November
Chinese state media opened the day continuing its extensive coverage of President Xi Jinping's participation in the APEC meeting, building on previous reports of his five-point proposal. The primary focus shifted early in the day to pledges for wider opening up and inclusive growth, alongside calls for open-source technological cooperation. A significant development in the early afternoon was the announcement that Shenzhen will host the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in 2026, with intentions to vigorously push AI cooperation. Concurrently, Xi's meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung received considerable attention, emphasizing strengthened strategic communication and mutual trust, marking Xi's departure from South Korea.
Chinese state media opened the day continuing its extensive coverage of President Xi Jinping's return to Beijing following the APEC meeting and state visit to South Korea. Reports consistently highlighted China's role in Asia-Pacific prosperity and peace, building on previous days' themes of regional cooperation. In the early afternoon, state media continued to emphasize Xi's leadership at APEC and his congratulatory message to the Egyptian president on the Grand Egyptian Museum's opening. Discussions also emerged regarding the revival of China-US military channels, reflecting an evolving diplomatic landscape. The day's coverage largely reaffirmed China's assertive presence on the global stage, echoing sentiments from earlier reports about the APEC meeting and bilateral engagements.
Chinese state media continued its extensive focus on President Xi Jinping's visit to South Korea and his participation in the APEC meeting throughout the day. Early morning reports from sources like China Daily, CCTV, and Huanqiu emphasized China's role as the next APEC host and highlighted Xi's leadership in Asia-Pacific cooperation. This continued a consistent editorial line from previous days concerning the APEC summit and Xi's bilateral engagements. By late morning and early afternoon, this coverage persisted, with CCTV, China Daily (Chinese), and Huanqiu publishing "video pictorials" on Xi's South Korea trip. Concurrently, some state media, like Xinhua News and Global Times, detailed visa-free policies, while South China Morning Post reported on China's industrial robot production and energy independence milestones. DW Chinese, however, offered a critical perspective on South Korea's strategy amid US-China competition and on the Xi-Trump meeting details. Secret China provided highly critical reports, including an alleged embarrassing moment for Xi at the summit.
Chinese state media primarily focused on President Xi Jinping's meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in Beijing. This event dominated coverage from various outlets, including Xinhua News, Global Times, and People's Daily (English), with an emphasis on enhanced cooperation and the synergy of development strategies between China's "15th Five-Year Plan" and Russia's economic plans. This follows earlier extensive reporting on Xi's APEC visit and South Korea engagements.

Concurrently, other reports highlighted China's widening of visa-free access, a move framed as part of its opening-up strategy. Separately, Hong Kong Free Press covered local issues, including fines for illegal structures in luxury homes, while some international outlets reported on potential US-China truce details following principal talks, though this received less prominence in state media.
Chinese state media continued to extensively cover President Xi Jinping's visit to South Korea in the morning, with multiple outlets providing retrospective reports. Concurrently, several state-controlled media outlets highlighted the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Xi and the Fiji president. As the day progressed, the focus shifted to the China International Import Expo (CIIE), with reports emphasizing its role in China's opening-up vision. Beijing also reiterated Taiwan's participation in the upcoming APEC summit must adhere to the 'One China' principle, a consistent position. The 8th CIIE officially opened in Shanghai by the afternoon.
Chinese state media extensively reported on President Xi Jinping's directives for the Hainan Free Trade Port throughout the day. This story dominated morning and early afternoon coverage across multiple outlets, including Xinhua News, Global Times, People's Daily, and CCTV, emphasizing the importance of adopting high standards for its construction. This aligns with previous days' focus on economic strategies and opening-up initiatives, particularly the ongoing China International Import Expo. Separately, earlier in the morning, state media also highlighted Xi's vision for a shared future in cyberspace at the World Internet Conference in Wuzhen. International and Hong Kong-based media covered other developments, such as a mandate for domestic AI chips in data centers and a local influencer's bail in a crypto fraud case.
Chinese state media started the day by continuing to focus on President Xi Jinping's directives for the Hainan Free Trade Port. This aligned with previous days' extensive reporting on economic strategies. In the early morning, the focus shifted dramatically to the commissioning of China's first electromagnetic catapult aircraft carrier, the Fujian, with President Xi Jinping attending the ceremony. This event dominated state media coverage throughout the morning and early afternoon, signaling China's entry into a "three-carrier era." Later in the afternoon, state media reported on Xi Jinping's inspection tour in Meizhou, Guangdong Province.
