The last few weeks have marked mostly turbulent events for China. Multiple Foxconn employees continued to commit suicide, totaling 10 employees for this year. These suicides have raised substantial debate about the negative effects of rapid societal change in China. In an effort to attempt to cheer workers, Foxconn has developed a comprehensive plan to improve working conditions by hiring more than 2,000 dancers, singers, fitness trainers, and psychiatrists to help their employees de-stress.
The sinking of the South Korean ship Cheonan triggered a serious of drastic responses, including the severance of ties between North and South Korea. This will undoubtedly have huge implications for the two Koreas, China, and the United States, and what decidedly unfolds over the coming months will be pivotal to how the relationships between these countries will be affected.
In other grave news, since September of last year, the Three George Reservoir rose 175 meters, causing the China government to issue a warning. The rising water has already forced a relocation of 2000 Chinese citizens, as well as taking the lives of 31 others. While the Ministry of Land and Resources takes on the heavy task of increasing funds, 887 townships and 3,141 individuals still face problems over the coming months.
On a more positive note, however, last week over 200 U.S. officials met with members of the Chinese government to discuss political issues that affect both nations in a U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. Key topics discussed included the current market value of the Yuan, ongoing sanctions of North Korea, and Internet censorship. Read more about China`s economy, politics and other current events in the Daily Updates section of our website.
In our most recent feature article, Expo 2010 Shanghai: A Primer, staff writers Jaime Mendoza and Jonathan Hwang have compiled a very comprehensive guide to the current World Expo in Shanghai. Millions of visitors are flooding the Shanghai exposition grounds, as this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the cultures of dozens of countries around the world and observe China’s ascent to the global stage. Find out about this and other news at our website.
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