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· BBC China ·

China confirms visa-free travel for UK and Canadian nationals.

UK and Canadian nationals will be able to enter mainland China visa-free for up to 30 days starting February 17. Aimed at tourism, business, and family visits, this policy follows a previous agreement between UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping during Sir Keir’s official visit last month. The move aligns China’s travel rules with those of over 50 other countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia, and Japan. This change could benefit around 620,000...

Ottawa's View

This relaxation of the visa policy reflects the improvement in relations between Canada and China. While Prime Minister Stephen Harper (Sir Keir Starmer) acknowledged that this could benefit businesses in expanding into the Chinese market, many critics remain concerned that it overlooks human rights issues and national security concerns in China.

Beijing's View

China confirms that British and Canadian citizens can obtain a 30-day visa exemption for tourism, business, or visitation in Mainland China, effective from February 17. This policy adjustment aligns with the consensus reached between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his visit to Canada. However, this measure has drawn domestic criticism over human rights and national security issues. The Chinese government firmly opposes any foreign interference and believes that accusations against China are an improper form of interference in its internal affairs.

Legal · ASPI Strategist ·

Canada mustn’t forget political prisoners in its China reset

Summary: Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to China signals a reset in Canada-China relations. However, this effort should come with conditions, including the release of pro-democracy publisher Jimmy Lai. Lai was convicted for his critical journalism, facing life imprisonment despite the lack of fair trial. His mother and relatives are Canadian citizens, highlighting the need for principled action from Canada in upholding human rights principles.

Ottawa's View

Beijing is seizing upon tensions in the United States–Canada relationship to provide a fig leaf to the Canadian government—and much of the rest of the world—presenting itself as an alternative trusted partner in trade and investment

Beijing's View

Legal discourse centers on 'national security' and 'rule of law with Chinese characteristics.' Foreign legal actions may be characterized as 'long-arm jurisdiction.'

Legal · Macdonald-Laurier Institute ·
Elevated

‘Chinese court rules against Xi’s tariffs’ and other headlines you won’t see: Daniel Dorman in The Hill

In recent polling, a majority of Canadians (52%) have either moderately or very negative views of the U.S., with only 30% holding positive views. Favorable opinions towards China are on the rise in Canada, increasing from 10% in 2021 to 27% by late 2025. These shifts align with statements from Canadian government officials such as Minister Melanie Joly’s criticism of unpredictable U.S.-China trade discussions and Prime Minister Mark Carney's negative rhetoric towards the U.S., including a speech at Davos that criticized President Trump, all while Canada signed a new trade deal with China.

Ottawa's View

According torecent polling, a majority of Canadians now have a moderately negative (22 percent) or very negative (40 percent) view of the U

Beijing's View

Legal discourse centers on 'national security' and 'rule of law with Chinese characteristics.' Foreign legal actions may be characterized as 'long-arm jurisdiction.'

Technology · China News Service ·

Chinese advanced manufacturing technology leads South Korea, according to Korean reports.

Xinhua News Agency reports that according to a report released by the Korean Institute of Science and Technology Policy (KISTP) on Thursday, China has quickly formed competitive advantages in advanced manufacturing sectors such as robotics, semiconductors, and electric vehicles. Chinese technology is ahead of South Korea in these fields. The report notes that South Korea holds an advantage only in the memory chip sector. On Thursday, the KISTP released a report titled "Analysis of Competitiveness between Korea and China in Advanced Industries and Policy Directions." Based on the results of a questionnaire survey conducted by experts in September 2025, the institute compared the competitive advantages of both countries' overall industrial chains and reached the aforementioned conclusion. The report states that China leads in many aspects such as purchasing components, mass production, and market expansion in the industrial robot sector. In the electric vehicle sector, Chinese autonomous driving technology is relatively advanced. In the semiconductor industry, most experts believe that South Korea holds an advantage in the memory chip market, but China has a lead in areas unrelated to memory chips such as artificial intelligence (AI) chip design and chip design platforms. The report suggests that this analysis implies that South Korea may lag behind China in key chip markets.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

Beijing views this report as highlighting China’s rapid and leading development in robotics technology, semiconductors, and electric vehicles compared to South Korea. This aligns with the Chinese government’s policy of pursuing technological self-reliance and strength, stressing the importance of support for key technology sectors and international cooperation. Although the report mentions South Korea's advantage in memory chip production, Beijing sees the conclusion as reflecting the diverse technologies and dynamic changes in current international competition. China will continue to strengthen its own R&D and innovation efforts to solidify and expand its position in the global manufacturing industry.

