Asia Daily: December 22, 2023
News
US, China top military officials speak for first time in over a year. On December 21, 2023, the top military officers of the US and China, General CQ Brown and General Liu Zhenli, conducted their first virtual meeting in over a year, as announced by the Pentagon. This meeting, a result of an agreement between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping, aimed to restore military ties cut after Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in 2022. The discussion covered various global and regional security issues, emphasizing the importance of managing competition and preventing misunderstandings. Despite the resumption of communications, analysts note that achieving effective dialogue may be challenging due to underlying tensions over issues like Taiwan and the South China Sea. Phil Stewart and Doina Chiacu, Reuters, December 21
South Korea's top court upholds wartime labor damages order for Japan firms. The Supreme Court of South Korea has reaffirmed the decision requiring Nippon Steel Corp. and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. to compensate South Koreans for forced labor during Japan's colonial rule. This ruling, which follows earlier decisions from 2018 and 2019, orders the firms to pay a total of 1.17 billion won (approximately $900,000). This is part of Seoul's efforts to address the wartime labor issue and improve bilateral relations with Japan. The plaintiffs in these cases, many of whom have since passed away, were promised educational and financial opportunities but were forced to work in wartime factories. Kyodo News, December 21
China provocations worrisome – Marcos. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. firmly stated the country's stance against yielding any territory in response to Chinese provocations. At the Armed Forces of the Philippines' 88th anniversary, he underscored the military's role in safeguarding national sovereignty under the constitution and international law. This follows an incident involving the AFP Chief of Staff and the China Coast Guard at Ayungin Shoal. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. also spoke of joint patrols with various nations to counter China's actions in the West Philippine Sea. Kristina Maralit and Francisco Tuyay, The Manila Times, December 22
Bail denied to Hong Kong rights lawyer in landmark security case. A Hong Kong court has denied a new bail application for pro-democracy activist and lawyer Chow Hang-tung, whose trial for subversion under China's national security law is set for late 2024. High Court Judge Andrew Chan cited national security risks as the reason for denying bail to Chow, who has been in detention since September 2021. Chow, a prominent human rights lawyer and former vice-chairperson of the now-disbanded Hong Kong Alliance, is charged with "incitement to subversion," which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years. Jessie Pang and Dorothy Kam, Reuters, December 21
‘India out’: Maldives president eyes Middle East partners with early trips. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, breaking a long-standing diplomatic tradition, chose Ankara over New Delhi for his first official trip abroad, signaling a shift in foreign policy and a move away from India. This decision follows his "India out" campaign, which calls for the withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives and reflects a broader strategy of distancing the country from India, traditionally a significant influence in the region. Muizzu's administration, viewed as closer to China, aims to reorient foreign relations, evident in the signing of a free trade agreement and defence ties with Turkey during his visit. Sanjay Kapoor, Al Jazeera, December 21
Port of Singapore unaffected by Red Sea attack disruptions but ready to help ships 'catch up' after delays: MPA. Despite disruptions in the Red Sea due to attacks by Houthi militants, the Port of Singapore has not been impacted, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) reported. The MPA is prepared to assist ships delayed by these disruptions, particularly as several major container shipping companies have diverted their routes from the Suez Canal, a crucial trade conduit connecting Europe, North America, and Asia. Alternative routes, such as around the Cape of Good Hope, add significant sailing time. These developments follow the Houthi militants' recent intensified attacks on international vessels in the Red Sea, purportedly in response to Israel's actions in Gaza. Channel News Asia, December 21
Việt Nam makes urgent call for ceasefire, protection of civilians in Gaza Strip. Việt Nam, through its Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Lê Thị Minh Thoa, has issued an urgent call for an immediate ceasefire and protection of civilians in the Gaza Strip. Addressing the 10th Emergency Special Session of the General Assembly, Thoa expressed Vietnam's deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing the need for all parties to adhere to international law and protect civilians. Additionally, Vietnam has pledged to donate $500,000 to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNWRA) to support efforts in Gaza. Vietnam News, December 21
China brings in new export controls on hi-tech products amid ongoing rivalry with US. China has introduced new export controls on critical technologies like laser radars, drones, and biotechnology. This move, a response to the intensifying tech rivalry with the U.S., aims to safeguard national security and public interest. The controls, effective immediately, also include technologies for rare earth metal processing and dual-use technologies. New additions to the list include crop hybridization and human cell cloning. Notably, manufacturing technology for photovoltaic silicon wafers was removed from the final list. Liu Zhen, South China Morning Post, December 21
S. Korea to enhance monitoring, extend logistics support over Red Sea crisis. South Korea is increasing monitoring and supporting corporate logistics in response to the Red Sea tensions caused by Houthi militant attacks. These attacks haven't significantly impacted Korean trade, but have led to the use of alternative shipping routes. The government aims to protect the economy and exports from geopolitical risks, with potential measures including export voucher programs. The Red Sea is a key global maritime route, and the situation raises concerns about a broader regional conflict. Oh Seok-min, Yonhap News Agency, December 21
