US-China Tech Tensions: China’s commerce ministry said it is “strongly dissatisfied” with a Pentagon move to add major Chinese tech firms to a military-linked list, calling it unjustified and urging Washington to stop politicizing trade and technology. Philippines Security Row: Lawmakers and military officials in the Philippines condemned China’s ban on Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. and his family, saying it targets Philippine sovereignty after he criticized China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea. Diplomacy in the Region: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Mongolia’s top diplomat in Ulan Bator, stressing alignment of development strategies, Belt and Road cooperation, and support for regional peace. AI and Law: A Hangzhou court ruled against a fintech firm that fired an employee after he refused a pay cut, saying businesses can’t shift AI-related risks onto workers. Smart Campuses: China is expanding “smart campus” AI monitoring in classrooms, with systems tracking attendance and attention levels. Digital Payments: China is upgrading the digital yuan to pay interest and expand cross-border settlement, aiming to reduce reliance on the US dollar. Energy Shock Watch: Analysts warn the US-Iran escalation could keep disrupting energy, shipping, and commodities for months or even years, with global growth risks extending into 2027. Logistics Advantage: A World Bank-linked port efficiency ranking shows Chinese ports dominating the top spots, highlighting automation and infrastructure as geopolitical shocks test supply chains.