Asia Daily: June 12, 2024
News
Kazakhstan: More convictions in connection with Bloody January events. Kazakhstan continues to prosecute individuals linked to the Bloody January 2022 events. An Almaty court convicted 11 defendants of crimes including mass riots and attacking government buildings. Akzhol Zhandarbekov received a four-year sentence, while the other ten received one year and nine months. Human rights activists argue that trials have ignored exculpatory evidence and relied heavily on circumstantial evidence. Nearly 1,400 individuals have been convicted related to the unrest, with many trials closed to the public. Almaz Kumenov, Eurasianet, June 12
US lawmakers pass Tibet policy bill that questions China’s claims over region. The House of Representatives approved the Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act, aiming to counter Beijing’s narrative about Tibet and support dialogue between China and the Dalai Lama. The bill, which refutes China's historical claims over Tibet, awaits President Joe Biden's signature. It would make it U.S. policy that the Tibet dispute remains unresolved and include Tibetan areas beyond the Tibet Autonomous Region. Bochen Han, South China Morning Post, June 13
House sets stage for divorce debates. The House of Representatives in the Philippines has sent the absolute divorce bill, House Bill 9349, to the Senate, marking a significant step towards legalizing divorce in the country. Approved by the House with 131 votes in favor, 109 against, and 20 abstentions, the bill sets the stage for debates in the Senate. If passed, it would make the Philippines one of the last countries, along with the Vatican, to legalize divorce. Ma. Reina Leanne Tolentino, The Manila Times, June 13
Court to hear Srettha, Move Forward cases on June 18. The Constitutional Court will hear cases on June 18 that could lead to the dismissal of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin over a cabinet appointment controversy and the potential dissolution of the Move Forward Party for its stance on the lese majeste law. These cases, along with former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's lese majeste indictment, have heightened political uncertainty in Thailand. Bangkok Post, June 12
Mainland China suspended Taiwan tariff cuts over continued ‘separatist fallacy’ from Lai’s DPP. Beijing reinstated tariffs on over 100 Taiwanese imports, citing Taiwan's pro-independence stance and failure to reciprocate. Song Tao of the Taiwan Affairs Office emphasized this during a meeting with Taiwan business leaders. The decision follows William Lai Ching-te's pro-independence speech. Meanwhile, Beijing introduced measures to ease Taiwanese students' and teachers' access to education and jobs in Fujian, part of a broader plan to integrate the province with Taiwan. William Zheng, South China Morning Post, June 12
South Korea opposition leader Lee indicted over funds transfer to North Korea. Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung was indicted on bribery charges involving a scheme to use Ssangbangwool Group to send $8 million to North Korea. The funds were allegedly meant to facilitate Lee’s visit to Pyongyang when he was Gyeonggi province governor. Lee denies involvement, calling the charges fiction. The case, dating back to 2019-2020, aims to promote commercial projects with North Korea. Lee is also on trial for separate corruption charges from his mayoral term. Jack Kim, Reuters, June 12
PM Kishida to lead session on China, Indo-Pacific at Italy G7 summit. Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio will chair a session on China and the Indo-Pacific at the G7 summit in Italy. The session will focus on regional security and cooperation amid China's growing influence. Kishida's leadership aims to strengthen partnerships and Japan's role in ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific. The G7 nations will discuss collective strategies to address these geopolitical challenges. Kyodo News, June 10
Kazakhstan and South Korea: "a golden bridge of friendship". Presidents Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan and Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea discussed enhancing economic and strategic ties during a recent meeting. South Korea, a significant partner, ranks fourth in Kazakhstan's foreign trade turnover. The countries plan to collaborate in various sectors, including energy, infrastructure, and technology. Over 700 South Korean companies operate in Kazakhstan, and 1,000 Kazakh students in South Korea serve as a "golden bridge of friendship." The Times of Central Asia, June 12
North Korea’s Kim hails Russia ties as Putin reportedly plans a visit. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised expanding relations with Russia amid reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to visit soon. This would be their third meeting, following a September meeting in Russia. Cooperation between the two countries has increased, with North Korea allegedly supplying weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine in exchange for military technology and economic aid. Media reports suggest Putin may visit North Korea and Vietnam next week. Hyung-jin Kim, AP News, June 12
