Tag Archives: india

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, June 17, 2022

At least 14 provincial officials under investigation since August amid grain anti-corruption campaign: Global Times
June 16, 2022

At least 14 provincial officials have been investigated since August last year, as China has been focusing on anti-corruption in the field of grain purchases and sales. As the largest province of grain production in China, Northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province is the “ballast stone” of national grain security. Heilongjiang has investigated six provincial cadres, including two former heads of provincial grain industry since 2021. Click here to read…

China steps up fixed-asset investment to steady COVID-hit economy: Reuters
June 16, 2022

China’s state planner said on Thursday it had approved 10 fixed-asset investments worth 121 billion yuan ($18.1 billion) in May, a more than six-fold jump from April, as policymakers seek to get economic growth back on track after a COVID-induced slump. Click here to read…

Western-style democracy behind wars, chaos and human misery, Chinese president tells top officials: South China Morning Post
June 16, 2022

The West’s promotion of democracy has caused wars, chaos and human displacement around the world, President Xi Jinping told top Chinese officials earlier this year. Addressing a Politburo study session in February, Xi said some Western nations “forcibly promote the concept and system of Western democracy and human rights … taking advantage of human rights issues to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries”, according to a readout of his speech made public this week. Xi did not name any countries, but Beijing has in recent months pulled no punches in blaming the US over the Ukraine war and the challenges posed by the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. The civil war in Syria and security issues in Iraq also regularly feature among China’s talking points in this context. Click here to read…

Who can fill the shoes of China’s Iron Lady Sun Chunlan on Politburo: South China Morning Post
June 17, 2022

China has groomed many female athletes to bring home Olympics gold and trained women astronauts for its ambitious space programme, but without a similar political pathway, the ruling Communist Party may struggle to find a woman who can fill the shoes of Sun Chunlan. For the past two years, she has spearheaded China’s fight against the coronavirus pandemic, starting in Wuhan where the world’s first battle against the virus was fought. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 23 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet
June 17, 2022

The Chinese mainland on Thursday reported 23 locally-transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 11 in Beijing, six in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, and four in Liaoning, the National Health Commission said Friday. Click here to read…

Government to provide more jobs: China Daily
June 17, 2022

In the face of challenging job prospects caused by a variety of factors, the central government has prioritized the employment of young people, mainly new college graduates, with measures to create opportunities at all levels and tap into previously less noticed sectors and areas. Click here to read…

Eight hurt, six missing in sewage room blast: China Daily
June 17, 2022

A sewage control room of a chemical technology firm in Lanzhou city of Northwest China was rocked by an explosion on Thursday evening, leaving at least eight injured and six missing, according to the CGTN. Click here to read…

Coal’s dominance a challenge for transition: China Daily
June 17, 2022

A special policy study from a high-level international think tank for the Chinese government has highlighted the challenges posed to the country’s low-carbon transition due to its coal-dominated energy structure, saying that hasty decommissioning of coal-fired power will jeopardize energy security and may result in financial risks. Click here to read…

University teacher removed from post for insulting remarks about women: Global Times
June 17, 2022

A university teacher who made inappropriate comments has been suspended from teaching, East China’s Shandong University of Political Science and Law said in a statement on Thursday. The decision came after the teacher sparked a huge outcry on the Chinese internet for making insulting remarks about women. Click here to read…

Russia, China seek new growth momentum at key economic forum amid US hegemony: Global Times
June 17, 2022

With the 25th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), hailed as the “Russian Davos”, beginning on Wednesday, Russia-China cooperation under the theme “New opportunities in a new world” came under the spotlight, as the Kremlin’s interests appeared to shift toward the East in the face of mounting Western sanctions and pressureClick here to read…

Livestreamer fined $16m over tax evasion as China continues to clamp down on livestreaming tax violations: Global Times
June 17, 2022

Fiscal authorities in Fuzhou, East China’s Jiangxi Province imposed a fine of 108 million yuan ($16 million) to a livestreamer over tax evasion as the country continues to clamp down on livestreaming tax violations. Click here to read…

Bachelet admits her China trip faced limitations: Taipei Times
June 17, 2022

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Wednesday said she was unable to visit detained Uighurs and that she was accompanied by authorities while visiting Xinjiang, remarks that raise questions about the Chinese government’s efforts to influence her trip. “I was not able to speak to any Uighurs currently detained or their families during the visit,” Bachelet told a meeting of the Human Rights Council, adding that the visit to China faced “limitations, especially given the prevailing COVID restrictions.” Click here to read…

China, Russia give differing accounts of Xi-Putin call: Taipei Times
June 17, 2022

Moscow and Beijing gave alternative accounts of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s (習近平) birthday call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as both sides seek to manage perceptions of their relationship in the wake of Russia’s war in Ukraine. The Kremlin readout on Wednesday said the two men, both 69, discussed increasing economic cooperation, trade and military-technical ties between China and Russia. Click here to read…

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, June 13, 2022

Xi calls for creating a new chapter in Sichuan’s development: Xinhuanet
June 10, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made an inspection tour of southwest China’s Sichuan Province. Xi stressed resolute implementation of the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee, carrying forward the great founding spirit of the Party, and being firm in the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability. Click here to read…

Senior CPC official underscores studying, implementing Xi Thought: Xinhuanet
June 10, 2022

Huang Kunming, a senior Communist Party of China (CPC) official, on Friday underscored the necessity of studying and implementing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. Click here to read…

Chinese, U.S. defense chiefs agree to enhance strategic mutual trust, properly manage differences: Xinhuanet
June 10, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister Wei Fenghe and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin agreed on Friday to enhance strategic mutual trust and properly manage differences between the militaries of the two countries. Click here to read…

Major water transfer project to start construction in China: Xinhuanet
June 10, 2022

The construction of a project to channel water from China’s Yangtze River to the Hanjiang River will start by the end of this month, the Ministry of Water Resources said on Friday. With a total investment of 59.8 billion yuan (about 8.93 billion U.S. dollars), the project is a supplement to the middle route of the country’s South-to-North Water Diversion Project. Click here to read…

Tycoon sentenced to death with reprieve for bribery: China Daily
June 10, 2022

Yun Gongmin, a former tycoon in China’s electricity industry, was sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve for accepting more than 468 million yuan ($70.2 million) in bribes, a court in Northeast China’s Jilin province ruled on Thursday. Click here to read…

Drug negotiations saved Chinese patients billions: China Daily
June 10, 2022

The National Healthcare Security Administration said recently that Chinese patients saved nearly 150 billion yuan ($22.4 billion) in costs last year as a result of its price negotiation program with drug manufacturers and reimbursement through national medical security funds. Click here to read…

Yangquan in N China’s Shanxi shifts to green development through burgeoning automated driving industry: People’s Daily
June 10, 2022

Once having thrived on its local coal industry, Yangquan city, in north China’s Shanxi Province, has successfully blazed a new trail in the automated driving industry. Since 2012, the city has shifted to a green development path, and has become China’s first city to carry out autonomous driving in all of its administrative areas, having meanwhile served as a pilot city for the application of the Internet of Things in China. Click here to read…

U.S., China defense chiefs trade barbs over Taiwan situation: Kyodo
June 10, 2022

U.S. and Chinese defense chiefs on Friday traded barbs over the situation surrounding self-ruled democratic Taiwan on the fringes of a key security meeting in Asia, with both sides warning against actions that they view as destabilizing. Click here to read…

Tesla cancels three June online hiring events for China: Reuters
June 10, 2022

Tesla Inc (TSLA.O) has cancelled three online recruitment events for China scheduled this month, the latest development after Chief Executive Elon Musk threatened job cuts at the electric car maker, saying it was “overstaffed” in some areas. Click here to read…

U.S., China defense chiefs trade barbs over Taiwan situation: Kyodo
June 10, 2022

U.S. and Chinese defense chiefs on Friday traded barbs over the situation surrounding self-ruled democratic Taiwan on the fringes of a key security meeting in Asia, with both sides warning against actions that they view as destabilizing. Click here to read…

Chinese local governments speed up implementation of policy to stabilize economy in crucial quarter: Global Times
June 11, 2022

Senior leaders of several Chinese provinces have recently made field trips to coordinate on the solution to problems encountered by the local economy, the latest efforts by China’s local authorities to promote the implementation of various policies and measures aimed at stabilizing the economy. Click here to read…

Beijing warns of ‘explosive’ COVID outbreak, Shanghai conducts mass testing: Reuters
June 11, 2022

China’s capital Beijing is experiencing an “explosive” COVID-19 outbreak connected to a bar, a government spokesman said on Saturday, as the commercial hub, Shanghai,conducted mass testing to contain a jump in cases tied to a hair salon. Click here to read…

Chinese fighter crash kills civilian: Taipei Times
June 11, 2022

A Chinese air force jet crashed into houses during a training mission in central China, killing one person on the ground and injuring two others, state media said. The report was unusual because China generally keeps military accidents under wraps or emphasizes the heroic role of the pilot in avoiding casualties on the ground. Click here to read…

Chinese local governments speed up implementation of policy to stabilize economy in crucial quarter: Global Times
June 11, 2022

Senior leaders of several Chinese provinces have recently made field trips to coordinate on the solution to problems encountered by the local economy, the latest efforts by China’s local authorities to promote the implementation of various policies and measures aimed at stabilizing the economy. Click here to read…

China’s Xiamen to build 5G-powered telemedicine platform for eye diseases: Xinhuanet
June 12, 2022

Xiamen, a coastal city in east China’s Fujian Province, will build a 5G-based telemedicine platform for eye diseases, as part of its efforts to promote smart medicine and health. Approved by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the project is one of the “5G plus medical and health” application pilot projects in the country. Click here to read…

Senior military officials of China, Pakistan advocate more coordination and cooperation: China Military
June 12, 2022

Vice Chairman of China’s Central Military Commission (CMC) General Zhang Youxia met with the visiting Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa in Qingdao, capital city of east China’s Shandong province, on the morning of June 12, 2022. Click here to read…

China bears no responsibility for border conflicts with India: Chinese Defense Minister: Global Times
June 12, 2022

The merits of the China-India border conflicts are very clear, and the responsibility does not lie with China, said China’s State Councilor and Defense Minister Wei Fenghe at the International Institute for Strategic Studies’ 19th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Sunday morning. Click here to read…

China bids to strengthen vocational education amid a new wave of industrial transformation: Global Times
June 12, 2022

China has ramped up efforts to promote the development of its vocational education system, aiming to expand the nation’s employment channels while cultivating more targeted talent for emerging high-tech industries, which is in line with the country’s economic transformationClick here to read…

Chinese defense minister elaborates China’s Vision for Regional Order at 19th Shangri-La Dialogue: China Military
June 12, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister General Wei Fenghe delivered a speech on “China’s Vision for Regional Order” at the 19th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on June 12, 2022. General Wei pointed out that the human society is undergoing multiple crises rarely seen in history, and the right course lies in maintaining and implementing multilateralism and promoting the establishment of a community with a shared future for mankind. Click here to read…

What’s fuelling China’s lithium rush in Zimbabwe? The long game on zero carbon: South China Morning Post
June 13, 2022

Zimbabwe holds Africa’s largest lithium reserves, the fifth-largest globally, with its province of Masvingo home to the Bikita mine – site of the world’s largest-known deposit of the metal at around 11 million tonnes. The resource, however, has remained largely untapped for decades due to a lack of investment. But the growing global demand for electric vehicles has seen Bikita and other Zimbabwean mines attract more Chinese companies in recent years, turning the southern African nation into China’s next frontier for the key EV battery component. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 69 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet
June 13, 2022

The Chinese mainland on Sunday reported 69 locally-transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 29 in Beijing, 27 in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, and 11 in Shanghai, the National Health Commission said Monday. Click here to read…

Smart expressway in China makes travel more convenient, faster, safer: Quishiv

June 13, 2022

Thanks to intelligent transformation, a section of the Beijing-Taipei expressway, a partially completed smart expressway that will connect Beijing and Taipei, southeast China’s Taiwan, has seen its monthly average number of traffic accidents decrease by 40.9 percent from 66 to 39, and the average handling time of accidents drop from 28 minutes to 19 minutes, with the accident handling efficiency increasing by 32.1 percent. Click here to read…

Digital technology helps narrow regional divides: China Daily
June 13, 2022

The development of digital technology is expected to narrow the economic gap between eastern and western China, according to a new report on the digital countryside released by Peking University’s New Rural Development Research Institute and AliResearch, the research arm of Alibaba Group. Click here to read…

China to fight at all costs for its sovereignty: China Daily
June 13, 2022

China will have no choice but to go to war and fight to the end if anyone dares to separate Taiwan from the motherland, said State Councilor and Defense Minister General Wei Fenghe at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. Click here to read…

VIF Cyber Review

VIF Cyber Review: May 2022

NATIONAL

CERT-In issued advisory on Mobile-based Malware

On 30 May 2022, Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued advisory on mobile-based malware, along with methods and countermeasures. With the advent of smartphones and high-speed Internet connection, mobile accounts for more than 50 per cent of the Internet traffic worldwide, making it a worthwhile attack surface for cybercriminals.

