United News of Bangladesh

China was making final preparations for the launch on Thursday of a three-person replacement crew for its orbiting space station that will mark a further step toward a possible crewed mission to the Moon and exploration of Mars. The Shenzhou 20 mission is scheduled to blast off Thursday evening from a launch center in Jiuquan, on the edge of the Gobi Desert in northwestern China, reports AP. The Tiangong, or “Heavenly Palace,” space station has made China a major contender in space, especially since it was entirely Chinese-built after the country was excluded from the International Space Station over US national security concerns. China's space program is controlled by the People’s Liberation Army, the military branch of the ruling Communist Party. The addition of mechanical arms to the three-module station has also raised concerns from some that China could use them to disable satellites or other space vehicles during a crisis. How to catch the shooting stars of spring’s first meteor shower, the Lyrids Since first launching a man into space in 2003 — becoming only the third country to do so — China's space program has advanced at a steady pace. The space agency has also landed an explorer on Mars and a rover on the less-explored far side of the Moon, and aims to put a person on the Moon before 2030. The Shenzhou, or “Celestial Vessel,” 20 mission will be commanded by Chen Dong, who is making his third flight. He will be accompanied by fighter pilot Chen Zhongrui and engineer Wang Jie, both making their maiden voyages, according to the China Manned Space Agency. They will replace three astronauts currently on the Chinese space station. Like those before them, they will stay on board for roughly six months. The space ship is due to be launched into space atop China's workhorse Long March 2F rocket at 5:17 pm local time (0917 GMT) and reach the Tiangong about 6.5 hours later. The three-person crew was sent in October last year and they have been in space for 175 days. They are due to return on April 29 after a brief overlap with their replacements. The Tiangong, fully assembled in October 2022, can accommodate up to six people at a time. While in space, the astronauts will conduct experiments in medical science and new technologies and perform space walks to carry out maintenance and install new equipment, the Manned Space Agency said.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with China and described his recent visit to China as a turning point in the relationship between the two countries.  “This is just the beginning. We are so close, yet so far. Let’s change that,” said Prof Yunus, welcoming Governor Wang Yubo of Yunnan Province on his first visit to Bangladesh. “We hope you will visit us again soon — we want to be good neighbours, but more importantly, very close neighbours," he said during a high-level meeting with the Governor at the State Guest House Jamuna. The Chief Adviser recalled his recent visit to China, describing it as a turning point in the relationship between the two countries. He praised China for its warm hospitality and expressed gratitude to President Xi Jinping for his encouraging words on strengthening ties between the two countries. Governor Yubo responded warmly, saying, “My visit is aimed at further strengthening our bilateral relationship. Yunnan is ready to serve as China’s open hub for South Asia.” The Chief Adviser and the Governor discussed a range of collaborative initiatives, including youth exchange, healthcare cooperation, education, and trade, said the Chief Adviser's press wing.  Governor Yubo noted that a Chinese bank in Yunnan had already adopted the microcredit system pioneered by Prof Yunus. “Many people in China are benefiting from this approach,” he said, highlighting shared social goals between the two nations. Governor Yubo proposed expanding cooperation in vocational training and digital and language education, as well as promoting trade in sectors like seafood, mango and agricultural products. “We should focus on people-to-people ties and bring our regions even closer,” Wang Yubo said.   The Chief Adviser endorsed the Governor's suggestions. “We agree on everything you said – from health and education to trade and training. We want to implement these things faster than ever. We want to become closer partners and true friends.” Yunnan Governor eyes stronger ties with Bangladesh in key sectors like health, education   Healthcare emerged as a key focus during the meeting.  The Chief Adviser expressed appreciation for China’s support in launching medical tourism, including the designation of four hospitals in Kunming for Bangladeshi patients. “This cooperation is a new chapter in our partnership,” he said. Both sides also agreed on the importance of enhancing educational exchanges. Currently, around 400 Bangladeshi students are studying in China, and Professor Yunus pledged to increase that number significantly. “We will encourage more of our youth to study in China and learn the language,” he emphasised. Mexican candidate for UNESCO meets Prof Yunus, lauds Bangladesh’s inclusive dev On the 50th anniversary of bilateral ties, the Chief Adviser reaffirmed Bangladesh’s desire to work with China even more closely to address shared challenges and unlock new opportunities for prosperity. The meeting was also attended by Senior Secretary and SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed.    

