News
South China Sea: Manila rejects Chinese account, says coastguard blocked fishing boat rescue. The Philippines accused the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) of obstructing its rescue of two fishermen near Scarborough Shoal, contradicting China’s claim of assisting the rescue. Videos from both sides showed a half-sunken Philippine fishing boat. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) stated that CCG’s actions hindered their rescue efforts, but they successfully transferred the injured fishermen despite interference. Tensions have risen as China and the Philippines continue to dispute maritime territories. Liu Zhen, South China Morning Post, July 1
Delays, disruptions as South Koreans surge to sign online petition to impeach president. An online petition to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol faced delays due to high traffic, with over 811,000 signatures since June 20. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik apologized and pledged to address the issue. The petition alleges corruption, risk of war with North Korea, and health risks related to Japan's Fukushima water release. Parliament must assign petitions with over 50,000 signatures to a committee, but the opposition Democratic Party has not yet discussed turning it into an impeachment bill. Ju-min Park, Reuters, July 1
Court urged to suspend Senate result. Jaturan Boonbenjarat, a former senatorial candidate, filed a petition with the Supreme Administrative Court to halt the announcement of the Senate election results. He claimed the Election Commission neglected to verify candidates' qualifications, allowing false information to compromise the election. Other former candidates joined in calling for a delay, advocating for a thorough review. Jaturan argued the integrity of the election process was at stake. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, July 1
North Korea test-launches 2 ballistic missiles, after end of new US-South Korea-Japan drill. North Korea fired two ballistic missiles, with one possibly malfunctioning, shortly after a joint U.S., South Korea, and Japan military drill. The missiles launched from Jangyon, with one traveling 600 kilometers and the other 120 kilometers. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff condemned the launches as a serious threat. This follows North Korea's recent condemnation of the trilateral drills as an attempt to surround China and pressure Russia. Hyung-jin Kim, AP News, July 1
Marcos seeks coalition based on 'ideology'. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the signing of an alliance between his Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) and the National Unity Party (NUP), forming the Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas (Alliance for a New Philippines). This coalition aims to strengthen ideological and political unity ahead of the 2025 midterm elections. Marcos emphasized that the partnership is more than just a political maneuver, aiming to foster long-term collaboration for national development. Catherine S. Valente and Red Mendoza, The Manila Times, June 30
PM Kishida vows travel aid program 6 months after central Japan quake. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio announced a travel aid program to support regions affected by the central Japan earthquake six months ago. This initiative aims to boost local tourism and economy recovery in disaster-hit areas. Kishida emphasized the government's commitment to providing continuous support for the affected regions' reconstruction and revitalization efforts. The program includes subsidies for travel expenses to encourage domestic tourism. Kyodo News, July 1
Vietnam attends 14th ASEANAPOL Contact Persons Meeting in Malaysia. Representatives from Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security participated in the 14th ASEANAPOL Contact Persons Meeting in Kuala Lumpur. The meeting, organized by the ASEAN Chiefs of Police Secretariat, focused on strengthening regional cooperation to combat transnational organized crime. Key topics included strategic collaboration, law enforcement training, and expanding partnerships with international organizations, aiming to enhance safety and security in Southeast Asia. Vietnam News, July 1
North Korea switches TV transmission to Russia satellite from Chinese. North Korea has moved its state TV broadcasts from ChinaSat 12 to Russia's Express 103 satellite, complicating monitoring for South Korean agencies. The switch occurred on June 29, following Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea and a treaty with Kim Jong Un. South Korea's unification ministry is addressing the technical issues to restore access. North Korean TV is a key information source, despite its politicized content. Daewoung Kim and Ju-min Park, Reuters, July 1
West Philippine Sea: Chinese aircraft carrier spotted off Luzon. A Chinese aircraft carrier, Shandong, was reportedly seen about 200 nautical miles from Luzon, raising concerns amid the ongoing West Philippine Sea dispute. The ship's location is hard to confirm due to its AIS being turned off. Chester Cabalza, a Filipino security expert, believes the carrier's presence is a response to Manila's strategic actions and alliances with democratic countries. This sighting follows recent aggressive actions by China, including an "intrusive patrol" by a China Coast Guard vessel and confrontations with the Philippine Navy. John Eric Mendoza, Inquirer, July 1
Indonesia, Philippines conduct joint patrol in maritime border. The Indonesian and Philippine navies conducted a joint patrol in the Sulawesi and Mindanao waters on June 27. The 38th Coordinated Patrol-Philippines-Indonesia (Corpat Philindo) aimed to strengthen capabilities against piracy and terrorism threats. The patrol included exercises in maneuvering and formation. The Indonesian Navy deployed KRI Kakap-811, and the Philippine Navy sent BRP Artemio Ricarte and PN Aircraft NV394. This joint effort addresses maritime security threats and enhances cooperation between the two countries. Antara News, July 1
