with a total GDP of nearly 20 billion USD. It was expected to reach 21.24 USD billion by the end of 2023 and 25.06 USD billion in 2024. Comparably, North Korea’s GDP is 57 times smaller than that of South Korea’s GDP. The Gross Value Added (GVA) of the country is dominated by agriculture, followed by the manufacturing and construction sectors. North Korea had a similar GDP to its neighbour from the time of the Korean War until of mid-1970s. However, estimating the isolated nation’s GDP is actually a difficult task because of the lack of availability of data.

Is the United States facing a Third World Future?

The United States has long been considered a global superpower and a symbol of prosperity and democracy. However, recent developments and global power shifts towards Asia have raised questions about the country’s standing. As the world’s largest economy, the United States has traditionally been at the forefront of global leadership, championing democratic values and capitalist ideals. However, a closer examination of the country’s current situation reveals a complex picture that warrants analysis.

Chinese Cyber Agents likely to disrupt upcoming Election in India

The report also sheds light on the Chinese cyber actors, who are actively involved in spying and other cyber operations around the world. They have been using AI-generated content to intensify tensions, particularly in the disputed Asia-Pacific region and in the US. One notable group that is known for carrying out such activities is Storm-1376. They have been identified for intensifying their use of AI-generated news reports and memes. These tactics were used during Taiwan’s presidential elections, where they targeted political candidates, including spreading misinformation about William Lai, a candidate belonging to Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party, a party that nurtures anti-Chinese sentiments.

UN-finished? Peace, Promises and Growing Disappointments

The result? A crescendo of global disappointment and a serious need for rethinking of the UN’s relevance in a world that has moved beyond its post-1945 landscape. Also, a legitimate question to ask is that as a common individual living in a fairly small country, why should one trust and rely on the UN to protect them in times of humanitarian crises and hold the perpetrators accountable, given the litany list of failures before us? A more casual way of asking the same question would be, ‘is the UN still relevant?’

India-China Rivalry: Boon for USA’s Dominance in Asia

When considering the United States, its robust economy and formidable military are typically the foremost aspects that come to mind. However, if these strengths were ever endangered, it becomes crucial to contemplate potential scenarios. One significant concern would arise if India and China were to align their efforts. However, we are living in a realistic world where this scenario doesn’t seem likely to happen. This article discusses why such cooperation would be detrimental for the United States.

India’s Foreign Policy Achievements for the Last Five Years

The world is currently witnessing several turmoils in geopolitics. While two major conflicts have been happening along with numerous minor tussles, the world is coping with the increasing fear of a ‘new cold-war era’ between the U.S. and China. This year is also crucial to have elections in some major countries like the U.S., India, Taiwan and others. Many academic debates are currently surrounding the government’s policies for the welfare and development of the country. This article will set an evaluation of India’s foreign policy to take stock of developments and achievements in the past five years is necessary.

Sweden’s NATO Membership Rewrites Europe’s Military History

Sweden formally joined NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) on March 7, 2024, becoming the 32nd nation to do so. Sweden’s membership, which follows that of neighbouring Finland, is a consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This move marked a major change in the country’s foreign policy and could influence the course of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Membership marks a clear break with the past when for more than 200 years Sweden avoided the military alliances and adopted a neutral stance even in the war times. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf kristersson handed over the final documentation to the US government on 7th march. This was the last stage in prolonged process in gaining support for joining the military alliance.

The Catch-22 Dilemma Facing US Policymakers Over TikTok Ban

Listen to the latest episode from Dragon’s Den ‘The Catch-22 Dilemma Facing US Policymakers over TikTok Ban.’ The podcast ‘Dragon’s Den’ is from the enclave of ‘China Watch’ our flagship newsletter and research programme offering critical insights, business intelligence, and news on China and Taiwan.

Rare Occasion of Cooperation between China and Taiwan

China Watch is our flagship newsletter and research programme offering critical insights, business intelligence and news on China and Taiwan. In this issue, the writer discuss about the rare occasion of cooperation between China and Taiwan followed by new milestone in India-China ties, China warning NATO, Evergande Fraud, and US-Philippines ties against China.