Chinese state media maintained its focus on President Xi Jinping's inspection tour of Meizhou, Guangdong province, throughout the day. Early reports from Guangming Daily and China Economic Net highlighted his visits to rural "special products" and revolutionary memorials. Following the initial announcement of the Fujian aircraft carrier's commissioning on the previous day, state media, including CCTV and Xinhua News, emphasized Xi's calls for deepening reform and opening-up for high-quality development during his Meizhou tour. This narrative was consistently reinforced across multiple outlets through the morning and into the early afternoon. Global Times also noted Xi's upcoming attendance at the National Games opening ceremony.
Chinese state media extensively reported on President Xi Jinping's activities, with the dominant focus shifting to his attendance and declaration of the opening of the 15th National Games in Guangzhou. This culminated in live broadcasts of the opening ceremony and continued reporting on his meetings with IOC officials. This narrative built upon earlier reports of his inspection tour in Guangdong and strategic guidance for the “Fifteenth Five-Year Plan.” Separately, South China Morning Post reported on the Fujian carrier’s progress and concerns over cultural squeeze, while independent outlets discussed medical reform and US government shutdown impacts.
Chinese state media on November 10 consistently prioritized President Xi Jinping's activities, primarily focusing on his opening of the 15th National Games in Guangzhou, a narrative that extended from the previous day. Coverage included detailed reports and analyses of his speeches and presence, emphasizing his vision for a "sports powerhouse." Simultaneously, state media maintained a strong focus on Xi's inspection tour of Guangdong and Hainan, particularly highlighting the Hainan Free Trade Port and his strategic guidance for the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan." Independent media reported on China-US trade developments, including the suspension of port fees, and tensions with Japan over Taiwan remarks.
Chinese state media on November 11 continued its extensive coverage of President Xi Jinping's inspection tour of Hainan and Guangdong, emphasizing his attendance at the 15th National Games opening and his strategic guidance for regional development (Guangming Daily, CCTV, Huanqiu, China Daily (Chinese), Xinhua News (Chinese), China Economic Net). This narrative built on the previous days' focus on the National Games and the Hainan Free Trade Port. Concurrently, several state outlets reported on Xi congratulating presidents in Côte d'Ivoire and Ireland (Guangming Daily, Xinhua News, Global Times, People's Daily (English)).

Independent media reported on the PLA Air Force's
Chinese state media on November 12 initially maintained its focus on President Xi Jinping's inspection tour of Hainan and Guangdong, particularly highlighting his strategic guidance for regional development and the entry into service of the Fujian aircraft carrier. Independent outlets reported on the Fujian's implications for the Taiwan Strait. Later in the morning, state media extensively shifted to covering Xi's welcome ceremony and subsequent meeting with Spanish King Felipe VI in Beijing, emphasizing diplomatic efforts and the signing of cooperation documents. This diplomatic engagement remained the dominant narrative throughout the day across state-controlled news sources. Concurrently, independent outlets reported on Bitcoin money laundering cases and China's marine survey collaboration with the Cook Islands, as well as the PLA banning four universities from procurement for bid-rigging and Chinese firms in the EU.
Chinese state media on November 13 consistently highlighted President Xi Jinping's emphasis on fostering connections between young sinologists and the world. This narrative, building on previous days' diplomatic engagements, underscored cultural exchange as a key foreign policy initiative through early morning coverage. Concurrently, reports emerged concerning Hong Kong's government-organized election forums and the potential construction of China's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. As the day progressed, independent outlets reported on tightening tax scrutiny on citizens' overseas income and increased EU scrutiny of Chinese firms. The focus on Xi's sinologist message remained prominent across state-controlled media, alongside continued coverage of China's diplomatic relations.
Chinese state media on November 14 extensively covered President Xi Jinping's welcome ceremony and subsequent meeting with Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn, emphasizing the advancement of a shared future. This diplomatic engagement dominated state-controlled narratives throughout the day, reinforcing the focus on international relations seen in previous days' reports on sinologist ties and the Spanish King. Concurrently, China strongly rebuked Japan over remarks concerning China, particularly Taiwan, summoning the Japanese ambassador and issuing serious démarches. This diplomatic friction escalated throughout the day, amplified by reports of PLA warships sailing past Japan. Separately, Chinese astronauts returned from a space station mission, and independent outlets reported on Trump's first arms sale to Taiwan, drawing strong disapproval from Beijing.
