Asia Daily: April 9, 2025

China

Beijing signals determination to defend currency after offshore yuan tumbles to record low. China’s central bank set the yuan’s daily reference rate only slightly lower despite the offshore yuan falling to 7.4290 per U.S. dollar, a record low, signaling a commitment to currency stability amid rising U.S. tariffs. Analysts said the move aims to manage sentiment and avoid devaluation. The People’s Bank of China has widened the yuan’s trading band and reaffirmed its focus on preventing exchange rate overshooting, while officials anticipate further flexibility if trade tensions escalate. Ji Siqi, South China Morning Post, April 9

U.S. intelligence agency warns China is trying to recruit government employees. The U.S. National Counterintelligence and Security Center warned that Chinese intelligence operatives are using deceptive tactics, such as posing as consulting firms and think tanks on professional networking sites, to target current and former federal employees. The alert comes amid widespread layoffs led by the Department of Government of Efficiency under Elon Musk. The Chinese embassy declined to comment. Jasper Ward and Stephen Coates, Reuters, April 9

Anti-graft chief stresses high-quality disciplinary inspection for Chinese modernization. Li Xi, China’s top anti-corruption official and member of the CPC Politburo Standing Committee, emphasized the importance of rigorous, problem-oriented disciplinary inspections to support the country’s modernization goals. Speaking at a national meeting, he outlined that the fifth round of inspections under the 20th CPC Central Committee will target provincial-level regions, focusing on political alignment with the central leadership’s strategic directives. Xinhua, April 8

Japan

George Glass confirmed as U.S. ambassador to Japan. The U.S. Senate confirmed George Glass as ambassador to Japan in a 66–32 vote. A major donor to President Trump and former envoy to Portugal, Glass pledged to press Japan on trade access and defense spending. He called Japan the U.S.’s most important ally and supports missile co-production and higher cost-sharing for U.S. troops. Though lacking deep ties to Japan, his family resides there. Glass emphasized leveraging his business experience to advance strategic goals. Kyodo News, April 9

Japan's Lower House passes active cyber defense bill. Japan’s House of Representatives approved an active cyber defense bill that would allow authorities to collect and analyze communications metadata to detect and neutralize potential cyber threats, even during peacetime. Revised to safeguard constitutional protections for communication secrecy, the bill excludes content monitoring and limits surveillance to technical data. It establishes oversight under the Cabinet Office and penalties for data mishandling. The Japan Times, April 8

Japan PM close aide Akazawa to take charge of tariff talks with U.S. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba appointed Economic Policy Minister Ryosei Akazawa to lead negotiations with the United States over impending reciprocal tariffs, including a planned 24% levy on Japanese imports. The move follows a phone call between Ishiba and President Trump agreeing to ministerial-level talks. Ishiba also launched a government task force to assess tariff impacts and explore economic relief options. Kyodo News, April 8

South Korea

S. Korea's acting president says will not join hands with China, Japan to fight Trump tariffs: CNN. Acting President Han Duck-soo stated in a CNN interview that South Korea will not align with China or Japan to counter U.S. tariffs, preferring to resolve the issue through direct negotiations with Washington. Han emphasized the strength of the bilateral alliance and expressed concern over the 25% tariff set to take effect, calling for a measured and strategic response. He confirmed active diplomatic efforts, including high-level talks in Washington. Kim Seung-yeon and Song Sang-ho, Yonhap News Agency, April 9

DP leader Lee resigns from party chairmanship to run for president. Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung resigned from his post on Wednesday to launch a presidential campaign for the June 3 election, following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Lee, previously defeated by Yoon in 2022, is widely viewed as a leading candidate despite ongoing controversies, including a high-profile land development scandal in Seongnam. The DP is expected to formally announce his candidacy as early as Thursday. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, April 9

Over 10 conservative candidates likely to join South Korea's presidential race. More than 10 conservative politicians are expected to compete in South Korea’s presidential primary following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol over his martial law declaration. Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo officially announced his candidacy, proposing constitutional and economic reforms. Labor Minister Kim Moon-soo also resigned to enter the race and leads PPP candidates in recent polls. Other contenders include Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo and several former and current lawmakers. Bahk Eun-ji, The Korea Times, April 8

