China's foreign-related rule of law has evolved significantly since its introduction in 2006, with key milestones including the establishment of the Shanghai International Centre for Emergency Response to Natural Disasters and the Beijing International Law Center. Professor Huang Huikang notes that China's approach prioritizes state sovereignty while incorporating international norms, as seen in the country's participation in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. The rule of law has had a positive impact on China's global influence, with notable examples including its role in mediating disputes between countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia. Looking ahead, Huang Huikang anticipates increased cooperation with international organizations like the UN to further develop China's foreign-related rule of law capabilities.
The Philippines has criticized China for "reckless" behavior after two Chinese ships collided in the South China Sea, following a high-speed chase targeting a Philippine coastguard vessel. The incident occurred on Monday and involved a Chinese navy destroyer that hit a coastguard vessel while chasing another PCG ship, BRP Suluan. Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, urged Beijing to respect international maritime rules, specifically the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.
The European ministers, representing the E3 (France, Germany, and the UK), have written a letter to Iran stating that it has breached several key commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal. The letter warns of potential snapback sanctions if no satisfactory solution is reached by August 2025. This comes after the US had initiated contacts with Iran over its nuclear activities, which were halted following Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has denied seeking a weapon and claimed that European countries do not have the legal right to restore sanctions, but the E3 ministers disagree, citing their JCPOA membership as justification for triggering UN snapback measures.
The European Union is considering unprecedented policy actions against Israel, including targeted sanctions, suspension of diplomatic relations, and forensic audits of EU-funded research involving Israeli institutions. The move comes after a petition signed by over 1,000 EU staff members, who claim to have faced intimidation and reprisals for expressing concern over Israel's military actions. The EU Staff for Peace initiative, which has gained momentum, urges the European Commission to take action on suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement and emphasizes the "moral and legal imperative" to uphold human rights. The group references a report by former EU Special Representative for Human Rights Olof Skoog, detailing alleged Israeli violations of international law in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon.
The German government is hosting a virtual meeting with Zelensky, EU and NATO officials, as well as leaders from Germany, Finland, France, Britain, Italy, and Poland, to discuss strategies to increase pressure on Russia, potential peace process steps, and security guarantees for Ukraine. The meeting will be followed by a videoconference with President Trump and Vice President Pence, and is part of the "coalition of the willing" that includes Germany, France, and Britain, which plans to support Ukraine in case of a ceasefire.
US President Trump's relationship with North Korean leader Kim is being scrutinized after Kim Yo Jong warned against denuclearization efforts. Kim Yo Jong stated that any push to deny the North its nuclear status would be "thoroughly rejected". The US and South Korea have taken different approaches under former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who took a hard line towards Pyongyang, but newly elected President Lee Jae Myung is seeking talks with the North without preconditions.
Leaders from both friendly nations highlighted the growth of cooperation in various sectors such as economy, investment, energy, defence, and security, aligning with their leadership's aspirations and serving mutual interests. They discussed regional and global politics, as well as joint efforts to advance development, peace, and stability. Emphasis was placed on enhancing parliamentary cooperation through diplomatic dialogue, which strengthens partnerships with influential actors and contributes to global security and stability.
South Korean President Lee met with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba during their first summit in June at a G7 meeting in Canada, vowing to deepen ties between the two countries. Their second meeting is set to take place as they navigate US tariffs imposed by Donald Trump's administration, which has strained relations between the US and Japan.
South Korea and Japan are struggling to repair their strained relations, with tensions simmering over historical issues and trade disputes. Lee Jae-myung, the mayor of Seoul, has called for a more collaborative approach between the two nations, while Shigeru Ishiba, a former Japanese prime minister, has expressed concerns about South Korea's handling of wartime records. The situation is further complicated by ongoing trade tensions, with Japan imposing export restrictions on key materials used in the production of semiconductors and other electronics.