China
Bipartisan bill aims to block Chinese AI from federal agencies. U.S. lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill to prohibit federal agencies from using Chinese artificial intelligence systems, including those developed by DeepSeek. The proposal, backed by both House and Senate leaders, comes amid growing concerns over national security and technological rivalry with China. The legislation seeks to eliminate foreign adversary-controlled AI from federal use, with exceptions for research and counterterrorism. Didi Tang and Kelvin Chan, Associated Press, June 25
Xi to miss BRICS summit in Rio as Li Qiang leads China delegation. Chinese President Xi Jinping will skip the upcoming BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro for the first time, with Premier Li Qiang taking his place. China cited a scheduling conflict and emphasized Xi’s recent engagements with Brazilian President Lula da Silva. Officials in Brazil expressed disappointment, interpreting the absence as diplomatically significant. The summit is set for July 6–7. Igor Patrick, South China Morning Post, June 24
Japan
Over 470 gearing up to run in Japan's Upper House election. A total of 471 candidates are preparing to contest Japan’s July 20 House of Councilors election, which will decide 125 of the chamber’s 248 seats. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party aims to win at least 50 seats to retain a majority with Komeito. Major opposition parties, including the CDP, Nippon Ishin, and DPP, are fielding numerous candidates despite limited cooperation to avoid vote splitting. The Japan Times, June 25
Opposition CDP to field Renho in Upper House poll. The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan has nominated Renho, a prominent former lawmaker and cabinet minister, as a proportional representation candidate in the July 20 Upper House election. Renho previously left the party to run for Tokyo governor as an independent but lost. Despite internal objections, CDP leadership expressed confidence in her renewed candidacy and ability to attract votes. The Japan Times, June 25
South Korea
South Korea court rejects arrest warrant for ex-president Yoon. A South Korean court declined to issue an arrest warrant for ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, who faces insurrection charges over his 2023 martial law declaration. Prosecutors accused him of obstruction and ignoring summonses, but Yoon’s lawyers criticized the investigation as politically motivated. Despite the rejection, Yoon is expected to appear for questioning Saturday. Heekyong Yang, Joyce Lee and Ju-min Park, Reuters, June 25.
North Korea
North Korea opens landmark coastal Wonsan tourist zone. North Korea inaugurated the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, a major project led by Kim Jong Un to bolster tourism, with facilities accommodating 20,000 visitors. The ceremony, attended by Kim and his daughter Kim Ju Ae, marked the completion of years of development aimed at creating a world-class resort. While domestic access begins July 1, international tourism remains limited. Ju-Min Park, Reuters, June 25
Thailand
NACC launches initial review of audio clip. Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission has begun a preliminary review of a leaked audio recording featuring Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. The probe focuses on whether the conversation, which included derogatory comments and apparent compliance with Hun Sen’s demands, constitutes a serious ethical violation. Anucha Charoenpo, Bangkok Post, June 25
Ex-judge predicts Paetongtarn suspension by Constitutional Court on July 1. Former Constitutional Court judge Jaral Phakdeethanakul said the court is likely to accept a petition on July 1 and suspend Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra over a leaked audio clip involving Cambodia’s Hun Sen. He cited ethical concerns and national security risks raised by the conversation. The court may issue an injunction while reviewing the petition, which could take up to eight months. The Nation, June 25
Vietnam
Vietnam PM expects U.S. trade deal before July tariff deadline. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh anticipates reaching a trade agreement with the United States before the early July expiration of a temporary pause on 46% tariffs affecting Vietnamese exports. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in China, Chinh emphasized ongoing dialogue with Washington. Vietnam has also pledged to curb illegal trans-shipments and increase U.S. imports to avoid renewed tariffs. Phuong Nguyen, Reuters, June 25
Myanmar
China pushes for Belt and Road progress in war-torn Myanmar. China is advancing its Belt and Road Initiative in Myanmar despite ongoing conflict, with recent diplomatic efforts including Chinese ambassador Ma Jia’s meetings in Naypyitaw to fast-track the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor. Key projects involve energy and infrastructure links from China to Rakhine State. Beijing has also pressured ethnic armies in Shan State to return seized territories. Maung Kavi, The Irrawaddy, June 25
