News
China’s Xi Jinping pushes for stable US ties and more exchanges in letter to long-time American friend. Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasizes the importance of stable Sino-American relations and the role of personal connections in a letter to Sarah Lande, an American friend. Xi highlights the significance of people-to-people exchanges in enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation between the two countries, illustrating China's desire for improved bilateral relations. Alyssa Chen, South China Morning Post, January 10
Japan government appeals ruling on compensation for illegal investigation. The Japanese government and the Tokyo metropolitan government have appealed a court ruling that ordered compensation for an illegal investigation into a company president and two others. The Tokyo District Court had previously ordered the governments to pay about 160 million yen for the unlawful arrest and indictment related to alleged illegal exports. The case has raised questions about the interpretation of export control regulations and the role of police and prosecutors in building cases. Kyodo News, January 10
Proactive approach to Taliban helps safeguard security in northwest China: envoy. Yue Xiaoyong, Beijing’s special envoy for Afghan affairs, stated that China’s active engagement with the Taliban has been crucial for ensuring the security of China's northwestern regions. The involvement with the Taliban, though not formally recognized by Beijing, signifies a growing diplomatic relationship aimed at stabilizing the region and addressing security concerns, particularly in relation to Xinjiang's border with Afghanistan. Orange Wang, South China Morning Post, January 10
Afghanistan reports sixfold increase in trade with Uzbekistan. Trade between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan experienced a significant increase in 2023, reaching $266 million. This growth signifies an expanding engagement between the two countries, despite the political situation in Afghanistan. The trade primarily includes Afghan exports like dried fruits and carpets, and imports from Uzbekistan such as electricity and oil. This trend aligns with regional infrastructure developments, like the planned trans-Afghan railroad, which aims to enhance connectivity and economic cooperation in Central Asia. Eurasianet, January 11
India's Modi woos investors at business summit as firms make spending pledges. Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India promoted his country's economic potential at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, where major companies announced investment plans totaling nearly $33 billion. Modi's initiative aims to position India as a global economic powerhouse and a key player in technology and democracy. The summit also focused on attracting investment in chip and electric vehicle manufacturing, with significant commitments from top global and Indian businesses. This event comes ahead of the national elections, highlighting India's economic growth and development ambitions. Aditi Shah, Dhwani Pandya and Sumit Khanna, Reuters, January 10
Australian Ambassador optimistic about cooperation potential with Việt Nam. Australian Ambassador to Việt Nam, Andrew Goledzinowski, expressed optimism about the potential for cooperation between Australia and Việt Nam in various fields. The Ambassador highlighted the significance of 2023, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and stressed the importance of bolstering these ties. Key areas of focus include education, mining, telecommunications, and green energy transition. Vietnam News, January 10
Marcos, Widodo to discuss bilateral relations, release of jailed OFW. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Indonesian President Joko Widodo are set to discuss bilateral relations and the release of a jailed Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). The meeting underscores the diplomatic efforts between the two countries, emphasizing mutual concerns and cooperation. This dialogue is significant for strengthening ties and addressing key issues affecting citizens of both nations. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, January 10
China watchdog doubles down on vow to heed Xi's anti-graft drive. The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) in China has reinforced its commitment to President Xi Jinping's anti-corruption campaign, focusing on eliminating graft among officials, especially in military procurement. Since 2012, Xi's crackdown has been marked as a significant political achievement, though it faces criticism for potential political purges and not addressing systemic causes of corruption. The CCDI's renewed pledge emphasizes political loyalty and security, targeting sectors like finance, energy, infrastructure, and healthcare. Yew Lun Tian, Reuters, January 10
Sabah UMNO to focus on strengthening party before considering political alliances - Bung Moktar. UMNO Sabah, under the leadership of Bung Moktar Radin, is concentrating on strengthening the party across all levels in the state prior to forming alliances for the upcoming state elections. This approach reflects a strategic move to bolster the party's internal structure and readiness. Bernama, January 10
Long Form
New presidents in Washington, Taipei may be worse for Beijing. The evolving US foreign policy and potential changes in Taiwan's presidency could pose challenges for Beijing. The focus is on the strategic significance of the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. This situation reflects the complex balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region. Particular importance rests in areas like the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, which are pivotal in the geopolitical dynamics involving China, the US, and Taiwan. The situation underscores the intricate balance of power and influence in the region. Alex Lo, South China Morning Post, January 10
Neitbay Urazbayev, Karakalpak Diaspora Leader, Dies in Kazakhstan – Neitbay Urazbayev, a notable leader of the Karakalpak diaspora, has died at 54 in Kazakhstan, sparking concerns over the future of Karakalpakstan's autonomy within Uzbekistan. His death follows a tumultuous period including a conviction in absentia in Uzbekistan and loss of Kazakh citizenship. Urazbayev's advocacy for Karakalpak rights and independence has been central to the region's political discourse. Catherine Putz, The Diplomat, January 10
US-China Detente Likely to Remain Elusive in 2024. The likelihood of a US-China detente in 2024 appears slim, despite the positive atmosphere of the November 2023 summit between Presidents Biden and Xi Jinping. Tensions persist due to unresolved fundamental issues and mistrust, with geopolitical flashpoints like Taiwan and the South China Sea posing major challenges. Domestic politics in both nations and competing strategic interests further complicate the prospect of significant bilateral relaxation. Paul Heer, East Asia Forum, January 11
Between Islam and Poverty: Afghanistan Teeters Under the Taliban. Afghanistan's plight intensifies under Taliban rule, marked by rising poverty and dwindling rights. Since their August 2021 takeover, the Taliban's harsh Islamic governance and unfulfilled promises of stability have led to international aid cuts and a severe food crisis, affecting over 90% of the population. The regime's oppressive policies, particularly towards women's education and rights, further deepen the humanitarian crisis. Salman Rafi Sheikh, Asia Sentinel, January 10
"An Awkward Photo-op": Japan’s Persistent Gender Problem. Japan faces a significant gender equality challenge, highlighted by an all-male representation at a G7 summit on women’s empowerment. Despite a decade of "womenomics," women remain underrepresented in high-status jobs, politics, and face a significant gender pay gap. The Japanese government's policies have not yet effectively tackled deep-rooted socio-cultural barriers to gender equality. By Tan Ming Hui, Lowy Institute, January 10