North Korea

South Korea’s military fires warning shots after North Korean soldiers cross the border. South Korea fired warning shots after about 10 armed North Korean soldiers briefly crossed the military demarcation line in the eastern Demilitarized Zone before retreating. No casualties occurred, and North Korea did not return fire. Officials suspect the crossing may have been unintentional during patrol or fortification work. Tensions remain high amid stalled diplomacy, with North Korea aligning with Russia and rejecting U.S. overtures. Hyung-Jin Kim and Kim Tong-hyung, Associated Press, April 8

N.K. leader's sister slams S. Korea-U.S.-Japan pledge to denuclearize North as 'most hostile act'. Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, condemned a trilateral commitment by South Korea, the United States, and Japan to denuclearize the North, calling it the "most hostile act" and rejecting any change to the regime’s nuclear stance. She asserted that nuclear armament is an irreversible reality shaped by external threats and labeled denuclearization efforts as a denial of North Korea’s sovereignty. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, April 9

Thailand

Concerns on academic freedom voiced as US lecturer charged with lese majeste. The lese majeste charge against U.S. scholar Paul Chambers has raised alarms over academic freedom in Thailand, particularly in fields related to military and political studies. Chambers, a lecturer at Naresuan University, was charged by the Royal Thai Army’s Third Army Region under Article 112 and the Computer Crime Act. He was denied bail and taken to court without a prior summons. The Nation, April 8

Thaksin predicts economic recovery, Pheu Thai pledges forward on entertainment complex bill. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra expressed confidence in Thailand’s economic rebound by 2026 and urged party members to stay resilient amid ongoing challenges. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reaffirmed Pheu Thai’s commitment to the Entertainment Complex Bill, defending it against public criticism and clarifying its scope beyond legalized gambling. She stressed the party’s intent to strengthen communication and legislative efforts. The Nation, April 8

Myanmar

Myanmar junta’s aerial attacks continue, despite post-quake ceasefire. Myanmar’s military has persisted with drone and airstrikes in resistance-held areas despite a declared ceasefire following a devastating March 28 earthquake. Aerial assaults hit villages in Ayeyarwady Region’s Lemyethna Township, killing civilians and livestock and displacing over 2,000 residents. The junta delayed its ceasefire announcement until April 1, days after opposition groups halted fighting. Myanmar Now, April 8

UN sees ‘significant slowdown’ in Myanmar fighting since truce. The United Nations reports a notable decline in hostilities in Myanmar since a temporary ceasefire was declared following the March 28 earthquake, though sporadic military actions continue. UNDP representative Titon Mitra said access to urban and junta-controlled areas has improved, but full humanitarian access remains uncertain. He warned of critical health and sanitation issues, compounded by pre-existing poverty, describing the quake as Myanmar’s second most devastating disaster since 1900. The Irrawaddy, April 9

Philippines

PH Coast Guard official's 'reckless, baseless' claims on South China Sea refuted. Political analyst Anna Malindog-Uy rebuked Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela for labeling her part of a disinformation network during a House hearing, calling the accusations vague and unsubstantiated. Malindog-Uy, a columnist and scholar, argued that her critical views on South China Sea policy stem from rigorous analysis, not propaganda. She warned that such attacks threaten democratic discourse and challenged officials to engage with her published work. Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, April 9

Duterte lawyer wants to limit proof of identity of drug war victims. Former president Rodrigo Duterte’s defense counsel at the International Criminal Court, led by Nicholas Kaufman, proposed restricting valid identification for victims to national IDs or Philippine passports to avoid misidentification and streamline proceedings. The ICC Registry had recommended accepting broader forms of ID due to delays in national ID distribution, but the defense opposed this, also rejecting a plan for interim legal representation, warning it could delay trial progress. Javier Joe Ismael, The Manila Times, April 9

