As global conflicts multiply and geopolitical tensions rise, millions of people worldwide are being stripped of their most fundamental human rights. In an increasingly divided world, what does the future hold for human rights? Are they still a universal pursuit shared by all nations? And how can developing countries make their voices heard to shape a more just, inclusive global governance system? To discuss these critical issues, we are joined by the former President of Iraq, Abdul Latif Rashid.

More than 400 guests from nearly 100 countries, along with representatives from the UN and other international and regional organizations, are gathering in Beijing for the 2026 Forum on Global Human Rights Governance. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development. Four decades on, how can the international community better advance human rights through development and turn the vision of the Declaration into reality? And as countries of the Global South call for a greater voice in international affairs, what should a more inclusive, equitable, and representative system of global human rights governance look like?

Chinese President Xi Jinping has said that relations between China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, or the DPRK, stand at a new historical starting point. He made the remarks while attending a welcome banquet hosted by DPRK leader Kim Jong Un. Kim noted that the two sides have reached consensus on advancing bilateral relations amid evolving circumstances. The visit comes at a significant moment in China-DPRK relations. This year marks the 65th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between the two countries. Beijing and Pyongyang have described the visit as an opportunity to strengthen strategic communication, deepen cooperation, and chart the future course of bilateral ties. What does this visit tell us about the current state of China-DPRK relations? What do phrases such as "a new historical starting point" mean for the future of the relationship? And how might the two countries expand cooperation in the years ahead?

Tokyo and Manila have agreed to begin talks on maritime boundary delimitation in waters to the east of Taiwan. Beijing has rejected the move arguing that the waters in question involve China's maritime rights and interests. What is really driving the latest moves by Japan and the Philippines? Are they creating a new flashpoint in regional maritime and sovereignty disputes? And how will such a unilateral move undermine regional stability?

The world is entering a period of strategic uncertainty. The war in Iran and disruption in the Strait of Hormuz have shaken energy markets, threatened shipping routes, and reminded Asia how vulnerable it remains to conflict far beyond its shores. At the same time, US-China relations continue to reshape trade, technology, security, and choices facing Southeast Asia. Can Southeast Asia keep diplomacy balanced while great power competition narrows the space for neutrality? What role could China play in regional economic development? And how should the region view Japan's expanding military build-up?

At this year's Shangri-La Dialogue, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized US military strength and urged regional partners to boost defense spending, repeatedly citing "peace through strength" and deterrence. On China, he took a softer tone than last year, noting efforts to build a stable, constructive relationship and the importance of military communication. Does this signal a shift in Washington's security approach? Is higher military spending the path to regional security? And what is China's vision for regional peace and prosperity?

China and the European Union remain deeply interconnected through trade, investment, technology and diplomacy. Yet the relationship is also facing growing strains. Brussels is speaking more openly about de-risking, industrial security and strategic autonomy, while Beijing warns that some of Europe's emerging policy proposals risk pushing the relationship toward protectionism and discrimination. At the same time, European leaders and senior officials continue to visit China, underscoring that despite rising tensions, both sides still see engagement and cooperation as essential. Where do China-EU relations stand today? Can Europe pursue greater security and competitiveness without shutting the door on cooperation with China? And following U.S. President Donald Trump's recent visit to China, will European governments reconsider their own approach toward Beijing?

US forces have launched new strikes on Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz, with Washington describing the operation as “self-defense” after Iranian vessels were reportedly involved in mine-laying activities and missile threats against US assets. The latest escalation comes at a highly fragile moment as negotiations are reportedly continuing over a possible ceasefire framework. But major disagreements remain over sanctions relief, uranium enrichment, Israel's attacks on Lebanon, and freedom of navigation through one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. Are we seeing the first steps of a possible diplomatic settlement, or simply a temporary pause before another round of confrontation? Can Washington prevent the Strait of Hormuz from becoming the center of a much wider regional conflict? And how vulnerable is the global economy to another major shock in the Gulf?

Saturday marks the 75th anniversary of the peaceful liberation of Xizang Autonomous Region. Over the past seven and a half decades, Xizang has undergone profound transformations in its economy, infrastructure, public services, and living standards. Its GDP has grown from just 327 million yuan in 1965 to more than 300 billion yuan in 2025, and the region is now targeting economic growth of over 7 percent in 2026. How has Xizang changed over the past 75 years? What does its development reveal about China’s approach to human rights — particularly the right to development? And as the region enters a new stage of high-quality growth, what kind of Xizang will the world see in the years ahead?

Beijing has strongly rejected Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te's latest remarks on cross-Strait relations, accusing him of repackaging "Taiwan independence" in the language of peace and democracy. The comments come as Lai faces mounting political pressure on the island, after Taiwan's legislature voted on an impeachment motion against him. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has warned against Taiwan independence and calls Taiwan a "problem." Where does the Taiwan question stand amid these developments? Why is Washington's opposition to Taiwan independence a positive step toward peace and stability in the region? And what's the message sent by Washington if arms sales continue?