Philippines ready to discuss with Vietnam South China Sea issues. The Philippines welcomed Vietnam's recognition of its U.N. filing to secure rights on an extended continental shelf in the South China Sea. The Philippines' foreign ministry expressed readiness for talks with Hanoi to resolve issues and find mutually beneficial solutions. This follows the Philippines' claim for an extended continental shelf beyond its 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone. China opposed the filing, asserting it infringed on its sovereign rights. Vietnam and the Philippines have overlapping claims in the disputed area. Mikhail Flores and Karen Lema, Reuters, July 1
Move Forward, Srettha rulings ‘by September’. The Constitutional Court of Thailand is expected to rule on two high-profile cases involving the opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin by September. The MFP faces potential dissolution over alleged attempts to undermine the constitutional monarchy. Meanwhile, PM Srettha is under scrutiny for appointing an official with a controversial past. Court president Nakharin Mektrairat assured thorough deliberations but refrained from commenting on the cases' specifics. Mongkol Bangprapa, Bangkok Post, July 1
S. Korea to launch population ministry to address low birth rates, aging population. South Korea will establish a new ministry of population strategy to tackle low birth rates and aging demographics. Announced after meetings with the ruling party, the ministry will manage demographic issues, workforce, and immigration, taking over tasks from the health and finance ministries. It will also coordinate budgets and draw up population policies. The ministry head will also serve as deputy prime minister for social affairs. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, July 1
Mongolia may return to coalition government after official results confirm setback for ruling party. Mongolia's ruling Mongolian People’s Party (MPP) won a reduced majority in the latest parliamentary election, securing 68 of 126 seats, while the opposition Democratic Party gained 42 seats. Smaller parties won the remaining 16 seats. The results indicate a potential return to a coalition government for the first time in eight years. Discussions are reportedly underway between MPP, the Democratic Party, and the HUN Party. Ken Moritsugu, AP News, July 1
Myanmar central bank denies UN report on weapons transactions. Myanmar's central bank refuted a U.N. report claiming the military government can still access funds and weapons, asserting financial institutions follow prescribed procedures. The bank objected to the report by U.N. Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews, which alleged the junta imported $253 million in military goods with help from international banks, including Thai banks. Myanmar's central bank stated that transactions are strictly for essential civilian goods. Thailand's foreign ministry pledged to investigate the claims. Reuters, June 30
Parliament to hear ministerial statements on oil spill, discuss billion-dollar money laundering case. Singapore’s Parliament will address the recent oil spill affecting public beaches, with statements from Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat, Environment Minister Grace Fu, and National Development Minister Desmond Lee. MPs will also discuss the billion-dollar money laundering case involving ten offenders, the fatal toxic gas incident at Choa Chu Kang Waterworks, and questions about recognizing Palestine as a state. Rachel Lim, Channel News Asia, July 1
Japan foreign minister due in Kingdom to enhance ties. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa will visit Cambodia from July 5-6, meeting Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet. The visit aims to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Cambodia and Japan. Discussions will cover economic cooperation, defense, and people-to-people exchanges. Experts believe the visit will bolster bilateral relations and support Cambodia's development and peacekeeping operations. Ry Sochan, The Phnom Penh Post, July 1
Groups call for hearings on new resident rights act. Civic groups and advocates urged legislators to hold public hearings and seek feedback on the proposed "new resident rights protection act." The draft bills, set for cross-party negotiations, aim to protect the rights of new residents in Taiwan, including foreigners with various residency statuses. Concerns include ambiguous definitions and a focus on assimilation rather than rights protection. Advocates call for nationwide consultations to ensure comprehensive protections. Lin Che-yuan and Jason Pan, Taipei Times, July 1
Long Form
Indonesia’s Labour Party After the Elections: Ambiguities Continue. The Labour Party in Indonesia faces an uncertain future following the elections, with unresolved ambiguities about its direction and role in domestic politics. The party's performance in the recent elections did not meet expectations, raising questions about its leadership and strategies moving forward. The Labour Party must navigate internal conflicts and external pressures to redefine its position and goals. Max Lane, Fulcrum, July 1
The Russia-North Korea Marriage of Convenience is No Bromance. The relationship between Russia and North Korea is characterized by convenience rather than genuine alliance. This partnership is driven by mutual benefits, such as economic exchanges and political leverage, rather than shared ideologies or deep trust. North Korea seeks to alleviate its economic hardships through Russian support, while Russia aims to counterbalance Western influences in Asia. Despite this cooperation, mistrust and differing priorities persist between the two nations. Virginie Grzelczyk, Nikkei Asia, July 1
