News
Bangladesh police lob stun grenades to disperse march. Police in Bangladesh fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse demonstrators protesting against the excessive use of force by authorities during earlier protests in July that left at least 150 dead. The unrest is a significant test for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, following elections marred by boycotts and deadly protests. Police used force in Sylhet when protesters broke through barricades and in various other regions, including Dhaka and Chittagong. At least 10 people were injured, and several students were detained. The protests were organized by Students Against Discrimination, demanding a UN investigation into the violence. Ruma Paul and Sudipto Ganguly, Reuters, July 31
Marcos vows to boost PH maritime stature. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. committed to enhancing the country's maritime industry, emphasizing its importance for economic growth and national security. During the 2023 Philippine Maritime Industry Summit, Marcos outlined plans to modernize the maritime sector, improve infrastructure, and strengthen international partnerships. The President also highlighted the need for robust policies to protect the country's maritime resources and ensure the welfare of seafarers. These efforts aim to position the Philippines as a leading maritime nation in the region. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, July 31
Myanmar junta extends emergency rule amid escalating conflict. Myanmar's military government extended the state of emergency for another six months as it struggles with widespread conflict and a faltering economy. The National Defence and Security Council, controlled by the military, extended the emergency to finalize population data for voter lists, with plans for an election next year. The junta, which seized power in February 2021, has repeatedly extended the emergency amid ongoing armed resistance. Last week, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing took over all presidential responsibilities, promising elections by 2025 despite prior delays due to violence. Reuters, July 31
BOJ chief denies rate hike would seriously damage Japan economy. Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda stated that raising interest rates would not cause significant harm to Japan's economy. Despite this, the central bank will maintain its current monetary easing policies to achieve stable inflation. Ueda emphasized that Japan's inflation is driven mainly by temporary factors and external shocks, rather than strong domestic demand. He also noted that the bank's decision-making would remain flexible, considering various economic indicators and global conditions. Kyodo News, July 31
PM meets Indian foreign minister, expressing hope for new growth phase in bilateral relations. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to discuss the enhancement of bilateral relations. Chinh expressed optimism for a new phase of growth in cooperation between the two nations, highlighting the importance of trade, investment, and defense ties. Jaishankar reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership and emphasized the potential for collaboration in various sectors. Vietnam News, July 31
China imposes export controls on drones and parts with potential for military use. China expanded export restrictions on drones and drone parts with military applications, tightening last year’s controls. The new measures, effective from September 1, restrict high-precision components like inertial measuring units, synthetic-aperture radar, and powerful engines. The directive penalizes exports intended for military or terrorist use. The move, partly in response to U.S. sanctions on Chinese companies, aims to safeguard China's security and fulfill non-proliferation obligations while maintaining global supply chain security. Jun Mai, Liu Zhen, and Hayley Wang, South China Morning Post, July 31
N. Korean leader sacks public security minister for damage from downpours in border areas. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has dismissed the public security minister and provincial committee chiefs following severe damage from recent downpours in the northern border areas along the Amnok River. The decision was made during an emergency politburo meeting of the Workers' Party of Korea in Sinuiju, North Phyongan Province. Kim also replaced the chief secretaries of North Phyongan and Jagang provincial committees. The floods affected over 4,100 houses and nearly 3,000 hectares of farmland, with significant infrastructure damage reported. Kim Han-joo, Yonhap News Agency, July 31
South Korean military intel official arrested for allegedly leaking secrets, reportedly on spies. A civilian employee in South Korea’s military intelligence command was arrested for allegedly leaking military secrets, possibly involving South Korean spies operating abroad, with reports suggesting the information may have been sent to North Korea. The Korea Defense Intelligence Command employee is accused of providing a Chinese national with thousands of confidential documents. Observers indicate the leaks could severely impact South Korea’s intelligence operations and endanger agents abroad. The arrested employee denies the allegations, claiming his laptop was hacked. Hyung-jin Kim, AP News, July 31