Indonesia

Indonesia plans policy moves to counter U.S. tariff impact. Indonesia is preparing measures to support sectors affected by new U.S. tariffs, focusing on labor-intensive industries such as textiles, footwear, and palm oil. The government, led by National Economic Council Chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, aims to negotiate the 32% tariff and is organizing a delegation to meet U.S. officials on April 17. Strategies include deregulation, counter-cyclical policies, and advancing trade agreements to boost competitiveness and market access. ANTARA News, April 8

Prabowo goes on Middle East tour for Gaza talks. President Prabowo Subianto has begun a diplomatic mission across the Middle East to discuss the Gaza crisis, with scheduled meetings in the UAE, Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, and Jordan. Emphasizing Indonesia’s readiness to aid peace efforts, Prabowo cited the nation’s non-aligned stance and its role as the world's most populous Muslim-majority country. He pledged more humanitarian support and expressed willingness to host injured Gazans and orphans temporarily. Jakarta Globe, April 9

Malaysia

Any negotiations will put M'sia's interests first, says Tengku Zafrul ahead of US trip for talks. Malaysian Trade Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz stated that any negotiations on U.S. tariffs would prioritize national interests as he prepares for discussions in the United States. Speaking during the Asean Investment Conference, he noted the ministry's team had already initiated work and emphasized Asean's need for consensus on a collective response. He also highlighted efforts to strengthen regional trade and plans to increase economic ties with China during President Xi Jinping’s expected visit. Ragananthini Vethasala and Syazwani Hasnizam, The Star, April 8

Furniture shipments to US put on hold for now. Malaysian furniture exporters have paused shipments to the United States following the imposition of a 24% tariff, citing market uncertainty and order suspensions by American clients. The tariff, effective April 9, has led to concerns over cost absorption and competitiveness. Industry leaders are urging government negotiations to reduce the rate. The U.S. is Malaysia’s largest furniture market, accounting for 60% of exports. Discussions are ongoing with relevant ministries to assess and mitigate the impact. Khoo Gek San, The Star, April 8

Singapore

Trump tariffs: PSP calls for Singapore to seek new trade deal with US, work to 'address concerns'. The Progress Singapore Party urged the government to pursue a new trade agreement with the United States in light of the recent tariffs announced by President Donald Trump. PSP secretary-general Leong Mun Wai emphasized the need for policy adjustments or strategic investments and cautioned that the tariffs signal a shift from the post-war free trade order. Channel News Asia, April 9

Kazakhstan

Kazakh president receives Knesset speaker Amir Ohana. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Israeli Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana in Astana to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in water management using Israeli technologies. Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan’s openness to partnerships, while Ohana affirmed Israel’s commitment to deepening ties. The visit precedes a planned trip by Israeli President Isaac Herzog later this year, further underlining strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. Zhanna Nurmaganbetova, Kazinform, April 8

Tourism should become a new point of economic growth, says PM Bektenov. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov emphasized Kazakhstan’s aim to develop tourism into a key driver of economic growth. In 2024, domestic tourism reached 10.5 million people, while over 15 million foreign visitors entered the country. Major infrastructure projects are underway, including ski resorts, theme parks, and airport expansions. The government is also facilitating agro-tourism, simplifying migration procedures, and launching initiatives like the Silk Road tourist train. Bektenov pledged full support to investors in the sector. Adlet Seilkhanov, Kazinform, April 8

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan plans to boost pharmaceutical exports to Afghanistan, targeting $50M by year-end. Uzbekistan aims to increase its pharmaceutical exports to Afghanistan to over $50 million by the end of 2025, following talks between Uzbek and Afghan officials. Afghanistan has agreed to shorten the registration process for Uzbek medicines from six months to one, while also introducing a simplified import authorization. Additional initiatives include training Afghan dental professionals in Termiz and opening new clinics. Kun Uz , April 8

Uzbekistan and Vietnam discuss introduction of a visa-free regime. Uzbekistan and Vietnam are considering a visa-free travel agreement to enhance bilateral cooperation, following a business roundtable attended by senior officials from both countries. Talks focused on expanding tourism, cultural exchange, and joint economic projects. Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev and National Assembly Chairman Chan Thanh Man led discussions, with follow-up meetings exploring collaboration with Vietnamese tourism and airline leaders. Uzbekistan Daily, April 8

