China defence minister slams ‘hegemonic logic’ at Beijing forum
Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun denounced “hegemonic logic and acts of bullying” during remarks Thursday at a Beijing forum that were full of thinly veiled references to the United States.
Organisers say about 1,800 representatives from 100 countries, including political, military and academic leaders, are gathering in Beijing for the Xiangshan Forum, considered China’s answer to the annual Shangri-La meeting in Singapore.
The three-day event comes as China presents itself as a mediator of fraught global issues including ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza.
Addressing attendees at the opening ceremony on Thursday, Dong warned of “new threats and challenges” now facing world peace.
“While the themes of the times — peace and development — remain unchanged, the clouds of a Cold War mentality, hegemonism and protectionism have not lifted,” he said.
“Historical memory must serve as a constant warning to recognise and oppose hegemonic logic and acts of bullying that are disguised in a new form.”
Starbucks workers sue over company’s new dress code
Starbucks workers in three states took legal action against the coffee giant Wednesday, saying it violated the law when it changed its dress code but refused to reimburse employees who had to buy new clothes.
The employees, who are backed by the union organising Starbucks’ workers, filed class-action lawsuits in state court in Illinois and Colorado. Workers also filed complaints with California’s Labor and Workforce Development Agency. If the agency decides not to seek penalties against Starbucks, the workers intend to file a class-action lawsuit in California, according to the complaints.
Starbucks didn’t comment directly on the lawsuits Wednesday, but the company said it simplified its dress code to deliver a more consistent experience to customers and give its employees clearer guidance.
“As part of this change, and to ensure out partners were prepared, partners received two shirts at no cost,” the company said Wednesday. Starbucks refers to its employees as “partners.”
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