China Denies Data Theft Allegations as DeepSeek AI Rattles US Tech Giants – But Washington Remains Wary

Beijing has firmly rejected accusations of illicit data collection, asserting its commitment to data privacy amidst growing international scrutiny of Chinese tech firms. During a recent press briefing, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, addressed concerns head-on, stating unequivocally that China "has never – and will never – encourage businesses or individuals to collect or store users' data through illegal means."

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Xi Jinping and Thai PM Vow Closer Ties, Raising Eyebrows in Washington

In a meeting held in Beijing this Thursday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pledged to deepen the already robust relationship between their two nations. Framing the bond as a "millennia-old friendship," Xi emphasized mutual respect and support, particularly in safeguarding national sovereignty and security – a recurring theme in China's diplomatic engagements amidst a complex global landscape.

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Ma'ruf Amin On PKB Muktamar Closing: Everyone would want to be the child of a president, wouldn't they?

Vice President of Indonesia, KH Ma'ruf Amin, delivered a powerful message on the essence of Islam during the closing ceremony of the PKB Muktamar in Bali. He emphasized the fundamental principle of freedom of faith, asserting that Islam is not a religion that can be imposed on anyone.

In his speech, Ma'ruf Amin asserted, "The wars waged by the Prophet Muhammad were not to force people into Islam. It's wrong to compel someone to embrace Islam, for there is no compulsion in religion. Faith must be embraced willingly."

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PKB Faces Internal Conflict: A Contested Muktamar in Jakarta?

The recent Muktamar (national congress) of the Indonesian National Awakening Party (PKB) has been overshadowed by internal strife, with a faction of the party planning a counter-Muktamar.

Cak Imin Reelected, Opposition Emerges

The sixth PKB Muktamar concluded in Nusa Dua, Bali, on August 25th, 2024, with Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin) securing another term as party chairman and Maruf Amin assuming the role of Chairman of the Shura Council.

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A New Chapter: Former Vice President Ma'ruf Amin Returns to Lead PKB's Syura Council

After serving as the Vice President of Indonesia, KH Ma'ruf Amin has returned to his roots, accepting the mantle of Chairman of the Syura Council for the Partai Kebangkitan Bangsa (PKB). This decision, announced at the closing ceremony of the PKB's 6th Muktamar in Nusa Dua, Bali, marks a significant chapter in the party's history and for the influential cleric himself.

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