China reported the fewest new Covid-19 cases in almost three months, with the easing of outbreaks in Beijing and Shanghai emboldening authorities to relax some of the strictest virus controls of the pandemic and move to stimulate the country’s faltering economy. Bloomberg
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China’s Lockdowns Prompt a Rethinking of Life Plans
For many Chinese who saw Shanghai as a magical place to pursue their dreams, the city’s two-month-long Covid-19 lockdown has been a wake-up call. WSJ
‘Top Gun: Maverick’ Restores Taiwan Flag Jacket Patches
The bomber jacket of Top Gun‘s Maverick is looking a bit more familiar in international trailers these days, according to a report in Fortune. Two flag patches on the back of the jacket – representing Taiwan and Japan – appear to have been returned to their original spots. Deadline
Taiwan makes soft power grab for Europe’s Mandarin learners
HAMBURG, Germany — Taiwanese centers for learning Mandarin are springing up in Germany, taking the place of Chinese facilities as universities grow wary of Beijing’s influence on their academic freedom. Nikkei Asia
Sanction semiconductors to deter China’s Taiwan ambitions
China spends more on microchips than crude oil Nikkei Asia
According to Technode, China imported $350 billion worth of semiconductors in 2020—more than the value of the crude oil it imported the same year, according to the country’s customs data. Importing semiconductors also accounts for the country’s largest categorical trade deficit, where the difference between what China imports and exports for this particular type of goods is the widest. Technode.com
US congressional delegation makes surprise visit to Taiwan
The delegation will meet with Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen on Tuesday, where they will discuss “regional security, economic and trade cooperation, and all issues related to US-Taiwan bilateral relations,” presidential spokesperson Xavier Chang said. CNN
Taiwan legislature erupts in violence over ‘secret expenses’ bill
Taiwan’s parliament erupted in violence on Monday as lawmakers clashed over a bill that critics say could be used to overturn former President Chen Shui-bian’s conviction on corruption charges. Al Jazeera
US congressional delegation makes surprise visit to Taiwan
led by Sen. Tammy Duckworth, an Illinois Democrat, arrived in Taipei on Monday in a previously unannounced visit, Taiwan’s foreign ministry said. CNN
China falls short on big deal in South Pacific
China fell short Monday on a bold plan to have 10 Pacific nations endorse a sweeping new agreement covering everything from security to fisheries as some in the region expressed deep concerns.
But there have been plenty of smaller wins for China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi as he continues an island-hopping tour of the region. NPR
China to review Math textbooks deemed ugly, sexually suggestive
China has ordered a nationwide review of school textbooks after illustrations deemed ugly, sexually suggestive and secretly pro-American caused public uproar. CNN