China-EU Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Wang Yi tells a European Parliament delegation to treat China-EU ties as a partnership, avoid politicizing trade, and not over-stretch “security” language. South China Sea Talks: Wang also says early completion of the South China Sea Code of Conduct consultations would protect peace and block outside meddling. China-Canada Trade: Wang tells Canada relations are the “right historical choice,” citing a 16% jump in first-half trade and renewed Canadian exports like canola and beef plus Chinese EVs entering the market. AI & Tech Controls: The FT reports China is considering tighter export controls on AI and chips to keep advanced tech at home and limit overseas access. US-China Election Claims: Trump downplays follow-up action on alleged Chinese election interference, saying “we do things to them, too,” while acknowledging US attempts to influence China’s political process. Global Energy Pressure: A report warns America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve is near record lows, leaving oil markets more exposed as tensions around Hormuz and US-Iran fighting push prices higher. Auto Export Surge: China’s vehicle exports hit $918B in the first half of 2026, with shipments topping 5 million units—an export boom that’s reshaping global supply chains. Domestic Industry & Safety: A new national standard for new-energy vehicle maintenance takes effect Aug 1, focusing on high-voltage and hydrogen system safety protocols.