The futuristic vision of gliding above traffic in an autonomous "flying taxi" is fast becoming a reality, thanks to the rise of low-altitude economy in China. At the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo, a dedicated exhibition zone for the low-altitude economy made its debut, featuring companies like EHang Holdings. Ehang, a global leader in urban air mobility (UAM), showed up at the event alongside three unmanned aircraft. These innovations highlight transformative solutions to urban congestion and offer a glimpse into the future of aerial consumption, Xinhua reports. Starring at the event was EHang's flagship EH216-S, the world's first and only electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to secure all four certifications required for commercial operation: Type Certificate (TC), Production Certificate (PC), Standard Airworthiness Certificate (AC), and Operational Permit. Having completed over 66,000 safe flights across 19 countries, including the United States, Japan, UAE and countries in Europe, the pilotless eVTOL is already driving real-world applications in passenger transport, aerial tourism, logistics, and emergency medical services. The EH216-S achieved a historic breakthrough in March when its affiliated operator received China's first airworthiness certification for crewed UAM services, accelerating global commercialisation. No sweat: Humanoid robots run a Chinese half-marathon alongside flesh-and-blood competitors He Tianxing, vice president of EHang, emphasized plans to expand into urban commuting and ultimately achieve fully autonomous low-altitude commercial operations. The company aims to launch air taxi services as early as this year. Operating from rooftops or designated vertiports, these eVTOLs promise to bypass ground traffic efficiently, doubling as air ambulances or emergency responders. EHang has already established more than 20 demonstration sites across 16 Chinese cities, including Guangzhou and Shenzhen, and is now eyeing Hainan's unique geography to pioneer low-altitude tourism, island-hopping routes, and intra-city aerial networks. As low-altitude economy takes flight, EHang's innovations signal a sci-fi-turned-reality era where the skies offer not just escape from gridlock, but a new dimension of smart, sustainable living, He said. Also at the exhibition, United Aircraft brought the TD550, which obtained the first type certificate for unmanned helicopters in China. "China is entering an era of rapid development of the low-altitude economy," said Zhou Xiaoyue, director of the firm's public relations. The exhibition aligned with China's broader strategy to advance the low-altitude economy, encompassing UAV, UAM, and other emerging sectors. The government work report released this March said China will carry out demonstration initiatives on the large-scale application of new technologies, products and scenarios, and promote safe and sound development of emerging industries, including the low-altitude economy. Many Chinese cities have been moving quickly to establish a foothold in the sector, considering it a new track of industrial development. Mianyang, a city known for its strong scientific and technological foundation in the country's vast western region, has just established a new low-altitude economy research institute. As China's low-altitude economy takes flight with impressive momentum, the Civil Aviation Administration of China has forecast a significant surge in market value, projecting that the sector would soar from 500 billion yuan (about 69.4 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023 to 1.5 trillion yuan in 2025, and that it could reach an astounding 3.5 trillion yuan by 2035.

Intense winds and the risk of sandstorms led Beijing to cancel hundreds of flights and shut down public parks on Saturday, as powerful gusts toppled trees, damaged older homes, and crushed vehicles throughout the capital. By 2:00 p.m., 693 flights had been cancelled at Beijing’s two major international airports—Beijing Capital and Daxing—with authorities warning of further severe weather, particularly in northern and coastal regions. Hajj flights to start from April 29 Additional flight and train services were cancelled elsewhere across China. Some areas experienced their strongest winds in over 75 years, with gusts reaching up to 148 kilometres per hour (92 mph). In Beijing, Universal Studios theme park was shut down through at least Sunday. Prominent landmarks such as the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven were also closed. Football matches and other outdoor activities have been suspended. Chinese airlines to launch Ctg-Kunming flights for Bangladeshi medical travel The strong winds and sandstorms stem from China’s arid north, where the Gobi and Taklamakan Deserts are surrounded by grasslands, mountains, and forests. For decades, China has attempted to mitigate the effects of sandstorms, especially in Beijing, which lies on the edge of this dry region. These storms can drastically reduce visibility, fill buildings and clothing with sand, and cause significant irritation to the eyes, nose, and ears.

