Asia Daily: February 12, 2025
UN reports grave rights violations in Bangladesh protest response. A UN investigation found that Bangladesh’s former government and security forces committed systematic human rights violations against protesters during last summer’s mass demonstrations. Crimes against humanity may have occurred, with reports of enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, and violent crackdowns. The protests led to the resignation of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who now faces extradition requests. Olivia Le Poidevin and Sudipto Ganguly, Reuters, February 12
Modi and Trump's friendly rapport may be tested as Indian prime minister visits Washington. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington comes amid looming U.S. tariff threats and pressure to balance trade relations. While Modi and President Donald Trump have cultivated strong ties, tensions persist over trade imbalances and India’s stance on Russia. Talks are expected to cover tariffs, defense deals, and Indo-Pacific strategy, with India seeking to avoid economic strain. Josh Boak, AP News, February 12
S. Korea, U.S. share 'full consensus' on complete denuclearization of N. Korea. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul reaffirmed that Seoul and Washington fully agree on the goal of North Korea’s complete denuclearization, despite concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent reference to Pyongyang as a "nuclear power." Cho emphasized that South Korea will not be sidelined in any potential U.S.-North Korea dialogue and acknowledged ongoing challenges in navigating trade and defense issues under the Trump administration. Chae Yun-hwan, Yonhap News Agency, February 12
NBI tags VP Duterte for inciting to sedition, grave threats. The Philippines’ National Bureau of Investigation has recommended criminal charges against Vice President Sara Duterte for allegedly threatening President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez. Duterte, who ignored NBI subpoenas, dismissed the accusations as politically motivated. The Department of Justice will decide whether to proceed with prosecution, while opposition leaders claim the case strengthens her ongoing impeachment trial. Gillian Villanueva and Jacob Lazaro, Philippine Daily Inquirer, February 12
Chinese defence industry exec Liu Weidong under investigation for alleged corruption. Liu Weidong, deputy general manager of China South Industries Group Corporation, is under investigation for “serious violations” of Communist Party discipline, a common reference to corruption. The probe is part of China’s widening anti-corruption campaign targeting state-owned defense firms. Liu’s case follows similar crackdowns on senior military officials and executives in the arms industry. Meredith Chen, South China Morning Post, February 12
PM’s historic UAE visit highlights business opportunities in Laos. Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone promoted investment in clean energy, carbon credit, agriculture, and finance during his visit to the United Arab Emirates. Speaking at the Laos-UAE Business Forum in Dubai, he highlighted Laos’ potential in hydropower, digital finance, and green tourism. His visit, which included attending the World Governments Summit 2025, aimed to strengthen economic ties and attract investors to Laos’ growing sectors. Vientiane Times, February 13
South Korean free trade pact could limit impact of reciprocal Trump tariffs, economists say. Economists from Barclays and Citi suggest that South Korea’s free trade agreement with the U.S. may help cushion the impact of new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. While South Korea has some of the highest tariff rates among U.S. trading partners, most were eliminated under the pact. Officials remain cautious about potential duties on key exports like cars and semiconductors. Jihoon Lee, Reuters, February 12
Armenia, Kazakhstan & Uzbekistan showing progress in fighting graft – watchdog survey. A Transparency International report highlights significant anti-corruption progress in Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan over the past decade. Armenia’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score rose from 35 in 2015 to 47, while Uzbekistan’s climbed from 19 to 32. Kazakhstan improved under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, scoring 40 in 2024. Meanwhile, corruption worsened in Russia and Kyrgyzstan. Eurasianet, February 13
Beijing slams Taiwan’s ‘absurd’ DeepSeek ban, dismisses security fears. China criticized Taiwan’s government for banning DeepSeek AI in public institutions, calling the move "unreasonable" and driven by anti-China sentiment. Taiwan cited security concerns over data transmission to mainland China. Beijing’s Taiwan Affairs Office defended DeepSeek, highlighting its global popularity and urging cross-strait AI cooperation. Other countries, including the U.S. and Australia, have also restricted the Chinese AI model. Xinlu Liang, South China Morning Post, February 12