The advisory included methods through which cybercriminals carried out activities, including fake applications, On-device fraud, Bypassing App store, fake calls, and where mobile-based malware are also using design practices like accessibility engines, infrastructure and C2 protocols that enable them to update their capabilities. Along with, the advisory also suggested countermeasures and best practices for users, including keeping OS (Operating System) and applications updated, use of strong authentication such as biometric and PIN, safe browsing practices, deleting data before discarding the device. [1]

Cisco Launched a tool of SMBs to assess Cyber Security Readiness

Cisco, on 26 May 2022, launched a cyber security tool for Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) based in Asia-Pacific region to assess their cyber security readiness amid of hybrid work environment. The tool’s concept is based on the premise that no attempt to access an organisation’s network architecture can succeed until trust is verified. As per Cisco’s cyber security for SMBs: Asia-Pacific businesses prepare for digital defense study, 62 per cent of Indian SMBs suffered cyber incidents in 2021 and cyber-attacks cost their business over ₹ 3.5 crore. Around 74 per cent SMBs also reported 85 per cent of customer information loss in cyber incidents.

“When a user accesses an application using a device, both the user and device are verified, with that trust continuously monitored. This helps secure the organisation’s applications and environments from any user, device, and location,” read the statement released by Cisco. The threat landscape for the SMBs becoming more sophisticated due to the digitisation at speed, therefore, securing their businesses is one of the top priorities for SMBs. “With new tool, the SMBs will ensure end-to-end protection across their workforce, and the workplace, with adoption of a zero-trust strategy to manage and strengthen their cyber security posture in a cloud-first world,” said Cisco India & SAARC’s Senior Director (System Engineering)— Anand Patil.[2]

The 7th Edition of India-Japan ICT Joint Working Group meeting recognised the importance of India-Japan Digital Partnership

On 13 May 2022, V L Kantha Rao (Additional Secretary, Department of Telecommunications, India) and Sasaki YUJI (Vice-Minister for Policy Coordination— International Affairs, Japan) virtually co-chaired the 7th edition of India-Japan ICT Joint Working Group (JWG) under the India-Japan ICT Comprehensive Cooperation Framework. Senior representatives from both governments and non-governmental stakeholders from industry, R&D, and Academia attended the meeting.

Recalling the India-Japan Summit held in March 2022, both sides recognised the need to strengthen the growing cooperation under India-Japan digital partnership, with a vision to enhance digital economy through promotion of joint projects for digital transformations. The JWG discussions were focused on enhancing further cooperation in various fields like 5G, Open RAN, Telecom Network Security, submarine cable systems, and Quantum Communications. [3]

Government of India proposed to set up India Data Management Office

Under the Digital India Corporation, India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) will set up an India Data Management Office (IDMO), which will be responsible for framing, managing, reviewing, and revising the National Data Governance Framework Policy. The draft of the National Data Governance Framework Policy was released by the MeitY, seeking public comments on the draft till 11 June 2022.

The earlier version of the policy— India Data Accessebility and Use Policy had faced many criticism from experts, who believed that there was a lack of security safguards for anonymization, privacy infringement, and economic incentivisation. As per the draft of the data governance framework, the IDMO will design and manage the India Datasets platform which will in turn handle the requests of Indian researchers and start-ups which require access to non-personal or anonymised datasets. [4]

CERT-In issued discovery of Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in Apple products

On 20 May 2022, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) highlighted a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in Apple watchOS, tvOS, and macOS, affecting Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Apple Mac systems. The vulnerability existed due to an out-of-bounds write issue in the AppleAVD component. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability may allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges on the targeted system.[5]

INTERNATIONAL

Canada to ban China’s Huawei and ZTE from its 5G/4G networks

Following to the review by Canada’s independent security agencies and consultation with ‘closest’ allies, the Government of Canada decided to ban China’s Huawei and ZTE products and services from Canada’s 5G/4G communication networks. In a statement released on 19 May 2022, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry— Francois-Philippe Champagne has stated that “the Government of Canada is ensuring a long term safety of telecommunication infrastructure. As a part of that, the government intends to prohibit the inclusion of Huawei and ZTE products and services in Canada’s telecommunication systems.” [6]

As per the decision, the companies that already using the Huawei and ZTE equipment installed in their networks would be required to cease its use and remove it. The implementation of these measures are part of a broader agenda to promote security of Canada’s telecommunications networks, in consultation with industry.

Mastercard strengthen cyber security consulting practice with new Cyber Front threat simulation platform

In recent years, Mastercard invested in risk quantification, Always-On security monitoring and fraud prevention, to help its customers strengthen their cyber resilience. On 24 May 2022, Mastercard made an announcement of launching a new attack simulation and assessment platform— Cyber Front. The platform will assist businesses and governments enhance their cyber security operational resilience. Cyber Front is enabled by a strategic minority investment in Picus Security.

By leveraging a continuously updated library of more than 3,500 real-world threat scenarios, the Cyber Front highlights security gaps and provides mitigation insights in real-time so that organisations can improve upon security investments with continuous validation. The goal of Cyber Front is for organisations to understand if their current systems are effective and identify areas of exposure to ensure greater protection in both— immediate and long term.[7]

Spanish Prime Minister’s phone hacked with Pegasus tool

On 02 May 2022, the Spanish government informed that Prime Minister (PM) Pedro Sanchez’s phone was hacked with Pegasus software. Earlier, in May-June 2021, Spanish Defence Minister— Margarita Robles’ phone was also hacked using the same software. Pegasus software is an Israel-made digital hacking tool to snoop on phone communication.

Researchers investigate and revealed that in April 2022, several political figures in Catalonia were victims of digital espionage. [8] It is assumed that top European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK), Poland and Hungary officials may also been targeted with Pegasus software. The use of digital hacking tools such as Pegasus has helped security officials around the world fight crime and ward off national security concerns, therefore, European governments have been wary of delving into the intricacies of spyware programs.[9]

Amid foreign hacking threats, Pentagon contractors looking for software flaws through VDP

Considering Russia and China’s efforts to steal sensitive data from the United States (US) defence industrial base, Pentagon’s pilot program discovered an array of software vulnerabilities with dozens of defence contractors. The objective of pilot program— “Vulnerability Disclosure Program” (VDP) is to identify and fix flaws in the e-mail programs, mobile devices and industrial software used by the Pentagon’s defence contractors before hackers can take advantage of these vulnerabilities.

“We really wanted to focus on those smaller defence contractors that may not have the budget and resources,” said Melissa Vice, interim director of the Department of Defense (DoD) Cyber Crime Centre’s DoD VDP. In the business sector, VDPs are widespread practise, in which vetted cyber professionals scan systems for defects and report them internally. The Pentagon has been running a VDP since 2016, but after the pilot, the intention is to permanently expand the programme to include defence contractors.[10]

Cybercriminals used call forwarding technique to obtain WhatsApp accounts

Cybercriminals used call forwarding as a technique, allowing them to hijack a targeted WhatsApp account and gain control to messages and contact list. The method relied on the mobile carriers’ automated service to forward calls to a different phone number, and WhatsApp’s option to send a OTP (One-Time Password) verification code via voice call.

According to the founder and CEO of ‘CloudSEK’— a digital risk protection company— Rahul Sasi, after knowing the targeted WhatsApp account number and some social engineering, the attacker convinced the victim to make a call to a number that starts with Man Machine Interface (MMI) code that mobile carrier set up to enable call forwarding. A separate MMI code can send all calls to a terminal to a different number or merely when the line is busy or there is no reception, depending on the carrier. “First, you receive a call from the attacker who will convince you to make a call to the following number **67* or *405* (subject to be vary as per the mobile carrier). Within a few minutes, your WhatsApp would be logged out, and the attackers would get complete control of your account”, said Rahul Sasi.

As a protection against such attack, turning on Two-Factor Authentication (TFA) protection in WhatsApp is an effective measure. By requiring a PIN (Personal Identification Number) whenever you register a phone with the messaging app, this feature prevents malicious actors from gaining control of the account.[11]

Endnotes :

[1]India. “CERT-In Advisory CIAD-2022-0014”, Indian Computer Emergency Response Team, 30 May 2022, Available from: https://cert-in.org.in/
[2]“Cisco launches new tool for SMBs to assess their cyber security readiness”, Financial Express, 26 May 2022, Available from: https://www.financialexpress.com/industry/sme/msme-tech-cisco-launches-new-tool-for-smbs-to-assess-their-cybersecurity-readiness/2538348/
[3]India. “7th India-Japan ICT Joint Working Group meeting held under India-Japan ICT Comprehensive Cooperation Framework”, Press Information Bureau- Ministry of Communication, 13 May 2022, Available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1825159
[4]ET Tech. “Government proposes to set up India Data Management Office”, ET Telecom, 28 May 2022, Available from: https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/government-proposes-to-set-up-india-data-management-office/91846155?utm_source=Mailer&utm_medium=ET_batch&utm_campaign=ettelecom_news_2022-05-28&dt=2022-05-28&em=YW51cmFnQHZpZmluZGlhLm9yZw==
[5]India. “Remote Code Execution vulnerability in Apple products”, Indian Computer Emergency Response Team , 20 May 2022, Available from: https://cert-in.org.in/
[6]Canada. “Statement from Minister Champagne on telecommunications security”, Ministry of Innovation, Science and Industry, 19 May 2022, Available from: https://www.canada.ca/en/innovation-science-economic-development/news/2022/05/statement-from-minister-champagne-on-telecommunications-security.html
[7] “Another arrow in the quiver: Mastercard strengthens cybersecurity consulting practice with new cyber front threat simulation platform”, Mastercard, 24 May 2022, Available from: https://www.mastercard.com/news/press/2022/may/another-arrow-in-the-quiver-mastercard-strengthens-cybersecurity-consulting-practice-with-new-cyber-front-threat-simulation-platform/
[8]Aarup, Sarah Anne. “Pegasus spyware targets top Catalan politicians and activists”, Politico, 18 April 2022, Available from: https://www.politico.eu/article/pegasus-spyware-targets-top-catalan-politicians-and-activists/
[9]Manancourt, Vincent. “Hack of Spanish PM’s phone deepens Europe’s spyware crisis”, Politico, 02 May 2022, Available from: https://www.politico.eu/article/pegasus-hacking-spyware-spain-government-prime-minister-pedro-sanchez-margarita-robles-digital-espionage-crisis/
[10]Lyngaas, Sean. “Pentagon contractors go looking for software flaws as foreign hacking threats loom”, CNN, 02 May 2022, Available from: https://edition.cnn.com/2022/05/02/politics/pentagon-defense-contractors-software-flaws/index.html
[11]Ilascu, Ionut. “Hackers steal WhatsApp accounts using call forwarding trick”, Bleeping Computer, 31 May 2022, Available from: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hackers-steal-whatsapp-accounts-using-call-forwarding-trick/

