China says US ordered closure of Houston consulate

13 Sept 23:27 Key points summarised by AI

The United States ordered China to close its Houston consulate, marking a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two global powers.
China condemned the closure as a "political provocation" and a violation of international law, urging the US to withdraw its decision and threatening a "proper and necessary response."
The move follows reports of documents being burned in the consulate's courtyard and occurs amidst ongoing disputes concerning trade, human rights in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, the South China Sea, and technology giant Huawei.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.