Philippines military eyes more upgrades, including 'dream' submarines. The Philippines plans to expand its military modernization program with additional BrahMos missiles from India and at least two submarines. The $35 billion "Horizons" initiative aims to strengthen defense capabilities amid rising tensions with China in the South China Sea. Manila also seeks to bolster alliances, including potential cooperation with South Korea. Joint maritime activities with the U.S. and Canada are underway. Karen Lema, Reuters, February 12
N. Korea seeks to cut off inter-Korean air traffic control hotline. North Korea is attempting to sever the inter-Korean air traffic control network, a rare move given that the channel has remained intact since 1997. The regime has asked the International Civil Aviation Organization to terminate the hotline as part of its broader effort to cut ties with South Korea. Negotiations have stalled, and the network remains operational for now. Kyu-Jin Shin, The Dong-A Ilbo, February 13
U.S. urges Tajikistan to enforce sanctions on Russian firms amid ongoing compliance review. The U.S. has formally requested that Tajikistan clarify its enforcement of sanctions on Russian companies, including Gazpromneft Tajikistan. Tajik officials say the matter is under review but emphasize that businesses have adapted. While authorities insist oil imports remain unaffected, experts warn the sanctions could disrupt firms working with Gazpromneft. Vagit Ismailov, The Times of Central Asia, February 12
Japan protests Chinese ships' intrusion into waters around Senkaku. Japan lodged a diplomatic protest after four Chinese coast guard vessels entered its territorial waters near the Senkaku Islands. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi condemned the incursion as a violation of international law, vowing a firm response. The incident follows a recent U.S.-Japan reaffirmation that their security treaty covers the disputed islands. Kyodo News, February 12
Leaders of Indonesia and Turkey hold talks on defense and economic ties. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Bogor to strengthen defense and trade cooperation. The leaders discussed global issues, including Gaza, and signed agreements on military collaboration, trade, and infrastructure, including a Baykar combat-drone factory in Indonesia. Erdogan also pledged investment in Indonesia’s new capital on Borneo. Niniek Karmini and Edna Tarigan, AP News, February 12.
Kazakhstan lawmakers propose Russian-style 'foreign agent' law. Lawmakers in Kazakhstan have introduced a bill to regulate "foreign agents," mirroring laws in Russia and other former Soviet states. The proposal, backed by the People's Party, aims to protect national sovereignty but lacks details on implementation. Similar laws have been used to scrutinize organizations receiving foreign funding. Neither the ruling Amanat party nor the government has commented. Tamara Vaal and Felix Light, Reuters, February 12
PM is ready to address Thaksin allegations. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said she is prepared to respond to opposition questions in an upcoming censure debate, including allegations about her father, ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, influencing government affairs. The opposition plans to scrutinize Thaksin’s involvement in Pheu Thai’s election campaigns and his alleged preferential treatment while in detention. The debate will also cover corruption, judicial interference, and governance failures. Mongkol Bangprapa, Bangkok Post, February 12
Manila relying on ‘transparency initiative’ to offset Beijing’s moves in South China Sea. The Philippines is using a "transparency initiative" to document and publicize encounters with Chinese vessels in contested waters, aiming to rally international support against Beijing’s actions. The initiative has led to diplomatic backing and military aid from allies but has not deterred Chinese incursions. Manila continues to face rising tensions, with increased confrontations at sea. Mark Magnier, South China Morning Post, February 12
China removes buoy in Japan's EEZ near Senkakus amid warming ties. China has removed a controversial buoy from Japan’s exclusive economic zone near the Senkaku Islands, a move seen as a step toward improving bilateral relations. Tokyo had repeatedly protested its placement, viewing it as part of Beijing’s territorial claims. The removal follows recent diplomatic engagements, raising speculation of a summit between Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and President Xi Jinping. Jesse Johnson, The Japan Times, February 12
Indonesia, UAE aim for $10 bln annual trade boost. Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to increase bilateral trade to $10 billion annually, doubling current levels. The deal, reached at the World Government Summit, includes expanding economic cooperation, investment, and tourism. Talks also covered aviation infrastructure, with plans to boost flight access and introduce larger aircraft. The UAE invited Indonesia to participate in Investopia 2025 to attract further investment. Antara News, February 12.
