News
China revamps discipline inspection rules to ensure Xi Jinping’s instructions are carried out. China has updated its discipline inspection guidelines, emphasizing adherence to President Xi Jinping's policies. This adjustment mandates closer monitoring of policy implementation across various government levels, aiming to enhance political loyalty and the execution of Xi's directives. The reform is part of broader efforts to strengthen party discipline and governance efficiency. William Zheng, South China Morning Post, February 22
N. Korea accuses U.S. of 'double standard' toward human rights. North Korea criticizes the United States for alleged double standards in human rights, urging the U.S. special envoy for North Korean human rights to focus on the Middle East instead. The critique comes amidst discussions on North Korea's human rights by the U.S. special representative in South Korea, highlighting the ongoing tension over human rights discourse and the strategic use of such issues in international relations. Lee Minji, Yonhap News Agency, February 22
US lawmaker in Taiwan visit reassures support regardless of U.S. election outcome. U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher, chairing the House select committee on China, reaffirmed in Taipei the unwavering U.S. support for Taiwan amidst increasing Chinese pressure. Gallagher's visit, emphasizing bipartisan support, underscores the strategic importance of Taiwan in U.S.-China relations and the commitment to Taiwan's defense and democratic governance. Ben Blanchard, Yimou Lee, and Eduardo Baptista, Reuters, February 22
Japan Diet panel on funds scandal to be held for 2 days from Feb. 28. Japan's Diet is set to conduct hearings on a political funds scandal impacting the ruling Liberal Democratic Party for two days starting February 28. Key LDP lawmakers have agreed to participate, amidst allegations of unreported income from fundraising activities. This marks a significant inquiry into the party's financial practices, with both ruling and opposition members deliberating on the session's openness to media and non-panel members. Kyodo News, February 22
Manet: New DPM needed for reform implementation. Prime Minister Hun Manet advocates for the Minister of Civil Service's elevation to Deputy Prime Minister to spearhead reforms across ministries. The appointment of his brother, Hun Many, as the 11th Deputy Prime Minister, underscores a commitment to comprehensive public service reforms. This move, part of a broader strategy to achieve high-income status for Cambodia by 2050, aims to enhance efficiency in the education, health, and public service sectors. Samban Chandara, Phnom Penh Post, February 22
Kyrgyzstan lawmakers push ahead with contentious foreign agents bill. Kyrgyzstan's parliament is advancing a bill that would label NGOs receiving foreign funding as "foreign agents," raising concerns among civil society about potential restrictions on their work. The proposed legislation, echoing similar laws in Russia, requires these organizations to undergo stringent financial audits and report their activities, sparking fears of increased government control over NGOs. Ayzirek Imanaliyeva, Eurasianet, February 22
Japan, South Korea agree to work on North Korea issues. Japan and South Korea have pledged to collaborate on addressing North Korea's human rights violations and other security concerns. This agreement was reached during a meeting between Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and her South Korean counterpart, Cho Tae Yul, in Brazil. Their discussions also touched upon the upcoming 60th anniversary of the normalization of bilateral ties, amidst ongoing efforts to improve relations between the two countries. Kyodo News, February 22
House moves to revoke NCPO orders. Thailand’s House of Representatives has initiated the process to abolish orders by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), aiming to reduce military influence and increase public participation in the administration of the country's southern provinces. This legislative action, led by representatives from multiple political parties, marks a significant step towards restoring civilian governance and addressing long-standing issues in the region. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, February 22
China starts drafting bill to boost private sector and tackle sluggish post-Covid economy following major setbacks. China is drafting a bill aimed at bolstering the private sector to revitalize its post-pandemic economic recovery and rebuild investor confidence after recent financial upheavals. The legislation seeks to ensure equal treatment of state-owned and private enterprises, focusing on protecting private property rights and ensuring fair market access. However, some analysts view the bill as a continuation of existing measures rather than a groundbreaking change. Sylvie Zhuang, South China Morning Post, February 22
NA Standing Committee wraps up 30th meeting. The National Assembly Standing Committee has successfully concluded its 30th session on February 22, focusing on a comprehensive agenda that included the revision of draft laws and the approval of a resolution aimed at augmenting the number of prosecutors. This meeting is part of Vietnam's strategic efforts to propel its socio-economic development forward, aligning with the ambitious goals established by the 13th National Party Congress. Vietnam News, February 22
Kazakhstan: Major data hack bears Chinese fingerprints. Kazakhstan is investigating a significant data leak implicating Chinese surveillance activities. The breach, revealing extensive personal information from Kazakhstan's largest telecom operators, underscores concerns over Chinese intelligence operations. The exposed data highlights vulnerabilities in national infrastructure and raises questions about cybersecurity defenses. Almaz Kumenov, Eurasianet, February 22
Singapore waiting for Malaysia's reply on proposal to buy land for Woodlands Checkpoint redevelopment. Singapore has proposed to Malaysia the purchase of two plots of land crucial for the Woodlands Checkpoint's redevelopment. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority highlighted the importance of these plots for optimizing the project, aimed at improving the clearance experience for travelers on the Causeway. Singapore's request, initiated in May 2022 and reiterated in November 2023, is pending Malaysia's response. Ng Hong Siang, Channel News Asia, February 22
Yoon pledges 3.3 tln won worth of projects for nuclear power industry. President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea commits to invigorating the nuclear power sector with 3.3 trillion won in projects and 1 trillion won in special financing. This initiative, announced in Changwon, aims to mark a new era for the industry, reversing the previous administration's phase-out policy. Yoon's strategy includes tax incentives, substantial R&D investment, and legislative support to foster growth and achieve carbon neutrality. Lee Haye-ah, Yonhap News Agency, February 22