Philippines, US navies hold joint exercise in South China Sea. The Philippines and United States navies conducted a joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea to enhance military cooperation amid growing tensions with China. The exercise, held within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, involved two vessels and aimed to improve communication and operational coordination. Philippine military chief Romeo Brawner emphasized the importance of these exercises for safeguarding maritime interests. This joint activity follows recent talks where the U.S. pledged $500 million to strengthen the Philippine military and coast guard, with potential additional funding next year. Karen Lema and Mikhail Flores, Reuters, July 31
Resignation of LDP lawmaker over pay scandal adds to party's woes. Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmaker Hiroshi Hirose has resigned amid a scandal involving improper payments. Hirose's departure adds to the challenges facing the ruling party, which is already grappling with internal divisions and declining public support. The scandal centers around allegations that Hirose received undeclared funds from a company with ties to political entities. His resignation marks a significant blow to the LDP as it prepares for upcoming elections. Gabriele Ninivaggi, The Japan Times, July 31
Washington must prioritise matching China’s presence in Global South, a top US envoy says. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell told lawmakers that while the U.S. has strengthened alliances in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, it needs to increase its efforts in the Global South to counter China's influence. Campbell emphasized the importance of securing critical minerals and combating misinformation. He pointed out that the U.S. lacks ambassadors in 20 countries where China has representatives. Robert Delaney, South China Morning Post, July 31
Modi faces middle class ire over budget as state polls loom. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is facing backlash from middle-class voters over last week's budget, which raised taxes on retail investment gains, left income tax rates unchanged, and removed some real estate tax benefits. This dissatisfaction comes ahead of polls in three states and a federal territory. Middle-class voters, who form about 30% of India's population, expressed frustration over increased tax burdens. Political analysts suggest this could impact the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) performance in the upcoming elections, adding to the challenges Modi faces after recent electoral setbacks. Krishna N. Das and Saurabh Sharma, Reuters, July 31
China sanctions US lawmaker McGovern for ‘interference’ in its domestic affairs. China sanctioned U.S. Representative Jim McGovern for "frequently interfering" in its domestic affairs. The sanctions include freezing his assets in China, prohibiting transactions with him, and denying him and his family visas. This move follows previous sanctions against other U.S. lawmakers and companies amid deteriorating China-U.S. relations. McGovern and Representative Michael McCaul had introduced a bill advocating for stronger U.S. support for Tibet, a region criticized for its human rights issues. Huizhong Wu, AP News, July 31.
Kazakhstan to build 369 ‘comfortable’ schools by 2026. Kazakhstan plans to construct 369 modern and comfortable schools by 2026 as part of its efforts to enhance the education system. The initiative aims to provide better learning environments and address the shortage of school facilities in the country. These new schools will feature updated infrastructure and resources to support a high-quality education. The government’s focus is on ensuring that every child has access to a conducive learning environment. Sergey Kwan, The Times of Central Asia, July 31
Canadian warship transited through Taiwan Strait, defense minister says. A Canadian warship recently transited through the Taiwan Strait, reaffirming Canada's commitment to a "free, open and inclusive" Indo-Pacific, according to Defense Minister Bill Blair. This move aligns with Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy announced in 2022, which aims to increase the Royal Canadian Navy's presence in the region. The HMCS Montreal frigate conducted the transit as part of a routine operation, though specific timing was not disclosed. Ismail Shakil, Reuters, July 31
Chinese warship joins Russian navy for Gulf of Finland exercises. A Chinese warship, the Jiaozuo, a Type 052D guided-missile destroyer, participated in simulated anti-mine and search and rescue operations in the Gulf of Finland with the Russian corvette Soobrazitelny. The exercise follows the Jiaozuo’s participation in Russia’s navy day celebrations in St Petersburg. The joint operations, which also involved the Chinese support ship Honghu, come amid heightened NATO scrutiny of China-Russia military cooperation. NATO has expressed concerns over China's deepening ties with Russia, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Sylvie Zhang, South China Morning Post, July 31
