Trump picks former Georgia Sen. David Perdue for U.S. ambassador to China
In a shrewd diplomatic move, the former President of the United States, Donald Trump, has handpicked David Perdue, the esteemed former Senator from Georgia, as his envoy to the enigmatic nation of China. This momentous decision has sent ripples through the diplomatic community, as Perdue’s appointment is seen as a strategic gambit to navigate the complexities of the US-China relationship.
China blasts US arms sale to Taiwan, President Lai’s U.S. transit
In an escalating standoff, China vehemently condemned the United States’ decision to proceed with an arms deal with Taiwan. Beijing sees the move as a blatant violation of the “One China” policy.
Meanwhile, tensions soared as Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te transited through the United States, defying China’s warnings. This unprecedented maneuver stirred diplomatic unrest, with China denouncing it as a “provocation.”
Beijing’s response has been resolute, vowing countermeasures against both Washington and Taipei. These mounting tensions pose a significant challenge to cross-strait relations and stability in the broader Asia-Pacific region.
Three Americans released by China in prisoner swap
In a diplomatic breakthrough, three Americans held in Chinese custody – Mark Swidan, Kai Li, and Gesang Zhaxi – have been liberated in exchange for the release of Meng Wanzhou, Huawei’s CFO, from Canadian detention.
Swidan, who was imprisoned for working without authorization, and Li and Zhaxi, both detained for spying, were welcomed back to the US where they reunited with their families. This prisoner swap marks a significant step in the normalization of relations between the two countries.