Beijing

Patrick Fischer, head coach of the Swiss national ice hockey team, used a fake Covid-19 vaccination certificate to enter China for the 2022 Winter Olympics while being unvaccinated, according to multiple reports. Fischer has since paid a fine, with the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation considering the matter closed.

China is preparing for its second robot half-marathon in Beijing, with participation surging dramatically compared to last year. The official race, covering 21 kilometers, is scheduled for April 19.

China's economy started 2026 with unexpected strength, marked by robust export growth, rising industrial production, and a rebound in domestic consumption, according to official data. However, this recovery faces potential headwinds from a sharp decline in U.S. trade, escalating Middle East conflicts, and ongoing structural challenges.

Chinese artist Gao Zhen has been held for over a year and a half after his 2024 arrest, with a closed trial held Monday in Sanhe, Hebei. He faces up to three years in prison if convicted of defaming heroes and martyrs.

China has lowered its annual economic growth target to a range of 4.5%-5%, marking the lowest level in three decades. The announcement was made during the country's major political gathering, the 'two sessions'.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the US attack on Iran and called for political solutions to Middle East conflicts in a Beijing press conference on Sunday, emphasizing sovereignty and non-interference principles.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told media in Beijing today that the war in Iran should never have occurred.