The Top Story

Join us in this special edition of The Top Story as we explore the highlights of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to South Korea, the outcomes of the APEC meeting, and how these moments are shaping the Asia-Pacific’s shared future.

The EU is pausing its planned retaliatory tariffs against the United States until early August. Negotiations aiming to secure a ceasefire in Gaza have stalled over aid distribution and the scale of a potential Israeli withdrawal. A program in South Africa to develop a new HIV vaccine is facing an uncertain future.

The top diplomats of Russia and the U.S. meet in Kuala Lumpur, exchanging views on bilateral relations and Ukraine. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi calls on China, Japan, South Korea and ASEAN members to continue to advance regional integration. The Brazilian president vows retaliation to U.S. tariffs but also keeps diplomacy open.

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol returns to jail with an approved warrant, accused of obstruction of justice and abuse of power. The European Union remains hopeful of reaching a trade deal with the U.S. before August 1st. Yemen’s Houthis attack a ship they say was banned from entering occupied Palestinian ports.

China eyes stronger ties with Egypt and the Arab world as the country’s premier visits Cairo. More than 170 people remain missing in Texas where flash floods claimed at least 110 lives. Washington threatens more tariffs on copper imports and pharmaceuticals.

The U.S. president expresses hope for a potential ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The latest clashes between police and protesters in Kenya leave at least 11 people dead. China, the U.S. and Russia will join an ASEAN gathering this week.

The Chinese premier urges BRICS members to safeguard world peace and promote mutual learning among civilizations. Flash floods in Texas have killed more than 80 people, with many still missing. China observes the 88th anniversary of the Lugou Bridge Incident, which marked the start of the entire nation's resistance against Japanese aggression during World War II.

China and Germany hold their Strategic Dialogue on Diplomacy and Security, with both sides agreeing to further promote ties. The U.S. House passes Donald Trump's tax-cut package amid opposition from Democrats. Heavy rainfall hits parts of west, northeast China, forcing thousands to relocate.