Wind of Change: German China Policy After the Election. Germany's upcoming election on February 23 could reshape its approach to China, depending on the governing coalition. Conservative frontrunner Friedrich Merz has labeled China part of an "axis of autocracies" and warned of investment risks. A coalition with the hawkish Greens may lead to a tougher stance, while the Social Democrats favor a more cautious approach. Germany's role in EU-China policy is critical, balancing economic reliance and competition. A Merz-led government may adopt stricter trade measures, especially if transatlantic tensions rise under Trump. Noah Barkin and Gregor Sebastian, Rhodium Group, February 12
China's Fight Against Climate Change and Environmental Degradation. China's rapid industrialization has led to severe environmental issues, including air and water pollution, soil contamination, and a rise in greenhouse gas emissions. These challenges pose risks to economic growth, public health, and governmental legitimacy. The Chinese government has implemented policies to address these concerns, such as investing in renewable energy and setting targets for carbon emission reductions. However, balancing economic development with environmental sustainability remains a complex issue. Lindsay Maizland, Council on Foreign Relations, February 12
Vietnam’s High-Stakes Economic Pivot. Vietnam’s economy grew by 7.09% in 2024, surpassing forecasts despite typhoons and geopolitical uncertainty. Moving from low-value manufacturing to high-tech and sustainable development is central to new leadership under To Lam. Infrastructure projects, including a high-speed railway and nuclear power plant, are underway, backed by foreign direct investment from the US, China, and Russia. However, governance challenges remain, with institutional reforms and an anti-corruption crackdown shaking the ruling party. While Vietnam aims for high-income status by 2045, political instability and administrative inefficiencies threaten its ambitious economic transformation. Phuc Hai Tran, East Asia Forum, February 12
What's Driving China's Controversial Mega-Dam in Tibet? China has approved the construction of the world's largest hydroelectric dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, aiming to generate 60 gigawatts of electricity annually. Domestically, the project seeks to advance renewable energy goals and stimulate economic development in the Tibet Autonomous Region. However, the dam has raised environmental and geopolitical concerns, particularly in India, where the river is known as the Brahmaputra. Indian officials worry about potential downstream impacts, including water flow alterations and ecological disruptions. China's Foreign Ministry has stated that the project will consider the interests of downstream countries and maintain communication to address shared concerns. Genevieve Donnellon-May and Mark Wang, The Diplomat, February 12
Japan's Pragmatic Model for AI Governance. Japan is developing a balanced approach to artificial intelligence governance, integrating regulatory oversight, efficient resource use, and international collaboration. In December 2024, the government introduced regulations targeting large technology platforms, such as app stores and search engines with over 40 million users, imposing penalties up to 20% of Japanese sales for violations. Additionally, Japan has aligned with U.S. technology policies by implementing controls on advanced technology transfers, particularly for dual-use applications. This has attracted partnerships, including Nvidia's collaboration with Japanese cloud providers and OpenAI's establishment of its first Asian office in Tokyo. Japan's model offers a potential blueprint for nations seeking to balance innovation with democratic values. Charles Mok and Athena Tong, The Diplomat, February 13
Is the Growth of Thailand’s Medical Tourism Industry Sustainable? Thailand's medical tourism sector has expanded, with foreign patients increasing from two million in 2012 to 3.4 million in 2018, and reaching three million in 2024. This growth has raised concerns about potential negative impacts on domestic healthcare, particularly the migration of medical professionals from public to private hospitals. However, the actual number of medical tourists may be overestimated, as current figures often include all hospital visits by foreigners, not solely those traveling specifically for medical treatment. Additionally, the medical services sought by tourists, such as orthopedics and cardiac care, differ from the common healthcare needs of local patients, like diabetes and kidney disease, which makes for a limited overlap in required medical expertise. Medical tourism tends to increase demand for nursing staff due to the intensive post-treatment care needed, potentially affecting nurse availability in public hospitals. To ensure sustainable growth, it is recommended that the Thai government improve data collection and strengthen regulatory frameworks within the industry. Archanun Kohpaiboon, Fulcrum, February 12
Reconciling Indonesia’s Food Sufficiency Ambitions with Climate Commitments. Indonesia aims to achieve food self-sufficiency by 2027, with plans to convert 20 million hectares of forest into agricultural land for food and biofuel crops. This strategy, while promoting economic growth, poses great environmental risks, including deforestation, biodiversity loss, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. The recent separation of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry into two distinct entities reflects a move towards prioritizing forest production to meet rising demands. To balance development with environmental sustainability, Indonesia could leverage global carbon trading mechanisms established at COP29, allowing the country to monetize forest conservation efforts. Implementing robust monitoring and verification systems is essential to ensure genuine emission reductions. Adopting sustainable agricultural practices, such as responsible palm oil cultivation and reduced reliance on slash-and-burn methods, can further align food security objectives with climate commitments. Melinda Martinus, Fulcrum, February 13