Liz Truss criticized China's authoritarian expansion, particularly highlighting President Xi Jinping's removal of presidential term limits as a pivotal moment in her changing attitude towards China. She warned that China's aggressive steps in economic and military domains pose a significant threat to global freedom and called for Western nations to form an 'economic NATO' to counter Beijing's influence.
Jimmy Carter's state funeral, held on January 9, 2025, at the Washington National Cathedral, was attended by President Biden, President-elect Trump, and former Presidents Bush, Clinton, and Obama. President Biden declared January 9 as a national day of mourning, with all federal government agencies closed. The funeral underscored Carter's legacy, including his pivotal role in the US-China diplomatic relations established during his presidency.
Concerns were raised about the transparency of information following the 6.8 magnitude earthquake in Tibet, which caused over 300 casualties. Experts and observers questioned the official casualty figures and the extent of information control by the Chinese government, noting that local Tibetans were reportedly restricted from sharing information about the disaster.
The Dalai Lama conducted a prayer ceremony for the victims of the Tibet earthquake in Karnataka, India, attended by approximately 12,000 followers. This act of spiritual support highlighted his ongoing concern for the welfare of the Tibetan people.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan delayed his visit to the US, initially planned for January, to after February, to coincide with formal US-Japan summit talks following President Trump's inauguration. This strategic delay reflects Japan's careful navigation of its diplomatic relations amidst the dynamic shifts in US-China relations.