Asia Daily: August 19, 2024
News
Doctors in India Protest After Colleague Is Raped and Killed, Demanding Better Protection. Hundreds of doctors protested near India’s Health Ministry, demanding stronger laws to protect healthcare workers from violence following the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in Kolkata on August 9. The protests, which included candlelight marches and temporary refusals to treat non-emergency patients, highlight the vulnerability of medical professionals in India. The doctors are calling for non-bailable offenses for attacks on on-duty medics, increased security at hospitals, and safe resting spaces for healthcare workers. A police volunteer at the hospital has been arrested, but the victim's family alleges a gang rape, prompting federal investigation. AP News, August 19
U.S. and South Korea Begin Major Joint Military Drills Amid North Korean Threats. The United States and South Korea have commenced large-scale joint military exercises, known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, aimed at countering potential threats from North Korea. The drills, involving thousands of troops and various military assets, focus on strengthening the allies' defensive and operational capabilities. North Korea has condemned the exercises as provocative, warning of possible retaliatory actions. These annual drills come at a time of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with Pyongyang conducting missile tests and issuing threats against both nations. AP News, August 19
China, Philippines Vessels Collide Near Disputed South China Sea Shoal. A Chinese coast guard ship and a Philippine supply boat collided near the disputed Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea, escalating tensions between the two nations. The Philippine military reported that the collision occurred while the supply boat was on a routine mission to deliver goods to a military outpost. The Chinese vessel reportedly attempted to block the Philippine boat's path, leading to the incident. Both countries have exchanged accusations over the event, with the Philippines condemning the actions as aggressive and China defending its stance on territorial claims. AP News, August 19
China’s Ties with Vietnam Are a Diplomatic Priority, Xi Jinping Tells Lam on State Visit. Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized that China views its relationship with Vietnam as a diplomatic priority during a state visit by Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong. In their meeting, Xi highlighted the importance of deepening cooperation between the two countries, particularly in areas such as trade, infrastructure, and maritime security. This visit underscores the strategic significance of Sino-Vietnamese relations amid regional tensions and the evolving geopolitical landscape in Southeast Asia. Both leaders committed to strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership. Shi Jiangtao, South China Morning Post, August 19
Integrated Patrols Signal Beijing Asserting Claims in Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. China has initiated integrated patrols and joint military drills in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, signaling its intent to assert territorial claims in these contested areas. The patrols, involving naval, air, and coast guard forces, demonstrate Beijing's increasing willingness to project power and challenge U.S. and allied presence in the region. Analysts suggest that these actions are part of a broader strategy to reinforce China's claims over Taiwan and disputed islands in the South China Sea, heightening tensions with neighboring countries and the international community. Amber Wang, Sylvie Zhuang, Lawrence Chung, South China Morning Post, August 19
Malaysia on High Alert Over Rising Mpox Cases. Malaysia has raised its alert level due to an increase in mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) cases in the country. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged the public to remain vigilant. The Ministry of Health has implemented measures to prevent the spread of the virus, including increased surveillance at entry points and public awareness campaigns. The government is also ensuring that healthcare facilities are prepared to manage potential cases. The alert comes as several other countries in the region report similar outbreaks. The Straits Times, August 19
Yasukuni Shrine Vandalized with Suspected Black Paint. Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine, a site often associated with Japan's wartime history, was vandalized with what appears to be black paint. Security personnel discovered the damage early Monday morning on a gate and other structures within the shrine complex. The police are investigating the incident and are treating it as an act of vandalism. The shrine has been a frequent target of protests and defacement, particularly due to its controversial symbolism in Japan’s relations with neighboring countries like China and South Korea. The Japan Times, August 19
Contentious Broadcasting Bill to Proceed Only After Wider Consultation: I&B Minister. India’s Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Minister, Anurag Thakur, announced that the proposed Broadcasting Bill will move forward only after extensive consultations with all stakeholders. The bill, which aims to regulate the broadcasting sector, has raised concerns among various industry players and media organizations. Thakur emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard before the bill is finalized. He assured that the legislation would be developed transparently, with the goal of strengthening the broadcasting landscape in India while protecting freedom of expression. The Hindu, August 19
