News

China’s moderate shift may disappear along with Qin Gang

Published

3 years ago

July 27, 2023

The abrupt removal of China’s foreign minister, Qin Gang, has raised questions about the implications for China’s diplomacy.

Despite his “wolf warrior” reputation, Qin demonstrated a softer approach during his time as ambassador to the US, engaging in sports and advocating for a nuanced relationship between the superpowers.

His appointment as foreign minister was perceived as a move to present a more moderate image of China, but he had limited influence on actual foreign policy decisions.

The ultimate authority rested with Wang Yi, who held the top diplomatic position in China’s party-centric hierarchy as the head of the Communist Party’s foreign affairs commission.

With Wang Yi assuming the role of foreign minister, China aims to signal continuity and reassure the global community that it is business as usual.

International charm offensive

Wang is known for orchestrating international charm offensives and is expected to focus on repairing US-China relations, especially in light of a possible visit by President Xi to the US. However, doubts persist about Wang’s long-term tenure, with many considering him a temporary replacement while Xi searches for someone to ease his workload.

The sudden removal of Qin Gang without explanation has sent a troubling message and raised questions about Xi’s judgment. It has implications for the Chinese Communist Party’s image both abroad and internally, as it highlights leadership instability, possible policy disagreements, and a lack of transparency in high-level official promotions.

Reappointing Wang Yi to signal continuity has been seen as nonsensical, as it reminds foreign partners that Chinese officials can vanish without warning, and their contributions become nullified.

The episode also underscores the distance between the Chinese diplomats often interacted with by foreign governments and companies and the true centers of power in China.

It serves as a reminder that Xi Jinping remains the decisive actor in Beijing. While Qin Gang’s downfall may not significantly impact foreign relations, it has left China with a red face, as it struggles to manage the fallout and maintain a confident image on the global stage.

News

Oil prices surge as U.S.-Iran tensions escalate

Published

20 hours ago

February 5, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Crude oil prices jumped over 3% on Wednesday as U.S.-Iran nuclear talks showed signs of faltering, pushing WTI futures above $65 per barrel. Axios reported disagreements over the venue and scope of Friday’s talks, while President Trump warned Iran’s supreme leader to “be very worried,” stoking fears of military escalation.

Tensions in the Persian Gulf added to the volatility. A U.S. F-35C shot down an Iranian drone near the USS Abraham Lincoln, and Iranian vessels threatened a U.S.-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. The USS McFaul escorted the tanker to safety, highlighting the region’s fragile oil supply routes.

Despite the clashes, nuclear talks will go ahead on Friday in Oman, but uncertainty continues to drive oil market volatility, with traders closely watching both diplomatic and military developments.

#OilPrices #IranUS #NuclearTalks #PersianGulf #WTI #EnergyMarket #Geopolitics #OilSupply

News

Washington Post layoffs: Hundreds of journalists cut as Bezos faces criticism

Published

21 hours ago

February 5, 2026

Harvey Vargas

The Washington Post has laid off hundreds of employees, marking what former executive editor Martin Baron calls “one of the darkest days” in the paper’s history. Approximately one-third of the newsroom staff were affected, as the company undertakes a so-called “strategic reset” to compete in a crowded media landscape.

The cuts hit key areas, including the sports desk, local coverage, international reporting, the books desk, and the flagship daily news podcast. Editor-in-Chief Matt Murray said the changes aim to prioritise national security, politics, science, health, technology, climate, and business coverage while positioning the Post for the future.

Critics have called out owner Jeff Bezos for his silence during the layoffs and alleged efforts to influence the paper’s political stance. Former editor Baron warned that the newspaper’s ambitions would be sharply diminished and its credibility could suffer.

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News

Amazon launches AI tools to change film and television production

Amazon MGM Studios tests AI to streamline production, reduce costs, enhancing but not replacing human creativity, says AI Studio team.

Published

1 day ago

February 5, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Amazon MGM Studios tests AI to streamline production, reduce costs, enhancing but not replacing human creativity, says AI Studio team.

Amazon MGM Studios is stepping into the future of entertainment by developing artificial intelligence tools designed to reduce production costs and streamline filmmaking processes. This closed beta, launching in March, will let industry partners test how AI can enhance creativity and efficiency on set.

Amy Cheng, leading the AI Studio team, emphasises that while AI can accelerate workflows, it will never replace the unique contributions of human creativity. The initiative represents Amazon’s push to innovate in content creation while maintaining the art of storytelling.

The use of AI in Hollywood is expanding rapidly, sparking discussions about its impact on jobs and the future of the industry. As studios explore automation, the balance between efficiency and human artistry remains a central concern.

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