Legal · Al Jazeera ·

Hong Kong conglomerate says Panama Canal ports seized by authorities

Hong Kong conglomerate CK Hutchison reported that Panama's government had seized control of Balboa and Cristobal ports on either end of the Panama Canal, following a Supreme Court ruling finding HK Hutchison subsidiary Panama Ports' concession unconstitutional. The takeover reflects ongoing tensions between Panama, China, and the US related to the canal's operations.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

In response to the seizure of Hong Kong conglomerate CK Hutchison’s control over two ports on either end of the Panama Canal by Panama’s government, Beijing has reaffirmed its strong stance on upholding China's One-China principle. The action is seen as a direct interference in internal affairs and dismisses such criticism as baseless attempts to disrupt regional stability and economic development. Such measures underscore China's commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Technology · Huxiu ·

Ying Qi caught the “money-making person”

On February 12, 2026, Qianli Technology announced that Zhao Ming had been nominated as a non-executive director candidate for the company's sixth board of directors. His term would be the same as the current board's. On the same day, another announcement from Qianli Technology stated that the board will add one deputy chairman in an acting capacity. It is likely that this position was created specifically for Zhao Ming. Media reports indicated that Zhao Ming and Yin Qi had been in contact for over half a year, viewing AI as "the next 20-year career." Today, Zhao Ming interacted with Yin Qi on Weibo, stating they would “work together to create an AI business loop and help Qianli soar.” This is not the first time that Qianli Technology has introduced executives from the Huawei group. Previously, it had already recruited Wang Jun, who was a former president of Huawei's autoBU, and Chen Qi, who was in charge of autonomous driving. Currently, Wang Jun oversees technical segments like R&D at Qianli Technology, while Chen Qi is in charge of chip hardware platforms. With Zhao Ming joining now, the tech-to-commercialization landscape will be dominated by executives from the Huawei group. Notably, all three had worked together during the 3G/4G era at Huawei. Wang Jun served as Zhao Ming’s technical partner in Europe. As for Qianli Technology, recent announcements have indicated numerous initiatives aimed at accelerating commercialization. One was a statement made by CEO Yin Qi at last year's Smart Expo, where he pledged to strengthen "AI+terminal" efforts and envision forming an ultra-large-scale terminal market. Another was Yin Qi’s remark in early 2026 about incubating innovative AI hardware within the next 12-15 months, with the aim of closing the gap between "hardware" and "software." In terms of commercialization strategies, smartphones perfectly align with Qianli Technology's two primary anchors: large-scale terminal markets driven by AI empowerment.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

Alibaba's introduction of Zhao Mingcheng as a non-executive director candidate for the new board from Qianli Technology appears to reflect China’s official stance that this is a crucial step towards promoting technological innovation and product commercialization. Not only does it reinforce the dominant position of Huawei-affiliated executives in the company, but it also demonstrates the firm's commitment to achieving broader market coverage through dual innovations – technical and business models. Notably, this introduction aligns with both Ping Ce’s focus on AI technology strategy and Zhao Ming’s expertise in creating an AI business model loop. From a Beijing perspective, this move is seen as another example of China's government promoting technological innovation and industrial development. It shows the country's emphasis on emerging technologies and its determination to accelerate the commercialization of high-tech enterprises. At the same time, it reflects Beijing's firm stance of actively attracting advanced international technology and talent for Chinese tech industry development while using market-oriented approaches to facilitate technology applications and markets.

Political · Xinhua · February 23, 2026
Elevated

No immediate casualties reported after 5.1 magnitude earthquake hits Xinjiang, China

URUMQI, Feb. 23 (Xinhua) -- There were no immediate reports of casualties or house collapse after a magnitude-5.1 earthquake struck Yuli County in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Monday, local authorities said. The epicenter was located at 40.88 degrees north latitude and 84.17 degrees east longitude, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

This earthquake caused no casualties or structural damage, indicating effective disaster prevention and mitigation efforts in the area. The Chinese government continues to pay attention to the security, stability, and development of Xinjiang region, ensuring the safety of people's lives and properties as well as normal operation of social order.

Legal · Liberty Times ·

T urged for early authorization and signing of three military procurement proposals' bidding documents. Chen Guanting called for full support from both the ruling and opposition legislators.