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, June 9, 2022

China to remove bottlenecks in policy implementation to produce greater effects for keeping economic activity stable: Xinhuanet
June 8, 2022

Premier Li Keqiang urged greater efforts to remove barriers, improve support measures and better bring out the effects of the policies at the State Council Executive Meeting on Wednesday. Click here to read…

AIIB issues 1.5 bln yuan of panda bonds in China: Xinhuanet
June 8, 2022

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has issued 1.5 billion yuan (about 225.11 million U.S. dollars) worth of panda bonds in China’s interbank bond market. They are the first sustainable development bonds that have been issued by an international institution in China. The National Association of Financial Market Institutional Investors approved launching sustainable development bonds in 2021. Click here to read…

Scientists stress water imbalance in Third Pole: Xinhuanet
June 8, 2022

Rapid climate warming has caused water imbalances in the Third Pole region, leading to greater water demand in densely populated downstream countries, according to a new studyClick here to read…

How China’s fiscal strength pushes ahead carbon goals: Quishi
June 8, 2022

Source: Xinhua Updated: 2022-06-08

China has aligned its fiscal strength with pro-ecology and low-carbon efforts to fast-track the pursuit of its carbon goals. A recent guideline issued by the Ministry of Finance has specified plans to buttress the goals of striving to peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Click here to read…

China furthers efforts in wind, solar power: Quishi
June 8, 2022

China vows to speed up the construction of the second batch of massive wind and solar power projects in the Gobi Desert and other arid regions, according to a package of policy measures that aims to stabilize the economy announced by the State Council recently. Click here to read…

Stricter guidelines target bribery: China Daily
June 8, 2022

The National Supervisory Commission and the Supreme People’s Procuratorate have released details of typical bribery cases to guide the fight against the crime. The cases cover key areas for the central government to investigate bribery, including bidding and tendering, medical drugs, illegal mining and environmental protection. Click here to read…

China, Central Asia agree on broad cooperation covering BRI, trade and security at C+C5 FMs’ meeting: Global Times
June 8, 2022

China and five Central Asian countries achieved fruitful cooperation and broad consensus on issues covering the economy, trade and security during Wednesday’s third China+Central Asia (C+C5) foreign ministers’ meeting. Chinese analysts said the outcomes addressed the region’s most acute challenges of an economic downturn and the threat of a “color revolution” following the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and also smashed the US’ recent malicious attempt to pressure Central Asia with ideological tools in order to drive a wedge between China and the region. Click here to read…

PLA includes robots, drones in amphibious landing training for officer cadets: Global Times
June 8, 2022

Academies of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) recently integrated a large number of unmanned and intelligent equipment including unmanned vehicles, drones and robots into the amphibious landing training for officer cadets, showing a high level of combat preparedness and what future amphibious landing warfare could be like. Click here to read…

China issues certification standards for GM crops in major boost for commercialization: Global Times
June 8, 2022

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs on Wednesday issued two variety certification standards at the national level for genetically modified (GM) crops, including soybeans and corn, in what industry observers said a significant step in China’s legalization of GM crops as the country seeks to further bolster its food security. Click here to read…

India urged to provide level playing field for Chinese companies: Global Times
June 08, 2022

Chinese businesses held a video meeting on Wednesday, urging India to improve its business environment and phase in a level playing field for Chinese companies. In a meeting themed “Webinar on Compliance Operation of Chinese Enterprises in India” held by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in India and the India China-Mobile-Phone Enterprise Association (CMA), the attending Chinese companies expressed concerns over tensions arising from the Indian government’s latest move to suppress Xiaomi. Click here to read…

Cambodia naval base to be used by PRC military: Taipei Times

June 8, 2022

A Cambodian naval base being constructed with the assistance of China is to include a portion for the exclusive use of the Chinese military, the Washington Post reported yesterday. The Chinese and Cambodian governments have previously denied reports that Cambodia would allow a Chinese military presence at the Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand. Click here to read…

China R&D key part of ‘global portfolio’, but technology leaks remain concern, report says: South China Morning Post
June 8, 2022

China’s vibrant innovation ecosystem makes it increasingly part of global research and development strategies for multinational companies, but concerns over technology leaks remain, a report said on Wednesday. Eyeing the sizeable market potential and the fast pace of the commercial application of research and development results in China, an overwhelming majority of European firms will increase spending in China this year, according to a report by the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China and the Berlin-based Mercator Institute for China Studies (Merics). Click here to read…

China adopts targeted measures to bolster foreign trade growth: Quishi
June 9, 2022

In the face of increasing external and internal disruption factors, China has adopted a slew of targeted measures to bolster the growth of its foreign trade sector. In an effort to help foreign trade firms navigate difficulties, the State Council, China’s cabinet, issued a guideline last month to improve services and provide more financial and fiscal support for the enterprises. Click here to read…

Shanghai relaxes hukou rules to attract more talent: China Daily
June 9, 2022

Shanghai will relax its household registration permit regulations from July by granting the permits, or hukou, to non-locals who’ve graduated from the world’s top 50 universities and work in the city, without requirements on the amount of social security paid beforehand. Click here to read…

BRICS cooperation leads the way to new era of global development: People’s Daily
June 9, 2022

In recent years, BRICS countries, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, have maintained sound momentum of economic and trade cooperation. With the growth rate of exports among them exceeding the global average, BRICS countries have made important contributions to promoting global economic recovery and high-quality development. Click here to read…

U.S. suspends three firms’ export privileges for alleged illegal exports to China: Reuters
June 9, 2022

The U.S. Commerce Department on Wednesday suspended the export privileges of three U.S.-based firms for 180 days for what it said was the illegal export of satellite, rocket and defense technology to China. Click here to read…

Parts of Shanghai impose new COVID lockdown measures: Reuters
June 9, 2022

Parts of Shanghai began imposing new lockdown restrictions on Thursday, with residents of sprawling Minhang district ordered to stay home for two days in a bid to control COVID-19 transmission risks. Minhang, home to more than 2 million people, will conduct nucleic acid tests for all residents on June 11, and restrictions will be lifted once the testing is completed, the government said on its WeChat account. Click here to read…

Chinese blockchain platform ChainMaker says it has new technology to keep it secure from quantum attacks: South China Morning Post
June 9, 2022

Chinese home-grown blockchain platform ChainMaker has been equipped with technology that can resist attacks from classical and quantum computers, according to state-owned China News Service. Developers of the enterprise blockchain – also known as Chang’An Chain – said the new technology further secures information transmission between financial institutions, making online transactions safer, the news agency reported on Monday. The system released in January last year is China’s first independent blockchain platform, developed by a state-backed Beijing consortium – the Beijing Academy of Blockchain and Edge Computing. Click here to read…

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, June 06, 2022

China’s ‘no jab, no insurance’ notice for over-60s blamed on misreading of policy: South China Morning Post
June 3, 2022

Elderly people over 60 who refuse to get a Covid-19 vaccine will not have their basic medical insurance suspended, a local government in China’s port city of Wenzhou has clarified, after a notice from community officials sparked alarm. Residents of the community in Wenzhou’s Kunyang town had been notified that, unless they had hospital certificates to exempt them, unvaccinated elderly people would be barred from public spaces like supermarkets, the Beijing-based China News Weekly reported on Wednesday. Click here to read…

China-Pakistan working group meeting stresses safe, smooth progress of CPEC projects: Global Times
June 03, 2022

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Transportation Infrastructure working group has held its 9th meeting by video link, during which the two sides conducted “candid exchanges” on “remaining issues” concerning some completed projects and discussed plans for projects under construction, aiming to ensure safe and steady progress, according to the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan. Click here to read…

Xinjiang plans over 134 bln USD fixed-asset investment in 2022: Xinhuanet
June 3, 2022

Northwest China’s Xinjiang Autonomous Region plans a total fixed-asset investment of over 900 billion yuan (about 134.1 billion U.S. dollars) in 2022. The regional development and reform commission said the investment will focus on major projects in infrastructures and strategic emerging sectors, including railways, airports, power transmission lines and new energy bases. Click here to read…

1st batch of Chinese emergency humanitarian medicine aid arrives in Sri Lanka: Xinhuanet
June 4, 2022

The first batch of Chinese emergency humanitarian medicine aid arrived at Sri Lanka’s Bandaranaike International Airport on Friday night. China fully relates to the difficulties and challenges faced by Sri Lanka and will continue to provide assistance within its capacity through all possible channels, said Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong at the handover ceremony. Click here to read…

Agricultural Bank of China steps up support for manufacturing industries: Xinhuanet
June 4, 2022

The Agricultural Bank of China, one of the country’s largest commercial lenders, has scaled up support for the manufacturing sector. By the end of April, the bank’s outstanding loans to the manufacturing industry exceeded 2 trillion yuan (about 298 billion U.S. dollars), an increase of nearly 16 percent compared with the beginning of the year, according to the bank. Click here to read…

Beijing issues action plan to stimulate business, consumption amid epidemic: Xinhuanet
June 4, 2022

Beijing has issued an action plan to gear up business operation and consumption as the epidemic eases in the city. According to the plan announced by the Beijing Municipal Government on Thursday, the Chinese capital will upgrade its “white list” of key enterprises in line with different classifications and dynamic management. It aims to facilitate the logistics and transportation services for the enterprises that have resumed production. Click here to read…

Driver killed, eight injured in train accident in China: Reuters
June 4, 2022

A passenger train accident in southwestern China on Saturday killed the driver and injured eight people, state broadcaster CCTV reported. As the Guangzhou-bound train was about to enter a tunnel in Guizhou province, it ploughed into debris deposited on the tracks by a mudslide, derailing two carriages and killing the driver, CCTV reported. Click here to read…

China prioritizes industrial, supply chains stability in reviving industrial economy: Xinhuanet
June 5, 2022

China will make the unimpeded and stable operation of its industrial and supply chains a top priority, as it looks to revive its industrial economy after flare-ups of COVID-19 in recent months. Click here to read…

More than a hundred COVID-19 silent carriers reported in NE China’s border city: Global Times
June 5, 2022

A total of 128 COVID-19 asymptomatic cases have been reported in Northeast China’s Liaoning Province from May 24 to Saturday, all in the border city Dandong which is about 160 kilometers from Pyongyang. Click here to read…

Train derailment sounds alarm for road, rail networks as flood season in S.China comes: Global Times
June 5, 2022

The Guizhou-Guangzhou Railway resumed operation on Sunday after a high-speed train derailed in Southwest China’s Guizhou Province due to a mudslide on Saturday, killing a driver and injuring one attendant and seven passengers. Click here to read…

Drones deployed on aircraft carrier Shandong; ‘more advanced tech to come soon’: Global Times
June 5, 2022

