Asia Daily: August 14, 2024
News
China’s foreign minister meets with Myanmar’s military boss as civil war strains their relations. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Myanmar's military leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, amid rising concerns over Myanmar's civil war, which has seen the military suffer significant defeats. The visit highlights China's efforts to maintain stability in Myanmar, protect its investments, and ensure the safety of Chinese personnel. Analysts believe that China's relationship with Myanmar’s military leadership is increasingly strained due to the ongoing conflict. Grant Peck, AP News, August 14
Ombudsman sacks Guo. Alice Guo, the mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, has been dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman for misconduct, including illegal land reclassification and supporting Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) activities. The decision was approved by Ombudsman Samuel Martires. Vice Mayor Edwin Bacani will take over as mayor following Guo's removal. The Ombudsman is also reviewing related cases to determine further actions against other officials. Reina C. Tolentino, William B. Depasupil and Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, August 14
Kishida set to resign as Japan PM after withdrawing from LDP race. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced he will not run in the upcoming LDP presidential race, effectively ending his tenure as premier. His decision follows a slush funds scandal that significantly lowered his Cabinet's approval ratings. Kishida will continue serving as a rank-and-file LDP lawmaker. His resignation opens the door for new leadership, with several prominent LDP members, including Shigeru Ishiba and Taro Kono, expected to compete for the position. Satoshi Iizuka, Kyodo News, August 14
China changes tariff rules for Kazakh wheat, causing an export halt. Kazakhstan has suspended wheat exports to China following unexpected changes in China's tariff rules. The new regulations, which eliminated a previous exemption for wheat imports into the Xinjiang SEZ, have led to a halt in trade as Chinese traders face increased costs. This disruption, combined with an anticipated large wheat harvest in Kazakhstan, is causing wheat prices to drop, leaving Kazakh farmers with potential surpluses. Almaz Kumenov, Eurasianet, August 14
Shigeru Ishiba reaffirms intention to run in LDP leadership race. Former Japanese Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba confirmed his intention to run in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s presidential election in September, following Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s decision not to participate. Speaking in Taipei, Ishiba acknowledged the challenge of securing the required 20 endorsements from party lawmakers but expressed his willingness to run. This will be Ishiba's fifth attempt to lead the party, as he remains a popular candidate for prime minister among the public. Kyodo News, August 14
ADB grants $71 million for business reforms and HPP reconstruction in Tajikistan. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has provided Tajikistan with two grants totaling $71 million. A $50 million grant will focus on improving the business environment, including digitization, export promotion, and infrastructure management. The remaining $21 million will fund the replacement of a failed unit at the Head Hydropower Plant (HPP) in the Khatlon region, boosting the plant's capacity. These grants are part of ADB’s ongoing support for Tajikistan’s economic development. Sadokat Jalolova, The Times of Central Asia, August 14
Indian soldiers drill for counterinsurgency amid rise in rebel attacks in Kashmir. Indian soldiers along the Line of Control in Kashmir are intensifying counterinsurgency drills following a rise in militant attacks, particularly in southern Jammu. The recent surge in violence has led to the deaths of 14 soldiers and 12 civilians this year. In response, India has increased patrols, deployed additional troops, and enhanced surveillance with drones and helicopters. The conflict, ongoing since 1989, continues to claim lives amid tensions between India and Pakistan over the disputed region. Channi Anand, AP News, August 14
N. Korea slams Kishida's call for nuclear-free world. North Korea criticized Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's recent speech advocating for a nuclear-free world, accusing Japan of pretending to be a victim of nuclear arms. Kishida's remarks at the Hiroshima bombing memorial emphasized Japan's commitment to non-nuclear principles. North Korea, through its state media, claimed Japan harbors hidden ambitions to acquire nuclear weapons and criticized its involvement in the AUKUS security partnership. Kim Han-joo, Yonhap News Agency, August 14
Srettha dismissed as PM after court ruling. Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin for ethics violations related to appointing ex-convict Pichit Chuenban as a minister. The ruling has also terminated the positions of all cabinet members, although they will continue in a caretaker capacity. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is serving as acting prime minister until a new leader is selected by the House of Representatives. The Stock Exchange of Thailand experienced fluctuations following the court’s decision. Bangkok Post, August 14
Uzbekistan and UAE to build modern wastewater facility. Uzbekistan and the UAE's Sustainable Water Solutions (SWS) company are collaborating on a wastewater facility in Tashkent, with a daily capacity of 1 million cubic meters, expandable to 1.5 million. The project, estimated at $1 billion, will improve wastewater services for 1.5 million people and over 100 enterprises. It includes the construction of a 42-kilometer wastewater collector and the introduction of advanced data management systems to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Sadokat Jalolova, The Times of Central Asia, August 14
Laos faces USD 154 million trade deficit in July, seventh consecutive month of imbalance. Laos reported a trade deficit of USD 154 million in July 2024, marking the seventh consecutive month of imbalance. The country recorded a total trade volume of USD 1.220 billion, with imports totaling USD 687 million and exports at USD 533 million. Key exports included mixed gold, electrical appliances, and potassium salt, while primary imports were diesel fuel, mechanical equipment, and chemical products. The ongoing trade deficit highlights continuing economic challenges for the country. Phonethida Sitthixay, The Laotian Times, August 14
Chief of Malaysia’s Defence Force pays official visit to Việt Nam. General Tan Sri Dato' Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, Chief of Malaysia's Defence Force, made an official visit to Việt Nam, where he met with General Phan Văn Giang, Việt Nam's Minister of National Defence. The two leaders discussed strengthening military cooperation, focusing on defense ties, regional security, and joint training exercises. This visit is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the bilateral relationship between Malaysia and Việt Nam. Vietnam News, August 14