Paetongtarn Shinawatra Endorsed as Thai Prime Minister by King. Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn has officially endorsed Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the country's prime minister. Paetongtarn, the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was backed by a coalition of pro-military and pro-monarchy parties after a parliamentary vote. This endorsement solidifies her position as Thailand’s first female prime minister in nearly two decades. Paetongtarn's rise to power is seen as a significant shift in Thai politics, given her family's controversial history and the recent political turmoil in the country. Channel News Asia, August 19
Analysis & Opinion
The State of the LDP's Leadership. With Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio stepping down from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership, at least ten lawmakers are vying for the position. The race is wide open, with candidates emerging from three primary blocs: reformists, conservatives, and the mainstream establishment. Each candidate faces challenges in securing broad support within the party's fractured landscape. Tobias S. Harris,
, August 19South Korea's Diplomatic Training. South Korea’s Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA) faces challenges as it struggles to keep pace with global diplomatic training trends. The KNDA’s curriculum is criticized for being outdated, focusing heavily on traditional subjects while neglecting areas like cybersecurity and global health. Additionally, the lack of practical experience and a rigid entrance exam limit the development of adaptable and innovative diplomats. There are calls for modernization, including horizontal entry and greater international exposure, to better prepare future diplomats for 21st-century challenges. Juno Tane,
, August 19Xiong'an: The City as Showroom. Xiong'an, a planned city in China, serves as a large-scale exhibition of state-led urban development, where entire districts showcase models of technological and infrastructural innovation. Unlike typical urban exhibition halls, Xiong'an's purpose is to demonstrate China's vision for "Chinese style modernization" to officials and leaders rather than the general public. The city's development is driven by state-owned enterprises, with an emphasis on innovation in infrastructure, clean energy, and smart cities. Andrew Stokols,
, August 19China's Innovation Points System. China has introduced an "innovation points" system to incentivize technological advancements and self-sufficiency, particularly in sectors deemed critical for national security. This system rewards companies and researchers who achieve breakthroughs, prioritizing projects that align with state goals, such as reducing dependence on foreign technologies. The initiative shows China's shift towards fostering domestic innovation amid global tech competition and increasing pressure from Western export controls. Mary Hui,
, August 19.Prabowo Puts the "i" in Foreign Policy. Indonesia’s President-elect Prabowo Subianto is expected to adopt a more personalistic approach to foreign policy, emphasizing direct engagement with global leaders. While he plans to continue many of President Joko Widodo’s policies, Prabowo's style marks a change from multilateralism to bilateral relations. His approach could lead to a more active, yet unpredictable, foreign policy, especially in managing relations with major powers like China and the United States. Ahmad Rizky M. Umar, Lowy Institute, August 19
Central Asia’s Energy Drive Spurs Regional Integration. Central Asian nations are increasingly collaborating on energy initiatives to improve regional integration and reduce dependency on external powers. Projects like the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline and electricity interconnections aim to boost energy security and economic ties. However, challenges remain, including political instability and infrastructure gaps, which could hinder progress. The region's energy ambitions reflect a broader desire to assert greater autonomy and economic resilience. Nikola Mikovic, Lowy Institute, August 19
The Race to Be Japan’s Next Prime Minister: Chances for a First Woman at the Top Job. As Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party prepares for a leadership election, there is speculation about the possibility of a female prime minister for the first time. Key female candidates, including Sanae Takaichi and Seiko Noda, are in the running, though they face challenges within the party's traditionally male-dominated leadership structure. Their chances will depend on broader party dynamics and support from influential factions. Tan Ming Hui, Lowy Institute, August 19
With Kishida’s Resignation, Japan Brings More Economic Uncertainties to Asia in a U.S. Election Year. The resignation of Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida introduces new economic uncertainties to Asia, particularly as the region faces a potentially turbulent U.S. election year. The Japanese economy's fragility is underscored by domestic issues like rising bankruptcies and weak consumer confidence. This instability, combined with Japan's monetary changes, could destabilize Southeast Asian economies that rely heavily on Japanese investment. Regional cooperation and financial safety mechanisms are crucial to mitigating potential impacts. Yilun Zhang, ICAS, August 19
