Asia Daily: April 25, 2025
China
Kenyan President Vows Closer Ties to China During Visit Amid Trump’s Trade War. Kenyan President William Ruto pledged deeper engagement with China during a five-day visit to Beijing, focusing on shared interests amid rising U.S. tariffs. Ruto, previously aligned with the West, criticized Washington’s trade policies and warned they could dismantle the current global order. He praised China’s developmental model and its support for Kenya’s healthcare, education, and infrastructure, including a planned foreign ministry complex. President Xi Jinping affirmed China's commitment to strengthening relations and advancing South-South cooperation. The visit resulted in new bilateral agreements spanning security, technology, rail transport, and the opening of a Kenyan consulate in Guangzhou. Dake Kang, AP News, April 24
Spaceship Carrying 3 Chinese Astronauts Docks with Tiangong Space Station in Latest Crew Rotation. China launched the Shenzhou 20 spacecraft carrying three astronauts—Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie—who docked with the Tiangong space station on April 24 as part of the latest crew rotation. The mission supports China’s ambitions for future lunar and Mars exploration. The astronauts will remain on board for approximately six months, conducting scientific experiments and spacewalks. The Tiangong station, fully Chinese-built after exclusion from the ISS, is a key strategic asset. This launch continues China's steady advancement in space exploration since its first manned mission in 2003. Andy Wong, AP News, April 24
Hong Kong Allows Outspoken Cardinal Joseph Zen to Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral. Cardinal Joseph Zen, a prominent critic of Beijing and the Vatican’s China policy, has been granted permission by Hong Kong authorities to travel to Vatican City for Pope Francis’ funeral. The 93-year-old former bishop had to reclaim his passport through a court due to restrictions imposed after his 2022 arrest under China’s national security law. Though barred from voting in the conclave due to age, Zen continues to voice opposition to the Vatican’s deal with Beijing on bishop appointments, calling it a betrayal of loyal Catholics. He is expected to return to Hong Kong after the funeral. Kanis Leung, AP News, April 24
Multinationals Vow Big China Investments, Defying Tariffs and Bucking Wait-and-See Trend. Several multinational corporations are deepening their investments in China, defying global trade tensions and a cautious stance taken by many foreign firms. In a major move, Toyota signed a US$2 billion agreement to build a Lexus electric vehicle plant in Shanghai, marking one of the largest foreign direct investment announcements since the onset of U.S. tariffs. This contrasts with the broader hesitancy among international businesses amidst the escalating U.S.-China trade war. Frank Chen and Alice Li, South China Morning Post, April 25
US Scientists Given Access to Moon Rocks Brought Back by China’s Chang’e-5 Probe. China’s space agency announced it will share lunar samples from the Chang’e-5 mission with researchers in the United States, including Brown University and Stony Brook University. This marks a rare instance of U.S.-China scientific collaboration amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The U.S. institutions required special congressional approval to receive the moon rocks. Samples will also be shared with researchers in five other countries, showing China’s willingness to engage in international scientific partnerships despite strained diplomatic relations. Holly Chik, South China Morning Post, April 24
China Coastguard Claims ‘Sovereign Jurisdiction’ of Sandy Cay in South China Sea. The China Coast Guard landed on Sandy Cay, a contested reef in the South China Sea, to assert Beijing’s sovereignty over the territory, which is also claimed by the Philippines. Chinese media released images of coastguard officers raising a national flag on the uninhabited sand bank, known in China as Tiexian Jiao and in the Philippines as Pagasa Cay 2. The landing, reportedly occurring in mid-April, marks the latest act in the ongoing maritime dispute involving overlapping claims in the region. Zhenzhen Liu, South China Morning Post, April 25
Japan
Japan, U.S. Finance Chiefs Address Currency Policy Amid Tariff Talks. Japanese Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met in Washington to discuss currency matters alongside ongoing tariff negotiations. Both sides agreed that exchange rates should be determined by market dynamics and cautioned against harmful volatility. Kato reiterated Japan’s disapproval of U.S. tariffs, calling them “extremely regrettable,” while Bessent confirmed the U.S. has no currency targets. The meeting follows the Trump administration’s imposition of steep tariffs, including a 25 percent duty on Japanese automobiles, which remain in effect despite a temporary pause on new reciprocal tariffs. Japan maintains that trade and security discussions should remain separate. Takuya Karube, Kyodo News, April 24
South Korea
