World Insight with Tian Wei

At the invitation of U.S. President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to the United States this autumn. Meanwhile, President Trump has just concluded his state visit to China. Both sides have agreed to foster a constructive China‑U.S. relationship featuring strategic stability. How will this consensus be translated into concrete actions?

US President Donald Trump is on a state visit to China until Friday. On Thursday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Trump held in-depth discussions on bilateral relations, as well as global peace and development. The two leaders later toured Beijing's iconic Temple of Heaven. In the evening, they attended a state banquet. A scholar has offered insights into the latest outcomes of the talks, highlighting a new vision for China–US relations, closer coordination on AI governance, greater predictability for the business community, and expanded people-to-people exchanges.

China and the United States are global leaders in artificial intelligence, one of the most transformative cutting-edge technologies. Can the two countries reach a more cooperative approach to AI development? Could the upcoming meeting between the two presidents address critical AI governance?

As the world's two largest economies, whether China and the United States choose to collaborate or compete has far-reaching implications, from global financial stability to the future of climate change. Our experts help us navigate the complex dynamics shaping this relationship.

The Chinese and Iranian foreign ministers have held talks in Beijing. The Iranian official briefed the Chinese side on the latest Iran-U.S. negotiations and Tehran's possible next steps, insisting the political crisis cannot be resolved through military means. The Chinese foreign minister outlined China's principled stance and four-point proposal for stability. He brought up global calls to restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. How aligned are China's four points with Iran's immediate diplomatic goals? Is Iran ready to fully embrace this roadmap for de-escalation?

Dede Nickerson, a witness to and participant in China’s contemporary film scene, reflects on decades of change in Chinese cinema and moments that have surprised, inspired and connected people across cultures.

Schwarzman Scholars from more than 100 countries and regions have recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of the program. The project is designed to cultivate global leaders of the future amid rapid geopolitical changes. Scholars spend one year in China in a master's program, not only in the classroom, but also traveling to very different parts of China. What started as an experiment has stood the test of time and demonstrated how universities are using new methods to develop talent in a world that demands leaders who understand global issues.

In this special episode, we talk about how sport exchanges between China and the United States have impacted people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

China's office responsible for foreign investment security review has issued a decision to prohibit foreign investment in the Manus acquisition project and it has ordered the parties involved to revoke the acquisition deal. What are the reasons behind the decision? How will it impact the cooperation and competition between China and the United States?

The Trump administration seeks a 1.5-trillion-dollar defense budget for 2027. That's a 44-percent rise in Pentagon spending, the largest such request in decades. It reflects the U.S. government's military investment priority over domestic programs, even before the U.S.-led war against Iran. How worrisome is a sharp rise in U.S. defense spending? As new drone, missile and artificial intelligence technologies change modern warfare, what can 1.5 trillion dollars buy in military hardware? How does a way higher U.S. military budget affect the global security architecture?

As the world undergoes unprecedented changes, there is growing emphasis on cultivating future global leaders. Stephen A. Schwarzman, founding trustee of Schwarzman Scholars, highlights this mission as the program marks its 10th anniversary. The initiative aims to prepare leaders with a strong understanding of China's role in the global economy and international affairs.

In this episode, we spoke with students and teachers at Tianjin Juilliard School.

As tensions in the Middle East persist, the humanitarian situation has worsened, particularly in Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. Among the most vulnerable are children, who are facing displacement, disrupted education, and limited access to basic necessities. A senior UNICEF official explains the need to advocate for the protection of children’s rights and to help meet their basic needs, especially in dire situations.

Against the backdrop of Middle East tensions, the Norwegian minister of international development calls for a ceasefire and urges everyone to follow international law. He discusses issues such as the need to face a new reality of war, conflict, and the climate crisis with partners like China, the importance of following international law amid Middle East conflicts, and efforts to reach out to partners in the Gulf region.

The Strait of Hormuz remains gripped by tensions, as Tehran denounces American threats and the seizure of an Iranian cargo ship. Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reports that Iran has not sent a delegation to the talks with the United States. That heightens uncertainties before a shaky pause on Iran-U.S. hostilities ends on Wednesday. Does the Iran-U.S. deadline still matter? Do they even care about it? Analysts from Iran, the U.S., Pakistan and China share their perspectives on the evolving situation.

France's National Assembly has opened a door that has been closed for more than a century. A joint committee will work to align the positions of senators and deputies on a bill concerning cultural artifacts. The legislation aims to promote the return of looted colonial-era cultural artifacts and artworks, particularly those taken between 1815 and 1972. The move raises the question of whether it could trigger a broader shift across Europe.

Artificial intelligence has been pushing the envelope in how movies are being made. AI tools have proven to be a huge help from writing screenplays, unique special effects to the cutting room. China is definitely surfing on this cutting-edge wave of film-making. We had a discussion with a panel of movie industry insiders.

