US–China Summit: Xi Jinping’s first Washington state visit in 11 years opened with Trump praising a “great friendship” and calling China’s press “friendliest,” even as the White House faced fresh press-access fights and reporters reported chaotic scenes with the Chinese delegation. Trade & Tech: Leaders signaled a continuation of the US-China trade truce into January while AI and chip restrictions stayed on the agenda, with Xi urging “strategic stability” and cooperation on AI. Press Freedom Clash: A US judge ordered CNN, MS NOW and Politico back into the White House after Trump’s ban was challenged as likely unconstitutional due process. India Politics: India’s Election Commission controversy deepened as Rahul Gandhi renewed calls for the CEC chief’s resignation and opposition lawmakers moved toward impeachment efforts. India–China Ties (Sector-by-Sector): A new read of the relationship points to limited regulatory easing for Chinese firms in select power equipment, while sensitive sectors like telecom and digital platforms remain restricted. Malaysia–China & ASEAN: Malaysia’s Anwar highlighted closer Malaysia-China digital and trade cooperation, including ECRL extension talks, while ASEAN-China media cooperation events underscored people-to-people ties. Pacific Governance: American Samoa rejected deep-sea mining ahead of a US lease push, while Fiji and China reiterated climate resilience cooperation. Regional Watch: Japan signaled interest in more Canadian energy as it seeks predictability amid North American trade negotiations.