Seven stories revealing truths about China
The China Letter: November 12, 2021
Here’s another scan of the stories that reflect how China continues to dominate the international conversation, while denying any observation or incident that questions their responsibility to the world. You can help somebody else stay just as informed by sharing this newsletter with a click. And it’s just as simple to get a free subscription.
Future is seized by Xi
President Xi Jinping became the third man in Communist Party history to write a so-called historical resolution that could let him rule for life. The world view espoused by Xi has currently brought us developments like the technology crackdown that’s been battering the fortunes of some companies while leading others to leave China entirely.
Watching from the sky
Colorado-based satellite imagery company Maxar Technologies generated the images that show mock-ups of a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier and destroyer in China’s northwestern desert. But when Beijing’s information ministry spokesperson was asked about this global story, his response was: “I’m not aware of the situation you mentioned.”
The 60-year conviction
A jury in the U.S. convicted a Chinese intelligence officer of plotting to steal secrets from aviation companies: Xu Yanjun, a senior member of the Jiangsu branch of the state security ministry, faces up to 60 years in prison and fines of up to $5 million. But the verdict was slammed by Beijing with words: “This allegation is pure fabrication.”
Coronavirus rope-off
Officials say Hong Kong’s border with mainland China will open to quarantine-free travel by June, as the culmination of a three-step plan set to begin in mid-December. Doubling down on strict COVID-19 restrictions has the business community fearing HK’s financial hub status is threatened by a zero-infection strategy.
A museum’s déjà view
The U.S. Holocaust Museum has compiled evidence showing increasing government repression against Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang, which was presented in a 59-page report from its genocide-prevention centre. Similar research was released last month by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute as the international condemnation grows.
A tongue gets tackled
Australia’s prime minister went viral at COP26 for saying there’s global momentum to tackle “China” rather than “climate change.” And while he might’ve misspoke, the slip of the tongue was taken seriously among those predisposed to being alarmed by it. Chinese state media mocked Morrison and Australia for remaining reliant on coal.
A two-movie problem
Chinese sci-fi writer Liu Cixin is getting a homegrown adaptation of his novel The Three-Body Problem, produced by Tencent, at the same time Netflix has green-lit an American production of the story about interfacing with aliens amidst the Cultural Revolution of 1966 to 1976. Movies from China are increasingly pushing patriotism.
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