The deployment of lightweight drones on the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy’s aircraft carrier Shandong sparked a wave of speculation by overseas media, which hyped that China has surpassed the US in deploying drones on aircraft carriers. Click here to read…

Chinese EV makers scramble to acquire lithium, aiming to curb battery prices: Global Times
June 05, 2022

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) industry players such as BYD are striving to secure deals with lithium mines overseas in a bid to curb surging prices of batteries while securing the stable supply of EVs, for which China is one of the leading producers in the world. Click here to read…

China’s property market gradually rebounds during Dragon Boat Festival, as government supportive measures kick in: Global Times
June 5, 2022

China’s real estate market saw brisk business during the Dragon Boat Festival, with second-hand home transactions increasing from the previous month, industry insiders told the Global Times on Sunday, pointing to a gradual recovery amid intensifying efforts to boost the property market and stabilize housing and land prices. Click here to read…

Xi urges efforts to build beautiful China: Quishi
June 6, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday urged efforts to build a beautiful China in which humanity and nature coexist in harmony and contribute more to jointly constructing a clean and beautiful world. Click here to read…

Beijing lifts several COVID measures: China Daily
June 6, 2022

Beijing announced it would lift a series of COVID-19 control and prevention measures starting Monday, considering the current epidemic situation. Except for Fengtai district and some places in Changping, all restaurants in the city can resume dine-in services starting Monday, city authorities said. Click here to read…

Chinese ambassador to India revisits Chennai to follow up summit’s spirit; bilateral relations ‘have opportunities for breakthrough’: Global Times
June 6, 2022

In a sharp slap in the face to the West, which attempts to drive a wedge between China and India by piling pressure on New Delhi to take a tough stance against Moscow with the hypothesis that the country may face “similar challenges” from China in the future, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar outlined the country’s position by emphasizing that China-India relations have nothing to do with the Russia-Ukraine conflict and India is capable of managing its ties with Beijing. Click here to read…

Shandong Port Group releases China’s first emissions inventory for ports: Global Times
June 6, 2022

Shandong Port Group (SPG) released the nation’s first emissions inventory among China’s ports, aiming to support the country’s carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. The emissions inventory was released on Sunday, according to SPG’s official Wechat account, marking SPG’s start of a new chapter of systematic assessment, precise policy implementation and carbon reduction as another milestone in constructing the world’s leading smart and green ports. Click here to read…

China astronauts sent to complete space station: Taipei Times
June 6, 2022

China yesterday launched a rocket carrying three astronauts on a mission to complete construction on its new space station, the latest milestone in Beijing’s drive to become a major space power. Click here to read…

Defense, National Security and Terrorism

VIF News Digest: National Security – Defence Studies & Terrorism, 16-31 May 2022

DEFENCE

  • Launch of two indigenous frontline warships.
  • Successful maiden flight-test of indigenously-developed Naval Anti-Ship Missile.
  • Indigenisation of defence items with the Industry in full swing.
  • Indian Navy-Bangladesh Navy Coordinated Patrol.
  • Prime Minister’s participation in the Quad Leaders’ Summit.
  • Prime Minister’s meeting with President of the United States of America.
  • Prime Minister’s meeting with Australian Prime Minister on the sidelines of the Quad Leaders’ Summit.
  • Prime Minister’s meeting with Prime Minister of Japan.
  • 11th meeting of India-UAE Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC).
  • Raksha Mantri inaugurated the three-day 39th Commanders’ Conference of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
  • MoD signs over Rs 2,900 crore contract with BDL for procurement of ASTRA Mk I Beyond Visual Range Air to Air Missile System.
  • 24th Meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia
  • US sanctioned Iran’s IRGC and Hizbu’llah’s oil smuggling network.
  • “Al-Aqsa violation ‘will blow apart region’”: Hizbu’llah’s chief Nasrallah
  • US Department of State removed five organisations from terrorist blacklist.
Africa
Nigeria
  • Boko Haram terrorists killed at least 50 people in an attack in Borno State.
Afghanistan
  • “Afghan govt acting as mediator between Pakistan and TTP”: Taliban spokesman Mujahid.

    • “India should not retain ties with former Afghanistan rulers”: Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir
  • NIA Special Court (New Delhi) pronounced sentence in ‘Hurriyat Terror Funding’ case.
  • Security forces eliminated three JeM terrorists in Baramulla.
  • Security forces cracked a module and arrested eight JeM OGWs from Pulwama.
Left-Wing Extremism
  • Maoist couple surrendered in Chhattisgarh.
Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)
  • NIA filed chargesheet against an accused in ‘Ansarullah’ case.
  • Sufi Islamic Board claimed ‘PFI part of al-Qa’ida’ and reiterated demand to ban the PFI.
Khalistan-inspired Extremism
  • “Pro-Khalistan group member involved in the ‘bomb near Chandigarh Model jail’ incident”: Police
  • “Pakistan’s ISI instructed Khalistani OGWs to target railway tracks in Punjab and other States”: Indian intelligence agencies.
Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) cases
  • NIA Special Court (Kolkata) convicted and sentenced three FICN traffickers in ‘FICN seizure in Farakka’ case.

DEFENCE

Launch of two indigenous frontline warships.

Raksha Mantri (RM) launched two frontline warships of the Indian Navy – ‘Surat’ and ‘Udaygiri’ – at Mazagon Docks Limited (MDL), Mumbai on May 17, 2022. ‘Surat’ is the fourth Guided Missile Destroyer of P15B class, while ‘Udaygiri’ is the second Stealth Frigate of P17A class. Both warships have been designed in-house by the Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and built at MDL, Mumbai.
For more information: Click here to read…

Successful maiden flight-test of indigenously-developed Naval Anti-Ship Missile.

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Navy successfully conducted maiden flight-test of indigenously-developed Naval Anti-Ship Missile launched from a Naval Helicopter.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indigenisation of defence items with the Industry in full swing.

Ministry of Defence has intensified the drive for indigenisation of defence items by its DPSUs andthe progress is being reviewed on weekly basis by Defence Secretary.A comprehensive user-friendly ‘Dashboard’ on its SRIJAN Portal has been developed to monitor the status of progress of indigenisation. This dashboard enables real-time end-to-end updates of various activities being taken up by the respective DPSUs during the process of indigenisation. It may be mentioned that DDP had notified two Positive Indigenisation Lists in December 2021 and March 2022 in respect of DPSUs. The first list contains 2,851 items, out of which 2,500 items are already indigenised and 351 items are being indigenized.The second report notified 107 major Line Replacement Units/Sub-systems for indigenisation. Out of 107 items, DPSUs have already issued Expression of Interest (EoIs) for 98 items and the action is on for issuing EoIs for remaining nine items. Out of the 98 EoIs, 28 cases have already progressed in next stages and 70 EoIs are in active stage.
Reference: Click here to read…

Indian Navy-Bangladesh Navy Coordinated Patrol.

The fourth edition of the Indian Navy-Bangladesh Navy Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) commenced in the Northern Bay of Bengal on 22 May 22. Indian Navy and Bangladesh Navy units will undertake joint patrolling along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) till 23 May 22.

In addition the third edition of Indian Navy (IN) – Bangladesh Navy (BN) Bilateral Exercise ‘Bongosagar’ commenced at Port Mongla, Bangladesh on 24 May 22. The Harbour Phase of exercise is scheduled from 24-25 May which will be followed by a Sea Phase in the Northern Bay of Bengal from 26-27 May.
For more information:
Click here to read… and
Click here to read…

Prime Minister’s participation in the Quad Leaders’ Summit.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the second in-person Quad Leaders’ Summit in Tokyo, Japan on 24 May 2022. This was the fourth interaction of the Leaders since their first virtual meeting in March 2021, the Summit in Washington D.C in September 2021 and their virtual interaction in March 2022. The Leaders reiterated their shared commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific and the importance of upholding theprinciples of sovereignty, territorial integrity and peaceful resolution of disputes. They exchanged perspectives on developments in the Indo-Pacific and the conflict in Europe. Prime Minister highlighted India’s consistent and principled position on the need for cessation of hostilities, resumption of dialogue and diplomacy. The Leaders also took stock of ongoing Quad collaboration and their vision for the future.

Key aspects of terrorism, Covid management, environment, Maritime domain awareness, ASEAN centrality, HADR, critical technology supply chains, and critical cyber security infrastructure of the region were also discussed. The Leaders agreed to continue their dialogue and consultations and look forward to the next Summit hosted by Australia in 2023.
For more information: Click here to read…

Prime Minister’s meeting with President of the United States of America.

The Indian Prime Minister had a warm and productive meeting with the President of the United States of America, on 24 May 2022, in Tokyo. The meeting resulted in substantive outcomes which will add depth and momentum to the bilateral partnership.

The two Leaders welcomed the signing of the Investment Incentive Agreement which enables the US Development Finance Corporation to continue providing investment support in India in sectors of shared priority such as healthcare, renewable energy, SMEs, infrastructure etc. Both sides launched an India-U.S. Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) to facilitate outcome-oriented cooperation. Co-led by the National Security Council Secretariat in India and the U.S. National Security Council, iCET would forge closer linkages between government, academia and industry of the two countries in areas such as AI, quantum computing, 5G/6G, biotech, space and semiconductors.Noting that defence and security cooperation is a crucial pillar of the India-US bilateral agenda, both sides discussed how they can further strengthen collaboration. In this context Prime Minister invited the US industry to partner with India to manufacture in India under the Make in India and Aatma Nirbhar Bharat or self-reliant India programmes which can be of mutual benefit to both countries.
For more information: Click here to read…

Prime Minister’s meeting with Australian Prime Minister on the sidelines of the Quad Leaders’ Summit.

The Indian Prime Minister held a bilateral meeting with Australian Prime Minister on 24 May 2022 on the sidelines of the Quad Leaders’ Summit in Tokyo, Japan.
Prime Minister congratulated Prime Minister Albanese for his election victory. Both leaders reviewed the multi-faceted cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including in trade & investment, defence manufacturing, renewable energy including green hydrogen, education, science and technology, agricultural research, sports and people-to-people ties.
Reference: Click here to read…

Prime Minister’s meeting with Prime Minister of Japan.

The Indian Prime Minister had a warm and productive meeting with the Japanese Prime Minister, on 24 May 2022. The two leaders agreed to further enhance bilateral security and defence cooperation, including in the area of defence manufacturing. They concurred that the next 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting may be held in Japan at the earliest.
For more information: Click here to read…

11th meeting of India-UAE Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC).

Chief of the Force Development Authority at Ministry of Defence, United Arab Emirates Major General Staff Hassan Mohamed Sultan Bani Hammad called on Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar in New Delhi on May 25, 2022. They discussed ways to enhance defence cooperation between the two countries. The General also briefed the Defence Secretary about the 11th meeting of India-UAE Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) held on May 24, 2022.
For more information: Click here to read…

Raksha Mantri inaugurated the three-day 39th Commanders’ Conference of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

RM inaugurated the three-day 39th Commanders’ Conference of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). In his address to the gathering he said “Terrorism, drug trafficking and piracy are some non-traditional challenges in front of us today. The entire region is being affected by these challenges. Being a responsible maritime power, we have a clear interest to create a rule-based, peaceful and stable environment. Such a rule based environment is essential for both regional and global prosperity. In such a situation, the ICG has a big role to play.” He praised the ICG for playing an incomparable role in assisting the civil administration during natural calamities as well as towards achieving the goal of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
For more information: Click here to read…

MoD signs over Rs 2,900 crore contract with BDL for procurement of ASTRA Mk I Beyond Visual Range Air to Air Missile System.

