China-Indonesia Security Talks: Beijing and Jakarta used a Jakarta 2+2 “comprehensive strategic dialogue” to push faster South China Sea Code of Conduct talks and deepen defense cooperation, including more PLA–TNI interaction. Arctic Route Push: China’s new Arctic container service and “Ice Silk Road” logic are colliding with Russia’s push to secure Arctic assets, as Putin convenes a Security Council meeting focused on Arctic strategy. Central Asia Arms Challenge: Reports say Uzbekistan has received PRC-made Chengdu J-10CE fighters, signaling China’s growing role as Russia’s grip on the region’s arms market weakens. Iran Sanctions Clash: China rejects U.S. “sanctions and pressure” as a way to resolve the Middle East conflict and Iran war, warning against unilateral measures while Iran’s oil offers to China reportedly fall after the blockade. Catholic Repression: Beijing’s tightening curbs on Catholic life expand from worship to Bibles, pilgrimages, and even funeral rites, with Shanghai funeral homes reportedly ordered to stop Catholic rites. EV Safety & Regulation: China orders a record recall of 4.3 million vehicles over hard-to-use emergency door releases, with Tesla hit hardest. Trade & Investment: India reports 29 FDI proposals worth about Rs 4,896 crore after easing rules for small Chinese-linked stakes, while Malaysia seeks wider access for premium agro-food in China via Xinfadi. Environment Watch: A Science study links China’s rapid solar buildout to bird habitat loss and reduced biodiversity across thousands of counties.