EU and China: A growing rift
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First Post
13 minutes ago
- First Post
An uncertain Pakistan: Munir's panic run to US and China shows his anxiety
Pakistan is making desperate efforts to keep China and the US in good humour and on the right side by a delicate balancing act; however, only time will reveal the true outcomes read more Very recently, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir was on an official visit to China. During his stay in Beijing, he held meetings with senior Chinese political and military leadership. A military statement emanating from Pakistan claimed that the Chinese military leadership reiterated full confidence in the strength of the bilateral defence partnership, acknowledging Pakistan's pivotal role in promoting 'regional peace'. General Munir called on Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Their discussions focused on the evolving regional and global political canvas, connectivity initiatives under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and the need for coordinated responses to address shared geopolitical challenges. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Significantly, both sides expressed satisfaction over the depth of bilateral engagement and avowed their shared commitment to sovereign equality, multilateral cooperation, and long-term regional stability. The Pakistan Army statement further claimed that the Chinese leadership lauded the Pakistan Armed Forces as a cornerstone of resilience and a vital contributor to peace in South Asia. This seems far-fetched and looks only like a ceremonial or ritualistic expression. The military engagement between both sides included comprehensive exchanges on defence and security cooperation, including counter-terrorism collaboration, joint training, defence modernisation, and enhanced institutional linkages. It also claimed that emphasis was placed on improving operational interoperability and strategic coordination to confront hybrid and transnational threats. On his part, the COAS appreciated China's 'consistent support' and reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to further expanding military-to-military cooperation across all domains. Munir at Beijing reaffirmed Islamabad's deep appreciation for Beijing's consistent support toward its socio-economic development and emphasised the Pakistani military's resolve to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation with China as part of their shared vision for regional peace and prosperity. However, reliable sources indicate that the Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir was under severe pressure when China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi raised the issue rather prominently of the safety and security of the Chinese 'personnel, projects, and institutions' in Pakistan. Over the years, several Chinese nationals have been killed in a string of terror attacks in Pakistan. While Munir stressed and claimed that 'brotherhood' between Beijing and Islamabad was time-tested and was 'solid as a rock', he, in the same vein, assured Yi that the Pakistani military would take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals. It may be recalled that in October 2024, a suicide car bombing outside Karachi airport had killed two Chinese engineers, and earlier, in the same year in March, a suicide bombing in northern Pakistan had killed five Chinese workers, which had angered the Chinese leadership, who had expressed serious concern over the killings of the Chinese. This had also put at risk the bilateral ties between the two countries, albeit for some time. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Importantly, this was Munir's first visit to China after the hostilities with India in May this year. Islamabad is actively pursuing its military diplomacy to bolster strategic regional partnerships and defence alliances to reposition its defence standing. This was further demonstrated by Munir's visit to the US, as well as his one-on-one lunch with President Donald Trump. In a separate development related to China, the Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar met with the Chinese Foreign Minister, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and promoting regional peace, stability, and development. This shows that Pakistan continues to warm up to China at regular intervals. Further, in a Pakistan military-related development, Munir on July 26 reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering resolve to foster a secure, peaceful, and prosperous regional environment through strategic cooperation and defence diplomacy. As a host, he was addressing the Regional Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference in Islamabad, bringing together senior military leaders from the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The conference seems to represent a major step in strengthening regional security collaboration, strategic dialogue, and military partnerships. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Organised under the theme 'Strengthening Bonds, Securing Peace', the summit aimed to deepen multilateral cooperation in defence, particularly in counter-terrorism, joint training, and knowledge sharing. Participants were engaged in wide-ranging discussions on regional security trends, the changing geopolitical landscape in Central and South Asia, and the urgent need for coordinated responses to transnational threats. Welcoming the defence delegations, Munir reiterated Pakistan's firm 'commitment' to peace and regional stability. He underscored the importance of enhanced military-to-military cooperation, mutual trust, and continued strategic dialogue to address emerging hybrid 'threats' and ensure collective security. Analysing the conference, it could be safely interpreted that Munir, with his political and military ambitions, possibly wants to forge an alliance with the Islamic countries' military leadership in the name of regional peace. He could also be meaning to signal India, his sworn adversary, about his 'deepening military cooperation' with the CIS countries. Munir should know that India already enjoys an excellent relationship with these countries that have participated in the conference, and no amount of signalling is likely to work towards his military designs. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Having stepped up its diplomatic outreach, especially post Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on July 25. Earlier, the Deputy Prime Minister arrived in Washington, DC, on July 24 on the second leg of his eight-day visit to the US. He had arrived in New York on July 21 to attend 'high-level signature events' of Pakistan's United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Presidency, including a conference on Palestine. Discussions were also held on promoting bilateral trade and economic relations and cooperation in important sectors, including investment, agriculture, technology [and] minerals. Counter-terrorism and regional peace were also discussed. Foreign Minister Dar acknowledged the efforts of President Donald Trump and the US leadership in promoting global peace, adding that their role and efforts regarding the recent Pakistan-India tension were 'commendable'. Meanwhile, at the US State Department, Marco Rubio expressed appreciation for Pakistan's continued willingness to play a constructive role in mediating conversations with Iran and its commitment to preserving regional stability. The two also discussed prospects for deepening bilateral counter-terrorism cooperation, including countering Islamic State—Khorasan (Isis—K), and the upcoming US-Pakistan Counter-Terrorism Dialogue in Islamabad scheduled in August this year. Rubio underscored the importance of expanding mutually beneficial bilateral trade and exploring prospects for enhancing collaboration in the critical minerals and mining sectors. Dar was also scheduled to speak at the US think tank, the Atlantic Council, sharing Pakistan's perspective on regional and global issues as well as the future of Pakistan-US relations. Dar's visit comes ahead of Pakistan holding the presidency of the UN Security Council this month. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Judging by the Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister's US trip and earlier Munir's recent China visit, both much hyped, it is clear that Pakistan is making desperate efforts to keep China and the US in good humour and on the right side by a delicate balancing act, as both the US and China are at loggerheads, but the US needs Pakistan as a strategic ally. [It may be recapitulated that Munir was in the US, including a meeting with Trump, just ahead of the US military strikes at the Iran nuclear sites using the Pakistani skies.] Such US overtures to Pakistan could possibly be cosmetic, more tactical, and not really substantial or meaningful. Only time will tell about their 'relationship' and its tenacity. The writer is a retired IPS officer, adviser NatStrat, Bangladesh watcher and a security analyst. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views. 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Business Standard
13 minutes ago
- Business Standard
Germany entrepreneur visa for Indians: Guide to move and settle with family
Do you want to set up a business in Germany? Well, yes you can. But you need to know the formalities and the risks involved. Rahul Iyer (name changed) is an Indian citizen living in Canada. Since his siblings have moved to Germany, he wants to follow suit and be closer to his extended family scattered across Germany and other EU countries. Rahul plans to sell his house in Chennai for funds and is also thinking about enrolling his young daughter in a German school. But what will he need to make this dream a reality? 'Indian citizens can apply for an entrepreneur visa if their business idea is in Germany's economic interest or there is a regional need for the business,' Marius Tollenaere, partner at Fragomen's Frankfurt office told Business Standard. He added, 'Secondly, there needs to be a positive prognosis that the business idea will generate impact to the German economy. Thirdly, the applicant needs to prove that financing for the setup of the business is secured.' • Demonstrate a viable business plan • Show relevant professional experience • Have sufficient capital or a loan commitment to finance their business 'The authorities at the place of the planned setup of the business will assess eligibility and need to give their consent to the visa application. Approval is discretionary and criteria are strictly applied. There are no nationality-based restrictions for Indian citizens,' said Tollenaere. The pathway to permanent residency The initial entrepreneur visa is usually granted for up to three years. However, it can be extended if the business remains viable. 'If the business is successful and the applicant can support themselves and their dependents, permanent residence can be granted after three years,' Tollenaere said. What formalities must be completed before setting up business in Germany? According to the German Mission in India, several formalities must be completed depending on whether you wish to work as self-employed (gewerblich) or as a freelancer (freiberuflich). • Freelancers must register with the tax office (Finanzamt) • Entrepreneurs need to register with the local trade office (Gewerbeamt) The Authority Finder tool helps locate the right authorities for these processes. Steps to apply for a German business visa The German Mission in India lists the following steps: 1. Register your business Be well-prepared when dealing with authorities. Complete all formalities in advance and stay informed about mandatory registrations and approvals. 2. Pay taxes The type of taxes depends on your company's size, legal structure, and revenue. An annual tax return must be submitted disclosing earnings and turnover. It is advisable to consult a tax advisor early. 3. Insure yourself and your company Self-employment requires securing health insurance, accident insurance, retirement provisions, and business liability insurance to cover risks like illness, unemployment, or property damage. 4. Understand contracts and laws affecting your business Entrepreneurs must deal with lease agreements, product liability, and other legal contracts that ensure legal certainty. 5. Fulfil your duties as an employer If you plan to hire staff, you need a company registration number and must pay taxes and social security contributions. Employees' rights such as paid sick leave, annual leave, and protection against unfair dismissal must be respected. What is the cost of the visa and how much bank balance is needed? According to Tollenaere, the government fees for the entry visa and the residence card come to EUR 175 (about Rs 17,742). 'There is no clearly defined amount that needs to be proven during application. Enough capital must be shown to get the business started and cover living expenses for the first months until revenue starts flowing,' Tollenaere said. Applicants should consider health insurance costs, which can be several hundred Euros monthly, along with housing and other living expenses. Is German language proficiency necessary? No, it isn't. 'German language skills are not a requirement for individuals seeking to establish a business in Germany or for freelancers. Visas and residence permits are granted without this requirement for these particular groups,' Ruben Fiedler, senior associate at Fragomen's Frankfurt office told Business Standard. What challenges may Indian entrepreneurs face in Germany? Fiedler explained that business owners must meet certain conditions to qualify for a residence permit. These include: • Economic interest or regional demand for the product or service • Positive economic impact expected from the activity • Secured financing through equity capital or loan commitment For individuals above 45, proof of adequate retirement provisions is mandatory. 'Proving economic interest can be challenging and is only granted in specific cases. The assessment considers the business idea's viability, the entrepreneur's experience, capital investment, potential for job creation, and contribution to innovation and research,' said Fiedler. He added that authorities with local expertise, trade bodies, and professional licensing authorities will be involved in the assessment process. Can family members join? Yes, family reunification is permitted. 'Family reunification is possible, provided that the marriage exists at the time the visa is issued and the duration of stay in Germany is expected to exceed one year. Children may also join their parents,' said Fiedler. A Reddit user's take on business challenges in Germany A Reddit user, who has had first-hand experience of moving to Germany to set up a business, shared their perspective on the challenges faced. 'Bureaucracy is a problem in Germany. Paying workers is more expensive, especially if you want them to be fluent in English. But of course, this doesn't mean that it's impossible. It's just something you should check before you move here,' they wrote. They added, 'Is your business idea really a good one? Is it going to be profitable? What laws do you need to follow? Is there a lot of competition?' The user also cautioned that moving with a family has its own set of difficulties. 'It could also be rough for your kids the first couple of years because of language barriers. With you working very hard, you should make sure that your children find the support they need during this stage. After a couple of years, this should be fine, though,' they said.
