10-05-2025
Judo Grand Slam: Gold Rush for Four Nations on Day 2 in Astana
It's Day 2 of the 2025 Judo Grand Slam in Astana. A city rich with both beautiful architecture and passionate judo fans. The arena was filled with spectators ready to see what was sure to be another day of exciting judo.
In attendance was president of the Republic of Kazakhstan Mr Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Alongside IJF President Mr Marius Vizer.
The -73kg final saw 2023 world champion Nils Stump of Switzerland up against Karbek Naguchev of the UAE.
With seconds to go, Stump executed his signature technique, uchi-mata, getting a score, and then holding out for the win.
IJF General Treasurer Mr Naser AL TAMIMI was on hand to award the medals.
We asked Stump what it was like to fight in Kazakhstan.
In the -63kg category Melkia AUCHECORNE of France earned victory in a hard fought contest.
She was awarded her medal by IJF Guest Mr Elliot MOSHOKE.
At -70kg Giorgia STANGHERLIN of Italy competed in her first Grand Slam final against Yingying FENG of China.
STANGHERLIN beautifully countered her opponent's attack, landing her in the perfect position to finish the fight with a hold down.
The medals were awarded by CIFP Secretary General The Honorable Sunil Sabharwal.
The -81kg saw Japanese 2x Olympic champion NAGASE Takanori looking to even the score against Lee Joonhwan, with the Korean having a 2-1 lead in their head to head.
But it was LEE Who took the gold In spectacular fashion.
He was awarded his medal by IJF Development Commission Member Mr Khaled Barakat IBRAHIM.
The local fans were treated to an incredible day of judo with bronzes for both Yesset KUANOV and Abylaikhan ZHUBANAZAR.
The ippons kept coming from the home athletes, with a great mix of technically brilliant groundwork and eye-catching throws, the passionate crowd had plenty to celebrate!
It's been a memorable day of Judo from the middleweights. Join us tomorrow, for the final day in Astana, the heavyweights!
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer have started talks with Chinese officials, led by Vice Premier He Lifeng, in Geneva. The goal is to ease a trade dispute between the world's two largest economies, which could harm global markets.
Diplomats confirmed the talks had begun but did not disclose the location. However, a convoy of black cars was seen entering the residence of the Swiss ambassador to the UN. A diplomatic source speaking anonymously said the two sides met for two hours before going to a pre-arranged lunch.
Hopes for a major breakthrough are low, but both countries may agree to reduce the high tariffs they have imposed on each other's goods. Last month, US President Donald Trump raised tariffs on Chinese products to 145%, and China retaliated with a 125% levy on American imports.
Before the talks, Trump suggested the US could lower tariffs, posting on social media, "80% Tariff seems right! Up to Scott."
Sun Yun, a China expert at the Stimson Centre, said this is the first direct meeting between Bessent and He Lifeng, but she doubts it will lead to significant outcomes.
Sun Yun noted 'The best scenario is for the two sides to agree to de-escalate on the ... tariffs at the same time,' she said, adding even a small reduction would send a positive signal. 'It cannot just be words.'
Since Trump's return to the White House, he has aggressively used tariffs as his favourite economic weapon. For example, almost every country in the world has been hit by a 10% tax on imports.
The trade dispute began in Trump's first term when the US alleged that China uses unfair methods to gain an advantage in advanced technologies. This included forcing US and foreign companies to share trade secrets, using government funds to support domestic firms, and stealing technology.
In 2020, the two countries signed a 'Phase One' agreement, where the US paused further tariff increases, and China agreed to buy more American goods. But China did not fully meet those purchase promises, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The US trade deficit with China reached €233 billion last year. Trump has used tariffs as a key trade tool, not only against China but also against other countries.
In Switzerland, Bessent and Greer also met Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter. Trump recently suspended a plan to impose a 31% tariff on Swiss goods, currently maintaining a 10% rate. Switzerland is worried about the impact on its key industries, including watches, coffee capsules, cheese, and chocolate.
The Swiss government said it is not planning to retaliate against US tariffs for now, noting that 99% of American goods can enter Switzerland duty-free following a tariff cut last year.
