TikTok's revenue in the U.S. reached $16 billion last year, highlighting the importance of the American market for the Chinese video-sharing app. China is quietly pushing for decoupling in the semiconductor industry, urging domestic car manufacturers like BYD and Geely to use more locally produced chips. The Russian presidential election is underway with President Vladimir Putin's victory seen as a foregone conclusion due to the suppression of opposition. Vietnam calls on China to respect international law after Beijing announces baselines for the northern part of the Gulf of Tonkin. Chinese electric vehicle companies are considering setting up factories overseas to avoid export frictions. A rare protest by China's official journalists' association follows obstruction of reporters at the site of a restaurant explosion in Yanjiao. President Biden's proposed defense budget for the fiscal year 2025 includes $895.2 billion, with provisions for military aid to Taiwan. The Vatican clarifies Pope Francis' comments on Ukraine, emphasizing Russia as the aggressor. Taiwan's Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim makes a low-profile visit to Washington before taking office. Taiwan achieves a breakthrough in the development of vehicle-mounted laser cannons to counter Chinese drone threats. Taiwanese businesses in mainland China face challenges and are pessimistic about future prospects due to geopolitical conflicts and economic downturns. North Korean Deputy Foreign Minister Pak Myong Ho's rare visit to Mongolia marks Pyongyang's expanded diplomatic engagement post-pandemic. Exiled Tibetans in India protest to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Tibetan uprising. Chinese Nobel laureate Mo Yan faces nationalist online attacks, with no public support from fellow writers. Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC) denies security risks of its port cranes amid U.S. concerns. The U.S. military constructs a floating dock in Gaza to establish a maritime aid corridor after a failed airdrop results in casualties.