Asia Daily: June 4, 2024
News
Philippines says China coast guard seized food dropped by plane for Filipino forces in disputed sea. The Chinese coast guard seized one of four food packs dropped by a plane for Filipino navy personnel at a territorial outpost in the South China Sea, according to Philippine military chief Gen. Romeo Brawner. The Chinese personnel suspected the packages contained construction materials, but after discovering food, they dumped the items into the sea. The incident occurred at Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippines maintains a grounded navy ship. Tensions have escalated between the two countries over territorial disputes in the region. Jim Gomez, AP News, June 4
Yoon endorses motion fully suspending inter-Korean tension reduction pact
President Yoon Suk Yeol approved a motion to fully suspend the 2018 inter-Korean tension reduction pact following North Korea's balloon campaign. The suspension, effective until mutual trust is restored, allows South Korea to resume military training near the border and restart loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo cited North Korea's provocations, including GPS jamming and ballistic missile launches, as threats to peace. The suspension follows North Korea sending nearly 1,000 trash-carrying balloons into South Korea. Lee Haye-ah, Yonhap News, June 4
US arms contractors arrive in Taiwan for defence forum. About 30 US defence contractors, including representatives from Lockheed Martin and Raytheon, have arrived in Taiwan to meet political and industrial leaders amid escalating tensions with China. They will attend the Taiwan-US Defence Industry Forum and discuss cooperation on drones and advanced defence technologies. The visit is expected to provoke Beijing, which opposes US arms supplies to Taiwan. This marks the first visit since William Lai Ching-te took office as Taiwan’s leader on May 20. Lawrence Chung, South China Morning Post, June 4
South Korea to resume all military activities along demarcation line. South Korea's military announced it will resume all military activities along the demarcation line and the North West Islands after suspending an inter-Korean military agreement. President Yoon Suk Yeol approved the suspension in response to North Korea's balloon campaign, which involved sending 15 tons of wastepaper over the border. The agreement, initially aimed at reducing tensions, has been effectively nullified by North Korea's actions. Seoul's response may include blaring propaganda from loudspeakers directed at the North. Hyunsu Yim, Reuters, June 4
US defense secretary meets Cambodian officials to push for stronger ties with Chinese ally. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Cambodian officials, including Defense Minister Tea Seiha and Prime Minister Hun Manet, to discuss resuming joint military exercises and strengthening defense ties. The meetings mark a potential thaw in relations strained by Cambodia's close ties with China. Discussions included military training exchanges and Cambodian participation in U.S. military education programs. Sopheng Cheang, AP News, June 4
Ombudsman suspends Guo. The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the preventive suspension of embattled Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo amid an investigation into her alleged connection to an illegal online gambling operation. The suspension follows a recommendation from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) after a task force found evidence of Guo's involvement with illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in her town. The order was issued on May 31. Ma. Reina Leanne Tolentino, Franco Jose C. Baroña, and Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, June 4
Srettha targets education, drugs, and debt. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin emphasized the need for improvements in education, tackling drug issues, and reducing household debt despite high public satisfaction with the government. According to a National Statistical Office (NSO) survey, 44.3% of respondents were "highly satisfied" with the government's performance. The survey showed that 75.3% of respondents wanted the government to address rising consumer goods prices. Srettha also mentioned the government's commitment to attracting foreign investment and creating jobs. Mongkol Bangprapa, Bangkok Post, June 4
China eyes closer ties with Turkey to take on global ‘power politics’. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan agreed to strengthen strategic alignment to counter "power politics." They discussed expanding cooperation in various sectors and emphasized the need for close strategic communication. Fidan, during his visit, also highlighted Turkey's interest in joining the Brics group as an alternative to the EU. Despite longstanding EU membership aspirations, Turkey is exploring new international alliances and investment opportunities. Orange Wang, South China Morning Post, June 4
Nazarbayev in-law Askar Kulibayev's oil terminal seized
Kazakh authorities have seized the oil terminal belonging to Askar Kulibayev, the son-in-law of former President Nursultan Nazarbayev. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption and financial misconduct involving high-profile figures linked to Nazarbayev. The terminal, situated at the port of Aktau, plays a significant role in Kazakhstan’s oil export infrastructure. This move is seen as a broader effort by the current administration to tackle corruption and distance itself from Nazarbayev’s legacy. The Times of Central Asia, June
Tin Oo, Myanmar activist and confidante of Aung San Suu Kyi, dies. Tin Oo, a prominent Myanmar democracy activist and co-founder of the National League for Democracy (NLD) with Aung San Suu Kyi, passed away at 97. A former military commander, he was imprisoned for over a decade after the 1988 uprising and arrested again in 2003. He suffered a stroke in 2017 and had been less active in politics in recent years. His death marks a significant loss for Myanmar's pro-democracy movement. Myanmar Now, June 4