As President Donald Trump ramps up his trade war with China, he is also straining ties with traditional U.S. allies who might have otherwise bolstered America's position in the standoff between the world's two largest economies. For years, American policymakers—including Trump—have sought to shift U.S. economic and strategic focus toward countering China’s growing global influence. However, nearly three months into his second term, Trump’s "America First" tariffs and budget reductions may be creating a major opening for Beijing to sidestep U.S. pressure. This week, Trump intensified his trade offensive by raising tariffs on Chinese imports to an extraordinary 145%. At the same time, he temporarily halted tariffs on other nations' goods for 90 days following a sharp downturn in the stock market. Still, the back-and-forth approach has disrupted global trade and damaged Washington's relations with long-standing partners. While Trump promotes a protectionist agenda, China is broadcasting a contrasting message: it promises wider market access and positions itself as a source of global economic stability. Beijing, now directly targeted by Trump’s tariff strategy, is maneuvering to benefit from the geopolitical shift, seizing opportunities created by U.S. isolationism to expand its influence and strengthen ties with other global players. “The world must embrace fairness and reject hegemonism,” China has stated—an implicit criticism of U.S. trade policy. In recent months, Chinese leaders have engaged with their counterparts from the EU, South Korea, Japan, and other nations, appealing for unity among countries hit by U.S. tariffs. China reiterated its commitment to global engagement, stating: “As the world’s second-largest economy and a major consumer market, China remains committed to further opening, regardless of global uncertainties.” U.S. Tariff Policy Sparks Global Reaction Trump’s aggressive tariff campaign follows his withdrawal from international institutions such as the World Health Organization and the dismantling of U.S. agencies like USAID and the U.S. Agency for Global Media. These moves have fueled concerns that Washington is surrendering influence to Beijing. China reaches out to others as Trump layers on tariffs Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, the top Democrat on the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, criticized the approach: “Rather than reinforcing alliances to counter China, the Trump administration is turning its back on the partnerships that have underpinned U.S. strength and security for decades.” Trump’s selective tariff pause—excluding China—highlights the administration’s desire to isolate Beijing. But White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the policy, claiming, “Rather than drifting toward China, countries are reaching out to the United States because they rely on our markets.” Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed that building international coalitions is not part of Trump’s strategy. “The president is focused on securing the best deals for America individually,” he said. Beijing Eyes Strategic Gains Despite the turbulence, Beijing hasn’t yet fully capitalized on the opening, according to Josh Lipsky of the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center. He noted that both the U.S. and China are so entrenched in their trade conflict that other countries have become secondary considerations. China's persistent overcapacity in manufacturing may also limit its ability to forge new economic alliances. Gabriel Wildau of Teneo noted that Trump's partial tariff suspension appears aimed at further isolating China, making it harder for Beijing to rally a broad global coalition against U.S. trade actions. On Capitol Hill, House Democrats expressed concern that Trump’s tariffs have pushed important Asia-Pacific partners—including Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Vietnam—closer to China. “We’ve started trade disputes with every one of our partners in the Asia-Pacific,” said Rep. Adam Smith of Washington. Rep. Joe Courtney of Connecticut added, “This is steering our allies away from us.” But not everyone agreed. Rep. Trent Kelly of Mississippi defended the tariffs, saying, “Letting others take advantage of us doesn’t make us strong leaders.” Shortly after Trump announced his new round of “reciprocal” tariffs on April 2, Rep. Krishnamoorthi denounced the decision as “a total surrender of American global leadership that plays straight into China’s hands.” Trump pauses reciprocal tariffs for 90 days, except for China China Strengthens Global Ties Amid U.S. Trade Disruption Amid intensifying trade tensions, Chinese Premier Li Qiang spoke by phone with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, reaffirming China’s desire to strengthen its relationship with the EU. Li described China and the EU as vital trading partners with deeply interconnected economies. Von der Leyen acknowledged the need for Europe and China to support a more robust international trading system in light of U.S. disruptions. She also pressed for improved market access for European firms in China. China raises retaliatory tariff on US to 84% as it vows to 'fight to the end' Meanwhile, Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, during a virtual meeting with Malaysia’s trade minister, emphasized Beijing’s readiness to work with trading partners to protect multilateral trade rules. Malaysia currently chairs ASEAN, the 10-member Southeast Asian bloc. ASEAN’s economic ministers, in a joint statement, voiced concern over U.S. unilateral tariffs, warning of negative impacts on small businesses and overall trade flows. Earlier in March, China’s trade officials met with their counterparts from Japan and South Korea, issuing a joint statement calling for greater cooperation on supply chain resilience. However, they stopped short of addressing a unified response to U.S. tariffs—highlighting the challenges of forming a regional consensus.

