Asia Daily: June 10, 2024
News
China says US provoking arms race in moves into South China Sea. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong criticized the U.S. military presence in the South China Sea, claiming it incites an arms race and undermines regional security. Sun's remarks follow heightened tensions between China and the Philippines, a U.S. ally. He accused the U.S. of intensifying maritime disputes and deploying missile systems that exacerbate geopolitical conflicts. Sun emphasized China's commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue. Kevin Yao, Reuters, June 9
South Korea restarts anti-North Korea loudspeaker broadcasts in retaliation for trash balloons. South Korea resumed anti-North Korean propaganda loudspeaker broadcasts on Sunday in response to North Korea sending over 1,000 balloons filled with trash. North Korea's Kim Yo Jong warned of a "new response" if the broadcasts continue. This move raises tensions between the rivals, as both sides engage in propaganda campaigns amid stalled nuclear negotiations. South Korean officials criticized Pyongyang's actions and prepared for potential military retaliation. Kim Tong-hyung, AP News, June 10
Japan, U.S. eye "two-plus-two" security talks in Tokyo in late July. Japan and the United States are planning to hold "two-plus-two" security talks in Tokyo on July 28, involving their foreign and defense chiefs. The agenda includes enhancing command and control frameworks and addressing regional security challenges, particularly from China. A Quad foreign ministers' meeting with Australia and India may follow the next day. These will be the first such talks since January 2023. Kyodo News, June 8
Career diplomat eyed as ambassador to Saudi. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has nominated Raymond Balatbat as the new ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Yemen. The nomination, announced by Surigao del Sur 2nd District Rep. Johnny Pimentel, was submitted to the Commission on Appointments on June 3. Balatbat, a career diplomat, is expected to enhance bilateral relations between the Philippines and the Middle Eastern nations. Ma. Reina Leanne Tolentino, The Manila Times, June 10
India's Modi to take oath as PM for third term with coalition allies. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to be sworn in for a third term after his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a decisive victory in the recent elections. Modi will be backed by coalition allies in this new term, which aims to bolster economic growth and tackle national security challenges. The ceremony will also underline Modi's continued influence and leadership in Indian politics. This victory reinforces the BJP's strong position and Modi's popularity among the electorate. Al Jazeera, June 9
Yoon heads to Central Asia for 'sales diplomacy' push. President Yoon Suk Yeol is visiting Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan to enhance economic partnerships, focusing on critical minerals, energy, infrastructure, and technology. Accompanied by First Lady Kim Keon Hee and over 60 companies, Yoon aims to sign multiple agreements. This trip follows recent diplomatic efforts with African nations, Japan, China, and the UAE to bolster trade and investment, highlighting South Korea's strategy to diversify its import portfolio and reduce reliance on specific countries. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, June 10
Vietnamese foreign minister holds talks with Venezuelan counterpart. Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bùi Thanh Sơn and Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil Pinto discussed strengthening bilateral relations, focusing on economic, trade, and investment cooperation. They emphasized the exchange of delegations and promotion of market access for key export products. Both ministers expressed satisfaction with recent developments and agreed to maintain cooperation at international organizations and multilateral forums. They also addressed regional and global issues, advocating for peaceful resolutions based on international law. Vietnam News, June 8
Move Forward argues Constitutional Court has no power to dissolve it. The Move Forward Party (MFP) contends that Thailand's Constitutional Court lacks authority to disband political parties. MFP chief advisor Pita Limjaroenrat stated that no constitutional provision allows the court to dissolve a party or revoke political rights. The Election Commission had petitioned for the party's dissolution over its stance on the lese majeste law. Pita criticized the process for lacking transparency and for focusing on hypothetical issues rather than actual actions. Bangkok Post, June 9
North Korea flies trash-carrying balloons to South Korea in another retaliation against leafletting. North Korea launched hundreds of balloons filled with trash into South Korea, escalating tensions amid stalled nuclear talks. This third campaign since late May follows South Korean activists sending anti-North Korean leaflets. In response, South Korea resumed propaganda loudspeaker broadcasts and suspended a 2018 agreement with the North. North Korea threatened further action if leafletting continues. Hyung-jin Kim, AP News, June 10
China, Pakistan agree to strengthen mining, oil and gas cooperation. During Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to Beijing, China and Pakistan agreed to enhance cooperation in mining, oil, and gas sectors under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The joint statement emphasized promoting Chinese investment in Pakistan's mining industry, planning mining parks, and developing offshore oil and gas resources. This cooperation is part of Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative, which has significantly supported Pakistan's economy through over $65 billion in investments. Kevin Yao and Shuyan Wang, Reuters, June 9
Vietnam expanding landfill work in South China Sea, report says. Vietnam has significantly increased its dredging and landfill operations in the South China Sea, adding 692 acres to the Spratly Islands since November 2023. This expansion, highlighted by the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, matches the country's previous two years of efforts combined. Despite improving relations with China, Vietnam's rapid land reclamation underscores ongoing territorial disputes. The report noted that Vietnam's reclaimed land now totals around 2,360 acres, making it second only to China in regional holdings. Alyssa Chen, South China Morning Post, June 9
Long Form
Death to Tigers and Flies: And the US Sees Red. China's intensified crackdown on both high-level ("tigers") and low-level ("flies") corruption under President Xi Jinping aims to consolidate power and eliminate political rivals. The United States views these measures as efforts to strengthen Xi's control rather than genuine anti-corruption efforts, affecting U.S.-China relations and the internal dynamics of the Chinese Communist Party.