The U.S. Needs More Critical Minerals in Its Stockpile. It Needs a Market Infrastructure. The U.S. faces a growing need for critical minerals vital to national security and economic stability. However, the current stockpile is insufficient, and the country lacks the necessary market infrastructure to secure and manage these resources effectively. Strengthening supply chains, investing in domestic mining, and establishing strategic partnerships are essential steps to address this vulnerability and reduce reliance on foreign sources. Arnab Datta and Ashley George, Council on Foreign Relations, August 19
Malaysia’s Grand Strategy Leans East. Malaysia is increasingly aligning its grand strategy with East Asian powers, particularly China and Japan, to strengthen economic and strategic ties. This reflects Malaysia’s intention to balance its relationships with Western countries while deepening regional cooperation in East Asia. The strategy also includes enhancing regional security frameworks and economic partnerships, positioning Malaysia as a key player in the evolving dynamics of the Asia-Pacific region. William Case, East Asia Forum, August 19
The Lingering Economic Consequences of Sri Lanka's Civil War. Sri Lanka continues to face severe economic challenges years after the end of its civil war. The conflict left deep scars on the nation's infrastructure, social fabric, and financial stability. The war's aftermath has led to long-term issues such as reduced foreign investment, high debt levels, and significant poverty, particularly in war-affected areas. Efforts to rebuild and stabilize the economy are ongoing, but progress is slow and uneven. Devana Senanayake, The Diplomat, August 19
What's Driving Lithuania's Challenge to China. Lithuania's stance against China is driven by its commitment to human rights, support for Taiwan, and desire to align more closely with Western democracies. Despite economic pressures, Lithuania remains firm in challenging China’s influence, viewing this as essential for safeguarding its sovereignty and promoting democratic values. The country's actions have prompted a broader reevaluation of China relations within the European Union, highlighting the growing tensions between China and smaller European nations. Aleksander Lust, The Diplomat, August 19
The Real Challenge to the CCP's Third Plenum Vision. The Chinese Communist Party's Third Plenum faces hurdles in implementing its long-term vision due to economic headwinds, demographic challenges, and internal resistance. The leadership's focus on self-reliance, technological innovation, and social stability must contend with slowing growth, a shrinking workforce, and the difficulties of balancing market reforms with state control. These challenges raise questions about the feasibility of achieving the ambitious goals set out during the Plenum. Zhuoran Li, The Diplomat, August 19
North Korea Starts New Construction at Airbase Used to Test Advanced Drones. North Korea has begun new construction at an airbase known for testing advanced drones, suggesting a potential expansion of its drone capabilities. Satellite images reveal ongoing construction, raising concerns about North Korea's military advancements. This development is being closely monitored as it could enhance the country's aerial surveillance and combat abilities. Colin Zwirko, NK News, August 19
Lee Jae-myung’s Re-election Intensifies Risks for Businesses in South Korea. Lee Jae-myung's re-election as the leader of South Korea’s Democratic Party is expected to heighten regulatory and political risks for businesses. His administration's policies, including stronger regulations on conglomerates and more aggressive economic reforms, may create a challenging environment for businesses. The re-election also solidifies his influence within the party, potentially leading to more stringent oversight and government intervention in the private sector. John Lee, Korea Pro, August 19
Will Vietnam Go Down China’s Path? Vietnam is increasingly balancing its economic growth with political control, raising questions about whether it will follow China's authoritarian model. While Vietnam shares similarities with China, including single-party rule and state-led capitalism, there are key differences in governance and public policy that may lead Vietnam to chart its own course. The nation's focus on economic reform and openness to foreign partnerships might distinguish its development trajectory from China’s. Le Hong Hiep, Fulcrum, August 19
Three Pillars of India’s Foreign Policy. India's foreign policy rests on three key pillars: strategic autonomy, inclusive regionalism, and global multilateralism. Strategic autonomy allows India to make independent decisions in global affairs, inclusive regionalism emphasizes cooperation within South Asia and the Indian Ocean region, and global multilateralism reflects India's commitment to participating in international institutions. Together, these pillars guide India's approach to maintaining its sovereignty while engaging with the global community. Manoj Kumar Mishra, The Geopolitics, August 19