China is introducing artificial intelligence (AI) education to children as young as six in a bold move to nurture the next wave of tech innovators. Starting this September, primary and secondary schools in Beijing will offer at least eight hours of AI lessons each academic year, according to a Fortune report. Young students will learn about chatbots, basic AI tools, the technology’s fundamentals, and its ethical implications. The Beijing Municipal Education Commission announced that schools may integrate AI lessons with existing subjects such as science or IT, or teach them as standalone courses. The city also plans to establish a comprehensive AI curriculum, build a supporting education and training framework, and promote the subject nationwide. This initiative follows China's increasing investment in AI, especially after the rapid rise of DeepSeek, co-founded by Zhejiang University graduate Liang Wenfeng. The eastern university also produced Unitree’s founder Wang Xingxing, reinforcing hopes that early exposure to AI will yield a new generation of tech giants. Instagram bans livestreaming for under-16s without parental consent Beijing’s efforts are part of a broader national strategy. In December, the Ministry of Education selected 184 schools to pilot AI-focused programmes, aiming to set a model for wider implementation. Education Minister Huai Jinpeng called AI the “golden key” to advancing China’s education system.

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that he will introduce further tariffs on Chinese goods starting tomorrow if Beijing does not roll back its recently announced 34% retaliatory tariffs on the United States. Trump stated that the new tariffs on Chinese imports would be set at 50%. Trump defends tariffs as 'medicine' despite market turmoil This development follows China’s announcement on Friday that it would impose 34% tariffs on U.S. products, in response to the White House’s decision to apply the same rate of levies on all Chinese imports beginning April 9. Source: With input from agency .

Financial markets experienced their steepest decline since the COVID-19 crash after China retaliated against President Donald Trump’s latest tariff hikes, intensifying the ongoing trade war. On Friday, the S&P 500 sank 6%, the Dow Jones dropped 5.5%, and the Nasdaq tumbled 5.8%. A surprisingly strong U.S. jobs report couldn’t halt the market downturn. Meanwhile, President Trump announced he would sign an executive order granting TikTok an additional 75 days to operate in the U.S., allowing time for a potential sale to American investors. Senate Braces for ‘Vote-a-Rama’ Marathon on GOP Budget Plan The Senate is gearing up for an all-night session of back-to-back amendment votes—known as "vote-a-rama"—as lawmakers debate the GOP’s sweeping budget plan featuring tax cuts and spending reductions. Democrats are expected to introduce amendments to counter key Republican policies, including proposals to end tariffs, eliminate billionaire tax breaks, and protect Medicaid. These measures are unlikely to pass, as Republicans control Congress and are moving the bill forward to the House. Naval Academy Purges DEI Books from Library The U.S. Naval Academy has removed 391 books—including works on the Holocaust, civil rights, feminism, and Maya Angelou’s autobiography—from its library, following an order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to eliminate materials promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The move is part of the Trump administration’s broader push to scrub DEI-related content from federal institutions. Late-Night Senate Session Begins Amid Tariff Fallout With pizzas for Republicans and tacos for Democrats, senators are settling in for an overnight session to finalize the GOP’s budget package. Despite growing economic concerns over Trump’s tariffs, Republicans are eager to advance what they view as a cornerstone of their domestic agenda. Democrats plan to prolong debate and draw attention to controversial details. Columbia Must Notify Students Before Releasing Records in Antisemitism Probe A federal judge ruled that Columbia University must give students, including activist Mahmoud Khalil, a 30-day notice before turning over documents to a congressional investigation into antisemitism on campuses. The court declined to block the release entirely but allowed students to continue legal challenges. Rep. Tim Walberg, who chairs the investigating committee, called the decision a win for oversight. Medicare Will Not Cover Popular Anti-Obesity Drugs The Trump administration has opted not to expand Medicare coverage to include costly anti-obesity medications like Zepbound and Wegovy. While President Biden had proposed a rule to include such treatments, it wasn’t finalized before Trump’s return to office. Medicare will still cover the drugs for patients with heart disease needing risk reduction. Interior Secretary Orders National Parks to Stay Open Despite Staff Cuts Interior Secretary Doug Burgum directed national parks to remain open and accessible amid ongoing staffing reductions. A review of operating hours and services has been ordered to ensure visitor access. However, critics question how parks will maintain safety and cleanliness, with roughly 1,500 permanent staff already lost this year and more layoffs looming. U.S. Announces Additional Aid for Myanmar Earthquake Victims After criticism over a slow response, the Trump administration has pledged another $7 million in aid for victims of Myanmar’s recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake, bringing total U.S. support to $9 million. While other countries sent large relief teams, the U.S. has deployed only a three-person assessment group. The administration’s dismantling of key aid programs has limited its ability to respond. Stock Market Suffers Massive Losses Amid Trade Tensions The S&P 500 fell 6%, marking its worst week since 2020. The Dow dropped 5.5%, and the Nasdaq slid 5.8%. The sell-off came after China imposed tariffs in response to Trump’s latest escalation in the trade war. TikTok Deal Collapses Following Trump’s Tariff Move A planned deal to spin off TikTok into a U.S.-based company with majority American ownership fell apart after Trump announced new tariffs. ByteDance reportedly told the White House that China would no longer approve the transaction unless trade negotiations resumed.