Ministry of Defence, on May 31, 2022, signed a contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for supply of ASTRA MK-I Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Air to Air Missile (AAM) and associated equipment for the Indian Air Force & Indian Navy at a cost of Rs 2,971 crore under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.The missile, for which successful trials have already been undertaken by the IAF, is fully integrated on the Su 30 MK-I fighter aircraft & will be integrated with other fighter aircraft in a phased manner, including the Light Combat Aircraft (Tejas). The Indian Navy will integrate the missile on the MiG 29K fighter aircraft.
For more information: Click here to read…

24th Meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs.

The 24th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) was held on 31 May 2022. The two sides exchanged views on the current situation along the LAC in the Western Sector in Eastern Ladakh. They agreed that as instructed by the two Foreign Ministers, both sides should continue the discussions through diplomatic and military channels to resolve the remaining issues along the LAC at the earliest so as to create conditions for restoration of normalcy in bilateral relations. In this context, they agreed to hold the next (16th) round of the Senior Commanders meeting at an early date to achieve the objective of complete disengagement from all friction points along the LAC in the Western Sector in accordance with the existing bilateral agreements and protocols.
For more information: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia
US sanctioned Iran’s IRGC and Hizbu’llah’s oil smuggling network

On 25 May 2022, the United States’ Department of Treasury imposed new sanctions against a list of Iranian, Turkish, Russian, Chinese, Emirati, and Lebanese citizens and business entities for their alleged linkages with an oil smuggling network which further provide funding for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGCs) and Hizbu’llah.
“The network was led by current and former Quds force members, along with senior officials from Russian government. The group also included backing of Chinese companies and a former Afghan diplomat’s involvement and had raised hundreds of millions of dollars for Iran’s Quds force and its Lebanese allies Hizbu’llah,” read the statement released by the US Department of Treasury.
For more information: Click here to read…

“Al-Aqsa violation ‘will blow apart region’”: Hizbu’llah’s chief Nasrallah

On 25May 2022, ahead of ‘Jerusalem Day Flag March’, Hizbu’llah chief Hassan Nasrallah issued a warning that if Israel ‘violates’ al-Aqsa mosque on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, it will result in an ‘explosion’ in the region.
The Flag March consist of thousands of ‘hard-line’ Israeli nationalists who march through Old City’s Muslim quarter to reach the Western Wall to mark the anniversary of the city’s unification in 1967. “I want to tell the enemy’s [Israel] government… and those concerned with the regional situation. Any violation of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock will blow apart the region. It will provoke all the Arab and Islamic people and every free person,” said Hizbu’llah’s Nasrallah.
For more information: Click here to read…

US Department of State removed five organisations from terrorist blacklist

On 20 May 2022, the United States (US) Department of State removed five extremist/terrorist organisations— i) Basque Separatist Group ETA (Spain), ii) AumShinrikyo (Japanese terror group), iii) Kahane Kach (Israeli radical group), and two Islamic terror groups that have been active in Israel, the Palestinian territory and Egypt, from its list of Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTOs). All these groups are believed to be defunct.
In a notice published in the Federal Register, the US Department of State removed these groups after a mandatory five-year review of their designations. “These revocations do not seek to overlook or excuse the terrorist acts each of these groups previously engaged in or the harm the organisations caused its victims, but rather recognize the success Egypt, Israel, Japan, and Spain have had in defusing the threat of terrorism by these groups,” read the statement released by the Department of State.
For more information: Click here to read…

Africa
Nigeria
Boko Haram terrorists killed at least 50 people in an attack in Borno State

On 22 May 2022, Boko Haram terrorists carried out an attack in the town of Rann in Borno State in Nigeria, and killed at least 50 people. “We are all in pain over the killing of our innocent people who were working on their farmland. … We buried 50 people today in Rann. They were clearing their farmlands ahead of the rainy season, while others went for firewood,” said a local farmer— Harun Tom.
Since 2009, Boko Haram carrying out terror attacks in Nigeria’s North-East and Borno State. Millions have been displaced and around 350,000 people have died from attacks, according to the data from the United Nations (UN).
For more information: Click here to read…

Afghanistan
“Afghan govt acting as mediator between Pakistan and TTP”: Taliban spokesman Mujahid.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that Taliban-led Afghan government is playing the role of a mediator in the ongoing talks between the Pakistan government and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror group, which demanded the release of 30 key TTP commanders detained by Pakistan authorities.
The TTP delegates handed-over a list of 30 key TTP commanders to Pakistani authorities, to which they received positive response.
For more information: Click here to read…

“India should not retain ties with former Afghanistan rulers”: Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen

In an interview with The Print, the Head of Taliban’s Political Office in Doha and spokesperson— Suhail Shaheen said that “India should establish ties— based on national and mutual interest with the Taliban government in Kabul and sever all links with the former Ashraf Ghani government.” Suhail added that India must think of having deeper ties with the ‘people of Afghanistan’ and must re-open its embassy in Kabul. Taliban was committed to provide complete security assurance to the Indian diplomats in Afghanistan.
“We [Taliban] have announced time and again that it is our commitment to provide security to all diplomats working in Kabul. It is our responsibility and we have proved that. There are many embassies working in Kabul and we have provided full security to them. That also includes India if they want to open their embassy,” said Suhail Shaheen.
For more information: Click here to read…

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir
NIA Special Court (New Delhi) pronounced sentence in ‘Hurriyat Terror Funding’ case

On 25 May 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court, New Delhi, marked sentence convicting terrorists under various Sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA (P)A] and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) terrorist— Yasin Malik was sentenced to life imprisonment and fine under Sections 120-B, 121, 121-A of the IPC, Sections 13 r/w 120-B of IPC, 15 r/w 120-B of the IPC, 17, 18, 20, 38, and 39 of the UA(P)A.

The case— RC-10/2017/NIA/DLI pertains to the conspiracy of Hafiz Saeed and members of Hurriyat Conference, who acted with terrorists of banned organisations, including Hizbul-Mujahideen (HM), Dukhtaran-e-Millat (DeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and other groups, to raise, receive funds domestically and internationally through illegal channels, including Hawala, for funding terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
For more information: Click here to read…

Security forces eliminated three JeM terrorists in Baramulla

On 25 May 2022, security forces killed three Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists at Najibhat crossing in Kreeri area of Baramulla district in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). During the gun-battle with terrorists, a constable of J&K police— Mudasir Khan attained Veergati. Security forces recovered incriminating material, including arms and ammunition, from the operation site.
For more information: Click here to read… ; Click here to read…

Security forces cracked a module and arrested eight JeM OGWs from Pulwama

Security forces, including Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) police, cracked a module and arrested eight Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) Over-Ground Workers (OGWs)— i) Mushtaq Ahmad Dar, ii) Ishfaq Ahmad Dar, iii) Manzoor Ahmad Dar, iv) Fayaz Ahmad Rather, v) Shabir Ahmed Rather, vi) Mohammad Latief Rather, vii) Sheeraz Ahmad Mir, and viii) Waseem Ahmad Bhat, from Awantipora in Pulwama district.
For more information: Click here to read…

Left-Wing Extremism
Maoist couple surrendered in Chhattisgarh

On 17 May 2022, a Maoist couple— Hurra Kunjam and his wife Budhari Madvi, surrendered before security forces in Dantewada district in Chhattisgarh. The couple was involved in several attacks and together carrying a reward of ₹ 7 lakh. “The couple expressed their disappointment with the hollow Maoist ideology and exploitation of lower-rung cadres by senior Maoist members,” said Superintendent of Police (SP) [Dantewada] — Siddharth Tiwari.
For more information: Click here to read…

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)
NIA filed chargesheet against an accused in ‘Ansarullah’ case.

On 25 May 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a supplementary chargesheet against Divan Mujipeer aka Divan, under Section 120-B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A].

The case— RC-16/2019/NIA/DLI relates to the conspiracy hatched by Divan and his associates who had pledged to al-Qa’ida and Islamic State (IS) and had formed a module— Ansarullah, while being resident in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The investigation revealed that Divan and other accused— Mohammad Ibrahim, Mohammad Sheikh Maitheen, Meeran Ghani, and Gulam Nabi Asath, formed Ansarullah cell in the UAE with intentions to establish Islamic caliphate in India, mainly in Tamil Nadu, through jihad.
For more information: Click here to read…

Sufi Islamic Board claimed ‘PFI part of al-Qa’ida’ and reiterated demand to ban the PFI.

The Sufi Islamic Board in India claimed that the radical outfit— Popular Front of India (PFI) is operating on direction of al-Qa’ida. “The PFI has been involved in several anti-India activities. After al-Qa’ida’s death threat to the Sufi Islamic Board, it is evident that the PFI is a part of al-Qa’ida. We (the Board) appeal to the Central government to ban PFI and take stringent action against the extremist organisation (PFI),” said the Sufi Islamic Board spokesperson Kashish Warsi.
For more information: Click here to read…

Khalistan-inspired Extremism
“Pro-Khalistan group member involved in the ‘bomb near Chandigarh Model jail’ incident”: Police.

The police investigation into the case of recovery of a bomb near Chandigarh Model jail in Sector 51, in April 2022, has revealed the involvement of Jaswinder Singh Multani— a Sikh For Justice (SFJ) member. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is likely to take over the case. Multani (45 years-old) was also the mastermind of the 2021 Ludhiana court blast case and was arrested in Germany in December 2021.

Along with his associates in Pakistan, Multani was involved in radicalising Sikh youth and conspiring attacks in Delhi and Mumbai as well.
For more information: Click here to read…

“Pakistan’s ISI instructed Khalistani OGWs to target railway tracks in Punjab and other States”: Indian intelligence agencies.

According to the Indian intelligence officials, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Directorate has instructed Khalistani Over-Ground Workers (OGWs) to target railway tracks in Punjab. For the purpose, the ISI has been offering huge funding to OGWs with coordination from Khalistani terrorist— Harvinder Singh Rinda, who is hiding in Lahore, Pakistan.
For more information: Click here to read…

Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) cases
NIA Special Court (Kolkata) convicted and sentenced three FICN traffickers in ‘FICN seizure in Farakka’ case.

On 21 May 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court, Kolkata, convicted and sentenced three Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) traffickers— i) Jakir S K, ii) Bapi Ghosh, and iii) Mohammad Jamiul S K, under Sections 120-B, 489-B, 489-C of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and awarded 05 years rigorous imprisonment and fine of ₹ 10,000 to each trafficker.

