Global Pulse

分类： politics

  • ‘Canada must preserve its independence’, former PM says at portrait unveiling

    ‘Canada must preserve its independence’, former PM says at portrait unveiling

    Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper delivered a powerful plea for national cohesion during the unveiling ceremony of his official portrait in Ottawa this week. Serving as Canada’s Conservative leader from 2006 to 2015, Harper emphasized the urgent need for political collaboration between opposing parties to safeguard the nation’s future.

    Addressing attendees at the parliamentary ceremony, Harper declared, ‘We must make any sacrifice necessary to preserve the independence and the unity of this blessed land.’ His remarks highlighted concerns about both external pressures and internal divisions, specifically referencing the strained Canada-US relationship under President Donald Trump and the growing separatist movement in Alberta.

    The former prime minister specifically called for cooperation between Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal government and Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre’s Conservative party. ‘That will require that in these perilous times, both parties, whatever their other differences, come together against external forces that threaten our independence and against domestic policies that threaten our union,’ Harper stated.

    Current Prime Minister Mark Carney, who previously served as central banker under Harper’s administration, praised his predecessor’s ‘composure, intellect and decisiveness’ during the tribute ceremony. Harper also participated in a fireside chat with former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, where both leaders acknowledged the surge of Canadian patriotism in response to Trump’s administration and emphasized the importance of national solidarity.

    The portrait itself, created by renowned Toronto artist Phil Richards—known for his official Diamond Jubilee portrait of Queen Elizabeth II—incorporates symbolic elements from Harper’s personal and political life. These include his cat Stanley, a French-English dictionary representing his bilingual accomplishment, and the skyline of his hometown Calgary.

    Harper’s nine-year tenure is remembered for his focus on Arctic sovereignty, his government’s handling of the 2008 financial crisis, and his success in unifying Canada’s conservative movement. However, his administration faced criticism for its approach to climate change and allegations of restricting scientific communication.

    The portrait unveiling forms part of a week-long series of events commemorating the 20th anniversary of Harper’s premiership, concluding with an evening gala on Wednesday.

  • Trump says he discussed Iran with China’s Xi as the US pushes Beijing and others to isolate Tehran

    Trump says he discussed Iran with China’s Xi as the US pushes Beijing and others to isolate Tehran

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a comprehensive telephone conversation on Wednesday, addressing multiple pressing geopolitical issues. The discussion prominently featured the escalating situation in Iran, with the Trump administration actively seeking international cooperation to isolate Tehran through economic and diplomatic measures.

    The bilateral exchange also covered critical aspects of U.S.-China relations, including ongoing trade considerations and the sensitive matter of Taiwan’s status. President Trump emphasized the exceptional quality of his personal relationship with President Xi, noting their mutual recognition of maintaining positive ties between the world’s two largest economies. The American leader further confirmed his anticipated state visit to Beijing in April, though Chinese official communications omitted reference to this planned diplomatic journey.

    China’s official readout of the conversation presented a contrasting emphasis, focusing instead on upcoming international summits that could facilitate future leader interactions. Most significantly, Beijing reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to territorial integrity regarding Taiwan, explicitly stating that China “will never allow Taiwan to be split” from mainland governance.

    The timing of this high-level dialogue coincides with crucial developments in global security architecture. With the New START nuclear arms treaty between Russia and the United States scheduled to expire imminently, Trump has expressed desire to include China in any future nuclear weapons limitation agreement. This diplomatic activity occurred alongside President Xi’s separate conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the complex interplay of great power relations.

    Economic dimensions remain crucial to these discussions, particularly regarding Iran’s international trade relationships. Despite years of sanctions targeting Iran’s nuclear program, Tehran maintained substantial commercial exchanges totaling approximately $125 billion in 2024, with China representing its largest trading partner at $32 billion in bilateral trade.

  • Philippine President Marcos avoids impeachment after complaints voted ‘insufficient’

    Philippine President Marcos avoids impeachment after complaints voted ‘insufficient’

    MANILA – Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has successfully weathered impeachment challenges after the House of Justice Committee delivered a decisive verdict on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. The congressional body overwhelmingly determined that two separate impeachment complaints lodged against the president lacked substantive foundation, voting to declare both petitions ‘insufficient in substance’ under parliamentary procedures.

    The committee’s ruling effectively terminates the impeachment proceedings against Marcos Jr. at their preliminary stage, preventing the complaints from advancing to full congressional debate. The development represents a significant political victory for the administration amid ongoing political tensions within the Philippine government structure.

