Asia Daily: January 23, 2024
News
North Korea tears down monument symbolizing union with the South - report. North Korea has reportedly demolished a significant monument in Pyongyang, known as the Arch of Reunification, which symbolized its goal of reconciliation with South Korea. This action follows leader Kim Jong Un's recent declaration of South Korea as a "primary foe," effectively dismissing prospects for unification. The demolition, observed via satellite imagery by NK News, aligns with Kim's characterization of the monument as an "eyesore" during a speech at the Supreme People's Assembly. The move signals a further escalation in tensions on the Korean peninsula, exacerbated by military activities from both North and South Korea, and the U.S. The dismantling of the monument, which stood for self-reliance, peace, and national cooperation, marks a significant shift in North Korea's stance towards its southern neighbor. Jack Kim, Reuters, January 23
China rallies G77 countries for major reform of WTO and Bretton Woods at Kampala summit. Chinese Vice-Premier Liu Guozhong has called for significant reform of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and international financial system at the third South Summit in Kampala, Uganda. The summit, a decision-making body of the G77 plus China, a coalition of developing countries, focused on restructuring the global political and economic order. This includes changes to the UN Security Council, WTO, World Bank, and IMF to better reflect current global dynamics and address the concerns of developing nations. Liu's proposals, supported by UN leaders, are part of China's broader efforts to reshape international relations and assert its influence in the Global South. Jevans Nyabiage, South China Morning Post, January 22
PCG probes harassment of Filipino fishermen by China Coast Guard. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is investigating allegations of harassment by the China Coast Guard against Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea. The incident, involving Filipino fishermen gathering seashells at Bajo de Masinloc or Panatag Shoal on January 12, was reportedly captured in a video now circulating online. The PCG is in the process of collecting sworn statements from individuals featured in the video. This investigation highlights ongoing territorial disputes and tensions in the West Philippine Sea between the Philippines and China. Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, January 22
ICAN chief urges Japan to recognize nuke ban, not fear U.S. reaction. Melissa Parke, the executive director of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, has encouraged Japan to endorse the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, putting aside concerns about the United States' response. Parke, during her first visit to Japan as ICAN's head, met with survivors of the atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, advocating for Japan's support of the treaty despite its reliance on U.S. nuclear protection. This appeal coincides with the treaty's third anniversary, highlighting Japan's unique historical perspective on nuclear disarmament. Kyodo News, Kyodo News, January 22
Look out for Russian moves to ‘muddy waters’ at China’s doorstep, noted analyst warns as Moscow boosts North Korea ties. Renowned political analyst Fang Ning has advised China to be vigilant for potential Russian tactics that could destabilize Northeast Asia in 2024. Fang's warning, issued during a forum at Renmin University in Beijing, comes amid escalating cooperation between Russia and North Korea, with Russian President Vladimir Putin expected to visit Pyongyang soon. Increased Russia-North Korea exchanges are under scrutiny, with allegations of military support as both countries confront the U.S. and its allies. Orange Wang, South China Morning Post, January 22
Anniversary of Việt Nam-China diplomatic relations marked in Beijing. The 74th anniversary of Vietnam-China diplomatic relations was commemorated at a ceremony in Beijing, attended by Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Ma Zhaoxu, Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Sao Mai, and representatives from both nations. Ambassador Mai emphasized the enduring friendship, fostered by Presidents Hồ Chà Minh and Mao Zedong, as a cornerstone of bilateral relations. The celebration highlighted the significant progress in the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, driven by the guidance of party and state leaders. Vietnam News, January 22
China undergoes rare scrutiny of rights record at UN meeting. China faced scrutiny over its human rights practices at a United Nations meeting in Geneva, primarily from Western nations advocating for Uyghur protections in Xinjiang and freedoms in Hong Kong. This first review since the UN's top rights official's 2022 report suggested possible crimes against humanity in Xinjiang saw Beijing defend its record, denying abuses. While many non-Western countries praised China's progress, Western voices, including the U.S., accused Beijing of genocide and repressive actions. The session reflected global divisions over China's human rights situation, with Beijing criticizing ideological bias and unfounded allegations against it. Emma Farge, Reuters, January 23
Laos Calls For Gaza Cease Fire, Seeks Support at Non-Aligned Movement Summit in Uganda. Laos' Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune, representing the country at the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit in Uganda, called for a cease-fire in Gaza and sought support for Laos' ASEAN presidency in 2024. The summit, themed "Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence," saw ministers and delegates from over 120 member states and international organizations reaffirming non-alignment principles and discussing global challenges. President of Uganda and Chair of the NAM, Yoweri Museveni, emphasized the Movement's stance against unilateralism and its commitment to trade, scientific advancement, and addressing common human issues. Chono Lapuekou, Laotian Times, January 23
China vows judicial disclosure after outcry over plan to curb access to rulings. China's Supreme People's Court (SPC) has committed to enhancing judicial disclosure following public backlash against its proposal to limit access to court decisions. The SPC's plan to replace the existing, open database of court documents with a restricted one for scholars and experts sparked criticism from lawyers and legal observers. In response, the SPC has agreed to make more court rulings available online, including documents from higher courts and those serving legal, educational, and warning purposes. However, concerns remain about the transparency of China's legal system and the selective nature of document disclosure. Laurie Chen, Reuters, January 22
