News
MI6 spy detained in China, authorities claim. China's Ministry of State Security has detained a foreign individual, identified as "Huang," on allegations of spying for Britain's MI6. The individual, leading a consulting agency, is accused of collecting intelligence and recruiting spies for MI6. The case is part of China's broader efforts against foreign espionage and comes amid increasing reports of Western espionage activities in China. Gordon Corera, BBC News, January 8
LDP lawmaker arrest over funds scandal further blurs Japan PM's fate. Yoshitaka Ikeda's arrest, a member of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, over a fundraising scandal complicates Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's political situation. Kishida plans to establish a panel for political reform, amid growing concerns about the transparency of LDP factions and political fundraising. This development raises questions about Kishida's leadership and the potential for more political upheavals within the party. Tomoyuki Tachikawa, Kyodo News, January 8
South Korean minister says U.S. troops likely to stay even if Trump is re-elected. South Korea's Unification Minister Kim Yung Ho expressed confidence in the continued presence of U.S. troops in South Korea, regardless of potential political changes in the U.S., including a potential re-election of Donald Trump. This assurance is based on recent U.S. legislation requiring congressional approval for any reduction in the current U.S. military presence in South Korea. Joyce Lee, Reuters, January 6
Kyrgyzstan: Eccentric politician behind “no winter” meme dies in jail. Arstan “Alai” Abdyldayev, a Kyrgyz businessman and politician known for his eccentric prophecies, died in jail at 55. Abdyldayev, detained on blasphemy charges, reportedly hanged himself. His lawyer attributes his death to the state's actions. Abdyldayev gained fame for bizarre predictions and was previously investigated for claiming divine attributes. The case highlights tensions between unconventional beliefs and state authority. Ayzirek Imanaliyeva, Eurasianet, January 8
Exclusive: China closes local government offshore financing loophole - sources. Chinese regulators have shut down a loophole that allowed local government financing vehicles (LGFVs) to increase their borrowing through offshore bonds. This move is part of Beijing's efforts to manage the burgeoning debt of LGFVs, which is a significant risk for China's economy. The new regulation prohibits LGFVs from issuing offshore bonds with a 364-day duration, aiming to tighten control over local government debt. Reuters, January 8
Japan’s foreign minister visits Poland to strengthen ties with the NATO nation. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa's visit to Poland is aimed at strengthening relations with the NATO country. During her stay, Kamikawa met with Polish officials, including Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski, and paid respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This visit follows her trip to Ukraine, where Japan pledged $37 million in support. The discussions covered Japan's solidarity with Ukraine and the intention to deepen strategic partnership with Poland. AP News, January 8
India-Maldives row escalates, agency suspends flight bookings to islands. Tensions between India and the Maldives escalated after an Indian travel platform suspended flight bookings to the Maldives. The move follows social media posts by Maldivian officials insulting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Maldives, heavily reliant on tourism, counts India and Russia as its top visitors. The suspension highlights the impact of diplomatic strains on tourism and international relations. Krishn Kaushik and Uditha Jayasinghe, Reuters, January 8
Kazakhstan: Alleged Deripaska plane purchase raises sanctions bypass questions. Kazakhstan officials have refuted claims of Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska purchasing a business jet from a Kazakh airline to circumvent Western sanctions. While the report from investigative media outlet Verstka suggested the Dassault Falcon 7X was bought from Irtysh Air, Kazakhstan's Transportation Ministry denied the aircraft was registered in the country's civil aircraft registry. The case raises concerns about evasion of international sanctions. Almaz Kumenov, Eurasianet, January 8
President welcomes top Bulgarian legislator on visit to Viet Nam. Vietnamese President Nguyễn Xuân Phúc met with the President of the Bulgarian National Assembly, Vezhdi Rashidov, to discuss enhancing bilateral relations. The visit aims to strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, education, culture, and tourism, reflecting the longstanding ties between Viet Nam and Bulgaria. This visit underscores the mutual interest in deepening the partnership between the two nations. Vietnam News, January 8
Action on inflation, job creation boost Marcos' approval rating: Governor. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s actions on inflation and job creation have positively impacted his approval ratings, according to Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone. These efforts reflect the administration's focus on economic recovery and employment generation. The president's initiatives are seen as key factors in gaining public support. Kristina Maralit, The Manila Times, January 8