Việt Nam wants to develop relations with Indonesia to new height: NA Chairman. National Assembly Chairman Trần Thanh Mẫn emphasized Việt Nam's commitment to enhancing its strategic partnership with Indonesia during talks with Indonesian Deputy Speaker H. Mahyudin in Hà Nội. Both leaders discussed increasing bilateral trade to $18 billion by 2028 and implementing a Memorandum of Understanding on fishery cooperation. They also stressed the importance of high-level exchanges and cooperation in fields like digital economy and renewable energy. Vietnam News, June 12
Japan vows to take all steps to achieve stable economic, wage growth. The Japanese government has committed to implementing comprehensive measures to ensure stable economic and wage growth. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio emphasized the importance of achieving sustainable increases in wages and economic stability. The government plans to address various factors influencing economic growth, including productivity enhancements and labor market reforms. This initiative is part of Japan's broader strategy to revitalize its economy and improve living standards for its citizens. Kyodo News, June 10
U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai visits Uzbekistan. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to discuss boosting bilateral trade, focusing on Uzbekistan's WTO membership and the Agreement on Trade and Investments. Tai also met with Saida Mirziyoyeva to discuss economic reforms aimed at improving citizens' well-being. The visit aimed to create business opportunities and strengthen economic ties between the two nations. The Times of Central Asia, June 12
Việt Nam eyes to boost multifaceted cooperation with Dominican Republic. During a meeting with Miguel Mejia, General Secretary of the United Left Movement Party and Minister of Regional Integration Policies of the Dominican Republic, Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bùi Thanh Sơn emphasized strengthening bilateral ties. They discussed enhancing economic, trade, and investment cooperation, particularly in sectors like agriculture, telecommunications, and energy. Both sides agreed to support each other at international forums and through high-level delegation exchanges. Vietnam News, June 12
Lao President invites Mongolian investors to explore business in Laos. Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith invited Mongolian investors to explore business opportunities in Laos, particularly in agriculture and food processing, during his visit to Mongolia. This visit marked the first by a Lao President in 17 years. Both leaders agreed to deepen economic and trade relations, with a focus on sectors such as agriculture, services, transport, and tourism. The meeting concluded with the signing of agreements on civil servant management, public health, and meat exports. Chono Lapuekou, The Laotian Times, June 12
Myanmar regime receives navy patrol boats from China. China delivered six navy patrol boats to Myanmar's maritime police force, enhancing bilateral efforts in law enforcement and combating cross-border crime. The handover is part of agreements made during Chinese President Xi Jinping's 2020 visit to Myanmar, which included several major projects. These vessels are intended to improve waterway safety and transportation in Myanmar. Myanmar Now, June 12
Indonesia, Jordan discuss plans to send aid to West Bank. Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto and Jordanian King Abdullah II discussed expanding humanitarian aid to the West Bank and Gaza. Meeting after a summit on the Gaza crisis, they considered resuming aid air drops and highlighted the West Bank's needs amid ongoing conflict. Indonesia previously air-dropped aid to Gaza in April, emphasizing cooperation with Jordan due to its strategic location. Prabowo reiterated Indonesia's commitment to supporting the Palestinian people. ANTARA News, June 12
Time to intensify movement for democracy: Fakhrul. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced plans to intensify the movement for democracy, uniting all opposition parties against the Awami League government in Bangladesh. Speaking at a discussion, he accused the current government of destroying national institutions and claimed no political party supports it, except the Jatiyo Party. Fakhrul emphasized collaboration with both leftist and right-wing parties to ensure the success of their movement. The Daily Star, June 12
Long Form
The Burning of Buthidaung: Allegations, Denials, and Silence. Recent fires in Buthidaung, Myanmar's Rakhine State, have led to allegations of arson against the Myanmar military and Arakan Army. Both parties deny responsibility while local sources report significant damage and displacement. The international community's silence on the issue raises concerns about the lack of accountability and humanitarian response. Naw Theresa, The Diplomat, June 12
