News
South China Sea: Philippines committed to code of conduct, says tensions not about US-China rivalry. The Philippines is dedicated to forging a code of conduct with China and Southeast Asian nations to prevent confrontations in the South China Sea. Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo emphasized that the issue transcends the US-China rivalry, advocating for a framework rooted in international law. Despite challenges, Manila aims to protect its rights amidst ongoing disputes and regional tensions. Karen Lema, Reuters, February 15
North Korean leader's sister says Japan PM visit to Pyongyang possible. Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korea's leader, indicated a visit by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to Pyongyang could happen if Japan does not let the abduction issue hinder bilateral relations. This statement follows Japan's efforts to engage North Korea to address the abductions from decades ago. Kim's remarks suggest potential diplomatic movement, despite historical tensions and her assertion that the abduction issue is "settled." Kyodo News, February 15
Coalition vs Charter change launched. A coalition formed by various religious and civic organizations emerged on Wednesday to oppose amendments to the 1987 Constitution. The group argues that revising the Constitution won't solve the country's issues, challenging the proponents' claims. This development reflects the deepening debate over constitutional changes in the Philippines. Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, February 15
India’s Supreme Court scraps electoral bonds, calls them ‘unconstitutional’. India's Supreme Court has declared the electoral bond scheme, which allows anonymous donations to political parties, unconstitutional. This decision comes ahead of the general election, impacting the Bharatiya Janata Party that benefited most from the scheme introduced in 2017. The court's ruling emphasizes the need for transparency in political contributions, aiming to prevent quid pro quo arrangements and ensure fair electoral competition. Al Jazeera, February 15
Japan PM mulls visiting South Korea on March 20 for talks with Yoon. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is considering a visit to South Korea on March 20 to meet President Yoon Suk Yeol, marking a significant step in improving bilateral relations. This potential visit, aiming to enhance diplomatic ties, follows Yoon's proposal to resolve a longstanding wartime labor compensation dispute. The leaders may also attend a baseball game, further symbolizing the warming ties between the two nations. Kyodo News, February 15
China’s Wang Yi to champion ‘equal and orderly multipolar world’ at Munich Security Conference. China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, will articulate China's vision for an "equal and orderly multipolar world" and a global community with a shared future at the Munich Security Conference. Amid accelerating global changes, China seeks to foster dialogue and cooperation. This move comes as part of efforts to mend ties with Western nations and address pressing security issues, including the conflict in Ukraine and cybersecurity. Seong Hyeon Choi, South China Morning Post, February 15
Kazakhstan hopes for new surges in grain exports to China. Kazakhstan anticipates a significant increase in grain exports to China, following a substantial rise last year. Efforts to boost these exports are hindered by infrastructure and transportation constraints, including ongoing construction of a grain terminal on the Chinese side and Kazakhstan's locomotive shortage. Despite these challenges, the potential for doubling exports to China remains, underscored by China's unique capability to process early-sprouted grain. Eurasianet, February 15
Uzbekistan: Karakalpak activist detained in Almaty. Aqylbek Muratbai, an activist from Uzbekistan's Karakalpakstan region, was detained in Almaty, Kazakhstan, at the request of Uzbek authorities. Muratbai, known for raising awareness about 2022's violence in Nukus, Karakalpakstan, faces charges of inciting public unrest. His detention signals continued pressure on Karakalpak activists by Uzbekistan, highlighting concerns over human rights and free speech. Eurasianet, February 15
Thaksin's release could lead to '2-PM problem'. The potential release of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has sparked concerns of creating a "2-PM problem," according to the opposition. If Thaksin, who has been hospitalized since his return and subsequent parole, becomes politically active, it may blur the lines of leadership within the country. This scenario underscores the complexities surrounding Thaksin's influence in Thai politics and the ongoing debates about justice and political power. Bangkok Post, February 15