Long Form
The Untold Stories of Chinese Translators in Angola. 2023 marks significant milestones in the relationship between China and Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Angola. This year celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Forum for Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries (Forum Macao), 40 years of Angola-China diplomatic relations, and a decade of the Belt and Road Initiative. Angola, as China's most significant Portuguese-speaking African economic partner, has seen a unique layer of engagement involving ordinary citizens, including Chinese translators. These individuals' experiences provide a deeper understanding of the Angola-China relationship, beyond formal diplomatic interactions, highlighting the personal and cultural aspects of this international partnership. By Kaian Lam, The Diplomat, December 21
Can China and India Give Small Indian Ocean Nations What They Really Need? The Indian Ocean region, particularly the Maldives, is emerging as a symbol of the strategic competition between China and India. The recent election of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who favors closer ties with China, has shifted the dynamics in the region. This change is evident in the Maldives' participation in China's maritime conference in Kunming, focusing on blue-economy cooperation, and its absence from the Colombo Security Conclave, an Indian Ocean forum. The Maldives' new stance raises concerns for India, as it could impact Indian security interests. China's growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean, part of its strategy to secure access and protect trade and energy supplies, is increasingly challenging India's influence. The strategic significance of small island states like the Maldives, located near critical sea lanes and choke points, is being highlighted in this China-India competition. The real challenge for these major powers will be addressing issues beyond hard security, such as potential climate refugee crises due to rising sea levels. The question remains whether Beijing and Delhi can collaborate effectively to address these complex maritime challenges. By C. Uday Bhaskar, South China Morning Post, December 22
How Tsai Ing-wen Aligned Taiwan with the Free World. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's foreign policy has significantly shifted Taiwan's international alignment, particularly with the free world. Under her leadership, Taiwan has redefined its identity, emphasizing its democratic values and technological prowess, especially in semiconductor fabrication. Tsai's strategic focus on the United States has not hindered Taiwan's outreach to smaller liberal democracies like Lithuania, the Czech Republic, and Estonia, despite their limited economic or security benefits. These relationships have diplomatic value, especially as these countries are European Union members. Despite losing some diplomatic allies during her presidency, Taiwan's global voice has strengthened due to closer ties with the West. Tsai's appointment of Hsiao Bi-khim as the top representative to the U.S. and the deepening of bilateral relations beyond defense are notable achievements. Tsai's economic strategy has also aimed to reduce dependency on China, with significant investments in Southeast Asia and South Asia under the New Southbound Policy. However, cross-strait relations have deteriorated, with Taiwan's security position weakening against China. Tsai's resistance to Chinese pressure and preference for close U.S. ties reflect a strategic bet on enduring poor cross-strait relations without seeking formal independence. The upcoming 2024 presidential election will determine the extent of Tsai's foreign policy legacy's endurance. By Matthew Fulco, The Japan Times, December 22
Restore Diplomatic Balance. South Korea faces escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea's Kim Jong-un endorsing ICBMs and the U.S. showing force in joint aerial exercises. President Yoon Seok Yeol's administration, focusing on ties with the U.S. and Japan while alienating China and Russia, needs a strategic shift. The article emphasizes the importance of restoring diplomatic balance, highlighting the need for economic and cultural power and Beijing's role in regional stability. Amidst these challenges, South Korea must reevaluate its position with major powers and prioritize peaceful co-prosperity with North Korea.The Korea Times, December 21
Malaysia's Semiconductor Industry Demands a More Strategic Outlook. Malaysia, a key player in the global semiconductor industry, faces challenges in transitioning from an assembly and packaging hub to a more advanced player in the value chain. Despite significant investments from major companies, the industry is hindered by a reliance on unskilled foreign labor and a reluctance to automate. Local companies specializing in automation solutions, such as Greatech and Pentamaster, demonstrate Malaysia's potential in precision engineering. However, the sector struggles with low wages, leading to a brain drain and discouraging students from pursuing STEM careers. The New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 aims to double the manufacturing median wage and elevate Malaysia's role in semiconductor manufacturing. To achieve this, Malaysia needs to invest more in STEM education, improve wages, and build stronger policy leadership to strategically position itself in the semiconductor industry. By Liew Chin Tong, East Asia Forum, December 22
Australia and China Turn a New Leaf in Economic Relations. In 2023, Australia and China have significantly improved their economic relationship, moving away from previous hostilities. Most trade barriers have been removed, and the rhetoric has been toned down, with both sides resuming annual leader-level meetings. This change reflects a shift to more pragmatic thinking, with China scaling back its Belt and Road Initiative and Australia realizing the futility of its push for a COVID inquiry. However, at the geopolitical level, little has changed. The AUKUS agreement is proceeding, and Australia remains committed to the Quad, despite not offering a clear rationale for these agreements in terms of national security. The Australian and Chinese governments have made progress in moving away from recent hostilities, but a serious reassessment of the Australia-China relationship must involve reconsidering the AUKUS agreement. By John Quiggin, East Asia Forum, December 23