Tajikistan

Russian and Tajik military forces practice elimination of border breaches. Joint anti-terrorist exercises between Russia and Tajikistan began at the Harb-Maidon training ground near the Afghan border, running from April 7 to 11. Troops are simulating the elimination of illegal armed groups and defending state borders in mountainous terrain. Russia's 201st Military Base contributes key personnel, including mountain, tank, artillery, and aviation units, along with drone and electronic warfare teams. This base remains Russia’s largest foreign military installation. Asia-Plus, April 8

Turkmenistan

U.N. calls on Turkmenistan to probe suspected poisoning of journalist Soltan Achilova. The U.N. has urged Turkmenistan to investigate the alleged poisoning of journalist and human rights activist Soltan Achilova and her daughter in November 2024. U.N. Special Rapporteur Mary Lawlor cited forced hospitalization, denial of basic needs, and longstanding harassment as grave violations. Achilova, one of the country's last independent journalists, has faced years of intimidation, including surveillance, travel bans, and property damage. Vagit Ismailov, The Times of Central Asia, April 8

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to recognize each other’s driver's licenses. Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have signed an agreement allowing mutual recognition and exchange of national driver’s licenses without requiring theoretical or practical exams. Eligible citizens must hold a valid license, a residence permit, and provide a translated copy of the license. Authorities may verify license authenticity and can return the original license upon issuance of the host country’s license. Baktygul Osmonalieva, 24KG, April 9

Northeast Asia

How China Views South Korea’s Nuclear Debate. Chinese analysts are increasingly concerned about South Korea's growing interest in developing nuclear weapons, attributing this trend primarily to U.S. actions that, in their view, undermine the global nonproliferation regime. They argue that initiatives like the AUKUS agreement and the U.S. withdrawal from the INF Treaty have weakened nonproliferation efforts, indirectly fueling South Korea's nuclear ambitions. While acknowledging South Korea's security concerns regarding North Korea, Chinese scholars believe that U.S. military pressure on Pyongyang has exacerbated these tensions. They assess the likelihood of South Korea developing nuclear weapons as low, citing U.S. extended deterrence as a constraint and anticipating international sanctions similar to those imposed on Iran or North Korea if Seoul were to pursue nuclear armament. However, some Chinese analysts may underestimate South Korea's agency and the influence of its public opinion on strategic decisions. They also express concern over increased U.S. extended deterrence measures, such as the deployment of strategic bombers and nuclear-armed submarines to South Korea, viewing them as threats not only to North Korea but also to China. Additionally, the potential formation of a trilateral alliance among the U.S., South Korea, and Japan is seen as a move toward an "Asian NATO" aimed at countering China. Chinese strategists are particularly wary of U.S. policies that could increase the likelihood of South Korean nuclearization, recalling their reaction to the 2016 THAAD deployment, which led to economic sanctions against South Korea. They caution that similar measures improving South Korea's nuclear capabilities could provoke comparable responses from Beijing. Sungmin Cho, CSIS, April 8

Taiwan’s Youth Are Not Defeatist — and The Data Proves It. Contrary to claims based on unscientific online polls, rigorous academic surveys reveal that a significant majority of Taiwanese citizens, including those under 30, are willing to defend their country in the event of a Chinese invasion. Between 1998 and 2012, the World Values Survey reported that 84 to 86% of respondents were prepared to fight for Taiwan, with 77% still expressing this sentiment in 2019. Subsequent studies, such as the 2020 Taiwan Social Image Survey and the 2021 China Impact Survey by Academia Sinica, found willingness levels at 77% and 81%, respectively. Surveys conducted by the Institute for National Defense and Security Research between 2021 and 2024 consistently showed 74 to 81% readiness to resist aggression. Among individuals aged 18 to 30, willingness to fight ranged from 53 to 88%. These findings challenge narratives suggesting Taiwanese youth are apathetic or defeatist, showing their commitment to national defense and the preservation of democratic values. Misrepresenting this resolve could undermine international support and embolden adversaries by underestimating Taiwan's societal resilience. Wen-Chin Wu and Hsin-Hsin Pan, The Diplomat, April 9

