News
China's top diplomat Wang Yi to push Belt and Road during visits to Indonesia, Cambodia, and Papua New Guinea. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi will promote the Belt and Road Initiative in his upcoming visits to Indonesia, Cambodia, and Papua New Guinea, focusing on high-quality projects and strengthening strategic cooperation. This diplomatic effort aims to bolster economic and infrastructural ties amid increasing regional competition with the United States. Liu Zhen, South China Morning Post, April 16
PH-US-Japan triad distorting WPS security. The security scenario in the West Philippine Sea is being altered by the tripartite defense cooperation between the Philippines, the US, and Japan, as stated by Herman Tiu Laurel of the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute. This collaboration, involving joint maritime patrols with Japan, is pointed out as a factor in increasing regional tensions with China. Laurel described the three-way defense cooperation as “a dangerous escalation that must be watched." Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, April 17
Malaysia PM Anwar calls Iran’s drone attack on Israel ‘legitimate’. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim labeled Iran's recent drone attack on Israel as "legitimate," attributing it to Israel's earlier bombing of the Iranian embassy in Syria. Anwar emphasized that such actions are reactions to violations of international law. He stressed the negative impacts of the conflict on global peace and economy and announced plans for a Cabinet meeting to discuss further steps. Channel News Asia, April 16
US tariffs review on over $300 billion of Chinese imports nears completion, says trade envoy. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced that the review of tariffs on over $300 billion worth of Chinese imports is nearing completion. The review, a significant part of the Biden administration's strategy, aims to address economic inequities and maintain the integrity of supply chains impacted by China's policies. The results are expected to profoundly influence U.S.-China trade dynamics. Khushboo Razdan, South China Morning Post, April 16
Japan's security environment at its 'most severe and complex,' policy report says. Japan’s Diplomatic Bluebook for 2024 outlines the country's critical security concerns, emphasizing the heightened challenges from China, North Korea, and Russia. The report highlights the complexities in the region, including North Korea’s missile advancements and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Japan stresses the necessity for strategic and coordinated responses to these challenges, reflecting the tense geopolitical landscape in East Asia. Jesse Johnson, The Japan Times, April 16
U.S. 'incredibly concerned' about suspected N.K.-Iran military ties. The U.S. has expressed significant concern over potential military collaboration between North Korea and Iran, particularly regarding nuclear and ballistic missile programs. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller and Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder emphasized the seriousness of these allegations during separate briefings. Both highlighted the strategic alliances in the Indo-Pacific and the ironclad defense commitment to regional allies, underscoring the gravity of these concerns. Song Sang-ho, Yonhap News Agency, April 17
Kazakhstan President signs landmark legislation on domestic violence. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan has signed new legislation aimed at bolstering protection for women and children against violence. This includes introducing criminal penalties for domestic violence and enhancing protective measures. The laws represent significant progress in legal protections and are part of broader efforts to ensure safety and equality. The legislation was heavily influenced by public and civil advocacy, reflecting a strong societal push for change. The Times of Central Asia, The Times of Central Asia, April 16
Japan urges Iran, Israel to exercise restraint amid mounting tensions. Japan's Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa has called for Iran and Israel to exercise restraint following Tehran's recent missile and drone attack on Israel. During phone talks with her counterparts, Kamikawa emphasized the need for de-escalation and condemned the attack, highlighting its potential to severely disrupt regional and global stability. The Japanese government continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for peaceful resolution and stability in the region. Kyodo News, April 16
Washington nixes Guam and American Samoa’s bid for PIF membership. The U.S. State Department has rejected Guam and American Samoa's applications for membership in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), citing constitutional restrictions on U.S. territories participating independently in foreign policy-making bodies. This decision is influenced by the political and foreign policy nature of the PIF, asserting that the federal government must represent the U.S. with one voice internationally. The stance reaffirms the existing policy of limiting territorial self-representation in international affairs. PINA, April 16