Ex-President Moon Indicted on Bribery Charge. Former South Korean President Moon Jae-in has been indicted without detention for bribery related to his former son-in-law's employment with Thai Eastar Jet. Prosecutors allege that Moon used his influence to secure the job for Seo, resulting in 220 million won (approx. $154,000) in salary and benefits, which they claim constituted a de facto bribe. The Jeonju District Prosecutor’s Office cited Supreme Court precedent in arguing that both parties could be held liable if the act was planned with shared intent. Moon’s legal team denied the allegations, accusing the prosecution of abuse of power. Lee Si-jin, The Korea Herald, April 24
S. Korea, U.S. Target July Deal on Tariffs and Economic Cooperation. South Korea and the United States agreed to pursue a "July package" aimed at resolving new U.S. tariffs and strengthening economic ties by July 8, when a 90-day tariff pause ends. The decision followed high-level trade talks in Washington involving Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and USTR Jamieson Greer. Future discussions will focus on tariffs, economic security, investment cooperation, and exchange rate policies. South Korea emphasized the need to account for domestic political timelines, including its June 3 presidential election. Bessent called the talks “very successful” and noted swift progress, with technical discussions expected to begin the following week. Ahn also outlined plans for shipbuilding cooperation, including investment and technology sharing. Song Sang-ho, Yonhap News, April 24
South Korean Truth Commission Halts Probe into Adoption Fraud, Hundreds of Cases in Limbo. South Korea’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission has suspended its investigation into foreign adoption fraud, leaving 311 of 367 filed cases unresolved. The halt follows internal disputes over evidence thresholds and political tensions within the nine-member panel, largely influenced by conservatives appointed by ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol. The commission confirmed only 56 cases of rights violations. The investigation revealed systemic manipulation of adoptees’ identities to facilitate international adoptions and reduce state welfare costs. A new commission may revisit the suspended cases, contingent on legislative action after the June 3 presidential election. Kim Tong-Hyung, AP News, April 24
Singapore
Don’t Inflame Sensitive Issues or Use Domestic Politics to Divide Singapore, PM Wong Urges. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, in his first rally as PAP leader, cautioned against exploiting sensitive issues or global conflicts for political gain. Speaking at Woodlands Stadium, he warned that stirring divisive sentiments could weaken the nation and urged opposition parties to uphold multiracial politics. PM Wong also highlighted the importance of integrity and competence among all candidates and acknowledged the changing political landscape with stronger opposition participation. He introduced new PAP candidates, praised retiring MPs, and reiterated his commitment to preparing Singapore for future challenges through team renewal and effective governance. Goh Yan Han, The Straits Times, April 24
GE2025: WP Has Been Stress-Tested and Is a ‘Force for Good’ in Times of Crisis, Says Pritam Singh. Workers’ Party chief Pritam Singh urged voters to support the WP, focusing on its proven role as a constructive opposition during national crises like the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking at a rally in Sengkang, Singh asserted that WP MPs provide rational, responsible debate in Parliament, challenging the ruling PAP’s policies while remaining loyal to Singapore. He criticized the GST hike and warned against political monopolies, advocating a more balanced system to hold the government accountable. Nadine Chua, The Straits Times, April 25
India
India PM Vows to Hunt Kashmir Attackers to 'Ends of the Earth'. Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged to pursue the perpetrators of a deadly shooting in Kashmir that left 26 civilians dead, accusing Pakistan of backing the assault. Indian authorities identified two of the three fugitive gunmen as Pakistani nationals linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba. The attack, which targeted tourists in Pahalgam, marks the most lethal civilian assault in the region in 25 years. In response, India suspended a water-sharing treaty, downgraded diplomatic ties, and closed its border with Pakistan. Pakistan rejected the accusations, expelling Indian diplomats and warning against interference with the Indus River. Tensions continue to rise amid fears of further escalation between the nuclear-armed rivals. Channel News Asia, April 24
Pakistan
India and Pakistan Cancel Visas Amid Rising Tensions After Kashmir Attack. India and Pakistan revoked visas for each other’s nationals following a deadly attack in Kashmir that killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists. India accused Pakistan of involvement and responded by suspending a long-standing water-sharing treaty, cutting diplomatic staff, and closing the Wagah border. Pakistan retaliated by closing its airspace to Indian airlines and halting trade. Both sides signaled potential military escalation, with India hinting at strikes and Pakistan vowing a full-spectrum response. The attack, claimed by a previously unknown group, ignited widespread protests and fear in Kashmir, threatening the region’s stability and tourism-dependent economy. Aijaz Hussain, Sheikh Saaliq, and Riazat Butt, AP News, April 24
Northeast Asia