    This legislative outcome occurs against a backdrop of complex political dynamics in the Southeast Asian nation, including previously suspended voting procedures on impeachment matters and separate impeachment efforts targeting Vice President Duterte. The committee’s decisive action demonstrates considerable legislative support for the sitting president and suggests consolidation of political backing within the lower house of Congress.

    The resolution of these impeachment attempts provides President Marcos Jr. with reinforced political stability as his administration addresses both domestic priorities and international relations. This development likely strengthens the executive branch’s position in ongoing governance matters and policy implementation across the archipelago nation.

  • Fears of new arms race as US-Russia nuclear weapons treaty due to expire

    Fears of new arms race as US-Russia nuclear weapons treaty due to expire

    The expiration of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) on Thursday signals a critical juncture in international security, terminating the final nuclear weapons control agreement between the United States and Russia. This development raises profound concerns about the potential acceleration of a new global arms race.

    Established in 2010 during the Obama administration and signed by then-President Dmitry Medvedev, New START represented the culmination of decades of bilateral arms control efforts. The treaty imposed verifiable limits of 1,550 deployed strategic nuclear warheads for each nation while implementing comprehensive transparency measures including data exchanges, notifications, and on-site inspections.

    The collapse follows Russia’s suspension of the treaty three years ago amid escalating tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict, though both nations were believed to be maintaining compliance until recently. This expiration continues a disturbing pattern of disintegrating arms control frameworks, including the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Agreement, the Open Skies Treaty, and the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty.

    International responses reflect growing apprehension. Pope Leo recently urged treaty renewal, emphasizing the necessity of preventing renewed nuclear competition. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Britain’s former armed forces head, warned that the foundational architecture of global security now risks complete unraveling.

    Current modernization programs underscore the emerging arms race dynamics. Both nations are actively enhancing their nuclear capabilities, with Russia developing innovative systems like the Poseidon nuclear-powered autonomous torpedo and Burevestnik nuclear cruise missile. Concurrently, the United States, Russia, and China are advancing hypersonic missile technology capable of exceeding 4,000 mph, presenting unprecedented defense challenges.

    The diplomatic landscape appears increasingly complex. Washington insists future agreements must include China’s expanding nuclear arsenal, while Moscow demands inclusion of European nuclear powers France and United Kingdom. Darya Dolzikova of RUSI’s Proliferation and Nuclear Policy Programme notes that evolving military technologies and growing nuclear weapon salience complicate future negotiations.

    Despite brief discussion during the recent Alaska summit between Presidents Putin and Trump, no substantive progress emerged. The current administration’s stance remains ambiguous, with President Trump suggesting willingness to pursue “a better agreement” while demonstrating limited urgency.

    This treaty termination marks the end of a stabilizing era in nuclear diplomacy, potentially ushering in a more volatile and dangerous period of great power competition with global implications for security and non-proliferation efforts.

  • ‘Win-win’ ties walk the talk

    ‘Win-win’ ties walk the talk

    Amidst a blistering Australian summer, Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian convened a significant New Year media briefing in Canberra, attended by representatives from over twenty Chinese and Australian media outlets. The event, held on January 28, provided a platform for substantive dialogue that transcended conventional diplomatic formalities, focusing instead on direct engagement and mutual understanding.

    Ambassador Xiao characterized the past year as one of ‘steady progress’ in bilateral relations, emphasizing the resilience of the China-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as it enters its second decade. This assessment comes against a backdrop of increasing global turbulence, with the relationship demonstrating remarkable durability despite international challenges.

    The diplomatic landscape has been revitalized through increased high-level engagements, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to China and numerous face-to-face meetings between leaders. These interactions have strengthened political trust and facilitated tangible progress in rebuilding the bilateral framework.

    Economic cooperation remains the cornerstone of the relationship, with bilateral trade once again surpassing AUD $300 billion in 2025. China maintains its position as Australia’s largest trading partner, primary export destination, and leading source of imports. The exchange of agricultural products, mineral resources, and healthcare goods represents more than mere economic statistics—it directly sustains employment and livelihoods in both nations.

    A particularly significant development is the ongoing review of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA), which celebrated its tenth anniversary last year. Ambassador Xiao highlighted that most trade now enjoys ‘basically zero tax,’ using Australian wine exports as a concrete example of how tariff elimination benefits both economies. Both countries have agreed to assess potential upgrades to further enhance trade liberalization and economic cooperation.

    The ambassador emphasized that the full potential of economic collaboration remains untapped, indicating substantial opportunities for future growth. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to managing differences constructively while expanding areas of mutual interest.

