A change in Chinese law could allow Beijing to seize certain Western business assets during wartime. The move is part of broader preparations aimed at enabling Chinese society and the economy to rapidly shift into a wartime footing if needed.
Leaders at the 18th BRICS Summit called for greater use of local currencies in trade among member states. The latest agreement in New Delhi could reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar and has implications for Washington as the BRICS bloc seeks to deepen financial cooperation.
The controversy surrounding artificial intelligence continues. Leading researchers warn that super-intelligent AI could pose an existential threat to humanity. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has focused on China and its growing role in the development of advanced AI.
China is again expressing anger over Taiwan as Panamanian lawmakers strengthen ties with the island. Panama ended diplomatic relations with Taiwan nine years ago in favor of Beijing, but lawmakers there are now moving closer to Taipei. A Taiwanese official cited the shared values upheld by Panama and Taiwan.