China’s Manufacturing FDI in ASEAN Grew Rapidly, But Faces Tariff Headwinds. Chinese manufacturing foreign direct investment (FDI) in ASEAN surged following the U.S.-China trade war, with average annual investments climbing from $2.7 billion (2014–2017) to $10 billion (2022–2024). Key destinations included Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia, driven by cost advantages and tariff avoidance. Investment concentrated in autos, ICT, renewable energy, and consumer goods. However, recent increases in U.S. tariffs and scrutiny of transshipment risks pose challenges. Future Chinese FDI trends will depend on tariff differentials, U.S. pressure on ASEAN supply chains, and China’s domestic economic strength. Armand Meyer and Agatha Kratz, Rhodium Group, April 24
Citizens’ Assemblies Can Help Japan to Realise Effective Climate Action. Japan’s path to a carbon-neutral society requires deeper civic engagement, particularly through Climate Citizens’ Assemblies (CCAs). These forums, which began in Europe and are spreading across Japan, enable residents to contribute to climate policy discussions. While around 20 CCAs have been held—mainly in the Tokyo area—experts advocate expanding them nationally and beyond metropolitan zones. Recent initiatives, such as in Suginami Ward, show how local governments can integrate citizen input into green policies. Broadening participation, improving information access, and ensuring diverse representation are essential to embedding citizens’ voices in climate legislation and governance. Mikiko Kainuma, East Asia Forum, April 24
North Korea: Revisionist Ambitions and the Changing International Order. North Korea is aligning with other revisionist states in an "Axis of Upheaval" to challenge the liberal international order. Driven by ambitions beyond defense, Pyongyang seeks coercive and offensive capabilities—helped by partnerships with Russia and possibly Iran—to dominate the Korean Peninsula and secure regime survival. Kim Jong-un aims to position North Korea as a legitimate nuclear power while avoiding denuclearization, leveraging external support to embolden his military agenda. Diplomatic openings remain for the U.S. to pressure Beijing and Moscow to restrain Pyongyang. Sydney Seiler, CSIS, April 24
North Korean Leadership Transitions: A Strategic Revolving Door. North Korea’s recent elite reshuffling shows Kim Jong Un’s strategy to maintain regime stability, fight corruption, and adapt to geopolitical shifts. Key figures such as Ri Il Hwan and Jo Yong Won have disappeared from public view, likely due to disciplinary actions, while new leaders like Ri Hi Yong and Kim Jae Ryong are rising in prominence. Cabinet changes, including the appointment of Pak Thae Song as premier, show a pivot toward closer coordination with Russia. These moves aim to consolidate control, rebalance internal power, and position the regime to better deal with external challenges. 38 North, April 24
VOA/RFA Shutdown a Strategic Own Goal for US Indo-Pacific Policy. The Trump administration’s decision to defund Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Asia (RFA) undercuts U.S. soft power in the Indo-Pacific and hands authoritarian regimes a propaganda victory. These outlets have played a critical role in exposing abuses in China, North Korea, and Myanmar, providing rare independent journalism in closed media environments. Critics argue the move reflects political hostility toward press independence and may be influenced by figures like Elon Musk, whose business ties to China raise concerns. The shutdown threatens press freedom, endangers local journalists, and weakens U.S. credibility in promoting democratic values abroad. Victoria Jones, Geopolitical Monitor, April 25
Southeast Asia
The Philippines Navigates Shifting Political Currents in the South China Sea. Tensions between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea have increased amid a domestic political split between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Vice President Sara Duterte. Incidents such as a laser targeting by the China Coast Guard and a sailor's injury during a ramming in June 2024 have escalated maritime disputes. The rift has exposed conflicting foreign policy approaches, with Marcos rejecting a secret “gentleman’s agreement” Duterte allegedly made with Beijing. A new, more transparent “provisional agreement” was later reached to ease tensions around Second Thomas Shoal. As Manila balances diplomacy and sovereignty, political maneuvering around foreign relations is set to increase ahead of the 2028 presidential election. Hamish Brookes, East Asia Forum, April 25
US Aid Cuts and Travel Ban Will Impact Laos. The Trump administration’s decision to terminate 72% of USAID projects in Laos—worth $20.5 million—will significantly disrupt development initiatives, leaving only a maternal and child health program intact. Cancelled projects span vital sectors including anti-trafficking, disability support, and private sector development. Additionally, U.S. funding for unexploded ordnance clearance and dioxin-related health issues has been suspended, threatening key humanitarian efforts. Laos also faces potential inclusion on a U.S. visa “orange list,” which could sharply restrict travel for Laotian citizens. Coupled with a 48% reciprocal tariff on exports and global aid reductions, Laos may need to rethink its development strategy and seek new partners. Nick J. Freeman, Fulcrum, April 25