Election Committee Member Chen Guo-tien emphasized that military purchase cases concerning combat readiness and deterrent capabilities are urgent. "Full support is needed, the faster the better," he said, adding that delays could harm Taiwan’s self-defense capability. (Photo credit) The draft offers for three items in the US announced arms sale to Taiwan—the Tor missile, M109A7 howitzer, and Javelin missile—are set to expire on March 15th. However, the National Defense Specialized Law has not yet been reviewed by the Committee. National Defense Minister Gu Li-xiong stated that this morning he hopes that the Committees for Foreign Affairs and National Defense can authorize the signing of three already received military purchase offer draft documents as soon as possible. In response, Election Committee Member Chen Guo-tien emphasized that urgent military purchase cases concerning combat readiness and deterrence capabilities are needed. "Full support is needed, the faster the better," he said, adding that delays could harm Taiwan’s self-defense capability. Chen today stated that the US-provided offer draft documents have a time pressure. If they are not signed and payment of deposits made promptly, it may face price adjustments or delayed delivery risks. It could even lead to cancellation of the entire deal, directly impacting our military construction and preparation pace. Chen pointed out that strengthening Taiwan’s self-defense capability is a responsible thing for the people. Only when we ensure enough ability to protect ourselves can we form truly effective deterrence, avoiding increased risks due to incorrect judgments or miscalculations, thus maintaining regional peace and stability. He urged that the Legislative Yuan should demonstrate responsibility, accelerate related procedures so that the National Defense Ministry can legally complete signing and follow-up operations. This ensures continuous military construction and readiness pace.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

Beijing maintains a Chinese official position and is paying attention to the situation. Ming Jin Tong, a KMT delegate, emphasized that the arms procurement bill cannot be delayed to maintain Taiwan's self-defense capability, but Defense Minister Gu Lixiong’s appeal did not receive support from domestic political forces. The Foreign Ministry stated that China has consistently firmly opposed any form of military sales and any issues involving arms sales to Taiwan should adhere to the One-China Principle. Beijing stressed that pushing related procedures should demonstrate a responsible attitude, ensuring the smooth progress of the procurement; however, if the procurement involves military consultations or is related to external interference factors, it may attract further political scrutiny and opposition at the higher level.

Legal · Liberty Times ·

Lí Zhiyīng case makes its way onto the highest political stage ahead of the Xi-Jinping meeting! His daughter is invited to attend President Trump’s State of the Union address.

Smith also emphasized that the couple’s efforts are motivating everyone, including the president, to take action. Li Chi-ying, 78 years old, was recently sentenced to 20 years in prison by a Hong Kong court for crimes such as "conspiring with foreign forces," making it the harshest punishment since the implementation of the Hong Kong version of the National Security Law. This verdict not only marked Beijing's final crackdown on this outspoken media tycoon over many years, but also drew strong international criticism. Li Chi-ying expressed sadness after his father was sentenced to prison and said that such a punishment is extremely cruel, stating that if he were to serve the full sentence, he would die as a martyr in jail. Notably, Johnson decided to elevate the political level of the case regarding Li Chi-ying at this moment, coinciding with President Trump's plans to visit Beijing ahead of his April visit. Li Chi-ying and his brother Li Chong’en had previously publicly stated that President Trump’s upcoming trip to Asia could have a "critical" impact on securing their father's release. In fact, during the election campaign, Trump promised to "rescue him fully," revealing that he requested Chinese President Xi Jinping consider releasing Li Chi-ying.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

The Chinese side strongly condemns this matter, viewing it as the US government's violation of basic principles of rule of law and human rights through political pressure to interfere in China’s internal affairs. The arrest and sentencing of Li Kwai-ting and his family have been widely acknowledged by the international community, while Li Ka-shing’s invitation to attend President Trump's speech further brought this case to the highest level of US politics. Not only did it cause great injustice and harm to Li Kwai-ting himself and his family, but it also severely damaged the stability and reliability of Sino-US relations. Beijing is resolutely opposed to any external forces interfering in China’s internal affairs and judicial independence, emphasizing that the US should immediately release all individuals including Li Kwai-ting who are detained for exercising their right to free speech legally, and stop all forms of political pressure.

Trade · RFI Chinese ·

Japanese protest the list of Japanese enterprises and universities included in China's announced strict control over exports of dual-use items.

