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China Steps Up for Trade Talks—But the US Showdown Is Far from Over

By Laura Bicker | 5–7 min read Geneva/Beijing, May 12, 2025 — After years of intense standoff and rising tariffs, China has finally come to the negotiating table with the United States—but the trade war is far from resolved. For much of this economic conflict, China held its ground against the Trump administration’s aggressive tariff policies, projecting defiance with viral memes and sharp official rhetoric. Beijing insisted it would not yield to pressure, even as backdoor negotiations were underway. As trade officials from both nations met in Geneva over the weekend, state-controlled Chinese media maintained a tone of mockery, posting a cartoon of the US Treasury Secretary pushing an empty shopping cart. And yet, the meetings marked a shift. After two days of what were described as “robust” discussions, both sides signaled a cautious willingness to move forward—though major issues remain unresolved. A Fragile Consensus US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told reporters, “The...

Pope Francis Wanted a Small Funeral—He's Getting Fighter Jets and Drone-Busters Instead

Pope Francis had one last humble wish— a simple, small funeral . But the scale of the operation currently underway in Vatican City tells a very different story. As thousands of mourners and world leaders prepare to bid farewell to the pontiff in St. Peter’s Basilica , the event has transformed into one of the most complex and high-security gatherings the modern world has seen— on par with royal funerals and presidential inaugurations . A Humble Request, Overshadowed by Reality Before his passing, Pope Francis emphasized his desire for a quiet, "simple" ceremony without particular decoration . This aligned with his mission throughout his papacy: to strip away excess and reconnect the Roman Catholic Church with ordinary people. But the sheer magnitude of his influence, the current global security climate, and the expected presence of over 200 VIPs including heads of state, meant that simplicity had to give way to caution. Security Operation of an Unprecedented Scale ...

Boeing CEO Confident in Recovery Despite Trade War with China

  Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg expressed confidence that the company’s financial recovery would not be significantly impacted by the ongoing U.S.-China trade war, even though Chinese airlines are refusing to accept Boeing planes. Ortberg's comments came during a Wednesday interview on CNBC, where he reassured investors that Boeing could still meet its aircraft delivery targets, despite challenges with China. The trade dispute between the U.S. and China has led to Beijing halting the acceptance of Boeing planes, including three aircraft that were initially ready for delivery to Chinese airlines. Ortberg confirmed that two of these planes had already been returned to Seattle. Despite this setback, Boeing remains optimistic, as Ortberg noted that the company is adapting by "remarketing" planes to other customers. Boeing had planned to send about 50 airplanes to China this year, but now, with the situation in flux, the company is looking to redirect planes that are not yet bui...

Experience Visa-Free Travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program

  Are you a citizen or national of one of the 41 designated countries eligible for a 90-day visa-free visit to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)? Have you ever wondered if India is included in this list? Read on to find out more about this program and its requirements. What is the Visa Waiver Program? The Visa Waiver Program, managed by the Department of Homeland Security, allows eligible citizens or nationals of designated countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes for 90 days or less without the need for a visa. In return, these countries are expected to allow US citizens and nationals to travel to their countries for a similar length of time without a visa for business or tourism purposes. It enables citizens from these designated countries to visit the US for up to 90 days without having to apply for a visa, making travel more accessible and convenient. Is India Included in the 90-Day Visa-Free Visit List? Unfortunately, ...