Chinese state media on November 15 began by reiterating President Xi Jinping's emphasis on strong ties with Thailand and the role of sinologists in fostering global understanding, extending narratives from previous days. By early morning, the focus shifted to cultural exchange as a bridge for international relations. This transitioned by mid-morning to extensive coverage of Xi's article in "Qiushi" magazine, which highlighted the development of new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions. This directive became the dominant narrative, signaling a strategic economic policy focus. Independent outlets reported on the US-China chip war, Hong Kong's election promotions, China's property slump, and allegations against Alibaba concerning aid to the Chinese military.
Chinese state media on November 16 continued extensive coverage of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area hosting the National Games, emphasizing regional integration, a narrative from previous days. Concurrently, reports emerged concerning a Japan-Philippines defense pact and Japanese intervention in Taiwan as potential deterrents to China, echoing earlier concerns. By mid-morning, the focus shifted dramatically to the publication of the first volume of "Selected Works of Xi Jinping on Rule of Law," a new dominant narrative. This event was extensively highlighted across all major state media, including Xinhua, People's Daily, and CCTV, underscoring its perceived significance in legal and political discourse. Independent outlets continued reporting on China's coast guard patrols in the Diaoyu Islands and other geopolitical issues.
Chinese state media on November 17 continued its extensive focus on President Xi Jinping's rule of law philosophy. Morning reports highlighted the "Selected Works of Xi Jinping on Rule of Law" and its role in modernizing China, a continuation of the dominant narrative from the previous day.
Concurrently, state and independent outlets reported on China-Japan diplomatic exchanges concerning Japanese officials' remarks on Taiwan, with China urging Japan to retract "wrong words and deeds."
By the afternoon, the focus returned to Xi Jinping's legal ideology, with state media continuing to publish articles emphasizing his guidance for a "rule of law China." Economic news, including an iron ore project with Chinese involvement and Singles' Day retail records, also received attention.
Chinese state media on November 18 continued its extensive focus on President Xi Jinping's rule of law philosophy, emphasizing its role in modernizing China and uniting party leadership with popular governance. This narrative, a direct continuation from previous days, saw prominent features across CCTV, Xinhua News, People's Daily, and other state-affiliated outlets throughout the morning and early afternoon. Concurrently, reports on Japan's strategic direction and officials' remarks on Taiwan continued to draw strong criticism from Chinese outlets, with calls for Japan to retract "erroneous Taiwan remarks." Economic discussions included China's "coal plastic" breakthrough and the impact of "Made in China 2025."
On November 19, Chinese state media continued its extensive focus on President Xi Jinping's directives for advancing law-based governance, emphasizing its importance for national modernization. This narrative, a direct continuation from previous days, was prominent across major state-affiliated outlets throughout the morning and early afternoon. Concurrently, China strongly criticized Japan over officials' remarks on Taiwan, deeming Japan unqualified for a UN Security Council permanent seat. Beijing also indicated it would suspend Japanese seafood imports. By early afternoon, the narrative broadened to include coverage of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's development.
On November 20, Chinese state media, including Beijing Daily, CCTV, and Xinhua News, extensively covered a symposium commemorating Hu Yaobang's 110th birth anniversary. Morning reports highlighted Xi Jinping's important speech on learning from Hu's spirit and advancing national rejuvenation. This narrative continued throughout the day, emphasizing historical continuity and party unity. Concurrently, initial reports in the early morning reiterated President Xi Jinping's directives for advancing law-based governance, linking it to national modernization. Later in the day, the South China Morning Post reported on China reportedly building a world-first floating artificial island with a nuclear-proof bunker.
Chinese state media on November 21 continued its extensive focus on President Xi Jinping's directives for advancing law-based governance, linking it to national modernization, a narrative prominently featured across Beijing Daily, CCTV, and China Daily (Chinese) in the morning. This ongoing theme of law-based governance has been a consistent editorial priority from previous days.
Concurrently, the commemoration of Hu Yaobang's 110th birth anniversary also gained traction, with Guangming Daily highlighting a symposium. This commemoration was a significant development, building on initial reports from the previous day. Separately, international relations with Japan, including reported lethal weapon exports and remarks on non-nuclear principles, drew criticism from China's Foreign Ministry, as reported by Global Times and South China Morning Post, continuing an ongoing point of tension.
