The Beijing courier who went viral: how Hu Anyan wrote about delivering parcels – and became a bestseller

China's economic growth is experiencing a slowdown, primarily due to escalating trade tensions with the United States, which have led to the imposition of tariffs. While Beijing has managed to avoid a significant downturn, these challenges could have long-term implications for its economy and global trade dynamics.

China's aggressive strategies over the past few decades have allowed it to dominate the global rare-earths industry, raising concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities for other nations. This consolidation of control not only impacts international trade but also poses risks for technology sectors reliant on these critical materials, making it a significant issue for global economic stability.

China is preparing to unveil a new Five Year Plan that will outline its economic objectives for the next decade. This plan is significant as it not only shapes China's domestic policies but also influences global markets and international relations. Understanding the implications of these goals can provide insights into how China's economic strategies may impact the world.

China's economy is facing a significant challenge known as 'involution,' characterized by price wars and excess capacity in various industries. This situation is concerning as it threatens to undermine economic stability and growth. The Chinese government is actively working to mitigate these issues, but the struggle to balance competition and sustainability remains a critical focus for the future.

Chen Ning Yang, a celebrated Chinese-American physicist and Nobel laureate, has passed away at the age of 103 in Beijing. His groundbreaking work in statistical mechanics and symmetry principles has significantly shaped our understanding of elementary particle physics. Yang's contributions to science not only earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize in 1957 but also inspired countless physicists around the world. His death marks the end of an era in physics, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have on the scientific community.

China's recent expulsion of top military commanders highlights the ongoing struggle against corruption within the Communist Party. This move, occurring just before a significant Central Committee meeting in Beijing, underscores the government's commitment to addressing corruption at high levels. It matters because it reflects the party's efforts to maintain control and integrity, especially in the military, which is crucial for national security.

The article argues that American business leaders who are fostering relationships with Beijing are misguided, as the Communist Party's intentions are to undermine U.S. interests. This perspective is crucial as it highlights the potential risks of engaging with a regime that may not have America's best interests at heart, urging a reevaluation of such partnerships.

China's Communist Party is currently holding a crucial Central Committee meeting to discuss strategies for navigating economic challenges. While the specifics of their 15th five-year plan won't be revealed until March, the outcomes of this meeting will provide insights into how Beijing plans to manage its economy moving forward. This is significant as it could shape China's economic policies and impact global markets.

In an impressive display, England triumphed over New Zealand in the second men's T20I, winning by 65 runs with a score of 236-4 against New Zealand's 171. Adil Rashid shone with four wickets, while Phil Salt contributed a remarkable 85 runs. This victory not only boosts England's confidence in the series but also highlights their strong performance in T20 cricket, making it a significant moment for fans and players alike.

Amazon Web Services recently reported signs of recovery following a significant internet outage that affected popular platforms like Fortnite, Roblox, and Snapchat. This incident highlights the vulnerability of online services and the impact of such outages on users and businesses. Additionally, UBS has upgraded its outlook on global equities to 'attractive', suggesting that despite concerns over high valuations, there is potential for further growth in share prices. This dual narrative of recovery and investment opportunity is crucial for understanding current market dynamics.

In county Down, a significant clean-up operation is underway following severe flooding that affected residential streets after two days of heavy rainfall. The community is calling for a permanent solution to prevent future flooding, highlighting the importance of infrastructure improvements to protect homes and ensure safety. This situation underscores the ongoing challenges posed by extreme weather events and the need for effective responses.

Families of victims from the 1994 Chinook crash are pushing for an inquiry, submitting 110 questions to Downing Street. This petition highlights the ongoing quest for answers and accountability regarding the tragic incident, which remains a significant event in the history of aviation safety.

In a significant diplomatic move, US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, former President Trump's son-in-law, have arrived in Israel to engage with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. Their visit comes amid ongoing efforts to stabilize a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the importance of international involvement in resolving the Middle East crisis. This meeting could play a crucial role in shaping future negotiations and ensuring peace in the region.

The Louvre, one of the most renowned museums in the world, remains closed following a daring jewellery heist by a masked gang. This incident not only raises concerns about security at cultural landmarks but also highlights the ongoing challenges museums face in protecting their valuable collections. The heist has captured public attention, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures to safeguard art and history.