Author: Holly Chik
A group of international researchers, including those from China, has proposed a new phase of the Human Genome Project to sequence the genomes of 80 million people from over 100 countries. This initiative aims to increase the number of healthy years in people’s lives by improving medical practices related to genetic diseases and rare diagnoses. The concept of the Human Genome Project II (HGP2) involves utilizing advanced technologies and data analytics to prevent diseases, promote health, and enhance healthcare delivery at a population level. The researchers plan to contribute to precision public health and extend the average health span of…
Despite calls for communication, the US imposed trade restrictions on Chinese firms, citing support for Russia’s military. The tensions were evident as US officials expressed concerns over Beijing’s activities in the South China Sea and support for Russia. The upcoming talks are expected to address a potential meeting between Biden and Xi Jinping, emphasizing the competitive nature of their relationship. The US remains committed to managing the competition responsibly. As the US seeks to advance dialogue with China, the tech race intensifies, with more Chinese companies added to blacklists. Washington’s latest move to add Chinese firms to its export control…
The resistance to the trans-Pacific trade bloc, from which the US withdrew in 2017, remains a significant stance in trade discussions. The 11-country grouping saw a 5.5% growth in trade between 2018 and 2021, with non-free trade agreement members experiencing a 13.2% increase in trade. Countries like Canada, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and Vietnam benefited from these trade agreements. However, the US continues to avoid multilateral trade deals, with analysts suggesting that American companies have integrated closely with the bloc regardless. Despite this integration, the US still faces trade deficits with countries like Vietnam. The issue of transshipment of…
The US Defence Intelligence Agency director highlighted China China’s intentions to threaten space capabilities, aiming to surpass the US as a global leader in space. Lieutenant General Jeffrey Kruse emphasized China’s strategy to exploit the US’s reliance on space and hold that capability at risk. Amidst the Sino-American space rivalry, the US Space Command head discussed the growing competition in satellite networks and technology expansion. China emphasizes peaceful space utilization while also focusing on becoming a dominant space power economically and militarily. General Stephen Whiting highlighted the need for the US to defend against China’s space-enabled military threats. He mentioned…
President Joe Biden has once again renewed Hong Kong’s “emergency status,” marking the fourth time since the executive order removing the city’s preferential trade status was issued in 2020. This national emergency was initially declared by former President Donald Trump in response to the national security law imposed by Beijing on Hong Kong following protests in 2019. Biden emphasized that the national emergency executive order must remain in effect for the coming year due to the ongoing threat posed by the actions of the People’s Republic of China against Hong Kong’s autonomy. The revocation of special trade privileges and the…
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concerns about China’s support for Russia in Ukraine, calling it the biggest security threat to Europe since the Cold War. He highlighted the interconnectedness of challenges faced by Europe and Asia during his speech at the Brookings Institution in Washington. Blinken emphasized the need for global partnerships, including with NATO’s allies in the Indo-Pacific region like Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also addressed the growing alignment between Russia and authoritarian regimes in Asia, underscoring the importance of increased defense spending and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. Blinken…
The recent Hong Kong court ruling that found 14 opposition politicians guilty of subversion has sparked international condemnation. The defendants were accused of conspiring to subvert state power through an unofficial primary election in 2020. The US responded by imposing visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials, citing concerns about the broad and vaguely defined provisions of the national security law. The European Union and Australia also expressed deep concerns about the verdict, calling it a violation of basic democratic principles and fundamental freedoms. Britain’s minister for the Indo-Pacific criticized Hong Kong authorities for using the national security law to stifle…
The prominent American disease ecologist collaborating with a Chinese lab linked to the coronavirus leak allegations has had his federal funding suspended. The Department of Health and Human Services announced the suspension and proposed debarment for Peter Daszak, president of New York-based EcoHealth Alliance, last Tuesday. The agency cited Daszak’s involvement in a research project on bat coronavirus emergence and his ties to EHA’s alleged misconduct as reasons for the action. Daszak faces the possibility of being cut off from working with the US government for an extended period. Despite the ban typically lasting less than three years, his situation…