S. Korea, China agree to continue communication over stable supply chains. South Korea and China have agreed to maintain communications to ensure stable supply chains and enhance bilateral trade and investment during economic talks in Beijing. The nations will continue using various economic consultative channels, including the Joint Economic Commission meeting this year. They also discussed regional economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and intellectual property rights protection. China is South Korea's largest trade partner, with bilateral trade totaling $266 billion last year. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, July 31
Germany says China was behind a 2021 cyberattack on a government agency and summons its ambassador. An investigation determined that "Chinese state actors" were responsible for a 2021 cyberattack on Germany’s Federal Agency for Cartography and Geodesy, prompting Berlin to summon the Chinese ambassador for the first time in decades. The attack, aimed at espionage, compromised part of the agency’s network. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the threat posed by Chinese cyberattacks to Germany and Europe's digital sovereignty. This incident adds to rising tensions between Berlin and Beijing over security risks. Geir Moulson, AP News, July 31
Srettha defends integrity in court. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin defended his integrity in a Bangkok court against allegations of financial misconduct. He denied all accusations, asserting that his business transactions were conducted transparently and in compliance with the law. The case has garnered considerable public attention, potentially affecting his political career and reputation. Srettha reiterated his commitment to honesty and ethical practices, highlighting his track record of integrity throughout his career. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, July 31
Prabowo continues foreign visit to Russia to meet Putin: Official. Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto continued his foreign visit to Russia, where he is scheduled to meet with senior officials, including President Vladimir Putin. The visit aims to strengthen defense cooperation between Indonesia and Russia, focusing on military technology, training, and strategic partnerships. Prabowo's trip is part of a broader effort to enhance Indonesia's defense capabilities and international collaborations. Antara News, July 31
Court denies Thaksin permission to go to Dubai. The Bangkok South Criminal Court has denied former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's request to travel to Dubai for medical treatment. Thaksin, who is currently serving a prison sentence for corruption, argued that his health condition necessitated the trip. The court rejected the plea, citing concerns that Thaksin might not return to Thailand to serve his sentence. Thaksin has a history of avoiding legal proceedings by living abroad, which influenced the court's decision to refuse his travel request. Wassayos Ngamkham, Bangkok Post, July 31
Acting state secretary receives ambassador of Kazakhstan. Acting State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia Munkhtushig Lkhanaajav received Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Mongolia Koishibayev Gabit on July 30, 2024. Munkhtushig emphasized the importance of Mongolia-Kazakhstan relations in Mongolia’s Central Asia foreign policy and expressed a commitment to strengthening these ties and enhancing trade, economic, and investment cooperation. Both sides discussed bilateral relations, upcoming high-level visits, and deepening cooperation in international and regional contexts. Khankhuu.J, Montsame, July 31
Indonesia aims to boost exports to Gulf countries with FTA. Indonesia is working to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to enhance export opportunities. The FTA aims to reduce trade barriers, increase market access, and strengthen economic ties between Indonesia and the Gulf region. The Indonesian government expects this agreement to diversify export markets and boost economic growth by leveraging the demand for Indonesian products in GCC countries. Antara News, July 31
US Secretary of State Blinken calls on PM Wong during official visit to Singapore. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during his official visit to Singapore. They discussed enhancing bilateral ties and cooperation on regional and global issues. Blinken's visit aims to strengthen the US-Singapore strategic partnership, focusing on areas such as security, trade, and investment. The discussion also included topics like climate change, technology, and sustainable development. Channel News Asia, July 31
Long Form
Long Arm of the Law: China’s Extraterritorial Reach. Beijing's exercise of extraterritorial laws, especially since the 2020 introduction of Hong Kong's National Security Law, has raised diplomatic tensions. The law applies criminal offenses like incitement or support for undermining China's system beyond Hong Kong and China. This practice aligns with international norms where countries regulate their citizens' conduct overseas. However, China's approach is uniquely extensive, often blending political motives with legal actions. Understanding this legal framework is crucial to grasp China's geopolitical strategies. Danielle Ireland-Piper, Lowy Institute, July 31
