The poll of NATO member states showed median approval of China’s leadership rising and that of Washington falling in 2025.

China’s economic growth is likely to slow to 4.5% in 2026 and maintain the same pace in 2027, a Reuters poll showed, piling pressure for more stimulus as policymakers look to address deep structural vulnerabilities to underpin the nation's longer-term health.

China’s AI hardware market, spanning both consumer products and industrial robotics, is forecast to grow by 18% annually through 2030, from a sizable $153 billion in 2025, according to market research firm Beijing Runto Technology. This includes devices like home appliances and wearable gadgets but excludes smartphones and cars.

China Central Television reported that CNS Linfen, a new variant of the Type 054A frigate with a more powerful naval gun and expanded aviation facilities for helicopters, has been commissioned into service with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy.

Prime Minister Mark Carney hailed on Thursday Canada's improving ties with China as well as the leadership of President Xi Jinping, declaring that their nations were charting a new course in cooperation at a time of global division and disorder.

China has reportedly banned cybersecurity software from major U.S. and Israeli firms including VMware, Palo Alto Networks, and CrowdStrike, citing national security concerns.

As protests rock Iran and Washington keeps up pressure, Tehran’s powerful partners appear willing to offer words, trade and limited assistance, but not the kind of military backing that could draw them into a wider war.

China's central bank announced on Thursday cuts to sector-specific interest rates to provide an early boost to the economy, and signalled it has room this year for further reductions in banks' cash reserve requirements and for broader rate cuts.