News
PLA sends record 56 warplanes over median line of Taiwan Strait in a day. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) sent 56 warplanes across the median line of the Taiwan Strait, setting a new record. This occurred as a PLA aircraft carrier strike group conducted drills near Taiwan. The increased military activity coincides with the US-led Rim of the Pacific naval exercise. Taiwan's defense ministry reported 66 PLA aircraft and drones in its air defense identification zone within 24 hours. China claims these operations practice joint assault tactics and signal determination for reunification with Taiwan. Liu Zhen, South China Morning Post, July 12
Singapore's economy grew 2.9% in Q2 of 2024. Singapore's GDP grew by 2.9% year-on-year in Q2 2024, slightly down from 3% in Q1. The manufacturing sector rebounded with a 0.5% expansion, marking its first positive growth after three quarters of decline. The services sector also saw robust growth, particularly in information, communications, and finance. The construction sector expanded by 6.3% due to increased public and private sector construction activities. These advance estimates by the Ministry of Trade and Industry are subject to revision. Abigail Ng, Channel News Asia, July 12
Myanmar political parties invited to China as Beijing pushes for election. China has invited various political parties from Myanmar to discuss the country's political future as Beijing advocates for elections in Myanmar. This move comes amid China's growing concerns over the ongoing instability in Myanmar and its implications for regional security and economic interests. The engagement is part of China's broader strategy to foster political stability in Myanmar, where the military junta has faced increasing resistance since the 2021 coup. The Irrawaddy, July 12
PH to 'stand our ground' in sea row. The Philippines has vowed to maintain its stance against China's claims in the South China Sea, as tensions rise in the disputed waters. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año emphasized the Philippines' commitment to upholding the 2016 arbitral ruling, rejecting any coercive attempts by China. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed the nation's resolve to protect its sovereignty during the 8th anniversary of the Hague ruling, which invalidated China's expansive claims. Franco Jose C. Baroña and Javier Joe Ismael, The Manila Times, July 12
Nepal’s prime minister loses a confidence vote forcing him to step down. Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal lost a confidence vote in parliament after the largest party in his coalition withdrew support, requiring him to step down after 19 months. Dahal received 63 votes in favor and 194 against. He will lead a caretaker government until a new one is formed. President Ram Chandra Poudel will request new government proposals. Khadga Prasad Oli is expected to be the new prime minister as part of a new alliance with the Nepali Congress. Binaj Gurubacharya, AP News, July 12
President arrives in Phnom Penh, beginning state visit to Cambodia. Vietnamese President Tô Lâm arrived in Phnom Penh for a two-day state visit at the invitation of King Norodom Sihamoni. This is his first visit to Cambodia as president. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations based on "good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation, and long-term sustainability." During his stay, President Lâm will meet with the Cambodian King, Prime Minister Hun Manet, and other top officials, and will attend a state banquet and visit the Vietnamese Embassy. Vietnam News, July 12
Uzbekistan’s investment in Kazakhstan reaches record levels. In 2023, Uzbekistan's gross direct investment in Kazakhstan hit a record $22.2 million. Key projects included $71.2 million for Chevrolet Onix production in Kostanay, $57 million for a metal rolling plant in Almaty, and $9.3 million for a sterile products facility in Shymkent. This surge in investment is attributed to Kazakhstan's favorable business environment, safeguarding investor rights. The two countries aim to boost mutual trade to $10 billion, enhancing their economic cooperation. The Times of Central Asia, July 12