Senators file motion for general debate on govt's performance. In Thailand, 98 senators have filed a motion for a general debate without a vote on the government's performance, requesting two days for discussion next month. Senator Seree Suwanpanont outlined seven issues for debate, including the digital wallet scheme and perceived discrimination in the justice system. This motion, supported by more than the required one-third of senators, reflects growing concerns within the military-appointed Senate about the government's policies and administration. The debate is scheduled before the Senate's term ends in May, highlighting the Senate's role in scrutinizing government actions. Bangkok Post, January 22
Long Form
The BNP’s Islamist Dilemma. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) faces a complex dilemma regarding its relationship with Islamist politics, particularly with the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami (JI). Despite a recent assertion by a BNP leader that the party is secular, internal disagreements persist. The BNP's past alliance with the JI, a party that opposed Bangladesh’s liberation in 1971, has been a source of criticism. Although the BNP formally ended its alliance with the JI in 2022, recent actions suggest a continued relationship. This political maneuvering raises questions about the BNP's stance on secularism and its implications for gaining support from New Delhi and Washington. The BNP's approach to political Islam and its efforts to balance domestic and international pressures reflect the broader challenges of navigating the complex political landscape in Bangladesh. Saqlain Rizve, The Diplomat, January 22
Gelephu: The World’s First Mindfulness City is in Bhutan. Bhutan is set to launch Gelephu Mindfulness City, a project that embodies the country's commitment to Gross National Happiness and environmental sustainability. Announced by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, this city aims to be an economic hub linking South and Southeast Asia. Gelephu will focus on sustainable business practices, renewable energy, and digital connectivity, while preserving Bhutan's Buddhist spiritual heritage and cultural identity. The master plan, designed by Danish architect Bjarke Ingels, integrates environmental conservation with urban development. This initiative represents Bhutan's innovative approach to harmonizing economic growth with cultural and environmental values. Namgay Zam, The Diplomat, January 23
Indonesian Election Highlights Young Voters' Employment Concerns. In the upcoming Indonesian presidential election on February 14, the key focus for millennials and Generation Z, who constitute 60% of the voters, is employment. Young Indonesians, like 21-year-old business major Sandra Mareta, are particularly concerned about job opportunities after graduation. This election will be crucial in determining how the new president addresses the challenge of creating middle-class jobs, a significant issue for the country's youth. The successor to President Joko Widodo will need to implement reforms to meet these employment concerns effectively. Nana Shibata, Ismi Damayanti and Erwida Maulia, Nikkei Asia, January 23
Taiwan Needs Economic Support from U.S., Not Just Arms. Taiwan's recent elections have spotlighted its susceptibility to China's trade coercion, underscoring the necessity for economic backing from the United States alongside military aid. The looming possibility of Beijing annulling the bilateral Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement following the DPP's Lai Ching-te's victory accentuates Taiwan's fragile economic state. U.S. economic assistance is crucial, serving as a vital supplement to military support and providing Taiwan with a stronger defense against China's expanding influence. Paul Sracic, Nikkei Asia, January 23
Japan's Experience Shows Why Ukraine Won't Get Russia Out with Talk
The long-standing territorial dispute between Japan and Russia over the Northern Territories, and its similarities to Ukraine's situation, underscore the ineffectiveness of diplomatic talks in resolving Russian occupations. Russia's occupation of both these Japanese territories and Crimea in Ukraine lacks legal justification, breaching international agreements. The situation reveals Russia's strategy of using territorial disputes as leverage, aiming for broader political control rather than just territorial gain. This context suggests that Ukraine's focus should not be limited to internal democracy within unoccupied territories, as Russia is likely to use occupied areas to influence Ukrainian politics. The insistence on the return of all occupied territories is crucial for Ukraine to prevent long-term Russian manipulation. James D.J. Brown, Nikkei Asia, January 23
China's Evolving Approach to a Multipolar World Order in 2024
China's foreign relations are undergoing a significant transformation, marked by a blend of assertiveness and nuance. Two key developments illustrate this shift: the appointment of Admiral Dong Jun as the new Minister of Defence, signaling a strategic focus on the South China Sea, and the visit of Liu Jianchao, Minister of the Chinese Communist Party’s International Liaison Department, to the United States. Liu's visit, a departure from China's traditional focus on socialist or developing countries, involved extensive engagement with American political, business, and media figures. His speech at the Council on Foreign Relations clarified China's view on the international order and high-quality development, aiming to counter misconceptions about China's global intentions. Meanwhile, Dong's appointment emphasizes the importance of maritime capabilities and regional stability, particularly in the South China Sea. These moves reflect China's role in the emerging multipolar world order, balancing regional alliances, maritime claims, and potential areas of cooperation, such as climate change. Sophia Yi, Lowy Institute, January 23
Japan’s Hydrogen Ambitions May Do More Harm Than Good. Japan's revised national hydrogen strategy, aiming for a carbon-neutral 'hydrogen society', might ironically increase global greenhouse gas emissions. The strategy largely depends on hydrogen produced from fossil fuels, particularly natural gas or brown coal, with carbon capture - termed 'blue' hydrogen. However, the effectiveness of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is questionable, with a high failure rate in pilot projects and carbon capture rates below the ideal benchmark. Moreover, blue hydrogen production doesn't address methane emissions from fossil fuel extraction, a potent greenhouse gas. The strategy also overlooks emissions from hydrogen transport and storage, which are significant due to the energy-intensive processes involved. The article suggests that Japan should focus on using low-emission hydrogen in sectors where it is most climate and economically sensible, and make its definition of low-carbon hydrogen more stringent to truly address the climate crisis. Walter James, East Asia Forum, January 23