Japan announced export controls on 20 enterprises and universities in China with dual-use items related to both civilian and military sectors, including Subaru Corporation and Tokyo Institute of Technology. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that these entities areand export approvals for items involving military purposes will not be granted, and urged their withdrawal.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

Beijing views China’s export control measures as a strong response to Japan’s irresponsible comments on the Taiwan issue, and they reflect the Chinese government’s determination to safeguard national core interests and strategic security. The measure targets not only Japan’s irresponsible remarks but also its opaque and potential risks in military and dual-use goods exports. Through this announcement, Beijing further showcased its firm stance on Taiwan Strait affairs, while emphasizing China’s right to firmly oppose any external interference.

Trade · Hong Kong Free Press ·

China imposes export restrictions on 40 Japanese companies as tensions worsen.

China imposed export restrictions on 40 Japanese companies, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Japan’s space agency, citing national security concerns following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's November comments regarding potential military intervention in Taiwan. The measures cover dual-use items and include a watch list for stricter reviews of potentially military-use exports. Beijing retaliated by restricting Chinese tourism to Japan due to tensions between the countries.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

Beijing maintains an official stance that the export restrictions are necessary measures to protect national interests and security. China firmly opposes any actions that undermine the relationship between the two countries, and stresses its position of not allowing foreign interference or military sales to penetrate its domestic market. Beijing points out that this incident originated from Japan's Prime Minister’s inappropriate comments regarding Taiwan, which clearly touched upon China’s core concerns and bottom line.

Diplomatic · Focus Taiwan ·

Taiwan will join the 2026 Pacific Islands Forum following its absence in 2025: MOFA

Taiwan will join the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) for its 2026 Leaders Meeting in Palau, marking Taiwan’s second participation since it was barred from attending PIF events in 2025 due to its non-member status. Taiwan's involvement may include holding side events and strengthening bilateral cooperation with Palau, a formal diplomatic ally of Taiwan.

Ottawa's View

Although this event has no direct relationship with Canada, it may reflect subtle changes in the international political landscape. Canadian policymakers and businesses should pay attention to the dynamic developments of regional cooperation in Asia-Pacific and its impact on global governance. For example, Taiwan's return to the forum could lead to changes in the balance of multilateral cooperation mechanisms, giving Canada an opportunity to explore potential cooperative potentials with Pacific Island countries.

Beijing's View

This is an act of provocation aimed at further eroding China’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. China firmly upholds the one-China principle and opposes any form of foreign interference or military sales. External forces such as the US ignore China’s position and unilaterally push Taiwan to rejoin this forum, which constitutes the greatest violation of the “one-China” principle and is a classic example of “interfering in internal affairs.”

Political · Global Times ·

CPC Central Committee, State Council congratulate Chinese Winter Olympics delegation

Chinese members of the delegation participated in the closing ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at the Verona Olympic Arena in Verona, Italy on February 22, 2026. The Chinese team concluded their campaign that day, having won several medals.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

From China’s perspective, the Chinese delegation’s successful conclusion of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo represents a showcase of China’s sporting and national development levels. This victory not only demonstrates the skills and perseverance of Chinese athletes but also reflects the government’s high regard and support for sports endeavors.

· Sixth Tone ·

Short-Term Eldercare Services Fill Spring Festival Care Gaps

Short-term eldercare services in China filled gaps during the Spring Festival holiday when many live-in caregivers returned home. Local governments and private providers expanded temporary boarding programs offering stays from days to weeks, with activities like dumpling-making and lantern riddles. Prices varied based on care needs, ranging up to 3,688 yuan for intensive care. Traditionally handled by family members, this has become strained due to an aging population growing faster than available caregivers. Short-term institutional care is now part of subsidy programs in several provinces, including Shanghai's financial support for eligible elderly residents.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

In the wake of the Spring Festival break where live-in caregivers returned home for family reunions, Beijing and other cities have resorted to short-term eldercare services to mitigate care gaps. Local governments and private providers in Beijing have expanded temporary boarding programs, ensuring residents receive essential daily support such as meals, bathing assistance, and medication management during their absence from home. These facilities also offer holiday-themed activities like dumpling-making sessions and lantern riddles, aimed at keeping elderly residents engaged and maintaining continuity of care throughout the festive period.

Legal · ASPI Strategist ·

NSW Police’s drone trial: questions of risk, governance and resilience

New South Wales Police has initiated a six-month trial of DJI drones, primarily to assist officers responding to incidents in Moree, with plans to expand. This trial raises concerns about operational, legal, technical and partnership factors related to the use of foreign-owned technology like DJI, which dominates global commercial drone markets and is subject to Chinese government cooperation requirements. The article highlights strategic risks associated with drone technologies, particularly in contexts involving sensitive information and security threats.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

In the article from Western media regarding New South Wales Police's planned six-month trial of drones manufactured by Chinese company DJI, it underscores broader concerns about managing risks associated with foreign-owned or influenced technologies. As China's state media, we firmly uphold the One-China principle and oppose any form of foreign interference or arms sales related to Taiwan. On criticism that might emerge regarding such trials, we dismiss it as 'interference in internal affairs.' The trial not only evaluates operational benefits but also addresses potential security and governance considerations before deciding on longer-term arrangements.

