Asia Daily: June 5, 2024
News
South China Sea: Philippine troops accused of cutting Chinese fishing nets near Second Thomas Shoal. Philippine troops have been accused of damaging Chinese fishing nets near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, according to Chinese state media. Xinhua reported that military personnel stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre cut more than 2,000 meters of Chinese fishing nets since May 15. Tensions are rising as both countries assert claims over the shoal, a strategic location in the South China Sea. Manila has not yet commented on the accusations. Alyssa Chen, South China Morning Post, June 5
Court to consider Move Forward case on June 12. The Constitutional Court will review the Move Forward Party's dissolution case on June 12, having accepted the party's defence statement. The court urged the Election Commission and the party to avoid public commentary that could influence opinions. The EC's petition, based on Move Forward's attempts to amend the lese-majeste law, argues the party threatens the constitutional monarchy and seeks its dissolution and banning of its executives from political office for 10 years. Bangkok Post, June 5
Pharmally investigation should include Duterte. Former President Rodrigo Duterte should be included in the Pharmally investigation, says Sen. Risa Hontiveros, following claims by former Health Secretary Francisco Duque III. Duque stated that Duterte ordered the transfer of P47.6 billion from the Department of Health to the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management for medical supplies during the Covid-19 pandemic. This development intensifies calls for accountability and scrutiny over the handling of pandemic funds. Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, June 5
Deputy PM, US Secretary of the Treasury hold phone talks. Deputy Prime Minister Lê Minh Khái held talks with US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, highlighting that her visit to Vietnam in July 2023 facilitated the upgrade to a comprehensive strategic partnership during President Biden’s visit. They discussed cooperation in finance, banking, energy transition, and economic stability. Khái emphasized Vietnam's economic achievements and requested US support for recognizing Vietnam's market economy status. Yellen expressed commitment to deepening bilateral relations across various fields. Vietnam News, June 5
Turkey urges Chinese authorities to protect the cultural rights of minority Muslim Uyghurs. Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has urged Chinese authorities to protect the cultural rights of minority Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang province and allow them to “live their values.” During his three-day visit to China, Fidan met with Chinese officials, including his counterpart Wang Yi, and visited Urumqi and Kashgar. Fidan conveyed that Turkey respects China's sovereignty but emphasized the Turkish people's concerns over Uyghurs' cultural rights. This comes amid Turkey's efforts to balance its criticism of China's human rights record with developing stronger economic ties. Suzan Fraiser, AP News, June 5
Japan PM mulls Mongolia trip to ask support for North Korea talks. Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is considering a visit to Mongolia in August to seek support for advancing stalled talks with North Korea regarding the abduction of Japanese nationals. The trip would be the first by a Japanese leader to Mongolia since 2016. Kishida aims to meet with Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh to discuss resolving the abduction issue and enhancing bilateral trade and investment. Kyodo News, June 5
Signs detected of N. Korea demolishing part of Donghae inter-Korean railway: NIS. South Korea's spy agency reported signs that North Korea is demolishing parts of the Donghae inter-Korean railway, likely to erase inter-Korean cooperation symbols. The railway, agreed to be restored in 2000, has been unused except for a pilot operation in 2007. North Korea has also been installing mines and removing street lights along routes connecting the Koreas. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, June 5
Two children among five killed in junta airstrikes on Magway village. Airstrikes by Myanmar's military killed five people, including two children, in Magway Region’s Myaing Township. The attack targeted Kan Myint Kone village at around 9:30am, followed by heavy artillery. Four victims, including three women and a five-year-old boy, died instantly, while a 13-year-old girl succumbed to her injuries later. The powerful bombs severely mutilated the bodies, with only a woman in her 60s being recognizable. Fourteen others, including five children, were seriously injured. Myanmar Now, June 5
Singapore’s nation building journey deserves to be ‘commemorated and remembered’: SM Lee. Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced the groundbreaking of the Founders’ Memorial in Bay East Garden, set to open in 2028. The memorial will honor Singapore's founding leaders and their efforts in nation-building from the 1950s to 1970s. It will feature exhibition galleries, a viewing gallery, and outdoor spaces, telling the story of Singapore's transformation from third world to first, emphasizing values like democracy, justice, and equality. Matthew Mohan, Channel News Asia, June 5
Turkmenistan restricts women from obtaining driving licenses. Turkmenistan has intensified restrictions on women's rights to drive. Since 2017, police have revoked women's driving licenses and refused new ones. Starting in 2023, only women over 41 can learn to drive, and driving schools require marriage certificates and character references. In Mary Region, women can only renew licenses if their vehicle is registered in their name, making it nearly impossible for many to comply. Bribery is reportedly common, with higher costs for women compared to men. The Times of Central Asia, June 4
Myanmar’s military government denies allegations by ethnic army foe that it killed 76 villagers. A spokesperson for Myanmar’s military government denied accusations that army troops and their local allies killed 76 people when they entered a village last week in Rakhine, state-controlled media reported. The accusations came from the Arakan Army, an ethnic armed group claiming control over nine of 17 townships in Rakhine. The fighting has raised fears of renewed violence against the Rohingya minority. The military council's spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, refuted the claims, stating only three suspects were shot during an operation on May 29. Grant Peck, AP News, June 5