The case— RC-10/2019/NIA/DLI is related to the recovery of FICNs worth of ₹ 7,00,000 (7 lacs) in denomination of ₹ 2,000 (300 counts), and ₹ 500 (200 counts) from the possession of Jakir S K and Bapi Ghosh by West Bengal police at Ballalpur Belly bridge, Murshidabad district, West Bengal.
For more information: Click here to read…

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, May 10, 2022

Chinese vice premier stresses stabilizing foreign trade, investment: Xinhuanet
May 9, 2022

Chinese Vice Premier Hu Chunhua on Monday urged more efforts to coordinate epidemic control with economic and social development, and strive to stabilize the overall performance of foreign trade and foreign investment. Click here to read…

Xi sums up experience from CYLC successes: Xinhuanet
May 10, 2022

The Party’s leadership, firm beliefs and convictions, devotion to national rejuvenation, and its deep roots in the country’s young people are key to the past and future successes of the Communist Youth League of China (CYLC), Chinese President Xi Jinping said Tuesday. Click here to read…

Xi urges firm beliefs, fighting spirit in youth league members: Xinhuanet
May 10, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on members of the Communist Youth League of China (CYLC) in the new era to build up firm beliefs, and boost their courage and skills to carry out struggles, among others. Click here to read…

China calls for global cooperation on fighting drought, desertification: Xinhuanet
May 10, 2022

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday called for enhanced international cooperation on fighting drought and desertification. Wang, as the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping, made the remarks via video link at a leaders’ meeting on drought and sustainable land governance. Click here to read…

China to make better use of structural monetary policy tools: Xinhuanet
May 9, 2022

China’s central bank on Monday said full play should be given to the guiding roles of structural monetary policy tools. Efforts should be made to make good use of relending and rediscount policies to support agriculture as well as micro and small firms, and the amount of such relending should be increased in a timely manner, according to a report released by the People’s Bank of China. Click here to read…

China to have 5.5 million nurses by 2025: Xinhuanet
May 9, 2022

China will have 5.5 million nurses by 2025, according to a new plan released by the National Health Commission. There will be an average of 3.8 registered nurses for every 1,000 people by 2025, the development plan for nursing showed. Click here to read…

China activates Level-IV emergency response for floods: Xinhuanet
May 9, 2022

China’s State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters on Monday launched a Level-IV emergency response for flood control as heavy rains are forecast to batter southern parts of the country. Click here to read…

Beijing reports 50 new local COVID-19 infections: Xinhuanet
May 9, 2022

Beijing reported 50 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections between 3 p.m. Sunday and 3 p.m. Monday, local authorities said. The new cases include a cluster infection in Shunyi District, with 21 people testing positive for the novel coronavirus so far, said Pang Xinghuo, deputy head of the Beijing municipal disease prevention and control center, at a press conference. Click here to read…

Shanghai reports 234 confirmed, 2,780 asymptomatic local COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet
May 10, 2022

China’s Shanghai reported 234 confirmed locally transmitted COVID-19 cases and 2,780 local asymptomatic cases on Monday, the municipal health commission said Tuesday. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 349 new local COVID-19 cases, 234 in Shanghai: Xinhuanet
May 10, 2022

The Chinese mainland on Monday reported 349 confirmed local COVID-19 cases, of which 234 were in Shanghai, the National Health Commission said on Tuesday. Apart from Shanghai, seven other provincial-level regions on the mainland saw new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases, including 61 in Beijing and 25 in Henan. Click here to read…

China steers nimble monetary policies to enliven economy: Quishi
May 9, 2022

China is making agile use of monetary policy ammo to buoy the economy amid mounting uncertainties, said an official with the central bank, adding that the country is able to cope with the impact of other major economies’ tightening moves. Click here to read…

Manufacturers embrace the digital economy: Quishi
May 10, 2022

A workshop manufacturing home appliances in Shenyang, Liaoning province, is offering clients a chance to customize refrigerators remotely using their mobile phones. They can choose colors, functions and design styles without having to enter a bricks-and-mortar store. Click here to read…

Chinese vice premier reiterates dynamic zero-COVID policy: China Daily
May 10, 2022

Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan on Monday reiterated the country’s adherence to the dynamic zero-COVID policy and called for efforts to consolidate hard-won achievements in fighting COVID-19. Click here to read…

Govt trying to help students find jobs: China Daily
May 10, 2022

Employment opportunities struggle to keep pace with number of graduates. Faced with employment pressures brought by a record number of college graduates and the epidemic situation, governments and schools are mulling over a series of moves to help students find jobs. Click here to read…

12,000 seed varieties return to Earth after space trip: China Daily
May 10, 2022

About 12,000 seeds carried by the Shenzhou XIII manned spaceship have returned to Earth after being bred in space, and will be cultivated into greater varieties to supplement new germ plasm resources and ensure national food security, experts said. Click here to read…

Sinopharm launches Omicron vaccine trial in Hunan: China Daily
May 9, 2022

Chinese company Sinopharm began delivering its Omicron-specific vaccine candidate to fully vaccinated people in a major clinical trial which launched in Hunan province on Monday. Click here to read…

Xi calls on China, Germany to better harness stabilizing, constructive, steering role of ties: China Military
May 9, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping had a virtual meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Monday, saying it is particularly important for the two countries to better harness the stabilizing, constructive and steering role of their relationship. Click here to read…

Central govt officials vow full support for John Lee: China Daily
May 10, 2022

Heads of the central government’s offices in Hong Kong pledged full support on Monday for the new-term government led by chief executive-elect John Lee Ka-chiu, saying that Lee, elected on Sunday, was not only the choice of the Election Committee, but also represented the aspiration of Hong Kong’s public. Click here to read…

More clinics reopening in Shanghai: China Daily
May 10, 2022

In light of the improving epidemic situation in Shanghai, more health clinics and delivery services in the city have resumed operation, the city government said on Monday. Zhao Dandan, deputy director of the Shanghai Health Commission, said at a news briefing on Monday that nearly 70 percent of community health centers in the city are now open five days a week, and more than 2,600 pharmacies in the city have also reopened. Click here to read…

Beijing tightens COVID-19 measures: China Daily
May 10, 2022

A medical worker prepares to take a swab sample from a resident for nucleic acid test at a testing site in Chaoyang district of Beijing, on May 9, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]
Beijing reported a new COVID-19 cluster with 21 infections from a workplace, adding uncertainty to the trends in the city’s latest outbreak, a senior official said on Monday. Click here to read…

Second PLA exercises near Taiwan in month: China Daily
May 9, 2022

The People’s Liberation Army organized interservice combat exercises near Taiwan between Friday and Sunday, according to the PLA Eastern Theater Command. In a brief statement on Monday, the command said that naval, air and missile forces took part in the three-day operation that was intended to verify and improve interservice combat capability. It did not give additional details. Click here to read…

China-bashing tactics ahead of elections ‘hurt Aussie parties’: Global Times

May 9, 2022

At a time when both the Australian ruling party and the opposition have been smearing security cooperation between China and the Solomon Islands ahead of the Australian elections, the Chinese Foreign Ministry again spoke up for the security cooperation by revealing on Monday that senior Chinese diplomats had a virtual meeting with their Australian counterparts on Friday, during which the Chinese diplomats stressed that the country does not seek a “sphere of influence” and will advance cooperation with South Pacific island countries. Click here to read…

US official’s slander of Huawei’s Africa business is ill-willed: Global Times
May 10, 2022

The slandering and smearing remarks made by some US officials against Chinese companies are folly, and they only expose their intention of provoking China-Africa cooperation, a Chinese official said, when asked to comment on US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman’s remarks on Huawei during her recent Africa tour. Click here to read…

Paranoid vetting about ‘China links’ only hurts innovation of the US tech startups: Global Times
May 9, 2022

The US Congress is reportedly considering vetting American tech startups which have been receiving federal funding through the Small Business Innovation Research program (SBIR). Citing a study by the Pentagon, it claims that the program has been “exploited” by China. Click here to read…

India urged to give Chinese firms impartial treatment after Xiaomi officials were allegedly ‘coerced’: Global Times
May 9, 2022

China’s Foreign Ministry urged Indian authorities to provide a fair, impartial and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises operating in India on Monday, which came after Chinese mobile phone maker Xiaomi reportedly claimed its top executives faced threats of coercion during questioning by Indian officials. Click here to read…

Xi asks youth league to be political school leading Chinese young people: People’s Daily
May 10, 2022

President Xi Jinping on Tuesday told the Communist Youth League of China (CYLC) to always be a political school leading the ideological progress of young people. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CYLC. Click here to read…

China’s Iranian oil imports ease on poor margins, lure of Russian oil: Reuters
May 9, 2022

China’s Iranian oil imports in April came off peak volumes seen in late 2021 and early 2022
as demand from independent refiners weakened after COVID-19 lockdowns pummelled fuel margins and on growing imports of lower-priced Russian oil. Click here to read…

Taiwan activist says did forced labour in China but not tortured: Reuters
May 10, 2022

A Taiwanese activist jailed in China said on Tuesday that he was subjected to forced labour and endured stale food while serving a five-year sentence, but that he was not tortured. Li Ming-che, a community college lecturer and activist at a human rights non-governmental organisation in Taiwan, disappeared while visiting China in 2017. Click here to read…

VIF Cyber Review

VIF Cyber Review: April 2022

NATIONAL

Cabinet approves upgradation of mobile sites in LWE-affected areas

On 27 April 2022, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ‘Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF)’ project for upgrading 2G mobile services to 4G at security sites in the Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) areas. The Cabinet also authorised Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) payment of LWE Phase-I 2G site operations and maintenance costs for an additional five years beyond the contractual period of five years at a cost of ₹541.80 crore. The extension will last up to 12 months from the date of Cabinet approval or the commissioning of 4G sites, whichever comes first.

The upgrade will improve internet and data services in certain LWE locations. It satisfies the standards of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) as well as the state governments. It will also meet the communication requirements of the security forces stationed in these regions. The suggestion is consistent with the goal of increasing rural mobile connectivity. Furthermore, delivery of various e-governance, banking, tele-medicine, tele-education, and other services via mobile broadband will be possible in these locations. [1]

CERT-In issued advisory on multiple vulnerabilities in Oracle products

On 22 April 2022, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued an advisory on multiple vulnerabilities in Oracle products which could be exploited by an attacker to bypass security restrictions, execute arbitrary code, disclose sensitive information, and cause Denial of Service (DoS) attack on the targeted system. Such vulnerabilities are remotely exploitable without authentication, i.e., may be exploited over a network without requiring user credentials. [2] As a solution, CERT-In provided link to apply appropriate patches available at: Click here to read…

India Post issued warning against fraudulent URLs/Websites claiming to give prizes through certain surveys

On 23 April 2022, the India Post issued a warning against various URLs/Websites getting circulated in social media and communication platforms, such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, and through e-mail/SMS containing tiny URLs, claiming to provide government subsidies as prize money through certain surveys. “We wish to inform the citizens of the Country that India Post is not involved in any such activities like announcing Subsidies, Bonus or Prizes based on Surveys etc. Public receiving such notifications/messages /emails are requested not to believe or respond to such fake and spurious messages or share any personal details.

It is also requested not share any personally identifiable information such as date of birth, Account numbers, mobile numbers, place of Birth & OTP etc”, read the advisory issued by the India Post. The India Post and Fact Check Unit of Press Information Bureau (PIB) have declared these URLs/Websites as fake through social media. [3]

CERT-In issued advisory on Malware targeting ICS/SCADA systems

On 16 April 2022, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued an advisory about the Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actors targeting Industrial Control Systems (ICS)/Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems through custom made tools. The tools enabled cyber threat actors to scan for, compromise, and control affected systems after gaining access to the operational technology (OT) network.

The APTs are targeting ICS/SCADA and have capabilities to gain complete access control of certain ICS/SCADA devices including:

– Schneider Electric programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

– OMRON Sysmac NEX PLCs, and,

– Open platform communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA) Servers.
According to the advisory, the APT actors could also exploit a known-vulnerable ASRock-signed Motherboard driver— “AsrDrv103.sys”, exploiting CVE-2020-15368, to execute malicious code in the Windows kernel to move laterally within an IT or OT environment and disrupt critical devices or functions. [4]

Qualcomm and MeitY’s C-DAC partner to support Indian Semiconductor start-ups

For 2022, Qualcomm India announced a collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), an autonomous scientific society of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), to initiate and conduct Qualcomm® Semiconductor Mentorship Program (QSMP) 2022 for select start-ups from the semiconductor space in India, with further programme to provide and facilitate mentorship, technical training, and industry outreach. Under the collaboration, the C-DAC and Qualcomm India intend to work towards following broad objectives:

– Nurture technical advancements and intellectual-property-driven innovation and product development required for semiconductor design in the Indian ecosystem.