Scotland Shows What European Regions Want from Asia. As global business shifts towards East Asia, European regions like Scotland seek stronger trade ties and investment from Asia. Scotland focuses on economic opportunity, strategic positioning, and global citizenship, including feminist foreign policy and international development cooperation. This engagement also supports Scotland's independence ambitions by seeking international legitimacy and economic growth through diverse partnerships across Asia. Tomasz Kaminski, East Asia Forum, July 31
Japan’s Global South Strategy Reaches New Heights with Brazil. Japan's engagement with Brazil, exemplified by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit in May 2024, highlights the strategic importance of their partnership. This collaboration focuses on shared goals like UN and WTO reforms, multilateralism, and economic cooperation. Despite different visions for the international rules-based order, both countries aim to strengthen their bilateral ties and support global governance reforms. Tawanda Sachikonye, East Asia Forum, August 1
Wildlife and Weapons Trafficking Converge in Southeast Asia. Indonesian police uncovered a trafficking network blending wildlife and arms smuggling, seizing weapons, and endangered birds. This rare convergence of illicit economies complicates efforts to combat crime and requires increased regional cooperation and monitoring. Traffickers use profits from wildlife sales to fund arms purchases, exacerbating biodiversity loss and armed violence. Improved law enforcement collaboration and civil society involvement are critical to addressing this issue. Michael Picard, East Asia Forum, July 31
Chinese Counterterrorism in Africa. China's counterterrorism strategy in Africa involves complex interactions between state and nonstate actors. It addresses terrorism at multiple levels, from subnational to multilateral, and includes Chinese nonstate actors like corporations. The strategy seeks to strengthen state capacity in African countries, reflecting China's broader state-centric approach to security. This engagement shows China's growing role in African peace and security efforts, despite challenges posed by the crime-terrorism nexus. Cobus van Staden, Stimson Center, July 31
Crucial July Politburo Meeting Conveys Rare Sense of Urgency for China’s Leaders. The Chinese Communist Party's July Politburo meeting stressed the need to expand domestic consumption and demand amid economic challenges. Concerns over weak consumer spending, a sluggish property sector, and external pressures like U.S. and EU tariffs prompted policy recalibrations. Despite the urgency, markets remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures. Lizzi C. Lee, The Diplomat, July 31
Why the Philippines Chose to Privatize Its Largest Airport. Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is being privatized due to chronic under-investment and operational issues. San Miguel Corp (SMC) won a 15-year concession to operate NAIA, committing to invest $1.5 billion in upgrades and increase its passenger capacity. The deal is financially favorable for the government, ensuring 60% of annual revenue and a $500 million upfront fee. The privatization aims to modernize the airport and improve efficiency. James Guild, The Diplomat, July 31
Russia Ups Ante by Deploying Likely North Korean Missile System for Ukraine War. Footage from a Ukrainian drone suggests Russia is using a North Korean long-range guided missile system in Ukraine. North Korean arms shipments have bolstered Russia's artillery capabilities, intensifying pressure on Ukrainian forces. This marks a critical development in the evolving arms trade between North Korea and Russia. Joost Oliemans, NK News, July 31
South Korea’s Media Independence Hangs in the Balance Amid Political Battles. South Korea's media sector is in a power struggle between conservative and progressive parties, risking the erosion of democratic principles and public trust. Under the Yoon Suk-yeol administration, the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) faces upheaval, marked by high-profile resignations and contentious legislative actions. These developments show the ongoing battle for media control in the country. Joon Ha Park, Korea Pro, July 31
South Korea’s New Ambassadors to Japan and Australia Reflect Defense Focus. South Korea has appointed Park Cheol-hee and Sim Seung-seob as ambassadors to Japan and Australia, respectively. Park, an expert in South Korea-Japan relations, is currently the president of the Korea National Diplomatic Academy. Sim, a former Chief of Naval Operations, brings significant military experience. These appointments aim to bolster South Korea's diplomatic and defense relations with both countries. Korea Pro, August 1
Sarawak’s Green Hydrogen Ambitions: What It Means for Southeast Asia. Sarawak is leading Southeast Asia in green hydrogen projects, aiming to become a major hydrogen economy. With competitive hydropower and strategic partnerships, Sarawak launched the H2biscus and H2ornbill projects targeting green hydrogen production for export to South Korea and Japan. Success in these projects could position Sarawak as a key player in the global hydrogen market and influence regional energy strategies. Christopher Len, Fulcrum, July 31