On November 22, Chinese state media, including Beijing Daily, CCTV, China Daily (Chinese), China Economic Net, and Huanqiu, extensively focused on the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" throughout the morning and early afternoon. This narrative emphasized transforming development blueprints into reality and promoting high-quality economic growth, with a particular focus on the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a continuation of themes from previous days. Concurrently, Chinese state media, notably People's Daily (Chinese) and Global Times, continued its strong condemnation of Japanese official Sanae Takaichi over remarks on the Taiwan issue, warning against actions that would strain Sino-Japanese relations. Separately, international discussions included China-US security talks and a German foreign minister's warning against rushing a Russia-Ukraine agreement.
On November 23, Chinese state media prominently featured President Xi Jinping's ecological civilization thought. Xinhua News, China Daily, and China Economic Net highlighted its significant original contributions to global sustainable development in the late morning and early afternoon, building on previous discussions of his G20 addresses. Concurrently, various state media outlets, including CCTV, China Economic Net, China Daily (Chinese), Guangming Daily, Beijing Daily, and Huanqiu, continued to emphasize "learning notes" and grassroots engagement, particularly linking the symbolism of pomelos to rural revitalization and modernization in Meizhou, Guangdong. This extended the narrative of Xi's leadership and its practical applications.
On November 24, Chinese state media began the day with continued emphasis on rural revitalization and construction, often linking it to the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" and "Xi Jinping Thought," as seen in outlets like Beijing Daily and CCTV. Early afternoon reports shifted focus to President Xi Jinping's engagement with cultural development, including a micro-documentary series on world cultural heritage. However, the dominant narrative emerged in the mid-afternoon with extensive coverage of a telephone conversation between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump. Chinese state media, including Xinhua and Global Times, highlighted discussions on the Taiwan question and the importance of Sino-US relations, portraying China's principled stance on the matter. This direct engagement between the two leaders became the central editorial priority.
Chinese state media opened the day continuing extensive coverage of President Xi Jinping's phone call with US President Donald Trump, emphasizing bilateral ties and China's Taiwan stance. This narrative persisted across numerous outlets through the morning. Concurrently, a significant focus emerged on Xi's meeting with Tonga's King Tupou VI and the signing of cooperation documents, signaling diplomatic engagement with Pacific island nations. This dual emphasis on US relations and Pacific diplomacy defined the editorial landscape throughout the day, suggesting a strategic balancing act in China's foreign policy. Later reports also touched upon EU ministers courting Trump on China policy and the Renminbi's appreciation.
Chinese state media initially focused on President Xi Jinping's message for the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, advocating for a ceasefire and two-state solution, a narrative consistently reported across various state outlets in the morning. This diplomatic emphasis continued alongside mentions of China's influence and ties with Tonga.
As the day progressed, a major fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong, became a prominent story, with reports detailing multiple fatalities and injuries, and the blaze escalating to a maximum threat level. By the afternoon, President Xi extended condolences over the Hong Kong fire, urging all-out rescue efforts, a development heavily covered by both state and local media.
Chinese media maintained its focus on the residential fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong, with early reports confirming 44 fatalities and 279 missing. Throughout the morning, the death toll steadily increased, reaching 55, with three engineering personnel arrested. As the day progressed, state media continued to highlight President Xi Jinping's previous condolences and calls for rescue efforts, alongside discussions on China's market characteristics. By the afternoon, the reported fatalities further escalated, reaching 65, and later, 83, as rescue efforts continued and Hong Kong authorities announced a HK$300 million fund for victims and citywide inspections.
Chinese state media started the day emphasizing the advantages of China's market and the "Fifteen Five-Year Plan" alongside extensive coverage of Xi's thought on strengthening the military and diplomacy. Concurrently, Hong Kong media reported the Tai Po fire death toll reaching 94, with families identifying bodies and community relief efforts underway. By early morning, the Hong Kong fire death toll had risen to 128, with two consultant directors arrested. Throughout the day, state media focused on Xi chairing a CPC meeting to review discipline inspection reports, while Hong Kong authorities confirmed non-functional fire alarms in 8 buildings and arrested eight individuals from the anti-corruption watchdog.
Chinese state media started the day emphasizing President Xi Jinping's call for volunteerism. By early morning, a significant shift occurred with extensive coverage of Xi's directives on strengthening long-term mechanisms for cyberspace governance to maintain a "clean and upright" internet environment. This focus intensified throughout the day, appearing across numerous state-affiliated outlets. Concurrently, Hong Kong media continued its extensive reporting on the aftermath of the Tai Po fire, with a three-day mourning period beginning, discussions around technical controversies, and later, reports of arrests related to the disaster and debates about systemic failures. This dual focus on internal governance and the Hong Kong crisis defined the day's editorial landscape.
Live Headlines From China