Philippines
Sara Duterte: No basis for summons since impeach raps ‘returned’. Vice President Sara Duterte argued there is no basis to issue a summons against her because the Articles of Impeachment filed in February were returned to the House of Representatives by the Senate on June 10. In her 35-page reply, she asserted there are no charges currently before the Senate and thus no legal grounds to compel her response. Tina G. Santos, Philippine Daily Inquirer, June 25
Senate again delays impeachment trial. The Philippine Senate again postponed the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, as both prosecution and defense teams sought more time to prepare. Senate President Francis Escudero confirmed that no new trial date has been set. Javier Joe Ismael, Reina C. Tolentino, and Red Mendoza, The Manila Times, June 25
Kazakhstan
EDB forecasts Kazakhstan’s economic growth to accelerate in 2025. Kazakhstan's economy is expected to grow by 5.5% in 2025, up from 4.8% in 2024, according to the Eurasian Development Bank. The increase will be fueled by investment projects equal to 6% of GDP, boosted oil production, and fiscal and infrastructure initiatives. Inflation is forecast at 11.9%, with the tenge projected to remain stable. Uzbekistan received its first macroeconomic forecast as the EDB’s newest member. Fatima Kemelova, The Astana Times, June 25
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan and Mongolia sign joint declaration to deepen bilateral ties. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev made a historic visit to Mongolia, marking the first official trip by a Uzbek head of state to the country. He and Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh signed a joint declaration to expand cooperation in healthcare, education, trade, mining, and agro-industry. Sadokat Jalolova, The Times of Central Asia, June 25
Northeast Asia
What Are the United States and China Competing For? The U.S.-China rivalry is not merely over resources or technology, but over competing visions for organizing society. China champions a techno-administrative model prioritizing order, surveillance, and performance-based legitimacy, offering global influence through efficient, centralized governance. The U.S., in contrast, lacks a coherent narrative, torn between economic protectionism and democratic ideals. To counter China’s model, the U.S. must reaffirm its foundational values—liberty, individual agency, and democratic governance—by demonstrating functional institutions and investing in people-centered innovation. Victory lies not in dominance but in inspiring global trust in democratic systems as pathways to human dignity and meaning. Ryan Fedasiuk,
, June 25President Lee Jae Myung and the Resetting of Korea, Inc. Lee Jae Myung’s unexpected electoral victory amid a political crisis grants him unprecedented power, backed by a supermajority in the National Assembly. His administration aims to balance robust social welfare expansion with pro-business reforms to revitalize a stagnating economy facing demographic challenges and external trade pressures. Lee confronts major security threats from North Korea, increasingly aligned with Russia and China, and has appointed a mixed cabinet of pragmatists and progressives to handle national defense and foreign relations. His initial diplomatic moves focus on strengthening ties with the U.S., Japan, and China. Lee’s legacy hinges on whether he governs pragmatically or seeks political retribution, with upcoming elections likely to determine the longevity of his reform agenda. Chung Min Lee, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, June 25
The charm-shock strategy: How China courts and pressures Europe. China has launched a two-pronged campaign toward Europe, combining diplomatic overtures with economic coercion. While extending a cooperative hand through diplomatic visits and revived regional agreements, Beijing simultaneously applies pressure, notably by weaponizing its dominance in rare earths, which are essential to high-tech industries. European leaders have condemned these tactics, calling out China’s monopolistic leverage and lack of market reciprocity. Trade tensions have increased due to tariffs, anti-dumping duties, and digital commerce restrictions. Meanwhile, internal EU divisions persist, with countries like Hungary and Spain pursuing independent paths. With EU-China summits ahead, Brussels is attempting a firmer, more coordinated strategy against Chinese economic dominance. Philippe Le Corre, ThinkChina, June 25