, June 9Can Taiwan's Divided Legislature Come Together on Defense? Taiwan's legislature is facing challenges in reaching a consensus on defense policies amid increasing tensions with China. The divisions stem from differing party views on military spending and strategic priorities. The need for a unified defense strategy is crucial as China continues to assert its claims over Taiwan, heightening the importance of legislative cooperation to ensure national security. Corey Lee Bell and Elena Collinson, The Diplomat, June 10
Assessing US Sanctions on China. U.S. sanctions on China target technology and finance sectors to curb China's global influence and address human rights issues. These measures have strained bilateral relations, prompting China to seek alternative trade partners and enhance self-reliance. The ongoing economic and political tensions highlight the complexity of U.S.-China relations in today's global landscape. Mercy A. Kuo, The Diplomat, June 10
South Korea's Role in Countering Chinese and Russian Arms Sales in Latin America. South Korea is increasingly active in Latin America to counter the influence of Chinese and Russian arms sales in the region. This involves enhancing diplomatic ties, providing military training, and offering competitive arms deals. South Korea's strategy aims to promote stability and build stronger alliances in Latin America, presenting itself as a reliable partner in defense and security. Henry Ziemer and Chan Mo Ku, The Diplomat, June 8
China Will Not Give Up on Myanmar's Military. China remains steadfast in its support for Myanmar's military despite international condemnation following the military coup. This support includes economic investments, political backing, and military aid, which China views as crucial for maintaining its strategic interests in the region. The relationship is indicative of China's broader geopolitical ambitions and its willingness to back controversial regimes to secure its influence. Yun Sun, Nikkei Asia, June 10
Regional Security Still to Find Its Pathway to Shangri-La. Regional security frameworks in Asia face challenges, particularly highlighted during the Shangri-La Dialogue. Despite efforts for enhanced cooperation, differing national interests and geopolitical rivalries hinder a cohesive security strategy. The dialogue underscores the need for more inclusive and effective mechanisms to address regional threats and ensure stability. East Asia Forum, June 10
Understanding Taiwan's Take on the Lai Administration. Public perception and the political landscape in Taiwan under the Lai administration are examined, focusing on its policies, cross-strait relations, and domestic and international challenges. The administration's approach to maintaining Taiwan's sovereignty while navigating complex relations with China is highlighted, reflecting broader Taiwanese sentiments. Jared Jeter, East Asia Forum, June 10
Fiji Fights for Brain Gain Amid Wave of Emigration. Fiji is implementing strategies to counteract the adverse effects of emigration and encourage the return of skilled professionals. The government is focusing on creating better job opportunities, improving living conditions, and offering incentives to attract talent back to the country. This "brain gain" initiative aims to strengthen Fiji's economy and reduce the negative impact of the ongoing brain drain. Ryan Edwards, Toan Nguyen, Kushneel Prakash, East Asia Forum, June 8.
Overcapacity: China's Competitive Edge Lies Elsewhere. China's economic strength is shifting from traditional sectors plagued by overcapacity to innovation and high-tech industries. By focusing on technological advancements and sustainable development, China aims to secure its competitive edge in the global market. This transition is essential for maintaining long-term economic stability and growth. Liu Wei, South China Morning Post, June 10
Central Bank Advisor Urges Beijing to Put Growth Above Debt Worries. Huang Haizhou, a central bank advisor and professor at Tsinghua University, emphasizes that China should prioritize economic growth over concerns about rising debt. He argues that increased debt can be justified if it leads to higher growth, especially in the context of global economic competition and the need for technological advancements. Huang highlights the U.S. recovery post-COVID-19 as a model for leveraging debt to fuel growth. Zichen Wang,
, June 9