In the first half of 2026, China welcomed 22.91 million foreign visitors, up 20.4% year-on-year, with nearly 78% entering visa-free as entry policies were further eased. Beyond sightseeing, international travelers are discovering local culture, using China's digital services, and experiencing everyday life firsthand. How could the rise in inbound tourism support the country's consumer economy and strengthen its appeal as a global destination? And how are visitors' firsthand experiences changing international perceptions of modern China?

From the "old three" exports of clothing, furniture, and home appliances to the "new three" of electric vehicles, lithium batteries, and solar cells, China's export story has continued to evolve. Now, a new trio is emerging: artificial intelligence, robots, and innovative drugs, already being dubbed China's new "new three." So what's driving this growth? Are we seeing a deeper shift in China's economy, from manufacturing at scale to competing through tech and innovation? And as these new industries expand overseas, will the world see them as new opportunities or as threats, responding with more barriers and restrictions?

China has called on Japan to draw lessons from history and act with prudence following the establishment of its new National Intelligence Bureau. What implications could this new institution have for the broader geopolitical landscape? And what might it mean for regional security and stability?

In this episode, we explore the world of kung fu and what it reveals about Chinese culture. We also hear from Jostein Hauge, a political economist at the University of Cambridge, as he shares his impressions of his time in China.

As scrutiny of Chinese AI companies intensifies in Washington, nearly 200 US startups and technology groups are urging the government not to cut off Chinese access to open-weight models, which many smaller companies rely on to build affordable AI products. What is driving the growing debate over possible restrictions on Chinese AI models? From Silicon Valley to D.C., why is the US tech world suddenly obsessed with the narrative of AI distillation? What are the risks of a divided global AI ecosystem? And can global cooperation bridge geopolitical divides and unify international AI governance?

After nearly two weeks of heavy fighting between the US and Iran, the two sides have stopped striking each other, at least for now. US President Donald Trump says he has paused the attacks to give negotiations another chance, but Tehran denies that any direct talks are taking place. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Washington for talks with President Trump, and the outcome could prove pivotal for the next phase of the crisis. Is the war in Iran moving toward diplomacy or another escalation? Can Washington and Tehran overcome their disputes over the Strait of Hormuz and the terms of a broader agreement? And could differences between Trump and Netanyahu determine whether the conflict moves toward diplomacy or renewed escalation?

Britain's new prime minister enters Downing Street facing major economic and political challenges. Andy Burnham is the country's seventh leader in a decade, promising to revive industry, strengthen regional powers, and support struggling households. With weak growth, tight public finances, and just over three years until the next general election, can he deliver? And how might his premiership reshape the UK's relations with Europe, the United States, and China?

China and ASEAN are marking 35 years of dialogue relations and 5 years of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met his ASEAN counterparts at the China-ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in the Philippines. The meeting comes as the region is facing renewed tensions in the South China Sea, uncertainty in global trade, and energy risks arising from the conflict in the Middle East. How can China and ASEAN deepen their economic partnership while managing their differences? Can they prevent maritime disputes from disrupting broader cooperation? And what can they do together to strengthen regional stability and resilience?

Around the globe, extreme heat, floods and wildfires are turning climate risks into severe economic shocks, shaking food chains and global finance worldwide. Why do climate promises lag behind real action? And do nations spend too much on disaster recovery instead of prevention? And can climate investments balance environmental goals with steady economic growth for a resilient future?

Chinese President Xi Jinping has delivered a keynote speech at the opening of the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, calling for a fair and equitable global AI governance system. A day earlier, representatives from several countries signed the Convention on the Establishment of the World AI Cooperation Organization in Shanghai, marking a new step toward international AI cooperation. Together with China's newly released AI Cooperation Development Action Plan, these developments have drawn global attention. What will WAICO actually do? And will it give developing countries a greater voice in shaping the future of AI?