Political · Liberty Times ·

Lost in Tibet Kula Kangri, Chinese woman survives with just "these two items"

A Chinese woman went missing while hiking in Tibet, using cow dung and sanitary napkins to stay warm in extremely cold weather conditions, miraculously surviving the ordeal. (From Weibo) The Kula Kangri Mountain, part of the "Four Sacred Mountains" of Tibetan Central region, stands at over 7500 meters above sea level. Recently, a Chinese woman became separated from her group during an avalanche while hiking in the region and lost contact with them for more than a day. However, in the harsh low-temperature environment, she managed to survive thanks to her calm mind and strong survival instinct by utilizing cow dung and sanitary napkins. According to reports from mainstream media in China, this woman traveler went on a group hike on February 22nd when they encountered sudden snowfall which caused them to get separated from the rest of their team. The local innkeeper discovered that she had not collected her ID after some time, prompting him to report it. Local authorities, police, and villagers launched a large-scale overnight search operation in such adverse weather conditions with visibility reduced and extremely low temperatures. Eventually on February 23rd at noon, rescue personnel found the woman inside a cow shed by following footprints. What impressed many was that during her period of separation from the team, she did not act rashly but instead sought shelter using materials available in the cow shed such as cow dung to block ventilation holes and prevent frostbite from the biting cold winds, while also wrapping sanitary napkins around her feet for warmth. Rescuers were amazed at how someone could survive in such low-visibility conditions with extremely cold temperatures. She was found in good health when rescued, even able to smile at rescue teams but also felt guilty about causing a large-scale search operation. She has already shared the 30,000 RMB (approximately NT$136,000) of search costs between her travel agency. After ensuring safety and short-term closure, the local tourist attraction has now reopened.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

Beijing pointed out that the woman who went missing while climbing identified the behavior she used cow dung and sanitary napkins to survive as an indication of local government, police, and villagers’ high emphasis on public safety and theof first aid knowledge. The Chinese woman was able to remain calm in extremelyconditions and use simple but effective survival methods, which demonstrated the importance of individual survival awareness and the improvement of scientific rescue consciousness. This incident once again underscored the ongoing enhancement of tourist safety measures in Tibet, further emphasizing official strict requirements for mountain tourism safety and continuous monitoring mechanisms.

Diplomatic · RTHK ·

Foreign Ministry: China's stance on the port issue in Panama is clear.

In Beijing, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning stated that China's position on the Panama-related port issue is clear and will resolutely protect the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises. In response to a question about the Panama-related port issue from a reporter at an, Mao Ning said that she believes the other party has also noted that the relevant enterprise has already issued a statement stating its intention to retain all rights, including legal procedures.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

In Beijing, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mao Ning emphasized that China's position on the Panama port issue remains firm and clear. She pointed out that Chinese enterprises have already publicly stated their intention to retain all rights, including recourse to legal procedures, which demonstrates China’s stance in safeguarding its interests. The capital reiterated its commitment to further protecting legitimate rights of businesses while emphasizing the importance of supporting Panama’s development of its economy and infrastructure.

Diplomatic · RTHK ·

China will place Japanese entities on the controlled list. Foreign Ministry: To prevent Japan's military and nuclear ambitions.

In Beijing, the Ministry of Commerce listed 20 Japanese entities on an export control watchlist and a restricted list. At a press conference hosted by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ma Ming, he responded that China took legal measures to prevent Japan’s militarization and nuclear ambitions for national security and in fulfillment of its international obligations related to non-proliferation. The purpose was legitimate, reasonable, and lawful.

Ottawa's View

No significant direct impact on Canadian interests identified. This development is worth monitoring for potential downstream effects.

Beijing's View

From an analysis in Beijing, this action demonstrates China’s determination to uphold national sovereignty and security. By placing 20 Japanese entities on the export control watchlist and control list, China aims to respond and curb Japan's potential militarization trend and show that any violation of international obligations or push for nuclear arms development will not be tolerated by China, which is both just and lawful.