BEIJING – In the high-stakes arena of global power, numbers are just as important as military might. Population size and economic growth are the scorecards that tell the world who is winning. For decades, the China’s Communist Party (CCP) has presented a picture of unstoppable rise. They have claimed record-breaking economic growth and a massive […]

The post Behind the Curtain: Is China’s Economic and Population Data a Carefully Crafted Illusion? first appeared on Chiang Rai Times.

BEIJING – Amid swirling rumors of “Xi down, Cai up,” China’s ultimate insider has emerged from the shadows. But in the ruthless world of elite CCP politics, being the second most powerful man might be the most dangerous job of all. Beijing in May 2026 is a city of whispers. Behind the high red walls […]

The post The Gatekeeper’s Ascent: How Cai Qi Became China’s Most Talked About Figure first appeared on Chiang Rai Times.