In Beijing, Xi and Trump agree to ‘constructive strategic stability’ in US-China relations
CCP propaganda has used the Trump trip to subtly weave the narrative of a U.S. “change of heart” and a PRC “victory” in major power competition.
POLITICS

Politics Watch: Wang Qishan’s Aide Becomes Vice Chairman of China’s Banking Regulator
◎ The appointment of Wang’s trusted aide to a top position in China’s banking regulator confirms our analysis that Xi is focusing his anti-corruption efforts on the financial sector.

Political Risk Watch: Beijing Training Session for Provincial-level Officials Hints at Turbulent Political Undercurrent
◎ The disquieting official coverage of Zhang Yang’s suicide and Dec. 6 education course for provincial-level officials hint at instability and unease in the CCP’s top civilian and military leadership.

Wang Yang Admits China, North Korea at Odds
◎ From China’s perspective, its number one priority is neutralizing the nuclear facilities near the Chinese border to prevent the possibility of a nuclear detonation.

Which Office Will Li Zhanshu, China’s No. 3, Occupy?
◎ Li Zhanshu should be named NPC chairman.

Clean Up of Propaganda Apparatus Signals Trouble for Liu Yunshan
◎ The propaganda apparatus under Liu Yunshan sought to undermine Xi Jinping by resorting to “gaojihei” smear tactics.

Public Security Minister Signals Purge With Mentions of Zhou Yongkang
◎ Zhao has criticized Zhou in at least six official meetings since taking office after the 19th Party Congress.

Risk Watch: Ningbo Blast Heightens Zhejiang Political Risk
◎ The Ningbo explosion will likely be considered a severe safety accident, and will affect all officials in charge of safety from the district up to the provincial level.

The Political Background of Purged Internet Czar Lu Wei
◎ Lu is the first ministerial-level official to be arrested post-19th Party Congress.

Railroad Restructuring Marks Dismantling of Jiang Faction Base
◎ During Jiang Zemin’s era of dominance, the Ministry of Railways was the largest ministry in China.
