Chinese commerce minister reaffirms openness while meeting Apple CEO

Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao has met with Apple CEO Tim Cook and expressed hope that the American company will maintain firm confidence in China and share development opportunities.

China's commerce ministry says it will support more tourism services, international sporting events, and zones for performing arts.

Iranian media say U.S. and Israeli strikes have killed Islamic Revolutionary Guard spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini.

China's second domestically built large cruise ship has undocked in Shanghai, moving a step closer to trial voyages and final delivery as the country expands its push into the cruise tourism market. Adora Flora City has moved into the pier-side testing phase.

The International Energy Agency says initial volumes of oil from emergency reserves have already been available to the market, following an agreement by its member countries to release oil from stockpiles.

The European Central Bank has kept key interest rates unchanged as heightened geopolitical tensions weigh on the outlook of inflation and economy in the euro area.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi says China and the UK should commit to safeguarding the principles of the United Nations Charter and the basic norms of international relations, and protecting the foundation of world peace from damage.

Analysts warn that the world is facing its worst supply disruption after Iran's restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Major producers like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have been forced to halt shipments and shut down a significant portion of their production.

Thailand's new parliament has re-elected Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister.

The sixth China International Consumer Products Expo will open in Haikou in mid-April. It marks the first edition of the event since the Hainan Free Trade Port fully launched island-wide special customs operations.