Bolivia Turns to China Amid Historic Economic Crisis. Bolivia is seeking economic support from China as it faces a severe economic crisis marked by high inflation and a steep decline in foreign reserves. Bolivian President Luis Arce has secured new investment and financial aid agreements with China, aiming to stabilize the economy and improve infrastructure. Critics warn of potential long-term dependency and loss of sovereignty. Joseph Bouchard, The Diplomat, June 12
Diesel Prices Leap Upward as Malaysia Begins Subsidy Reforms. Malaysia has seen diesel prices increase by over 50% following the government's decision to reform its fuel subsidy system. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's administration aims to reduce national budget strain by eliminating blanket subsidies and targeting those in need. This move, while necessary for economic stability, faces potential political backlash. Sebastian Strangio, The Diplomat, June 11
Mongolia’s Ulaanbaatar Dialogue Focuses on Regional Cooperation in Energy Transition and Critical Minerals. The Ninth Ulaanbaatar Dialogue in Mongolia emphasized regional cooperation on energy transition and critical minerals. Participants from various countries discussed security challenges, climate change, and developing resilient value chains. The conference aimed to foster understanding and collaboration among Northeast Asian nations and highlighted Mongolia's focus on economic diversification and clean energy. Bolor Lkhaajav, The Diplomat, June 12
Japan-style fixation on population decline won't help China. China should avoid adopting Japan's approach to managing population decline, as it may not address the underlying issues effectively. While Japan has implemented various measures to combat its shrinking population, such as encouraging higher birth rates and supporting elderly care, these strategies have not significantly reversed the demographic trend. China's unique socio-economic context requires tailored solutions that consider its specific challenges, including urbanization, economic structure, and social policies. Stefan Angrick, Nikkei Asia, June 11
AI's looming climate cost: Energy demand surges amid data center race. The rapid expansion of AI technology is driving an increase in energy consumption, particularly within data centers. As companies race to build more data centers to support AI capabilities, concerns are growing about the environmental impact of this surge in energy demand. Data centers require vast amounts of electricity to operate and cool their servers, contributing to higher carbon emissions. Addressing the climate cost of AI will require innovative solutions and more sustainable practices in data center management. Yifan Yu, Nikkei Asia, June 11
What stands in the way of a China-Japan-South Korea free-trade deal? Despite the economic benefits, political tensions and historical disputes are significant barriers to a free-trade agreement between China, Japan, and South Korea. The nations face challenges such as differing economic policies, territorial disputes, and historical grievances, which complicate negotiations. To overcome these hurdles, the countries need to focus on mutual economic interests and engage in diplomatic efforts to build trust and cooperation. Winston Mok, South China Morning Post, June 11
Taiwan raises its voice and reignites controversy with Beijing. Taiwan has taken a firmer stance on its sovereignty, leading to renewed tensions with Beijing. This assertiveness includes increased diplomatic efforts and military readiness, signaling Taiwan's determination to resist China's pressure for unification. The move has stirred controversy and provoked strong reactions from Beijing, which sees Taiwan as a breakaway province. The ongoing situation underscores the fragile and contentious nature of cross-strait relations. David Zhong, East Asia Forum, June 12
Probing the Philippines’ foreign interference problem. The Philippines is facing significant challenges related to foreign interference in its domestic affairs. This encompasses various forms of external influence, including political, economic, and social meddling, which undermines the country's sovereignty and stability. Addressing this problem requires comprehensive strategies to bolster national security and safeguard democratic processes. Efforts are being made to enhance legal frameworks and international cooperation to mitigate the risks associated with foreign interference. Michael Yusingco, East Asia Forum, June 12
Espionage death sentence the latest challenge to China-Australia relations. The imposition of a death sentence on an Australian citizen for espionage has intensified the already strained relations between China and Australia. This incident adds to the series of diplomatic and trade disputes that have marked the relationship in recent years. Australia's government has expressed strong condemnation, calling for fair treatment and due process, while China insists on the legality of its judicial proceedings. The situation underscores the growing tensions and complexities in China-Australia relations. Jocelyn Chey, East Asia Forum, June 11