Modi's BJP loses majority in India election shock, needs allies for coalition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lost its parliamentary majority in a surprising turn of events in the Indian general election. The BJP now needs to seek alliances to form a government. This unexpected outcome challenges Modi's strong political presence and requires negotiations with other parties to secure a coalition. The results have sparked significant political realignments and discussions about the future direction of India's leadership. Yashraj Sharma, Al Jazeera, June 4
Cambodian, Chinese defence chiefs vow to deepen ties as US official visits Kingdom. Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Seiha and Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun pledged to enhance military relations during a bilateral meeting at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. Their commitment comes just before U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's visit to Cambodia. Discussions with Austin included resuming joint military exercises and strengthening defense ties with the U.S. amidst regional tensions and the U.S.'s role in ASEAN security. Ry Sochan, The Phnom Penh Post, June 4
China, Iran to continue ‘strong relations’ despite Beijing’s stance on disputed Gulf islands. China’s call with Abu Dhabi for talks over disputed islands in the Persian Gulf led to Iran summoning the Chinese ambassador, yet it is unlikely to damage Sino-Iran ties significantly. China maintains a neutral stance, urging dialogue between Iran and the UAE. Despite protests, Iran needs China's support, and the issue is seen as an old dispute. China's approach aligns with its Middle Eastern strategy, prioritizing regional stability and economic interests. Zhao Ziwen, South China Morning Post, June 4
Vietnam, Laos commit to Party inspection cooperation. Vietnam and Laos have committed to strengthening cooperation in party inspection, supervision, and anti-corruption efforts. The agreement was reached during a meeting between the Inspection Commission of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the Central Inspection Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party in Hanoi. Both parties emphasized the importance of sharing experiences and supporting each other in enhancing the effectiveness of their respective inspection and supervision work to promote transparency and integrity within their governments. Vietnam News, June 4
Long Form
In the New Cold War, Europe’s Approach to China Is Already Outdated. Europe's current strategy towards China is lagging behind the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape. The European Union’s policies fail to address the complex dynamics of the new Cold War, particularly in the context of China’s growing influence and strategic ambitions. A more unified and updated approach from Europe is needed to effectively counterbalance China's global stance. Maximilian Mayer and Emilian Kavalski, The Diplomat, June 4
China Expands Its Oil Ties in Iraq. China is increasing its involvement in Iraq’s oil sector, aiming to secure energy resources and strengthen economic ties. Chinese companies are investing in major oil projects and infrastructure, enhancing their presence and influence in the region. This expansion is part of China's broader strategy to diversify its energy sources and bolster its geopolitical standing. Sercan Çalışkan, The Diplomat, June 4
China’s Underutilized Factories Fan Export Dump Fears in U.S. and Europe. China's underutilized manufacturing capacity is raising concerns in the U.S. and Europe about the potential for a surge in cheap exports, which could disrupt local markets. The excess capacity in Chinese factories, combined with slowing domestic demand, may lead to increased export volumes at lower prices, intensifying trade tensions and economic competition. Cissy Zhou, Nikkei Asia, June 3
Collaboration Key to Filling Indo-Pacific Infrastructure Funding Gap. Addressing the Indo-Pacific region's infrastructure funding shortfall requires enhanced collaboration among nations. Joint efforts, including public-private partnerships and multilateral initiatives, are essential to mobilize the necessary resources. Strengthening cooperation can help bridge the gap, promoting sustainable development and economic stability across the region. Joe Bae and Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Nikkei Asia, June 2
China’s Steelmakers Are Making Real Progress in Reducing Emissions. China's steel industry is making strides in reducing its carbon emissions, implementing innovative technologies and stricter environmental regulations. These efforts are part of China's broader commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. The progress includes advancements in energy efficiency, increased use of renewable energy sources, and the development of low-carbon production methods. Rag Udd, Nikkei Asia, June 4
India’s Role in Bangladesh Elections Sparks Outrage. India's involvement in Bangladesh's upcoming elections has sparked significant controversy and backlash. Critics argue that India's actions are an infringement on Bangladesh's sovereignty, leading to widespread protests and diplomatic tensions. The situation shows the delicate nature of regional politics and the complexities of bilateral relationships in South Asia. Saimum Parvez, East Asia Forum, June 4
Funan Techo Canal Project Underscores Cambodia’s Struggle for Strategic Autonomy. The Funan Techo Canal project highlights Cambodia's ongoing struggle to maintain strategic autonomy amidst competing foreign influences. The initiative, heavily funded by China, has raised concerns about Cambodia's increasing dependence on Chinese investments, potentially compromising its sovereignty. This situation reflects broader regional challenges as Southeast Asian nations navigate complex geopolitical landscapes. Yunkang Liu, East Asia Forum, June 4