Time of India
31 minutes ago
- Time of India
Foxconn sells Lordstown plant for $88 million but keeps EV production running while expanding US growth plans
Source: Reuters and Automotive News Taiwanese manufacturing giant Foxconn ( has finalised the sale of its former Lordstown, Ohio factory for $88 million, as revealed in recent regulatory filings. The facility's new owner, Crescent Dune LLC, has been described by Foxconn as an 'existing business partner', indicating a continued strategic relationship. Despite the transfer of ownership, Foxconn confirmed it will remain an occupant of the plant, ensuring ongoing production and operations remain unaffected. The company further announced plans to reinvest the sale proceeds into US-based initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to building a long-term industrial and manufacturing presence in the United States. The deal reflects Foxconn's evolving strategy to optimise assets while supporting its growth in electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing sectors. Foxconn sells Lordstown plant while boosting US EV plans The Lordstown site has a long history in American automotive manufacturing. It previously belonged to Lordstown Motors Corp, an electric vehicle startup that acquired the property from General Motors after GM closed its plant there in 2019. Lordstown Motors aimed to revive the region's auto industry with its electric pickup truck program. However, due to financial struggles, production delays, and eventual bankruptcy, Lordstown Motors sold the facility to Foxconn in 2022 for $230 million as reported by Reuters. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Stylish New Mobility Scooters Available for Seniors (Prices May Surprise You) Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Search Now Undo For Foxconn, known globally for assembling consumer electronics like the iPhone, the acquisition marked its entry into electric vehicle manufacturing—a strategic move to diversify beyond electronics and capitalise on the growing EV market. Why Foxconn chose Crescent Dune as existing partner for its Lordstown sale The buyer, Crescent Dune LLC, is described by Foxconn as an 'existing business partner', but little is publicly known about its operations or specific business model. By transferring ownership to a trusted partner while remaining a tenant, Foxconn benefits from the facility without bearing the long-term cost of ownership. This sale-and-leaseback arrangement is common in manufacturing, allowing companies to unlock capital tied up in real estate and redirect it into core business expansion. For Foxconn, this means focusing funds on scaling electric vehicle production, research, and emerging US manufacturing projects. Foxconn continues EV production at Lordstown after $88 million sale Despite the ownership change, Foxconn emphasised that its current workforce and operations will remain intact. The company will continue using the facility to support electric vehicle programs, component manufacturing, and advanced production initiatives. This approach minimises operational disruption and ensures that the strategic objectives behind the initial Lordstown acquisition remain in place. At first glance, the difference between the $230 million purchase price in 2022 and the $88 million sale price may raise eyebrows. However, this is part of a long-term financial and operational restructuring strategy. By selling the real estate and reinvesting in its high-growth business segments, Foxconn can focus resources on innovation, partnerships with EV startups, and digital manufacturing infrastructure instead of tying capital in physical property ownership. Lordstown and surrounding areas have faced economic turbulence since General Motors shuttered operations, leading to job losses and economic uncertainty. The arrival of Foxconn initially generated optimism, particularly for skilled labor and EV industry growth. With the company continuing operations at the same facility, the local economy may still benefit from jobs and advanced manufacturing expertise. Additionally, partnerships like these often attract ancillary businesses and encourage regional supply chain growth. Foxconn expands US footprint with focus on EVs and advanced manufacturing Foxconn has long signalled plans to expand its US footprint beyond electronics. Its entry into electric vehicles, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure manufacturing demonstrates a strategic shift toward next-generation industries. By divesting real estate while remaining operational, Foxconn is showing a preference for flexibility and scalability in its US strategy. The move aligns with Foxconn's collaborations with EV startups and established automakers, leveraging its experience in high-volume, precision manufacturing to serve one of the world's fastest-growing industries. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . Discover stories of India's leading eco-innovators at Ecopreneur Honours 2025