– Help reduce risks in innovation; accelerate the pace of business development; and develop soft skills and knowledge base of Indian start-ups engaged in semiconductor design.

– Facilitate access for the selected start-ups with domain experts, VCs, accelerators, incubators, industry associations and large companies that could help them scale up their business.

– Create platforms and forums that provide opportunities to work with high-growth-potential small businesses and start-ups who have potentially disruptive technologies that could develop or reshape semiconductor supply chains in the future.

Up to ten Indian semiconductor start-ups will be shortlisted for QSMP 2022 by Qualcomm India. Each nominated firm will be connected with a Qualcomm India executive for product development and planning mentoring. Through meetings, webinars, seminars, and tradeshows, C-DAC and Qualcomm India will help these entrepreneurs gain exposure to government stakeholders. [5]

CERT-In issued advisory for safe and trusted Internet

On 28 April 2022, The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued directions related to the best information security practices, procedure, prevention, response, and reporting of cyber-crimes under the provisions of sub-Section (6) of the Section 70B of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000. The directions will become effective after 60 days.

The directives included aspects relating to synchronisation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) system clocks; mandatory reporting of cyber incidents to CERT-In; maintenance of logs of ICT systems; subscriber/customer registrations details by Data centres, Virtual Private Server (VPS) providers, Virtual Private Network (VPN) Service providers, Cloud service providers; KYC norms and practices by virtual asset service providers, virtual asset exchange providers and custodian wallet providers. These directions shall enhance overall cyber security posture and ensure safe & trusted Internet in the country. [6] The directions are available at: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL

Eurojust and Europol cracked an online investment fraud scheme responsible for losses of at least Euro 20 million

On 21 April 2022, Authorities in Finland, the Netherlands, Lativa, France, Germany, and Ukraine, supported the operation during which more than 50 servers and services were seized in six countries. “At the request of the Estonian authorities, Eurojust and Europol assisted in taking down an online investment fraud scheme, which defrauded victim 21 April 2022.

As modus operandi, the perpetrator— belong to an international Organised Crime Group (OCG) contacted victims by telephone via Internet. They project themselves as brokers of online trading platforms, dealing with Cryptocurrencies, to convince victims to make investments. It is believed that more than 30,000 people from at least 71 countries, at least 522 victims are registered in Estonia alone. [7]

Japan proposed first domestic quantum computer use by March 2023

The Japanese government proposed its intentions to enter the global Quantum Computing campaign by placing its first indigenous quantum computer into service within current fiscal year ending March 2023. As per the new strategy, Japan plans to establish four quantum research centres across the country, which could be finalised this month, after the ruling party— Liberal Democratic Party proposed expanded investment in quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI). [8] Also, the Japanese government expects 10 million users by the end of decade too.

As for the research centres, one of the two will be established at Tohoku University in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, on the north-eastern coast of Japan. The centres will train personnel and support research and development. The other new site, at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, will serve as a hub for advancing joint research by global scientists,” read a report by Nikkei. [9]

Russian hacktivists launched DDoS attacks against Romania’s govt. websites

On 29 April 2022, the Romanian National Cyber Security and Incident Response Team— DNSC, issued a statement informing a series of Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks targeting several public websites management by the State authorities. The attacks had been claimed by pro-Russia hacktivist group— ‘Killnet’. According to the statement released by the DNSC, the hacktivist group targeted the following Romania-based servers:

– gov.ro (official website of Romania’s Government),

– mapn.ro (official website of Romania’s Ministry of Defense),

– politiadefrontiera.ro (official of Romanian Border Police),

– cfrcalatori.ro (official website of Romania’s National Railway Transport Company), and

– otpbank.ro (site of a commercial bank operating in Romanian).

According to the Romania’s primary domestic intelligence services— SRI (Serviciul Roman de Informatii), the DDoS attack began at 0400 hrs local time, and it originated from a compromised network equipment outside Romania, and that had been compromised by exploiting security vulnerabilities. [10]

China-backed hackers are targeting Russian State officials

Security researchers discovered a phishing campaign led by China-based threat actors, Mustang Panda aka HoneyMyte, and Bronze President) targeting Russian State officials. Earlier, the threat group— Mustang Panda, was spotted orchestrating intelligence gathering campaigns against the European targets, employing phishing lures inspired by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Despite, two countries— Russia and China, maintains good geopolitical relationships, Russia has always remained in the Mustang Panda’s cross hair.

Although the files sent are Windows executables (.exe), they are made to appear as PDFs and are named after Blagoveshchensk— Russian city closer to the border with China. This suggests that the targets of this campaign are Russian personnel in the region, which further supports the theory that China may be shifting to new intelligence gathering objectives. Upon launching the executable, a host of additional files are fetched, including the previously mentioned decoy EU document, a malicious DLL loader, an encrypted PlugX variant, and a digitally signed .EXE file. [11]

Endnotes :

[1] Government of India. “Cabinet approves upgradation of 2G mobile sites to 4G at security sites in Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) areas”, Press Information Bureau, 27 April 2022, Available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1820512
[2] Government of India. “Multiple Vulnerabilities in Oracle Products— CERT-In Advisory CIAD-2022-0011”, Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), 22 April 2022, Available from: https://www.cert-in.org.in/
[3] Government of India. “India Post warns public against fraudulent URLs/Websites claiming to provide subsidies/prizes through certain surveys”, Press Information Bureau, 23 April 2022, Available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1819189
[4] Government of India. “Malware targeting ICS/SCADA systems— CIAD-2022-0010”, Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), 16 April 2022, Available from: https://www.cert-in.org.in/
[5] Government of India. “Qualcomm and MeitY’s Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) partner to support Indian semiconductor start-ups”, Press Information Bureau, 29 April 2022, Available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1821268
[6] Government of India. “CERT-In issues directions relating to information security practices, procedure, prevention, response and reporting of cyber incidents for Safe & Trusted Internet”, Press Information Bureau, 28 April 2022, Available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1820904
[7] “Takedown of Infrastructures of call centre involved in online investment fraud responsible for losses of at least EURO 20 million”, European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation, 21 April 2022, Available from: https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/take-down-infrastructure-call-centres-involved-online-investment-fraud-responsible-losses
[8] “Tokyo sets Quantum Computing Deadline— Japan Times”, Asia Financial, 08 April 2022, Available from: https://www.asiafinancial.com/48334-2
[9] Kaur, Dashveenjit. “Japan’s first domestic quantum computer targets 10m users by 2030”, Techwire Asia, 18 April 2022, Available from: https://techwireasia.com/2022/04/japans-first-domestic-quantum-computer-targets-10m-users-by-2030/
[10] Toulas, Bill. “Russian hacktivists launch DDoS attacks on Romanian govt sites”, Bleeping Computer, 29 April 2022, Available from: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/russian-hacktivists-launch-ddos-attacks-on-romanian-govt-sites/ ; Government of Romania. “Atacuriciberneticeasupra site-urilorunorinstituțiipubliceșifinanciar-bancare”, SRI, 29 April 2022, Available from: https://www.sri.ro/articole/atacuri-cibernetice-asupra-site-urilor-unor-institutii-publice-si-financiar-bancare.html
[11] Toulas, Bill. “Chinese state-backed hackers now target Russian state officers”, Bleeping Computer, 27 April 2022, Available from:https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/chinese-state-backed-hackers-now-target-russian-state-officers/

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, April 01, 2022

Xi chairs CPC leadership meeting on plane crash emergency response: Xinhuanet
March 31, 2022

The Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on Thursday held a meeting to hear a report on the emergency response to the recent China Eastern Airlines plane crash. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, chaired the meeting, which made deployment for follow-up work. Click here to read…

Former senior official Fu Zhenghua expelled from Party, public office: Xinhuanet
March 31, 2022

Fu Zhenghua, a former official who had served as China’s deputy police chief and justice minister, was expelled from the Communist Party of China (CPC) and removed from public office over serious violations of Party discipline and laws. The punishment of Fu was announced by the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission, China’s top anti-graft body, on Thursday. Click here to read…

Xi’s article on agriculture, rural areas, rural residents to be published: Xinhuanet
March 31, 2022

An important article on issues related to agriculture, rural areas and rural residents by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, will be published on Friday. Click here to read…

China urges Japan to stay out of Taiwan-related affairs: Xinhuanet
March 31, 2022

A Chinese military spokesperson on Thursday said that Taiwan question is China’s internal affair and urged Japan to stay out of it. Wu Qian, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, made the comments when responding to a relevant question at a regular press conference. Click here to read…

Joint Statement of the Third Foreign Ministers’ Meeting Among the Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan: Xinhuanet
March 31, 2022

The third Foreign Ministers’ Meeting among the Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan was held in Tunxi, Anhui Province in China on March 31, 2022. Foreign Ministers or senior representatives of seven countries, namely China, Iran, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, attended the meeting. Click here to read…

China-India corps commander level meeting yields positive, constructive results: spokesperson: Xinhuanet
March 31, 2022

The 15th round of the China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting has yielded positive and constructive results, Wu Qian, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, said at a press conference Thursday. Click here to read…

China sees deficit in int’l service trade: Xinhuanet
March 31, 2022

China continued to see a deficit in international service trade in the first two months of 2022, data from the State Administration of Foreign Exchange showed Thursday. Service trade exports stood at 411 billion yuan (about 64.6 billion U.S. dollars) during the January-February period, while imports came in at 485.9 billion yuan, resulting in a deficit of 74.9 billion yuan. Click here to read…

Construction of all 56 Venues for Hangzhou 2022 completed: Xinhuanet
March 31, 2022

With almost half a year to go before the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games, venues are ready for a Green, Smart, Economical and Ethical Asian Games. Yangshan Sports Climbing Center, located in Keqiao District, Shaoxing, is the last venue scheduled to be finished by the end of March 2022, among the construction of all venues. As it passed the inspection of sports events function on Thursday, all 56 venues for the Hangzhou Asian Games and the Asian Para Games have been completed. Click here to read…

Enhanced domestic crude oil, gas output to help ensure energy security: Qiushi
April 1, 2022

China has vowed to further enhance national energy security through strengthening domestic crude and gas supplies while developing clean energy on a large scale to steadily push forward the country’s green energy transition. The National Energy Administration is targeting 200 million tons of crude production this year, up from last year’s 199 million tons, while the goal for domestic natural gas production in 2022 is 214 billion cubic meters, up 4.2 percent year-on-year, according to its annual energy industry guideline published on Tuesday. Click here to read…

China, Pakistan to further promote military cooperation in various fields China Military
March 31, 2022

The military-to-military relations, serving as the mainstay of the China-Pakistan friendship, have played an important role in the development of bilateral relations for a long time, said Senior Colonel Wu Qian, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, at a regular press conference on Thursday. Click here to read…

15th round China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting positive and constructive: China Military

China and India sides have agreed to properly handle the border issue through negotiation and consultation, firmly opposing interference from a third party, said Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense (MND) at a regular press conference in Beijing today. Click here to read…

Ex-justice minister ousted from Party: China Daily
April 1, 2022

A former official who had served as China’s deputy police chief and justice minister was expelled from the Communist Party of China and removed from public office over serious violations of Party discipline and laws. Click here to read…

Shanghai to launch phase II of lockdown: China Daily
April 1, 2022

Shanghai will start the second phase of its lockdown on Friday and begin mass testing of more than 16 million residents living in Puxi, the area west of the Huangpu River. Two rounds of nucleic acid tests were due to have been completed by 3 am on Friday among around 9.1 million residents east of the Huangpu River, who have been under lockdown since Monday. Click here to read…