China’s Economic Conundrum Under Xi Jinping. China's economy faces challenges under Xi Jinping's leadership, characterized by slowing growth, high debt levels, and structural inefficiencies. The government's approach combines state control with selective market reforms, aiming to balance stability with innovation. However, internal and external pressures, including geopolitical tensions and demographic shifts, complicate these efforts. The trajectory of China's economic policy remains uncertain, impacting both domestic prosperity and global economic dynamics. Seong-Hyon Lee, East Asia Forum, June 30
China Needs Real Reforms Beyond the Real Estate Sector. China must implement broader structural reforms to maintain economic growth beyond its real estate sector. While recent measures have stabilized property markets, comprehensive reforms in social security, fiscal policy, and domestic consumption are crucial. The political climate under Xi Jinping poses challenges to these necessary changes, potentially impacting China's long-term economic stability and growth. EAF Editors, East Asia Forum, July 1
TikTok Tensions Are a New Front in US–China Tech Wars. The US push to either force TikTok's sale or ban it due to national security concerns is supported by a significant portion of Americans and Australians. This move, reflecting broader tech rivalry between the US and China, highlights fears over data privacy and Chinese influence. The ongoing debate over TikTok's role exemplifies the geopolitical tensions and the challenge of balancing security with technological advancement. Wanning Sun and Marina Yue Zhang, East Asia Forum, June 29
Mongolia’s Democracy in Action. Mongolia's recent general election on June 28 was marked by public dissatisfaction over corruption and economic inequality. The election, the first since significant constitutional reforms in 2023, saw the ruling Mongolian People’s Party win a reduced majority with 68 seats. The opposition Democratic Party gained 42 seats, a notable increase from the previous election. The newly introduced proportional representation system allowed three smaller parties to gain seats in the State Great Khural. Anand Tumurtogoo, The Diplomat, July 1
Sara Hsu on China’s Economic Policy Under Xi Jinping. Under Xi Jinping, China's economic strategy emphasizes state-led innovation and development. Key challenges include internal structural issues like real estate sector slowdowns and external pressures from the West, particularly the United States, which views China’s economic strategies as national security threats. The delay of the third plenum of the 20th Central Committee reflects internal debates on economic policies, complicating China's efforts to address these issues. Shannon Tiezzi, The Diplomat, June 29
Why Poland Has Become a Gateway to Europe for Filipinos. Thousands of Filipinos have migrated to Poland seeking job opportunities but are facing low wages and poor working conditions. Many are using Poland as a stepping stone to other European countries despite risks of becoming undocumented. This trend is driven by the lack of viable employment options in the Philippines and other Asian countries. Filipino workers in Poland encounter issues like wage theft and precarious living conditions, prompting some to move further west. Raquel Carvalho, The Diplomat, June 29
How Is Huawei Growing, Despite Heavy US Sanctions? Despite extensive US sanctions, Huawei has adapted by expanding its product range, investing in emerging technologies, and developing its own operating systems and chips. The company leverages its Hubble investment arm to acquire stakes in tech startups, aiming for self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on Western technology. Huawei's Harmony OS has surpassed Apple's iOS market share in China and is gaining global traction. Megha Shrivastava, The Diplomat, July 2
China’s National Power and Artificial Intelligence. China prioritizes AI development to enhance its national power, with the goal of becoming a global leader in AI by 2030. The government's strategy involves substantial investment in AI research, education, and international talent acquisition. China integrates AI with neuroscience research, pursuing brain-inspired AI and brain-computer interfaces. This aims to merge human and artificial intelligence, reflecting China's ambition to dominate in AI advancements while addressing both economic and military applications. Mercy A. Kuo, The Diplomat, July 1
For Chinese Journalists, An Uphill Battle to Scrutinize AI. Chinese journalists face challenges in critically reporting on AI due to limited resources and expertise in advanced investigative techniques. Most rely on traditional methods like field research and interviews. Despite ambitious AI integration efforts in newsrooms, the lack of talent and financial constraints hinder effective algorithmic accountability reporting. Improved AI literacy and better resource allocation could enhance journalists' ability to scrutinize AI systems responsibly. Joanne Kuai, Sixth Tone, July 1
China’s Spluttering Growth Engines. Beijing’s unbalanced growth model is faltering, with local governments deeply in debt and reliant on land sales and off-balance-sheet financing. Efforts to revive the real estate market and infrastructure investments face significant constraints, impacting provincial finances and slowing growth. Despite calls to boost consumption, Beijing's focus remains on exports. This economic strategy poses risks to global trade dynamics and pressures China’s internal economic stability. Henry Storey, Lowy Institute, July 1
South Korea’s Nuclear Ambition Holds a Place in the National Consciousness. South Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons is driven by a deep-seated sense of vulnerability and national consciousness. This perception is shaped by historical invasions and current geopolitical tensions, influencing both older and younger generations differently. The older generation views nuclear armament as defensive, while the younger sees it as a means of achieving parity with global powers. The recent stress from the relative decline of the US and changing international order exacerbates these sentiments. Jeffrey Robertson, Lowy Institute, July 1