Chinese scientists have developed a breakthrough technology to generate electricity on Mars using its atmosphere. The newly invented "Mars Battery" uses carbon dioxide from the Martian air to produce and store energy, eliminating the need for Earth-based fuel transport. Tested under simulated Mars conditions, the battery functions effectively even at sub-zero temperatures. This innovation could support long-term research missions and future human settlements on the Red Planet, marking a major advancement in space exploration and showcasing China's growing technological capabilities.

In a trilateral meeting held in Beijing on Wednesday, foreign ministers of Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan— Ishaq Dar, Wang Yi, and Amir Khan Muttaqi— agreed to cooperate on counterterrorism and regional stability. The three nations also reached consensus on extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan. China’s Foreign Ministry stated, “We support Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and are committed to regional peace and development.”

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has called on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and focus on maintaining regional peace and stability. “We are aware of India’s military actions, and we find the situation extremely concerning,” said a spokesperson. China emphasized its opposition to all forms of terrorism and urged both nations—its neighbors—to avoid further escalation and work toward peaceful resolution.

China has imposed counter-sanctions on six US Congress members, officials, and NGO heads in retaliation for Washington’s recent sanctions against Chinese and Hong Kong officials over alleged suppression of pro-democracy activists. The Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned the US actions as interference and warned of stronger retaliation if such policies continue. The original US sanctions targeted those accused of using Hong Kong’s national security law to silence dissent. The geopolitical standoff also intensified through a tit-for-tat tariff escalation.

Chinese authorities have accused the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) of conducting a large-scale cyberattack during February’s Winter Asian Games in Harbin. The attacks allegedly targeted critical sectors in China. Police have launched an investigation and added three individuals, including NSA-linked agents and University of California affiliates, to their wanted list. China has also issued travel warnings for its citizens visiting the U.S. and suspended imports of Hollywood films.

China has suspended exports of certain rare earth minerals and magnets, crucial for manufacturing electric vehicles, drones, aerospace components, and military technology. The move has raised concerns across global industries, especially in the US, which relies heavily on Chinese imports for these materials. Shipments have already been blocked at major Chinese ports. Analysts believe the decision may be a retaliatory response to increased tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump.

In response to Trump’s hike in tariffs on Chinese goods to 145%, Beijing imposed up to 125% tariffs on U.S. imports but declared it would not escalate further. The news triggered a global stock market downturn, a dip in the dollar’s value, and a rush on U.S. government bonds. Gold prices soared to record highs. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bassent said bilateral trade deals could stabilize markets. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping, during a meeting with Spain’s PM, urged joint EU-China resistance to U.S. “bullying” and expressed interest in rules-based global trade.

Following the U.S. decision to impose a 125% tariff on Chinese goods, China is ramping up engagement with major trade blocs. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held virtual meetings with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and Malaysian Trade Minister Tengku Zafrul. Both sides expressed eagerness to initiate negotiations on market access and electric vehicle pricing, and to redirect exports previously bound for the U.S. toward Europe. China reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with ASEAN and all trade partners.

China has called on India to join forces in confronting the consequences of U.S. trade protectionism, particularly policies introduced under former President Donald Trump.

Yu Jing, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in India, stated, “The China-India relationship is built on economic complementarity and mutual benefit. The unreasonable tariff policies of the United States have deprived many nations—especially in the Global South—of their development rights. As the world’s two largest developing nations, China and India should tackle these challenges together.”

She added, “No one wins in a trade or tariff war. Countries must uphold principles of broad consultation, genuine multilateralism, and jointly oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism.”

In a sharp escalation of trade tensions, China has announced an 84% tariff on all American goods, effective from Thursday. This move comes in retaliation to the United States imposing a 104% tariff on Chinese imports, which Beijing has described as “oppressive.”

The Chinese Ministry of Finance stated that the new tariffs are a necessary response to the U.S.‘s aggressive trade policies. Analysts believe this development marks the beginning of another round of trade war between the world’s two largest economies—raising concerns about potential negative impacts on the global economy.

Despite the escalation, China has expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue with the U.S. government to resolve the conflict. In a white paper released on Wednesday, Beijing emphasized its consistent efforts to maintain mutually beneficial trade relations with Washington. The document acknowledges that trade disputes are “normal” but stresses the importance of safeguarding China’s national interests.

Starting Wednesday, the United States is enforcing a 104% tariff on a range of Chinese goods, following an announcement by former President Donald Trump. Earlier, on April 2, a 34% tariff was imposed, adding to a previous 20% duty. In retaliation, China announced a 34% tariff on U.S. goods last Friday. Trump warned of an additional 50% tariff if China does not retract its decision. China’s response measures take effect from Thursday.

Donald Trump has threatened to impose up to 50% tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting a fierce response from Beijing, which warned that it will “fight to the end.” The escalating trade war has caused turmoil in global markets and increased fears of a recession. In retaliation, China announced a 34% tariff on US goods effective Thursday. Trump then raised the stakes further, stating total tariffs on Chinese imports could reach 104% if Beijing does not back down. A Chinese spokesperson criticized the US for its “blackmailing tactics.”

In response to the Trump administration’s new tariffs on Chinese imports, China has announced a 34% additional tariff on all U.S. goods, effective from April 10. The Chinese finance ministry confirmed the surcharge will be applied over existing duties. Additionally, China has restricted the export of seven rare minerals, including gadolinium and yttrium. Beijing also plans to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization. This comes as the U.S. imposes a universal 10% tariff on all imports.

During a visit to Moscow, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s strong ties with Russia, stating:
“China and Russia are eternal friends and will never be enemies.”

He also welcomed signs of improved relations between Washington and Moscow, expressing China’s willingness to play a constructive role in resolving the Ukraine conflict.

In early 2022, just before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin announced an “unlimited” strategic partnership. Since then, the two leaders have strengthened cooperation on global issues, including Taiwan, Ukraine, and their shared rivalry with the United States.

China has launched military exercises surrounding Taiwan, involving the country’s army, navy, and rocket forces. The drills serve as a stern warning against Taiwan’s push for independence.

The move follows Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s recent remarks labeling Beijing as a foreign hostile force.

Taiwan’s defense ministry confirmed that China’s Shandong aircraft carrier group entered the island’s defense zone on Monday. In response, Taiwan has deployed military aircraft, naval ships, and activated land-based missile systems.