Vanuatu Prime Minister asks Bank of China to open branch in Port Villa. Vanuatu's Prime Minister Charlot Salwai has requested the Bank of China to set up operations in the Pacific Island nation. The proposed branch in Port Villa could serve as a clearing bank for the yuan, potentially reducing costs of Chinese-made goods. This move comes as the U.S. and Australia seek to improve financial access in the region. Salwai, currently visiting China, is also scheduled to attend a Pacific Island leaders meeting in Japan next week. Lucy Craymer, Reuters, July 12
US renews call on China to stop aggressive actions in disputed sea, where hostilities have flared. The United States urged China to cease its aggressive actions in the South China Sea during a forum in Manila. U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, joined by diplomats from Japan and Australia, condemned China's recent hostile activities, including the June 17 ramming of Philippine navy vessels. The forum marked the anniversary of a 2016 ruling that invalidated China's territorial claims. The U.S. and its allies pledged support for the Philippines and a rules-based order in the region. Jim Gomez, AP News, July 12
FM Cho meets Blinken to discuss alliance, joint response to N. Korea-Russia cooperation. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during the NATO summit to discuss their alliance and the growing cooperation between North Korea and Russia. They reviewed outcomes from President Yoon Suk Yeol's summit with President Joe Biden, emphasizing enhanced nuclear cooperation and coordinated responses. They agreed to maintain close coordination and send a strong message condemning North Korea-Russia ties at upcoming ASEAN meetings. Kim Na-young, Yonhap News Agency, July 12
Japan punishes hundreds of defense officials for mishandling classified data and other misconduct. Japan’s defense ministry disciplined over 200 officials and service members for mishandling classified materials and other misconduct. The issues included violating information protection laws, falsely claiming allowances, and power abuses. Defense Minister Kihara Minoru apologized and emphasized the importance of intelligence protection for cooperation with allies. The investigation found no leaked sensitive information but revealed mishandling on 38 ships. Disciplinary actions included dismissals, demotions, and suspensions. Mari Yamaguchi, AP News, July 12
Philippines rejects 'use of force' to undermine its South China Sea interests. The Philippines has rejected the use of force in the South China Sea disputes and seeks to de-escalate tensions with China, said National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano. The Second Thomas Shoal remains a contentious point, with recent accusations against China for aggressive behavior. Despite China’s claims over the area, the Philippines upholds the 2016 Hague ruling invalidating those claims. The EU and the US have urged China to respect the ruling and cease destabilizing actions. Karen Lema and Mikhail Flores, Reuters, July 12
No senior N. Korean officials attend banquet hosted by Chinese envoy in Pyongyang. The Chinese Embassy in Pyongyang hosted a banquet to mark the 63rd anniversary of a bilateral treaty with North Korea, attended by China's envoy Wang Yajun and Kim Sung-chan of Kim Il-sung University. However, no senior North Korean officials were present, unlike last year. This absence might indicate North Korea's closer ties with Russia, especially following the recent summit between Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin. Kim Han-joo, Yonhap News Agency, July 12
Pacific leaders travel to Japan to build collaboration at PALM10. Pacific Islands Forum leaders, including Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, are meeting with Japanese officials in Tokyo for the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM10). The summit aims to strengthen collaboration on issues such as climate change, ocean health, economic development, and regional security. Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will co-chair the event, which follows extensive preparatory meetings. The leaders will also address Japan's discharge of ALPS-treated water from Fukushima. PINA, July 12
Long Form
Kazakhstan Puts LGBT Community in Danger. Kazakhstan's LGBT community is experiencing heightened fear and discrimination, exacerbated by proposed anti-LGBT "propaganda" legislation. Activists report pervasive homophobia, inadequate police response, and social ostracism, leaving many LGBT individuals feeling unsafe and unsupported. Recent government actions and societal attitudes contribute to a hostile environment, making it difficult for LGBT people to live openly and safely.
