Dialogue

China's tech sector is accelerating rapidly. From AI and semiconductors to humanoid robots and advanced materials, breakthroughs are emerging on multiple fronts. Some are even calling this a "harvest season" for innovation. What's driving this momentum? How sustainable is it? And as China moves toward its 15th Five-Year Plan, where are the next major breakthroughs likely to come from?

China and the United States have wrapped up trade talks in Paris. Both sides say they value a stable trade relationship and they have agreed to promote trade and investment between the world's two largest economies. What did this latest round of talks achieve? What might the long-term economic relationship between China and the U.S. look like?

China has posted a robust start in foreign trade with exports surging more than 21% and imports nearly 20% in the first two months of the year. Consumption recorded its biggest jump in more than three years. The latest numbers arrive just as China wrapped up its annual Two Sessions where lawmakers approved this year's government work report and new five year plan. What do the figures tell us about the Chinese economy, which policy priorities are likely to shape China's economy and society in the coming years, and what do they mean for improving the lives of the Chinese people?

At least three ships have come under attack in the Strait of Hormuz, rattling global energy markets. Despite Washington's claim that the war is complete, Iran has ramped up missile strikes on Israel and U.S. assets across the region. At the same time, the United States appears eager to find a way out but without a clear plan for what comes next. Is this war really nearing its conclusion, or is it entering a more dangerous phase?

A professor from the University of Chicago explains the impact of U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran. The scholar shares his opinions on issues such as the purpose of the attacks on Iran, potential next steps from the United States, Israel's role in driving the escalation and the conflict’s impacts on Gulf countries.

As China's political sessions continue, attention has turned to the annual work reports from the country's top legal bodies, outlining priorities for judicial reform and the development of the rule of law. Meanwhile, lawmakers are reviewing several pieces of legislation, including draft laws on environmental protection, national development planning and the promotion of ethnic unity and progress. What do these latest work reports tell us about the evolution of China's legal system? What do the new legislative proposals aim to achieve?

China expects its GDP increase for 2026 to exceed 6 trillion yuan, a boost officials say will help stabilize employment, improve livelihoods, and manage economic risks. The government also plans to deepen its “AI+” initiative, with AI-related industries expected to exceed 10 trillion yuan in scale by 2030. Meanwhile, six emerging pillar industries — including biomedicine, the low-altitude economy and smart robotics — are set to double their output within five years. Where does the Chinese economy stand today? What signals are coming from top policymakers? And what priorities will shape its future?

China has set its economic growth target for 2026 at 4.5 to 5 percent. China will continue to prioritize scientific research and high-tech innovation, while also making stronger efforts to boost its consumer market. What's the thinking behind this policy choice? What challenges could China face in reaching its growth target? And how will policymakers navigate those challenges while laying the groundwork for sustainable growth?

China's top political advisory body is holding its annual session in Beijing. What will the meetings primarily focus on this year?

The US and Israel have attacked Iran for a third day. Israel is expanding operations to include Hezbollah in Lebanon, while Iran has targeted U.S. military facilities across the Gulf region. How long might this war continue? What is Washington's strategy once the bombing stops? And how will war reshape Iran and the entire Middle East region?