China sees first annual investment decline in 30 years

The documentary 'The Age of Disclosure' has gained significant attention, breaking digital rental records and receiving a screening at Capitol Hill, which has sparked discussions about UFOs and extraterrestrial life. Despite its commercial success, skeptics question the documentary's claims, suggesting it presents more narratives than verifiable facts.

Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy media mogul in Hong Kong, has been convicted in a high-profile national security trial for lobbying foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China. The trial, which was conducted without a jury, has raised serious concerns regarding judicial independence and media freedom in the region.

German businesses and politicians are increasingly questioning the long-standing policy of unfettered free trade with China, marking a significant shift in sentiment after decades of reliance on Chinese manufacturing. This reconsideration comes as Germany seeks to reassess its economic ties amid rising concerns about China's growing dominance in global markets.

China's economy is experiencing a broad-based deterioration, marked by declines in consumer spending, investment, and real estate activity. Recent reports indicate that the services sector's growth has slowed significantly, with key indices reflecting the lowest levels in months.

British astronaut Tim Peake has called for the United States and China to collaborate on lunar missions, advocating for a cooperative approach rather than escalating tensions reminiscent of a space race. He emphasizes the importance of unity in exploring the moon's potential for scientific advancement.

Supporters of media mogul Jimmy Lai gathered outside a Hong Kong court as the verdict in his national security trial approached. Lai, arrested in 2020 under a controversial national security law imposed by China, has faced serious charges including collusion and sedition. The trial has drawn significant attention due to its implications for freedom of expression in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong's last major opposition party, the Democratic Party, has officially disbanded following a vote by its members, succumbing to intense pressure from Chinese authorities amid a prolonged security crackdown on dissent in the city. This marks a significant moment in Hong Kong's political landscape, as the party has been a key player in advocating for democratic reforms since its establishment in 1994.

The recent U.S. national security strategy, drafted by Michael Anton, has alarmed European allies by suggesting that immigration could lead to 'civilizational erasure' in Europe. This document also indicates a shift in U.S. foreign policy, reviving the Monroe Doctrine and reducing the emphasis on competition with China and Russia.