Foreign minister Joseph Wu to lead NSC. Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen announced that Foreign Minister Joseph Wu will lead the National Security Council, with Lin Chia-lung set to become the new Foreign Minister after May 20. This leadership reshuffle aligns with Taiwan's strategic planning ahead of president-elect William Lai's inauguration. The announcement was made during a reception of a New Zealand parliamentary delegation in Taipei. Chen Yun and Kayleigh Madjar, Taipei Times, April 16
KNLA and allies repel Myanmar junta troops trying to reach Myawaddy. The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and its allies have repelled a significant Myanmar junta troop advancement towards Myawaddy. Over 1,000 junta troops faced strong resistance while attempting to cross the Dawna Hills, resulting in continued combat and setbacks for the junta forces. This ongoing conflict intensifies the security situation along the Thai-Myanmar border, impacting the region's stability. Saw Reh, Myanmar Now, April 16
PM makes senior military officer changes in 9 provinces. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has made significant changes to the military leadership across nine provinces, affecting both military and military police commanders. This reshuffle includes the termination of four provincial military commanders and the appointment of five senior military police officers as new commanders. These adjustments aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the armed forces, ensuring stability and security across Cambodia. Buth Reaksmey Kongkea, Khmer Times, April 16
Kyrgyz PM Zhaparov in U.S. for talks with energy investors. Kyrgyzstan's Prime Minister Akylbek Zhaparov is in the United States engaging with major global financial institutions and potential investors to advance Kyrgyzstan's energy sector. Discussions include significant investments in hydroelectric power, notably a $500 million loan for a new plant on the Naryn River, signaling major developments in sustainable energy. The Times of Central Asia, April 16
Long Form
In Central Asia, Iran has friends. Despite Iran's tense relationships with many of its neighbors and the broader international community, it has managed to cultivate and maintain positive relations with Central Asian nations. From being one of the first countries to recognize the independence of various Central Asian states post-Soviet Union, Iran has seen its diplomatic and economic ties with these countries grow significantly in recent years. Recent visits by Central Asian presidents to Iran underline this warmth, with discussions often revolving around economic cooperation, especially in energy and transport sectors. Central Asian countries are leveraging Iran's strategic position for energy transit and access to broader markets, indicating a pragmatic approach to their foreign policy that prioritizes economic interests and regional connectivity over geopolitical conflicts.
, , April 16Vietnam’s Biggest Graft Case Spreads Abroad. Vietnam's most significant graft scandal has taken an international turn as authorities seek the overseas assets of Truong My Lan and her husband, Eric Chu Nap-kee, in places like Hong Kong. Truong, a 67-year-old businesswoman, was recently sentenced to death for her role in embezzling US$12.5 billion from Saigon Commercial Bank, which is suspected to have caused losses up to US$27 billion. This case, one of the largest of its kind globally, also led to lengthy sentences for Truong's niece and other accomplices. The crackdown is part of a broader anti-corruption drive, known as the "fiery furnace" campaign, initiated in 2016 by the Vietnamese Communist Party to clean up corrupt elements within the party. Toh Han Shih,
, April 17The limits of renewed US-China counternarcotics cooperation. The resurgence of counternarcotics cooperation between the U.S. and China faces significant challenges despite recent diplomatic engagements. Since 2021, China has been reluctant to maintain robust law enforcement collaboration with the U.S., linking its counternarcotics efforts to broader geopolitical issues. This cooperation waned after 2019 when China ceased being the principal source of finished fentanyl for the U.S. market, transitioning instead to supplying precursor chemicals to Mexican cartels. The recent revival of cooperation follows intensive diplomatic efforts, but its effectiveness and sustainability remain in question as the U.S. still grapples with the deadliest drug epidemic in its history. Vanda Felbab-Brown, Brookings, April 16
Does Thailand’s Plan to Finance Its 500 Billion Baht Stimulus Make Sense Thailand's government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has proposed a substantial 500 billion baht ($13.6 billion) stimulus package to reinvigorate an economy lagging in its pandemic recovery. The plan involves a one-time cash handout of 10,000 baht per adult, delivered through a digital wallet, intended to boost consumer spending on goods and services. However, there are questions about the efficacy of this strategy and the government's ability to fund such a massive expenditure. The stimulus aims to jump-start growth by increasing domestic consumption, but its long-term financial sense and potential impact on Thailand’s economic stability remain uncertain. James Guild, The Diplomat, April 17
