More than 30 tech and telecom firms unveiled an alliance on Tuesday to press for "open and interoperable" 5G wireless systems that eliminate the need for a single supplier.

US Secretary of State said on Sunday there was "enormous evidence" to show the new coronavirus originated in a lab in China, fuelling tension with Beijing over its handling of the outbreak

News that an EU unit watered down a report on Covid-19 after threats by Beijing has put a focus on Europe's deteriorating ties with China.

Under Trump the US has pulled out of the Paris climate accord and slashed environmental regulations, but on Earth Day it said that China was undermining global efforts to cut emissions

Experts raised concerns about the Wuhan lab during an accreditation process - concerns that were amplified after the Covid-19 pandemic spread from the same city

Mentougou is home to Beijing's last coal mine, which is slated to close later in this year (2020) as the city battles chocking smog

All aid from China comes with strings attached but neighbours are reminded that Beijing expects obedience from recipients of its benevolence