What Beijing's Multipolar World Means for Ukraine and Europe. China envisions a multipolar global order where Europe functions as an independent power center, distinct from U.S. influence. This perspective frames the Ukraine conflict as a consequence of U.S. hegemony, attributing tensions to NATO's eastward expansion. Beijing's refusal to condemn Russia's actions aligns with its longstanding opposition to NATO enlargement, viewing it as a threat to regional stability. While China officially maintains neutrality, it subtly supports Russia's stance, complicating Europe's security landscape. As potential peace talks approach, understanding China's strategic objectives is crucial for Europe and Ukraine in navigating the evolving geopolitical environment. Vida Macikenaite, China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe, April 8

Southeast Asia

Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing sets the groundwork for a possible political exit. Myanmar’s military chief Min Aung Hlaing has initiated a sweeping military and cabinet reshuffle, echoing the strategy of former leader Than Shwe before his political exit in 2010. By promoting younger officers like Lieutenant General Kyaw Swar Lin—who lacks combat experience but holds key administrative roles—to high-ranking positions, and reassigning senior commanders to administrative posts, Min Aung Hlaing appears to be shaping a succession plan. Elevating hardline figures such as Lieutenant General Ko Ko Oo and Major General Than Htike, both implicated in war crimes, signals an effort to consolidate loyalty. However, unlike Than Shwe’s era, the military now faces unprecedented battlefield losses and a powerful, organized resistance, notably following Operation 1027. The junta’s inability to collect census data across more than half of Myanmar in 2024 demonstrates its diminishing control. Without comprehensive ceasefires or popular acquiescence, Min Aung Hlaing may not be able to dictate a controlled transition. His apparent strategy of eliminating rivals, empowering loyalists, and replicating Than Shwe’s exit playbook is constrained by the current volatile political and military landscape. Naing Min Khant, East Asia Forum, April 9

Making the EU a Credible Economic Hedge for ASEAN. The European Union (EU) is recognized by 36.3% of ASEAN respondents as the preferred strategic partner to hedge against U.S.-China rivalry uncertainties. Despite this, only 2.6% view the EU as the most influential economic power in the region. The EU ranks as ASEAN's third-largest trading partner, accounting for 8% of total trade, with large export shares to Cambodia (13.8%), Vietnam (12.3%), and the Philippines (11.2%). Currently, the EU has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Singapore (2019) and Vietnam (2020) and is pursuing bilateral FTAs with Thailand and Malaysia. While an EU-ASEAN FTA is a long-term goal, bilateral agreements are seen as more pragmatic in the short term. The EU emphasizes areas like intellectual property rights and movement of capital in its FTAs, tailoring approaches to each ASEAN member state's unique conditions. This strategy reflects the EU's commitment to create deeper economic engagement and partnerships with ASEAN nations. Kristina Fong Siew Leng, Fulcrum, April 9

Prayer and Prejudice: Marginalisation of Malaysian Hindus. On March 4, 2025, three Muslim hosts from Malaysia's Era FM posted a video allegedly mocking the Hindu kavadi ritual, chanting "Vel Vel" while laughing and jumping around. Their parent company, Maestra Broadcast, was fined RM250,000 (US$55,700) under Section 233 of the Communication and Multimedia Act 1998. The case is pending a decision from the Attorney General’s Chambers following an investigation prompted by 73 police reports within two days. The following day, independent Muslim preacher Zamri Vinoth likened Hindus chanting "Vel Vel" during the Thaipusam festival to being "possessed and drunk on toddy," leading to 894 police reports against him for insulting the Hindu community. Despite his history of making derogatory remarks about non-Muslims, authorities have been slow to act, reinforcing perceptions of double standards favoring the Muslim majority. This inaction has drawn criticism from political figures and civil society activists, who warn of potential public unrest if such prejudicial incidents continue unaddressed. Sharifah Afra Alatas, Fulcrum, April 8

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