It all started with a few ping-pong matches 55 years ago. Today, that small breakthrough has grown into wide-ranging people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States. Some participants in the historic event are now sharing their personal stories and the connections behind them.

At least two tankers headed for the Strait of Hormuz have reportedly turned around soon after the U.S. blockade began. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations, the blockade has restricted access to the entirety of the Iranian coastline, including ports and energy infrastructure. Iran has responded with threats to all ports in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, taking aim at U.S.-allied countries. Analysts have shared insights on the evolving situation over control of the strategic waterway.

Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have escalated following U.S. remarks about blocking vessels linked to Iran. This comes after high-stakes United States-Iran talks in Islamabad wrapped up without a deal on Sunday. Meanwhile, China is urging all parties to adhere to the temporary ceasefire and remain committed to political and diplomatic solutions. Analysts share insights on the evolving situation in the Middle East.

In this episode, we spoke to some members of the Whiffenpoofs, Yale's renowned a cappella group, about their cultural experiences in China.

China's 15th Five-Year Plan pushes AI-driven industries, with AI expected to reach 10 trillion yuan by 2030. Job losses, especially in repetitive roles, are a key concern. Analysts discuss solutions and highlight essential jobs in the future smart economy.

Iran and the United States have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, just two hours before the deadline set by President Donald Trump. The truce includes a temporary reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Both sides plan to hold negotiations in Pakistan later this week. Leaders across Europe, the Gulf, and Asia have welcomed the move, but questions remain about whether the ceasefire will hold and what issues will dominate the upcoming talks.

Analysts share insights on the latest developments in the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, including the U.S. president's ultimatum, Pakistan's proposed two-phase ceasefire framework, and the strategic risks of targeting civilian infrastructure.

The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty was signed 16 years ago in April between the U.S. and Russia. It expired this February, with no sign of extension after Washington failed to respond to Russia's proposal to uphold the treaty informally while maintaining its core nuclear limits. Meanwhile, the broader Non-Proliferation Treaty faces potential strain as Iran considers withdrawing amid Israeli and U.S. actions. What do these developments indicate about fundamental shifts in global security? Is there hope as world leaders gather in New York later this month for the NPT Review Conference?

Analysts share insights on the outlook for the Middle East conflict and possible solutions to end the crisis. They also discuss the global repercussions of tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Iran could be hit “extremely hard over the next two to three weeks” in his first prime-time address since the outbreak of conflict. A professor from Columbia University assesses the impact of the president's remarks on the American public and global markets, as well as the prospects for a resolution to the hostilities.

Media reports say an Iranian parliamentary commission has approved plans to collect tolls on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened that the United States will “completely” obliterate Iran's oil wells and Kharg Island if the strait is not “immediately” reopened and a peace deal is not reached “soon.” Analysts are sharing insights into the possibility of long-term structural oil repricing, as well as contingency measures to prevent a broader energy crisis.

China's 15th Five-Year Plan has attracted many tech-savvy companies to focus on China as an innovation hub. Senior business executives share their insights on why China is a leading center of innovation.

At a time of global uncertainty, China's economic fundamentals continue to demonstrate resilience, reinforcing its role as a stabilizing anchor for the world economy. Analysts share perspectives on issues such as China's role in global innovation and the strategic importance of clean energy.

Participants at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference are seeking answers to the same question: how to inject more certainty into an uncertain world? The conference organized a high level dialogue on the same topic, bringing state leaders, heads of international organizations and scholars from Asia.

Innovation is the key, especially in China where consumers are captivated by cutting edge technology and truly intelligent electronic vehicles. That's the view of Ola Kallenius, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes Benz group. He underscored the company's resolve to move forward with courage and boldness and competing and cooperating with Chinese partners while embracing the opportunities of China's 15th five year plan.

The 15Th Five-Year Plan is a top agenda at the China Development Forum over the weekend. The plan's big push for innovation, particularly with digital connectivity, is a welcome development for the Global System for Mobile Communications Association, better known as the GSMA. Director General Vivek Badrinath shares his insight.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang spelled out the nation's top challenges and opportunities at the just concluded China Development Forum. He raised three points: First, markets are now scarcer, but new ones hold big potential. Second, competition may be inevitable, but healthy competition with cooperation can reap mutual benefits. Third, confidence, responsibility and actions combined can lead to a better place for all. For more on this, we spoke to leading voices of the business world to learn about how they navigate the complexities and focus on the opportunities with actions.

Experts share their opinions on the "AI Plus" Initiative, which has been mentioned in China's annual political sessions for three consecutive years.

