Chinese finance minister vows more proactive fiscal policy

The Chinese finance minister has said the country will implement a more proactive fiscal policy this year and ensure its sustained strength and effectiveness.

Lan Fo'an was speaking at the China Development Forum in Beijing.

Lan emphasized China's rich experience in macroeconomic management and fiscal governance.

He said the confidence in China's economic development stems from its solid fundamentals, numerous advantages, strong resilience and vast potential that underpin its long-term growth.

The minister said this year's fiscal policy will focus on further boosting consumption and enhancing investment efficiency to expand domestic demand.

Chinese vice premier to attend Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference

Hainan is ready to welcome guests attending this year's Boao Forum for Asia.

The forum will take place in the southern Chinese province from Tuesday to Friday.

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang will deliver a keynote speech at the opening plenary of the forum's annual conference on Thursday.

Guests from China and foreign countries will engage in discussions on a wide range of topics such as China's economic outlook, artificial intelligence and Global South cooperation.

French foreign minister to visit China

The French foreign minister will visit China this week.

Jean-Noel Barrot's visit comes at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The trip will run on Thursday and Friday.

China, Thailand to hold joint maritime exercise

China and Thailand will hold a joint maritime exercise.

The drill near Zhanjiang in south China will run from late March to early April.

The Chinese Defense Ministry says the exercise will focus on urban counter-terrorism tactics, joint maritime strike operations and anti-submarine warfare training.

The ministry also says the drill will enhance joint operational capabilities.

U.S.-Russia talks begin in Riyadh

U.S. and Russian delegations have held fresh talks in Saudi Arabia.

It follows Sunday's meeting between the U.S. and Ukraine in Riyadh, which Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov described as "productive."

Danish prime minister urges respect ahead of U.S. delegation visit to Greenland

The Danish prime minister has expressed concerns about a planned visit by senior U.S. officials to Greenland.

Mette Frederiksen said any collaboration must be based on mutual respect and sovereignty.

The statement came after reports that U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz will visit Greenland from Thursday to Saturday alongside Usha Vance, the wife of U.S. Vice President JD Vance.

Court holds preparatory hearing of President Yoon's criminal trial

A South Korean court has held the second preparatory hearing for impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol's criminal trial.

The hearing aimed to clarify main disputes and evidence.

Yoon was absent from the hearing after attending the first one on February 20.

New Zealand launches consultation on FTA negotiations with India

New Zealand has launched a public consultation on its negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with India.

The New Zealand trade and investment minister said India presents significant trade opportunities for the country.

Todd McClay also said closer economic ties with India will be key to the New Zealand government's goal of doubling export value over the next decade.