, , July 12Struggling for OECD Membership, Indonesia Needs to Re-understand the Contestation in Global Tax Politics. Indonesia's bid to join the OECD underscores its ambition to align with global economic standards. However, Indonesia must navigate the complex international tax politics, particularly the challenges posed by the OECD's influence and the emerging UN tax framework convention. Indonesia's proactive stance in international tax cooperation is crucial to avoid being mired in the middle-income trap and to benefit from the evolving global tax landscape. Andi Mohammad Ilham, The Geopolitics, July 12
Can China Prevent Economic Abuse? Economic abuse in China, where one partner controls or exploits the other's financial resources, is prevalent and damaging. Research involving 445 young adults in cohabitating relationships shows high rates of economic abuse, which decreases financial well-being and relationship satisfaction. Measures like financial education and better legal protections for cohabiting partners are essential to prevent such abuse and promote equitable relationships. Li Xiaomin, Sixth Tone, July 11
Who Will Serve as Indonesia’s Next Finance Minister? As Indonesia's President-elect Prabowo Subianto prepares to take office, speculation arises about the new finance minister. The leading candidates are Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Chatib Basri, and Kartika Wirjoatmodjo. Each has distinct qualifications, from managing health crises and major acquisitions to having a balanced approach to economic policies. The final selection will reflect Prabowo's economic priorities and need for flexibility in implementing his ambitious programs. Ahmad Syarif, The Diplomat, July 11
Russia and China Want Security for Themselves and No One Else. Russia and China's approach to international order emphasizes "indivisible security," where one nation's security should not come at another's expense. This notion aligns with their sphere of influence strategy, allowing dominant powers to shape foreign and domestic policies within their regions. Both nations prioritize their security agendas, often at the cost of broader global stability and cooperation. Stephen R. Nagy, The Japan Times, July 12
Tokyo and Kuala Lumpur Are United in Confronting Climate Crisis. Tokyo and Kuala Lumpur have established a collaborative partnership to tackle climate change, focusing on decarbonizing the building sector. This initiative involves sharing expertise and implementing low-carbon building standards in Kuala Lumpur, based on successful practices from Tokyo. The collaboration exemplifies a rare but effective Global North-Global South partnership, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable urban development. Yuriko Koike and Kamarulzaman Mat Salleh, Nikkei Asia, July 12
How the Specter of North Korea-Russia Military Ties Hung Over the NATO Summit. The NATO summit showed the growing military relationship between North Korea and Russia, raising security concerns for South Korea and Japan. Both countries emphasized the interconnected security of Europe and Asia and condemned the mutual defense pact between Pyongyang and Moscow. The summit focused on strengthening alliances and addressing the geopolitical implications of this North Korea-Russia partnership. Gabriela Bernal, NK News, July 12
Tying the Knot or Not: South Korea’s Trend of Delayed Marriage Registration. In South Korea, an increasing number of couples are postponing official marriage registration to improve their chances of securing affordable housing. This trend allows couples to benefit from government incentives aimed at singles, while still living together and raising families. Lee Jae-yeon, a 39-year-old resident of Seoul, exemplifies this practice, having celebrated a wedding and welcomed a child, yet remains officially single on paper. Hyojin Kim, Korea Pro, July 12
Timor Leste’s First Quarter Century: Opportunities and Challenges. Timor Leste celebrates 25 years of independence, showcasing achievements in democracy and peace. However, economic challenges persist, such as slow agricultural growth, reliance on a depleting Petroleum Fund, and a weak private sector. The country needs strategic investments in education, infrastructure, and tourism, along with effective economic policies to boost growth and reduce poverty. The upcoming resolution of border issues with Australia and integration with ASEAN present potential economic opportunities. Hal Hill and Brett Inder, Fulcrum, July 12
Rise of Chinese Language in Vietnam Hinders Plans to Bring Back Russian. Efforts to revive Russian language education in Vietnam face challenges due to the increasing popularity of Chinese. Economic ties with China, demand for Chinese-speaking employees, and affordable education in China and Taiwan drive this trend. Conversely, weaker economic relations with Russia and fewer Russian-speaking job opportunities make it unlikely that Russian will regain its former prominence in Vietnamese schools. Nguyen Thanh Giang and Le Hong Hiep, Fulcrum, July 12