Iran stepped up attacks on its Gulf neighbors' energy infrastructure Thursday, setting Qatari liquefied natural gas facilities and a Kuwaiti oil refinery ablaze. This came as Iran hit back after an Israeli attack on its main natural gas field, a major escalation in the Mideast war that has sent global fuel prices soaring. The Pentagon has asked the White House to approve a request of over 200 billion dollars for Congress to fund the ongoing US strikes on Iran. Our panelists share their insights into the Middle East conflict.

OpenClaw has quickly gained ground as a favorite artificial intelligence-driven digital assistant in China. It's a lobster-themed open-source AI agent that can pro-actively do common work - like with emails, meetings and bookings simultaneously - with little effort. It's a far cry from chatbots that need prompts. OpenClaw is so popular that big Chinese tech companies like Tencent and Alibaba are rolling out OpenClaw agents on their platforms. But OpenClaw's level of autonomy, which means opening data and systems for it to function well, has sparked worries over potential privacy and security risks. It raised fears over sensitive data getting compromised. So, what measures and guard rails can fix these concerns? What will it take to fill China's appetite for cutting-edge AI but minimize the downside?

China and the United States have held a fresh round of talks on economic and trade issues in Paris. What's on the agenda? How are these discussions bringing stability to relations?

The annual political season in China has drawn to a close, with a focus on the nation's commitment to innovation and advanced technology. China's national legislature and top political advisory body have doubled down on boosting domestic demand and building a robust market, while stressing homegrown tech innovation. How can the Chinese economy fully benefit from these measures? How can they drive new growth across various industries?

China will promote integrated development of education, science and technology, and talent, according to a draft government work report submitted last Thursday to China’s top legislature for deliberation. It's critical to the achievement of substantial improvements in scientific and technological self-reliance and strength in China for the next five years. What does it mean for a country with such large population? How to innovate and reform to bring out the potential of talents?

As China aims for a good start to its new five-year plan with an economic growth target of 4.5 to 5 percent for 2026, it will pursue high-quality development, a strengthened domestic economy, and further development of a unified national market. So how to bring out the potential of China's domestic economy?

Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has been appointed as Iran's new supreme leader, a move that comes amidst ongoing U.S.-Israeli strikes on the country that have already triggered regional escalations. With this leadership change in Tehran and no end to hostilities in sight, many analysts warn that the Middle East could spiral into deeper instability and chaos. What's the scope of the likely spillover, with damage to regional economies and world trade?

China's 15th Five-Year Plan embraces innovation, nurturing ecosystems that lead to further innovation. For example, China believes that the key to "AI Plus" is its strategic integration into existing industries, services or platforms to boost efficiency and capabilities.

The 15th Five-Year Plan period represents a critical stage in which China will consolidate the substantial achievements of the 14th Five-Year Plan, step up efforts across the board, and largely realize socialist modernization. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macao Special Administrative Region are going to align with the national plan to seize more new opportunities. Pansy Ho, a Standing Committee member of the CPPCC, who’s the Group Executive Chairman and Managing Director of Shun Tak Holdings, shared her views on the nature of the 15th Five-Year Plan as well as Macao’s role in the plan.

Up for priority discussion in China’s upcoming Two Sessions is the nation’s detailed course guide for the next five years. China's national legislature and top political advisory body are doubling down on crucial policies to boost domestic demand and to build a robust market, at this year’s sessions. They’re eyeing homegrown advanced tech innovation, deepening reforms and expanding high-standard opening up. So, how can the Chinese economy fully benefit from these measures? How can they drive new growth across various industries? How can a more consumer-driven economy raise growth despite global uncertainties?

As the U.S. and Israel continue offensive on Iran, Tehran faces a future without Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. After announcing Khamenei's death on Sunday, Iran went into 40 days of national mourning. Grieving Iranians took their anger over the Supreme Leader's killing to the streets on Sunday, calling for retribution. With no end to hostilities in sight, many warn the Middle East could spiral into deeper instability and chaos. The conflict did bear a disturbing warfare pattern of missile and drone strikes — rapid deployment with deadly efficiency. So, how far and wide could the raging conflict go? What's the scope of the likely spillover, with damage to regional and global economies, as feared by many?

The German chancellor has concluded his visit to China. How crucial is the visit in building trust and stability between both sides? How has China-Germany cooperation helped enterprises and businesses from both sides?

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is currently on an official visit to China, amid shifting global trade dynamics and Washington's renewed focus on tariffs. What objectives does Merz hope to achieve during his visit? Can this trip lay the foundation for a more resilient partnership between the two nations?

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will make an official visit to China from February 25 to 26. What implications will this trip have for the critical economic partnership between the two nations? How could this high-level visit contribute to stabilizing economic ties amidst global uncertainty?

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled against the Trump administration's use of emergency powers to impose tariffs. On Friday, the Supreme Court handed down a six-to-three decision that dealt a blow to the White House's legal authority to collect sweeping tariffs. What will this mean for U.S. trade policy in the short and long term? What impact will this ruling have on major U.S. trade partners?