    This engagement demonstrates how sustained dialogue and practical cooperation can transform abstract diplomatic concepts into tangible benefits, creating a resilient partnership that withstands global challenges and delivers real value to both nations.

  • Leader of South Africa’s second biggest political party says he will step down

    Leader of South Africa’s second biggest political party says he will step down

    JOHANNESBURG — In a significant political development, John Steenhuisen, the leader of South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA), announced on Wednesday his decision not to seek reelection as party leader. This move comes after Steenhuisen played a pivotal role in orchestrating the country’s unprecedented government of national unity following the African National Congress’s loss of parliamentary majority in the 2024 elections.

    Steenhuisen, who described the coalition formation as his foremost political accomplishment, emphasized the critical importance of transitioning his party from perpetual opposition to meaningful governance participation. “Only through accessing the levers of national power could we genuinely work toward building a more prosperous, fair and successful nation,” Steenhuisen stated during his announcement.

    The leadership transition follows internal party tensions involving allegations of fund misuse, though an internal investigation ultimately exonerated Steenhuisen. Despite stepping down from party leadership, Steenhuisen will maintain his current position as Minister of Agriculture, where he plans to focus intensively on combating the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease outbreak—a challenge he cited as incompatible with simultaneous election campaigning.

    The Democratic Alliance is scheduled to hold its leadership conference in April, ahead of local government elections later this year. Steenhuisen’s departure marks the end of an era for the party that successfully navigated South Africa’s most significant political realignment since the end of apartheid in 1994.

  • Myanmar military-backed party declared election winner as army plans new body to maintain control

    Myanmar military-backed party declared election winner as army plans new body to maintain control

    BANGKOK (AP) — Myanmar’s political landscape has solidified with the military-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) securing a decisive electoral victory, according to final official results released Wednesday. The outcome, widely anticipated due to the exclusion of major opposition parties and severe restrictions on dissent, reinforces the military’s continued dominance over the nation’s governance structures.

    Concurrent with the election certification, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, head of the military government, enacted legislation establishing a powerful Union Consultative Council. This advisory body—comprising at least five members including a chairman—holds authority to advise on national security, international relations, peace processes, and legislation without formally interfering with executive or judicial powers.

    The constitutional framework guarantees the military automatic control of 25% of parliamentary seats, effectively ensuring allied parties maintain overwhelming legislative control. Final figures reveal the USDP captured 339 of the 586 available parliamentary seats, while the military retains its constitutionally mandated 166 seats. This coalition controls approximately 86% of the legislature, with 21 other parties securing minimal representation.

    The electoral process, conducted in three phases across December and January, excluded approximately one-fifth of Myanmar’s 330 townships due to ongoing conflict. Official reports cite a 54% voter turnout among eligible citizens, though international observers have raised concerns about widespread coercion and suppression of fundamental rights.

    United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Türk condemned the electoral process as fundamentally flawed, stating it exacerbated violence and societal polarization rather than advancing civilian rule. Reports indicate widespread voter intimidation tactics, including threats of forced conscription, food access restrictions, and administrative penalties.

    The creation of the consultative council mirrors the military’s established pattern of establishing parallel governance structures since the 2021 coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government. This move potentially enables Min Aung Hlaing to maintain influence without assuming the presidency, which would require relinquishing his powerful commander-in-chief position under constitutional provisions.

    Parliament is scheduled to convene in mid-March to elect a new president, though the general’s potential role remains uncertain amid these institutional rearrangements.

  • Xi’s military purge is not really about corruption

    Xi’s military purge is not really about corruption

    China’s military command structure has undergone another significant transformation with the removal of General Zhang Youxia from his position as Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) on January 23. This development leaves only one of the original seven CMC members appointed three years ago still in office, marking one of the most substantial leadership overhauls in recent Chinese military history.

    President Xi Jinping, who chairs the CMC, has demonstrated a consistent pattern of removing senior officials throughout his tenure. This approach dates back to the early 2010s when several high-ranking Party members, including Politburo member Bo Xilai and security chief Zhou Yongkang, were purged under anti-corruption campaigns. The Party’s slogan at the time emphasized that ‘tigers’ (high-ranking officials) were equally vulnerable as ‘flies’ (lower-level officials) in the anti-graft drive.

    The recent focus has shifted to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), which has experienced abrupt personnel changes. The disappearance and subsequent removal of Defense Minister Li Shangfu in mid-2023 preceded the current shakeup. According to the People’s Daily, the official Party newspaper, General Zhang and fellow CMC member Liu Zhenli were formally accused of exacerbating political and corruption issues that threatened Party control over the military.