Millions of people across China are celebrating the Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day starting from Friday. This year the festival will last till Sunday (April 6). It is a traditional Chinese festival that honours ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. Marking this day, families visit the graves of their ancestors to clean the tombstones, offer food, flowers, and burn incense or paper money. These rituals are done to show respect and to remember those who came before them. Qingming, which means "clear and bright" in Chinese, is also a time when people enjoy the beauty of nature. Many families go for walks in the countryside, fly kites, and enjoy outdoor activities. It is both a solemn and joyful occasion. The festival has been observed for over 2,500 years and is one of the most important traditional events in China. The Chinese government recognises Qingming as a public holiday, allowing families to travel and spend time together. China files lawsuit with WTO following US new tariffs Wes Cabangon, operations adviser for the Aliw Broadcasting Corporation based in Pasig, the Philippines, who is visiting in China, said it's a beautiful tradition honouring one's ancestors with deep reverence and love. "What struck me most is how this solemn occasion coincides with the breathtaking cherry blossom season, reminding us of the fleeting yet beautiful nature of life," he added. Sharing her thought, Yuge Xu, a masters student of International Communication at Communication University of China, said today is the first day of the Qingming festival holiday, and I am very happy to go to the park with my friends to see the crabapple flowers. "There are also many other tourists in the park, covering all age groups, but everyone has a common goal: to fully enjoy the spring scenery and feel the atmosphere of spring", she added. China to impose 34% tariff on all US imports from April 10 This year, Chinese authorities are also reminding the public to celebrate in an eco-friendly way, encouraging the use of flowers instead of burning paper offerings to reduce pollution. As Qingming continues, people across the country are taking the time to remember the past and look forward to a brighter future.

China announced Friday that it will impose a 34 per cent tariff on imports of all US products beginning April 10, part of a flurry of retaliatory measures following US President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” slate of double-digit tariffs. The new tariff matches the rate of the US "reciprocal" tariff of 34 per cent on Chinese exports that Trump ordered this week, AP reports. The Commerce Ministry in Beijing also said in a notice that it will impose more export controls on rare earths, which are materials used in high-tech products such as computer chips and electric vehicle batteries. Included in the list of minerals subject to controls were samarium and its compounds, which are used in aerospace manufacturing and the defence sector. Another element called gadolinium is used in MRI scans. China's customs administration said it had suspended imports of chicken from some US suppliers after detected furazolidone, a drug banned in China, in shipments from those companies. Separately, it said had found high levels of mold in the sorghum and salmonella in poultry meat from some of the companies. The announcements affect one company exporting sorghum, C&D Inc., and four poultry companies. Additionally, the Chinese government said it had added 27 firms to lists of companies subject to trade sanctions or export controls. Among them, 16 are subject to a ban on the export of “dual-use” goods. High Point Aerotechnologies, a defense tech company, and Universal Logistics Holding, a publicly traded transportation and logistics company, were among those listed. Beijing also announced it filed a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization over the tariffs issue. “The United States’ imposition of so-called ‘reciprocal tariffs’ seriously violates WTO rules, seriously damages the legitimate rights and interests of WTO members, and seriously undermines the rules-based multilateral trading system and international economic and trade order,” the Commerce Ministry said. “It is a typical unilateral bullying practice that endangers the stability of the global economic and trade order. China firmly opposes this,” it said.