Flooding in Hunan Drowned Out. Severe flooding in Hunan Province, displacing over 400,000 people, has received minimal media attention in China, overshadowed by global coverage of U.S.-Israel missile strikes on Iran. While official outlets have covered the floods, social media visibility remains low, with platforms like WeChat dominated by international stories. This imbalance hinders effective disaster response, as public engagement can drive relief efforts. Deleted posts like “Forget the Middle East, Look at Hunan” reflect frustration over domestic crises being sidelined. The muted coverage highlights tensions between state media priorities and public needs during emergencies. Alex Colville, China Media Project, June 26
Japan’s senior employment challenge. Japan’s labor force participation among individuals aged 65 and older has steadily increased for two decades, now standing at 25.2 percent, second only to South Korea among major economies. This trend, driven by policy mandates and demographic pressures, often reflects financial necessity rather than personal choice. Most seniors cite income needs over social or personal fulfillment as their reason for continuing to work. Challenges include declining wages with age, underutilization of skills, and limited flexible work options. Female seniors face added barriers due to prevalent part-time roles. Structural reforms, including pension adjustments and more inclusive employment systems, are essential to support Japan’s aging society sustainably. Yasuo Takao, East Asia Forum, June 26
Southeast Asia
Thailand’s Border Conflict With Cambodia Raises Fear of Another Coup. A lethal border clash on May 28 has sharply escalated tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, undermining a decade of improved relations. Both nations have increased military presence along disputed borders, exchanged accusations, and imposed economic restrictions, including Cambodia’s fuel export ban and Thailand’s border closure. Rising nationalism and a leaked phone call undermining military leadership have weakened Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s position, prompting a coalition defection and a looming no-confidence vote. With the military gaining influence and civilian authority waning, fears of another coup, consistent with Thailand's history, are growing. The next parliamentary developments may determine the country’s political future. Joshua Kurlantzick, Council on Foreign Relations, June 25
Indonesia’s AI FOMO threatens real progress. Indonesia’s hasty initiative to develop a national generative AI platform mirrors a reactionary “fear of missing out” rather than innovation. While generative AI offers economic potential, this move diverges from Indonesia’s 2020–2045 National AI Strategy, which prioritizes applied AI in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education. With projects already underway, such as AI for food security and climate forecasting, the pivot to building a ChatGPT-style model seems misaligned and politically motivated. Caution is urged as budget constraints demand prioritizing impactful, community-serving AI over symbolic competition with global powers. Targeted, pragmatic applications, as seen in Singapore’s SME-focused initiatives, could yield more meaningful outcomes. Annadi Muhammad Alkaf, East Asia Forum, June 25
Vietnam’s Nuclear Power Revival: Ambition or Overreach? Vietnam has revived its nuclear energy ambitions, planning two new plants in Ninh Thuan to address energy security, meet climate goals, and assert technological advancement. This US$22 billion initiative, driven by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s administration, seeks to prevent blackouts like those of 2023 and reduce reliance on coal. Yet, the project faces critical hurdles: a depleted nuclear workforce, unrealistic five-year construction timelines, and major financial strain. International interest is high, with Russia, France, the U.S., South Korea, and Japan vying for contracts. Despite risks, elite political consensus and urgent energy demands propel the program forward, signaling a change in Vietnam’s energy landscape. Nguyen Khac Giang, FULCRUM, June 26
Bridging ASEAN and the Gulf Cooperation Council: Why People-to-People Connectivity Matters. Amid growing trade and energy ties, ASEAN-GCC relations are increasingly shaped by people-to-people connections, with labor migration, religious travel, and financial linkages at the core. Millions of ASEAN nationals work in the GCC, especially in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, prompting bilateral labor agreements to enhance protections. Religious pilgrimages bolster ties and economic flows, with Indonesia and Malaysia key participants in Saudi Arabia’s Makkah Route Initiative. Additionally, sovereign wealth funds from both regions, managing nearly US$6.42 trillion, are deepening financial integration. Increased mobility and regulatory alignment are essential to sustain and expand this multifaceted inter-regional cooperation. Melinda Martinus, FULCRUM, June 25