    While speculation about internal power struggles continues, including unverified claims about nuclear secrets and coup attempts, what remains evident is the PLA’s ongoing structural challenges. General Zhang, in his seventies, represented one of the few senior military figures with actual combat experience from the Vietnam War. Despite reported personal connections to Xi through their shared Shaanxi province origins, personal relationships appear secondary to political objectives in China’s highest leadership circles.

    The timing of these changes is particularly significant as China faces multiple challenges, including economic pressures, demographic issues, and increasing international uncertainty. The performance of Russian forces in Ukraine has reportedly caused concern among Chinese leadership about their own military’s capabilities, particularly regarding potential operations against Taiwan.

    President Xi’s demand for absolute loyalty and battle readiness appears to be driving these personnel decisions. The coming year is expected to bring generational changes throughout China’s leadership structure, with significant implications for the country’s military posture and broader political direction.

  • Thousands of Venezuelans march to demand Maduro’s release

    Thousands of Venezuelans march to demand Maduro’s release

    Caracas witnessed massive demonstrations on Tuesday as thousands of Venezuelans mobilized in support of ousted leader Nicolás Maduro, exactly one month after his dramatic capture by U.S. forces. The government-organized protest saw public sector workers and loyalists marching through the capital, brandishing photographs of both Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores—both currently detained facing narcotics charges in New York.

    The atmosphere crackled with anti-American sentiment as protesters, many draped in the signature red of the Chavista movement, chanted “Venezuela needs Nicolás” and waved national flags. The demonstration stretched several city blocks, accompanied by music-blaring trucks that amplified the crowd’s energy.

    Nicolás Maduro Guerra, the former leader’s son and a National Assembly deputy, addressed the gathering with fiery rhetoric: “These people are not American. We have achieved a profound anti-imperialist consciousness.”

    The protests unfold against a complex political backdrop where interim President Delcy Rodríguez navigates competing pressures. While maintaining diplomatic channels with Washington—evidenced by the recent arrival of U.S. envoy Laura Dogu—Rodríguez must also preserve support from Maduro loyalists within her government.

    In a significant policy shift, the interim administration has begun releasing political prisoners and opening Venezuela’s nationalized oil industry to private investment. Rodríguez confirmed having “frank conversations” with U.S. officials regarding a three-phase transition plan aiming for a “prosperous and democratic Venezuela.”

    Parallel demonstrations occurred as hundreds of students and relatives of political prisoners marched demanding expedited approval of Rodríguez’s promised amnesty law. Opposition deputy Stalin González expressed hope that the legislation, potentially debated Thursday, might “open the door to reconciliation, coexistence, peace and democracy.”

    The day’s events highlight Venezuela’s deep political divisions, with pro-Maduro factions chanting “Freedom is in the streets and no one can stop it!” while opposition groups call for new elections following Maduro’s ouster.

  • Serbian government official faces forgery trial over withdrawn Kushner-linked project

    Serbian government official faces forgery trial over withdrawn Kushner-linked project

    A high-profile corruption trial commenced in Belgrade on Wednesday, targeting Serbian Culture Minister Nikola Selaković and three government officials charged with document forgery and abuse of office. The case centers on their alleged manipulation of protected cultural status to facilitate a major real estate development previously backed by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

    The controversial project envisioned transforming Belgrade’s bombed-out military complex—a protected modernist architectural site—into a luxury commercial hub featuring high-rise hotels, premium apartments, and retail spaces. Kushner’s investment firm subsequently withdrew from the multi-million dollar initiative following public outcry and international condemnation.

    Designed by renowned Yugoslav architect Nikola Dobrović, the damaged building holds significant historical value and became a symbol of NATO’s 1999 bombing campaign against Serbia during the Kosovo conflict. Heritage preservation groups strongly opposed the commercialization of the culturally protected zone, which had received endorsement from President Aleksandar Vučić’s administration.

    The trial unfolds amidst growing political tensions as Vučić’s government faces widespread protests over judicial reforms perceived as undermining legal independence. The Serbian parliament recently passed legislation restricting the authority of organized crime prosecutors, prompting criticism from EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos who called the measures ‘a serious setback’ for Serbia’s European integration prospects.

    Prosecutors staged silent demonstrations against these reforms, while anti-government protesters gathered outside the courthouse chanting ‘thieves!’ as defendants arrived. This case represents the latest challenge to Vučić’s increasingly authoritarian rule, which has included crackdowns on dissent and strengthening control over state institutions despite formal commitments to EU membership.