‘Patient zero’ in Yangzhou outbreak arrested: China Daily
March 31, 2022

A woman believed to be “patient zero” in last July’s COVID-19 outbreak in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province has been arrested on suspicion of obstructing the prevention and control of infectious diseases, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate announced on Thursday. Click here to read…

Changchun govt in Jilin punishes two officials over improper posts: China Daily
March 31, 2022

The Changchun government of Jilin province punished two officials for imposing unjust measures during the recent outbreak of COVID-19, according to a statement released by the government on Thursday. Click here to read…

US ‘biggest disrupter’ in South China Sea: China Daily
April 1, 2022

The United States is the biggest culprit behind the militarization of the South China Sea, and the “biggest disrupter and troublemaker” in the region, the Ministry of National Defense said on Thursday. Click here to read…

5 million people join a joyful ‘virtual disco dance’ on the eve of Puxi’s lockdown in Shanghai: Global Times
April 1, 2022

Over 5 million people on Thursday night joined a “virtual disco dance” with many Shanghai residents participating and sending best wishes before the city starts a second phase of closed-loop management from 3 am on Friday. Click here to read…

Regional meeting on Afghanistan stresses 8 consensuses, pledges aid: Global Times
April 1, 2022

China-hosted talks between foreign ministers of Afghanistan’s neighboring countries and the Afghan Taliban concluded on Thursday in East China’s Tunxi, Anhui Province, foregrounding China’s role as a constructive leading force in addressing the Afghan issue. Some analysts said the mechanism has given regional countries confidence in the Afghan Taliban and more expectations to the international community. Click here to read…

Beijing specifies rules for construction of pilot FTZ, focus on high-tech, innovation: Global Times
March 31, 2022

Beijing on Thursday passed a detailed regulation that lays out the city’s policy priority and development plan for the China (Beijing) Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ), covering 10 areas, ranging from the FTZ’s development target, management system and finance service to talent service guarantees. The regulation will be effective from May 1Click here to read…

EU to push China at summit to not help Russia in Ukraine war: Reuters
April 1, 2022

EU and Chinese leaders meet for a first summit in two years on Friday with Brussels keen for assurances from Beijing that it will neither supply Russia with arms nor help Moscow circumvent Western sanctions imposed over the invasion of Ukraine. Click here to read…

Hong Kong govt ‘strongly opposes’ UK, US report on city’s diminishing freedoms: Reuters
April 1, 2022

Hong Kong’s government said on Friday it rejected “unfounded and ridiculous” allegations made in policy reports from Britain and the United States of a deteriorating political and legal situation due to the city’s sweeping national security law. Click here to read…

China’s farmers face fertiliser crunch as COVID measures hamper deliveries: Reuters
April 1, 2022

China’s COVID-19 curbs are disrupting the supply of fertiliser to the country’s northeastern bread basket just a month away from spring planting, threatening this year’s corn and soybean crops if not resolved soon. Click here to read…

As Shanghai expands COVID lockdown, life on hold in city of 26 million: Reuters
April 1, 2022

China’s commercial hub of Shanghai ground to halt on Friday after the government locked down most of the city’s 26 million residents to stop the spread of COVID-19, even as official numbers put local cases falling for the second day in a row. The city government late on Thursday extended an existing lockdown in eastern districts, just as western parts of the city were shut down as scheduled. Click here to read…

Chinese professor censured by Taipei: Taipei Times
April 1, 2022

A university in Milan is investigating a Chinese lecturer after a video showing him upbraiding a Taiwanese student over nationality went viral
Staff Writer, with CAN. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs yesterday condemned a Chinese professor for pressing a Taiwanese student over his nationality, calling it an abuse of power. Click here to read…

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, March 28, 2022

5,800 cases of Party conduct violation investigated in Feb: Xinhuanet
March 27, 2022

More than 5,800 cases involving violations of the Communist Party of China (CPC) code on improving Party conduct were investigated in February, China’s top anti-graft agency said Sunday. Click here to read…

Chinese FM calls for long-term vision, win-win cooperation in ties with India: Xinhuanet
March 26, 2022

Visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Friday that China and India should stick to their own development paths and join hands to safeguard peace and stability in the region and the world at large. Click here to read…

China provides 2,000 tons of rice as emergency food aid to Sri Lanka: Xinhuanet
March 26, 2022

China decides to provide 2,000 tons of rice as emergency food aid to Sri Lanka, said the Chinese embassy here in a press release on Friday. The donation, which was valued at about 2.5 million U.S. dollars (including freight cost), was made at the request of the Sri Lankan government upon its current difficulty of food shortage in the island country, according to the embassy. Click here to read…

China ready to help Afghanistan achieve true independence, self-development: Xinhuanet
March 25, 2022

Visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Thursday that China is ready to help Afghanistan achieve true independence and self-development. During a meeting with Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting foreign minister of the Afghan Taliban’s caretaker government, Wang said China respects Afghanistan’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, respects the independent choice made by the Afghan people, and respects Afghanistan’s religious beliefs and national customs. Click here to read…

China Development Bank ups financial support for rural revitalization in 2021: Xinhuanet
March 27, 2022

The China Development Bank has boosted its loan support in 2021 to advance rural revitalization on all fronts. Last year, the bank has offered 594.8 billion yuan (93.5 billion U.S. dollars) in loans, promoting key areas including advancing the modernization of the agricultural sector and providing follow-up support for those who have relocated from inhospitable areas, it saidClick here to read…

China’s Hualong One reactor demonstration project fully operational: Xinhuanet
March 25, 2022

China’s Hualong One demonstration project, a domestically designed third-generation nuclear reactor, has been completed and put into commercial operation, the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) said on Friday. Click here to read…

New Bohai Sea gas field project starts construction: Xinhuanet
March 27, 2022

Construction started Saturday for the first phase of a new gas field project in the Bohai Sea, according to its constructor. The gas field, known as the Bozhong 19-6, was discovered in 2019 in the central Bohai Sea. It has proven reserves of over 150 million cubic meters of oil and nearly 200 billion cubic meters of natural gas. Click here to read…

Nation cuts market access negative list down to 117: Quishi
March 28, 2022

China unveiled a new, shortened negative list for market access on Friday, opening more industries to Chinese and foreign investment, according to the country’s top economic regulator. Experts said the move is a continuation of the country’s ongoing efforts to expand market access and introduce greater opening-up. Click here to read…

Former rail minister accused of disciplinary violations: China Daily
March 26, 2022

Former railway minister Sheng Guangzu has been accused of serious disciplinary violations and is cooperating with a probe by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission, the disciplinary watchdogs said on Friday. Click here to read…

China denounces sending military aid to Russia as ‘pure fabrication’: China Daily
March 25, 2022

A Chinese military spokesperson on Thursday said the claim that China sent military aid to Russia is nothing but pure fabrication. Both Chinese and Russian sides have clarified the issue. The rumor repeatedly spread by the United States against China exposed its sinister intention, said Wu Qian, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense. Click here to read…

Official in Shandong removed from post over improper behavior: Global Times
March 25, 2022

A grassroots official in Pingdu, East China’s Shandong Province, has been removed from her post for improper behavior in resolving a petitioning case, authorities announced Wednesday. Click here to read…

Shanghai carries out staggered lockdown, vows to ensure sufficient daily commodities in closed-loop management: Global Times
March 28, 2022

Shanghai carried out a staggered lockdown starting on Monday in Pudong and Puxi (divided by the Huangpu River) in turn and mass nucleic acid tests will be conducted in the city covering over 6,340 square kilometers and with a population of over 24 million to cut out hidden transmission routes in communities to curb the rapid spread of Omicron.

Shanghai reported a record number of 50 local transmitted COVID-19 cases and 3,450 local asymptomatic infections amid this round of outbreak on Monday. Among the 3,450 local asymptomatic carriers, 2,833 were found under the closed-loop mechanism. Click here to read…

China, India stress managing border dispute, urge Ukraine peace and dialogue during Wang Yi’s visit: Global Times
Mar 25, 2022

China and India, two major developing countries and emerging economies, should stick to their own development paths and join hands to safeguard peace and stability in the region and the world, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday during a visit in New Delhi, stressing the two sides should place the border issue in a proper position in bilateral relations and manage conflicts to facilitate the development of relations. Click here to read…

PLA Marine Corps holds amphibious landing drills with the world’s largest hovercraft: Global Times
March 27, 2022

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy Marine Corps recently conducted a series of round-the-clock joint amphibious landing drills with Navy surface vessels and the world’s largest hovercraft, enhancing and displaying the PLA Navy’s amphibious landing capabilities, analysts said on Sunday. Click here to read…

Number of private firms in China quadruples in 10 years: People’s Daily
March 25, 2022

The number of private enterprises operating in China has more than quadrupled during the period from 2012 to 2021, according to official data. The country’s private firms increased from 10.857 million in 2012 to 44.575 million in 2021, data released by the State Administration for Market Regulation showed. Click here to read…

China’s Sinopec plans its biggest capital expenditure in history :Reuters
March 28, 2022

China Petroleum & Chemical Corp (600028.SS), better known as Sinopec, is planning its highest capital investment in history for 2022 after recording its best profit in a decade, echoing Beijing’s call for energy companies to raise production. Click here to read…

Tesla suspends Shanghai factory output for four days on COVID curbs: Reuters
March 28, 2022

U.S. automaker Tesla (TSLA.O) is suspending production at its Shanghai factory for four days after the financial hub said on Sunday it would lock down in two stages to carry out mass testing for COVID 19, two people familiar with the matter said. The company has notified its workers and suppliers of the move, the people said. Click here to read…

China’s Shanghai launches two-phase lockdown as COVID surges: Reuters
March 28, 2022

China’s financial hub of Shanghai launched a two-stage lockdown of its 26 million residents on Monday, closing bridges and tunnels, and restricting highway traffic in a scramble to contain surging COVID-19 cases. The snap lockdown, announced by Shanghai’s city government on Sunday, will split the city in two roughly along the Huangpu River for nine days to allow for “staggered” testing. It is the biggest COVID-related disruption to hit the city. Click here to read…

China’s financial hub Shanghai starts 9-day COVID lockdown: Kyodo
March 28, 2022

China’s financial hub of Shanghai came under lockdown for nine days starting Monday, with each half of the city to be shut down in turns to conduct mass COVID-19 testing, sparking fears about the outlook for the world’s second-largest economy. Click here to read…

Students force Chinese university to lift Covid-19 lockdown after protest over restrictions that ‘gave dogs more freedom than undergraduates’: South China Morning Post
March 26, 2022

Students in the southwestern Chinese city of Chengdu have forced the university authorities to lift an extended lockdown on campus after protesting over strict restrictions that one undergraduate said meant even dogs had more freedom of movement.
China’s stringent dynamic zero-Covid policies mean that the authorities rely on swift, local lockdowns to stop the spread of the disease as clusters of cases appear across the country, fuelled by the highly infectious Omicron variant. Click here to read…

Why the secrecy with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s trip to South Asia?: South China Morning Post
March 26, 2022

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made an unexpected whirlwind tour of South Asia this week, with unannounced stops in India, Afghanistan and Nepal. The secrecy surrounding the visits comes as Beijing scrambles to drum up support against intense scrutiny by the United States and its Western allies, particularly over China’s ambiguity on the Ukraine war. Observers said the unannounced nature of the trip was highly unusual and motivated in part by Beijing’s fears of diplomatic isolation. Click here to read…