Myanmar junta driven from the birthplace of the Burmese Empire. Myanmar’s junta has lost control of Tagaung, the historic birthplace of the Burmese Empire, after a two-day battle with the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) under the civilian National Unity Government (NUG). The capture of Tagaung further disrupts the junta's supply routes from Mandalay to Kachin State. Resistance forces have also seized the China-backed Tagaung Taung nickel mine. The ongoing conflict in the region puts pressure on the junta's control in northern Mandalay. The Irrawaddy, August 14
Kazakhstan delivers oil to Europe via Russia. Kazakhstan has started exporting oil to Europe through the Druzhba pipeline via Russia, with the first shipments of 20,000 tons reaching Germany. The country plans to deliver up to 1.2 million tons of oil to Germany in 2024, ensuring continued energy supplies to Europe amidst the current geopolitical situation. The shipments are part of Kazakhstan’s strategy to maintain stable oil exports to European markets despite the ongoing sanctions on Russian energy. Vagit Ismailov, The Times of Central Asia, August 14
Indonesia pushes migrant worker protection at ASEAN DGICM meeting. At the 27th ASEAN DGICM meeting in Vietnam, Indonesia's Director General of Immigration, Silmy Karim, emphasized the need for stronger protection of migrant workers against human trafficking. He highlighted that Indonesia, with its vast human resources, is a major target for trafficking syndicates in the region. Karim called for enhanced cooperation among ASEAN nations to prevent trafficking, repatriate victims, and combat new trafficking methods, including online fraud schemes. Antara News, August 14
North Korea to open border for foreign tourists in December, tour operators say. North Korea plans to reopen its borders to foreign tourists in December 2024, starting with the northeastern city of Samjiyon, according to tour operators. This marks a significant step towards lifting the strict COVID-19 border controls that have been in place since 2020. The reopening comes as North Korea aims to showcase Samjiyon as a "socialist utopia" near the Chinese border. Travel agencies expect confirmation of itineraries in the coming weeks. Ju-min Park, Reuters, August 14
China willing to stabilize ties with Japan even after Kishida quits. China expressed its willingness to stabilize relations with Japan following Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's decision to step down. The Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of maintaining "strategic and mutually beneficial" ties, despite not commenting directly on Japan's domestic politics. Concern in China remains high over how Kishida's successor will handle the ongoing dispute about Japan's release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant. Kyodo News, August 14
S. Korea, U.S. holding joint live-fire, maneuver drills. South Korea and the United States are conducting a six-day combined live-fire and maneuver exercise, involving battalions from the South's 1st Armored Brigade and the U.S. 1st Armored Division. The drills, held at Seungjin Fire Training Field near the inter-Korean border, are designed to enhance interoperability and readiness, with around 320 troops participating. Apache helicopters from the U.S. 2nd Infantry Division were also deployed as part of the training. Lee Minji, Yonhap News Agency, August 14
Long Form
China’s railway diplomacy on high-speed in Vietnam. China is accelerating its railway diplomacy in Vietnam, focusing on a high-speed rail project that would link Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This project is part of China's Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to enhance regional connectivity and solidify its influence in Southeast Asia. While Vietnam is cautious about becoming overly dependent on China, it recognizes the potential economic benefits of improved infrastructure and increased trade. Dragan Pavlicevic, East Asia Forum, August 14
The strategic imperative for South Korea’s nuclear armament. Amid escalating threats from North Korea's nuclear advancements and China's regional assertiveness, there is growing support in South Korea for developing its own nuclear weapons. Advocates argue that possessing nuclear capabilities is essential for ensuring national security and maintaining a credible deterrent. However, this pursuit faces significant opposition, particularly from the United States, which warns of potential destabilization in the region and advocates for maintaining the non-nuclear status of South Korea. Lakhvinder Singh, The Diplomat, August 14
The Singapore-Malaysia-Indonesia triangle can be a data centre powerhouse. The Singapore-Malaysia-Indonesia (SIMI) triangle is emerging as a key region for data centers in Southeast Asia. Singapore's established infrastructure, along with Malaysia and Indonesia's rapid development, positions the triangle as a major hub. The region benefits from strategic location, rising digital demand, and supportive government policies, though challenges like energy sustainability and geopolitical tensions remain. Faizal Bin Yahya, East Asia Forum, August 14
Causes and consequences of Kazakhstan’s brain drain. Kazakhstan is experiencing a significant brain drain, with many skilled professionals leaving the country due to economic challenges, limited career prospects, and political instability. This exodus of talent threatens to undermine the country's development by weakening its human capital and reducing its capacity for innovation. To address this issue, the government needs to improve job opportunities, create a more favorable business environment, and foster greater political openness. Gulnash Askhat, The Diplomat, August 14
Muhammadiyah and the problem of mining by Islamic organisations in Indonesia. Muhammadiyah, a prominent Islamic organization in Indonesia, is facing criticism for its involvement in mining operations. This has sparked debates about the ethical implications of religious groups engaging in profit-driven activities, especially in environmentally sensitive sectors like mining. The controversy raises questions about the alignment of religious values with commercial interests and the potential impact on Muhammadiyah's social and moral standing. Iim Halimatusa’diyah, Fulcrum, August 14
U.S. and Chinese soft power and influence in Southeast Asia. The U.S. and China are intensifying their competition for influence in Southeast Asia, employing different soft power strategies. The U.S. leverages educational exchanges, media, and support for civil society, while China focuses on economic incentives, infrastructure projects, and state media outreach. This rivalry shapes the geopolitical landscape, forcing Southeast Asian countries to navigate complex diplomatic relationships. The competition affects regional stability, development priorities, and the strategic calculations of Southeast Asian governments. Andreyka Natalegawa and Gregory B. Poling, CSIS, August 14