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China-EU Mark 50 Years of Diplomatic Ties, Pledge to Deepen Cooperation at Summit

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To mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, the China-EU Summit was held in Beijing on July 24. Chinese President Xi Jinping met with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the Great Hall of the People. During the meeting, Xi emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation, strengthening communication, and upholding multilateralism. He stressed that the challenges Europe faces today “do not come from China.”

Xi stated that China-EU relations are at a historic crossroads, with both sides sharing responsibilities in areas such as global governance and climate change. He urged both parties to respect one another, avoid using Western standards to assess China, and strengthen their partnership. He also called for greater openness, opposing “decoupling,” supply chain disruptions, and trade protectionism, while promoting mutually beneficial economic ties. Furthermore, he emphasized the need to jointly uphold multilateralism and advance the international governance system in a fairer and more balanced direction.

Xi highlighted the importance of enhancing strategic dialogue and mutual trust, and reiterated that China and the EU should pursue independent foreign policies that are not targeted at third parties. In light of global instability and rising geopolitical tensions, he proposed deeper cooperation in areas such as green development, digital economy, and artificial intelligence. He also called for resolving international disputes through political means and safeguarding the role of the United Nations.

EU leaders responded positively to Xi’s remarks, acknowledging the growing scale and depth of China-EU relations and reaffirming that both sides have become key partners in trade and cooperation. Von der Leyen and Costa reiterated that the EU does not seek to “decouple” from China, and welcomed Chinese investment in Europe. They expressed willingness to work with China to promote global stability, address climate challenges, and support peaceful development.

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U.S. Investment Report Criticizes National Security Law, Hong Kong Government Responds Strongly

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The latest U.S. State Department Investment Climate Report commented on Hong Kong’s business environment, specifically criticizing the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Law on Safeguarding National Security. The Hong Kong SAR government expressed strong dissatisfaction, calling the report a malicious attempt to tarnish Hong Kong’s image.

The report stated that since the Law on Safeguarding National Security came into effect last year, Hong Kong’s investment environment has faced increased uncertainty. It argued that definitions of “espionage,” “state secrets,” and “foreign interference” are overly broad and vague, and their potential extraterritorial application could affect or harm routine business operations.

A government spokesperson responded that the implementation of the National Security Law has restored safety and stability to Hong Kong society, protecting citizens’ rights while enhancing the city’s attractiveness as an international financial hub. The spokesperson emphasized that Hong Kong’s excellent business environment continues to attract domestic and foreign investment, and that the government’s efforts to promote economic and social development have received international recognition.

The SAR government highlighted that Hong Kong continues to rise in international rankings in areas such as economic freedom, finance, innovation and technology, education, and talent, reflecting its core competitiveness. The government reaffirmed that under “One Country, Two Systems,” Hong Kong continues to follow common law, with an independent judiciary and a stable rule of law.

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China Becomes Top Destination for Australian Tourists, But Chinese Visitor Return Slows

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According to an Expedia report, Chinese cities have for the first time taken four spots in the top ten international destinations for Australian travelers, including the top three: demand for Shanghai rose 150% year-on-year, Shenzhen 130%, and Beijing 110%. Guangzhou, ranked sixth, also saw an increase of 55%.

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that in July 2024, over 50,000 Australians returned from China, up 21% compared with the same period in 2019. However, Chinese tourist arrivals to Australia have been slower to recover, with only 112,900 visitors recorded in the same month—still 25% below pre-pandemic levels. Despite this, the industry considers China to remain the “fastest-growing inbound market.”

Margy Osmond, CEO of the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF), noted that the slower-than-expected return of Chinese visitors has impacted retail, dining, education, and regional economies. In 2019, Chinese tourists spent A$10.3 billion in Australia across 1.328 million trips; by 2024, this had declined to A$8.1 billion and 829,000 trips.

To revitalize the market, Tourism Australia launched the A$130 million “Come and Say G’Day” campaign, featuring Chinese actor Yu Shi in promotional advertisements.

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Albanese Visit to UK Focuses on Domestic Reform, Not Republican Debate

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Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently met with King Charles III at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, making it clear that he will not hold a referendum on whether Australia should become a republic during his term. Albanese described the meeting as a “very pleasant lunch” and noted that discussions did not touch on severing ties with the UK or establishing a republic.

As the head of 15 Commonwealth realms, including Australia, King Charles’s role is largely ceremonial. Albanese emphasized that, while he personally supports a republican model, he respects the current system and previous decisions, and he reaffirmed his oath of allegiance to the King. He pointed out that the earlier “Voice to Parliament” referendum proposed under his government did not pass, and the government is now focusing on addressing practical concerns, such as the rising cost of living.

Albanese also highlighted that King Charles and Queen Camilla received a warm welcome during their visit to Australia last year, demonstrating that the monarchy continues to enjoy significant respect in the country. He stressed that the King understands his support for Australians serving as their own head of state while simultaneously respecting the existing constitutional system and government operations.

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