BJP Election Manifesto 2024 Focuses on Narendra Modi, Not the Party. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s election manifesto for 2024 has prominently featured Prime Minister Narendra Modi, branding it as "Modi ki Guarantee" rather than highlighting the party itself. Unveiled just days before India's multiphase election begins on April 19, 2024, the manifesto has been criticized by the opposition as a "jumla patra" or a document of false promises. The 69-page document is seen as an attempt to focus the electoral campaign on Modi's personal leadership, pushing the party into the background. Kavita Chowdhury, The Diplomat, April 17
Who Is Lawrence Wong, Singapore’s Next Prime Minister? Lawrence Wong, currently Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, is set to become Singapore's next Prime Minister. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced that he will step down on May 15, 2024, after nearly two decades in office, and pass the leadership to Wong. This transition marks a significant moment in Singapore's politics as Wong has received unanimous support from lawmakers within the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP). His appointment is seen as a continuation of the governance style and policies that have characterized Singapore under Lee, but also as an opportunity for new leadership approaches in facing the nation’s future challenges. Sebastian Strangio, The Diplomat April 17
Southeast Asia's plastic tidal wave: Imported trash swamps region. Southeast Asia is facing a severe environmental crisis due to the influx of plastic waste, primarily from developed countries. Since China's 2018 ban on plastic imports, Southeast Asia has become a primary dumping ground for international waste. This has exacerbated the region's existing waste management issues, with countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Thailand becoming major contributors to oceanic plastic pollution. The United Nations and environmental advocates highlight that this not only pollutes the environment but also involves low-risk, high-profit criminal activities that go largely unregulated. ASEAN countries, struggling to manage their domestic waste, are now burdened further by the global waste trade, which undermines efforts to maintain local environmental and public health standards. Dominic Faulder and Ismi Damayanti, Nikkei Asia, April 17
U.K. is committed to Indo-Pacific security and stability. The United Kingdom is intensifying its commitment to the Indo-Pacific region's security and stability, emphasizing economic and geopolitical security through strengthened relationships. Key highlights include joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and enhancing defense collaborations, notably with Japan, Australia, and South Korea. The U.K. aims to support free and fair trade while tackling protectionism and diversifying supply chains in critical areas like raw materials. Martin Kent and Mark Sedwill, Nikkei Asia, April 17
Nusantara can unlock Indonesia’s maritime potential. Indonesia's relocation of its capital to Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN) in East Kalimantan, initiated by President Joko Widodo and continued under Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is set to transform the region into a significant maritime hub. This move aims to shift the focus of economic and logistical development from Java to a more centrally located position within the archipelago, enhancing Indonesia’s stance in the Indo-Pacific. The development includes constructing major ports and capitalizing on IKN’s geographic placement to improve maritime logistics and defense. With enhanced security measures and international cooperation, especially in the trilateral maritime patrols, Indonesia is poised to secure vital maritime routes and encourage economic growth through increased regional connectivity and investment in local industries. Gilang Kembara, East Asia Forum, April 17
Prabowo bites off more than he can chew with free lunch promise. Indonesia’s President-elect Prabowo Subianto has promised a free lunch program for students as a flagship proposal, aimed at reducing the country's high child stunting rates. However, concerns about the feasibility and financial sustainability of this ambitious program have surfaced. The program, expected to cost about $30 billion, would consume a significant portion of the national budget, raising questions about opportunity costs and funding sources. Comparatively, India's successful implementation of a similar program highlights differences in cost-efficiency and food self-sufficiency that Indonesia currently lacks. The initiative also faces challenges due to Indonesia's inadequate food security and agricultural sustainability, potentially limiting the program’s effectiveness in combating malnutrition and stunting. Muhammad Rafi Bakri, East Asia Forum, April 17