Dialogue

As China prepares to host APEC 2026 under the theme "Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together", the Asia-Pacific remains the world's most dynamic engine of growth, even as geopolitical frictions and economic headwinds persist. China is seeking to stabilize major country ties, manage risks, and bridge the divide between the global North and South, even as rapid advances in AI reshape trade and investment. What role can China play in strengthening APEC cooperation? And how can businesses turn the promise of regional cooperation into real economic opportunities?

The US is intensifying pressure on Iran, launching Task Force Iron Gate to restrict the movement of weapons and sanctioned goods across Iranian borders, adding to its ongoing naval blockade. Meanwhile, Qatar is stepping up diplomatic efforts to bring Washington and Tehran closer to an agreement. With Democrats set to take control of the US Congress and Israel facing political uncertainty following inconclusive elections, could the shifting political landscape change the course of the conflict? What are the hurdles standing in the way of a negotiated settlement?

A wave of protests is sweeping across Europe. From France and Germany to Italy, Spain and Portugal, people have taken to the streets over rising living costs, public spending cuts and growing anxiety about their future. What began as peaceful demonstrations in some places escalated into violence, with some protesters looting shops and clashing with police. What is driving this growing discontent? What is behind the unrest? Can European governments address the grievances of a generation increasingly uncertain about their future?

Ten years after the Paris Agreement came into force, the world is still struggling to meet its climate goals. Clean energy is expanding rapidly, but current policies could put the planet on course for nearly three degrees Celsius of warming this century. With COP31 approaching, can the green transition also drive economic global growth? And how can developing countries secure the financing they need? What insights can China's renewable energy transition offer the rest of the world?

The fifth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee concluded in Beijing on October 29th, adopting a resolution on advancing full and rigorous Party self-governance. The move shows the Party's continued emphasis on strengthening internal governance and tackling corruption. Why does China's leadership place such importance on strict Party discipline and self-governance? What lessons can other ruling parties around the world draw from China's approach?