Tokyo’s latest bid to ease tensions with Beijing, Liu Cixin on AI: SCMP daily highlights

From Tokyo spelling out in part its position on Taiwan to acclaimed author Liu Cixin discussing AI, here’s a round-up from today’s coverage

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On Monday, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi repeated Tokyo’s position on Taiwan – although only in part – based on the 1972 document that normalised diplomatic ties with Beijing. Photo: AFP

Published: 9:15pm, 15 Dec 2025

Catch up on some of SCMP’s biggest China stories of the day. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.

1. Tokyo spells out part position on Taiwan in bid to ease tension with Beijing

The Japanese government has spelled out its position on Taiwan – although only in part – based on the 1972 document that normalised diplomatic ties to ease tensions, but insists the Taiwan issue should be resolved “peacefully through dialogue”.

2. Sci-fi writer Liu Cixin on why he’ll be happy if AI surpasses humans

Acclaimed author of the Three-Body trilogy also discusses his “dark forest” theory, and the struggle to come up with original ideas.

3. China’s growth engines sputter as retail and investment hit in November

China’s retail sales, a key gauge of consumer spending, grew by only 1.3 per cent in November, year on year, falling well short of consensus expectations. Photo: Getty Images

China faces mounting pressure to ramp up stimulus as new data shows its growth engines sputtering, with retail sales growth slowing for six straight months and investment showing renewed signs of strain in November despite recent policy support.

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