India ministers, farmers unions to hold talks hoping to end protests. In an effort to resolve ongoing protests, Indian farmers' unions are set to discuss their demands for higher crop prices with government officials. The protests, marked by the use of tear gas against farmers marching to New Delhi, underline the agricultural sector's significance ahead of national elections. The talks involve key ministers and aim to address the farmers' call for a minimum price guarantee for their produce. Sunil Kataria and Anushree Fadnavis, Reuters, February 15
Kingdom-Japan ties lauded at emperor’s 64th birthday. Cambodia and Japan celebrated strengthening bilateral relations during Emperor Naruhito's 64th birthday. Cambodian Foreign Minister Sok Chenda Sophea praised the nations' cooperation and Japan's role in Cambodia's development. This relationship, highlighted during a ceremony in Phnom Penh, underscores decades of partnership and strategic dialogue, contributing to mutual socio-economic growth and regional stability. Hong Raksmey, Phnom Penh Post, February 15
Long Form
China-Latin America Space Cooperation: An Overview. In a significant expansion of its global space engagement, China has deepened its space cooperation with Latin America. Notably, Venezuela announced a partnership for Chinese transport to a moon research base, highlighting China's strategic space initiatives in the region. This cooperation includes access to ground stations and collaboration on satellite constellations, emphasizing China's strategic and technological ambitions. R. Evan Ellis, The Diplomat, February 16
Exploring the BJP’s Legal Agenda for India. Since its rise to power in 2014, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has significantly altered India's legal framework, aiming to centralize government power, enforce a tougher stance on national security, modernize personal laws, and reclaim ancient Hindu temples. Recent months have seen an acceleration in legal changes, likely in anticipation of the upcoming general elections. This legislative push reflects the BJP's commitment to shaping a more centralized, security-focused, family-oriented, and Hindu-proud nation. Akhilesh Pillalamarri, The Diplomat, February 16
This Time, India's Rapid Economic Growth Has Legs. India's economy, the fastest-growing major economy in 2022 and 2023, is forecasted to maintain its pace in 2024, driven by significant reforms and strategic advantages. The introduction of a national goods and services tax, tripled highway construction rates, and a world-class digital public infrastructure have streamlined operations and improved welfare targeting. Human development indicators have also seen remarkable improvements, with nearly universal household electrification and reduced infant mortality. Additionally, China's economic slowdown has redirected capital and attention towards India, enhancing its investment appeal. Despite historical challenges in sustaining growth, India's current investment-to-GDP ratio and reduced import dependence signal a robust economic trajectory, supported by recent trade agreements and a focus on infrastructure spending. Richard Yetsenga, Nikkei Asia, February 16
The Geopolitical Stakes of Taiwan's Future. The potential annexation or invasion of Taiwan by China represents one of the most significant geopolitical threats of the next decade. General Douglas MacArthur's 1950 warning about Taiwan's strategic importance is even more relevant today. Taiwan's status as a liberal democracy and the world's primary producer of advanced microchips makes its fate crucial not only for regional stability but also for the global economy. China's aggressive military buildup and Xi Jinping's determination to resolve Taiwan's status underscore the urgency of the situation. The loss of Taiwan would not only hinder democratic aspirations across Asia but could also trigger a global depression due to its pivotal role in semiconductor manufacturing. Additionally, a Chinese seizure of Taiwan could undermine U.S. security guarantees, prompting a nuclear arms race among nations. The international community must recognize the profound implications of Taiwan's potential subjugation and the necessity of maintaining its self-governing status to prevent a cascade of destabilizing events. Andrew S. Erickson, Gabriel B. Collins, and Matt Pottinger, Foreign Affairs, February 16
South Koreans Blame Feminism for Demographic Collapse. In South Korea, facing the world's lowest fertility rate, some attribute the demographic crisis to feminism, accusing it of fostering gender discord and deterring family formation. This perspective, prevalent in public discourse, often misrepresents feminism as misandry and a political agenda, diverting attention from structural issues like societal pressures, long working hours, and housing costs that significantly impact birth rates. South Korea's demographic challenges predate the rise of feminism, indicating deeper, systemic problems. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach beyond scapegoating feminism, focusing on creating supportive conditions for young families and reevaluating societal norms around marriage and childbearing. Dylan Motin, East Asia Forum, February 16