分类： politics

In a compelling plea before a U.S. congressional panel, Grace Jin Drexel, the daughter of detained Chinese Christian pastor Ezra Jin Mingri, urged American lawmakers to intervene in securing her father’s release. This appeal comes as President Donald Trump reaffirms his commitment to protecting Christians worldwide, particularly in regions where they face persecution. Jin Drexel revealed that her father, along with 17 other leaders of the underground Zion Church, was formally charged this week following their detention in October. This crackdown marks one of China’s most significant actions against an unregistered church in decades, challenging the Communist Party’s strict regulations on religious practices. Zion Church, which operates independently of state control, has faced repeated harassment and threats from authorities. Jin Drexel emphasized her father’s mission to create a church free from government interference, where God is the sole authority. Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers praised the Trump administration’s decision to designate Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” due to its failure to address the persecution of Christians. Trump has also threatened potential military action in Nigeria to curb violence against Christians. In China, the government maintains that it manages religious affairs lawfully and opposes U.S. interference. A White House official confirmed awareness of the detentions, reiterating Trump’s commitment to global religious freedom. The case highlights China’s broader crackdown on independent religious groups, particularly in regions like Xinjiang and Tibet, where authorities have destroyed churches, burned Bibles, and pressured followers to renounce their faith. Zion Church, founded in 2007, has grown significantly despite state opposition, adopting a hybrid online-offline model to reach thousands daily. Jin Drexel stressed that Chinese Christians seek only freedom from Communist Party control, not opposition to the state. Former U.S. Ambassador for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback warned that China’s war on faith poses a national security threat, urging the U.S. to prioritize religious freedom in its foreign policy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Turkey on Wednesday coincided with the emergence of a contentious US-Russian peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The proposal, reportedly crafted by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian counterpart Kirill Dmitriev, demands significant concessions from Ukraine, including the complete withdrawal from the Donbas region and the formal cession of Crimea. Additionally, it would prevent Ukraine from joining NATO, reduce its military forces from 880,000 to 600,000, and establish a frozen line of contact in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. While the plan offers US security guarantees, reconstruction aid, and preferential access to European markets, Ukrainian officials have dismissed it as a “Russian burger,” with one describing it as “bullshit.” Despite initial resistance, Zelensky expressed openness to discussions, emphasizing collaboration with the Trump administration. The proposal’s timing, amid corruption allegations against Zelensky’s inner circle and Russia’s battlefield gains, has raised suspicions of deliberate pressure. Western diplomats suggest the plan may be a negotiation tactic, with conditions subject to change. During his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Zelensky sought to revive Istanbul negotiations, potentially crafting an alternative to the Russian proposal. Turkey, while advocating for Ukraine’s sovereignty, privately acknowledges that territorial compromises may be necessary for peace.

In a significant development for China’s legislative framework, all 9,160 proposals submitted by national lawmakers earlier this year have been fully addressed, as announced at a recent work conference in Beijing. These suggestions were put forward by deputies during the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s highest legislative body, held in March. Following a thorough review, the proposals were distributed to 211 organizations for implementation, with all actions completed on schedule and feedback provided to the respective deputies. The top areas of focus included ‘science, education, health, and sports,’ ‘development planning and comprehensive economy-related matters,’ and ‘social and public affairs,’ which collectively accounted for nearly half of all suggestions. This achievement underscores the efficiency and responsiveness of China’s legislative process in addressing critical national issues.

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Li Hongzhong, Vice-Chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee and member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with a delegation of politicians from Pacific island countries in Beijing on Friday. The delegation was led by Stephen Felix, Speaker of Vanuatu’s Parliament. The meeting underscored the growing bilateral relations between China and the Pacific island nations, which have been flourishing under the strategic guidance of their respective leaders. Li emphasized China’s commitment to fostering closer exchanges with these countries, particularly in the realms of political parties and legislative bodies. He expressed a shared vision of building a closer community with a shared future. Felix, on behalf of the Pacific island countries, reaffirmed their steadfast adherence to the one-China principle and their eagerness to deepen cooperation with China across various sectors. This meeting highlights the ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between China and the Pacific region, reflecting a mutual interest in sustainable development and regional stability.

Thousands of opposition activists gathered near Sri Lanka’s capital on Friday, marking the first major protest against President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s administration as it completes one year in office. The demonstrators demanded the government fulfill its pledges to reduce taxes and restore public order, accusing the administration of failing to deliver on its election promises. Opposition leaders, including Namal Rajapaksa of the once-dominant Rajapaksa dynasty, criticized the government for politicizing law enforcement and neglecting public safety, citing a recent surge in crime. While the government acknowledged increased drug gang activity, it denied any heightened danger to the public. The rally reflects growing frustration among citizens, particularly over high income taxes and perceived inaction on corruption. Dissanayake’s administration has implemented some reforms, such as reducing electricity bills and cutting state expenses, including perks for former presidents. However, dissatisfaction persists as the government continues its austerity measures under an IMF bailout program. The opposition aims to rebuild its strength after significant electoral losses last year, while Dissanayake’s government has launched investigations into alleged corruption under previous administrations, including the arrest of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

In a significant move to bolster economic ties, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Canada have signed a landmark agreement aimed at protecting and promoting investments. The deal was inked during a high-profile meeting between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi. The agreement underscores both nations’ commitment to enhancing economic cooperation and fostering strategic investment partnerships aligned with their shared development goals. The meeting also saw the announcement of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on investment cooperation between the two governments. Both leaders expressed a strong desire to deepen collaboration in key sectors such as investment, trade, technology, artificial intelligence, clean energy, climate action, education, culture, and sustainability. Additionally, they discussed regional and international developments of mutual concern, reaffirming their commitment to promoting peace, security, and global stability. Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the UAE-Canada relationship as a model of cooperation aimed at advancing development and prosperity, while Carney emphasized Canada’s eagerness to strengthen areas of cooperation that benefit both nations and contribute to global peace and stability.