Xi-Putin call; Rare earths and the EU; Opening exit paths for tech firms; TikTaco

Summary of today’s Essential Eight:

1. Xi talks with Putin about Israel-Iran - According to the readout of the call Xi did not say “Israel's attack on Iran violated international law and norms governing international relations, infringed upon Iran's sovereignty and security, and undermined regional peace and stability”, as Wang Yi did in a call with the Foreign Minister of Oman. Xi told Putin:

the current situation in the Middle East is very critical, which further confirms that the world is entering a new period of turbulence and transformation. If the conflict further escalates, not only will both sides of the conflict suffer greater losses, but regional countries will also be severely affected. In response to the current situation, I propose four points

His four points:

First, promoting a ceasefire and cessation of hostilities is the most urgent task. Using force is not the correct way to resolve international disputes, as it only exacerbates hatred and conflict. The parties to the con…