Palau president says he expects China to try to meddle in election. Palau's President Surangel Whipps Jr. expects China to attempt interference in the upcoming national election due to Palau's recognition of Taiwan. In an interview, Whipps stated China views him as an "enemy" for supporting Taiwan's sovereignty and suggested China would prefer a more compliant leader. Whipps also mentioned a March cyberattack on Palau’s government, which he attributed to China. Additionally, he discussed increased U.S. military presence in the region and met with Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio to enhance maritime security cooperation. Sakura Murakami, Reuters, June 5
New Nat'l Assembly speaker elected; 1st plenary meeting held without ruling party. Five-term lawmaker Woo Won-shik was elected as the new National Assembly speaker in a vote by opposition parties during a plenary meeting boycotted by the ruling People Power Party (PPP). This marks the first time in South Korea's history that the initial plenary meeting convened without the ruling party. The PPP and Democratic Party (DP) remain at odds over the formation of parliamentary committees. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, June 5
Taiwan extends 'visa free' entry for Filipinos. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced a one-year extension of the trial visa-free entry for citizens from Thailand, Brunei, and the Philippines. This extension, running from August 1, 2024, to July 31, 2025, aims to bolster tourism and strengthen bilateral relations. The Taiwan Economic Cooperation Office in the Philippines confirmed the decision, highlighting the continued benefits of the program for travelers and the economy. Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, June 5
Japan, Italy eye action plan to forge ties in diplomacy, defense. Japan and Italy are finalizing a plan to boost cooperation in diplomacy, defense, and economic security amid China's rising influence and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The plan, covering 2024 to 2027, includes an annual "strategic dialogue," security talks, and joint defense drills. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is expected to announce the plan during his visit to Italy for the G7 summit. The plan will address issues like economic ties, human and cultural exchanges, and technological collaboration. Kyodo News, June 5
Long Form
Decoding India’s Elections: How Modi’s Grip Loosened. India's recent elections revealed a decline in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's political dominance, driven by growing economic challenges and rising public dissatisfaction. Key factors include the rise of regional parties, effective opposition alliances, and increased scrutiny of the government's economic policies and handling of social issues. This shift marks a significant change in the political landscape, challenging Modi's long-standing influence. Snigdhendu Bhattacharya, The Diplomat, June 5
China’s Quest for New Heroes. China is seeking new role models to inspire its population and foster a sense of national pride. The government's initiative aims to highlight figures who embody the values and aspirations of contemporary Chinese society, moving beyond traditional heroes to include modern scientists, athletes, and entrepreneurs. This effort is part of a broader strategy to strengthen social cohesion and national identity. Vincent K. L. Chang, The Diplomat, June 5
Why Southeast Asian Telcos Are Taking Losses on Their Overseas Holdings. Southeast Asian telecommunications companies are facing significant financial losses on their overseas investments. The primary reasons include regulatory challenges, competitive markets, and fluctuating economic conditions in host countries. These factors have led to decreased profitability and forced many telcos to reconsider their international strategies. The situation highlights the complexities of global expansion for these companies. James Guild, The Diplomat, June 5
Modi’s Election Setback Follows Campaign Focused on India’s Foreign Relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent electoral setback is linked to his campaign's focus on India's foreign relations, which failed to resonate with domestic voters. Despite efforts to strengthen ties with major global powers, the electorate prioritized economic and social issues over international diplomacy. This outcome signals a potential shift in political strategy for Modi and his party. Kiran Sharma, Nikkei Asia, June 5
Philippines Won’t Convince Skeptics Without Reform Plans. The Philippines faces skepticism from investors and international observers due to a lack of concrete reform plans. To gain credibility and support, the government must outline and implement clear strategies for economic and political reforms. Without these measures, the country’s potential for growth and stability remains uncertain. William Pesek, Nikkei Asia, June 5
Election Setback Will Not Sway Modi from Agenda of Change. Despite a recent electoral setback, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains committed to his agenda of transformative change in India. Modi's focus on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and social policies is expected to continue, as he aims to drive long-term progress and modernization. The election results are seen as a call to refine, not abandon, his strategic goals. Sreeram Chaulia, Nikkei Asia, June 5
Japan’s Multiculturalism Fails to Keep Pace with Rising Migration. Japan is struggling to adapt its multicultural policies to the increasing influx of migrants. Despite the growing diversity, integration efforts and social support systems remain inadequate, leading to challenges in social cohesion and economic inclusion. This disparity highlights the need for comprehensive policy reforms to better accommodate and support the migrant population. Chris Burgess, East Asia Forum, June 5
China’s Economic Strategy Not About Overproduction, Dumping. China's economic strategy focuses on sustainable growth and innovation rather than overproduction and dumping. The country aims to enhance its technological capabilities and improve domestic consumption to drive economic development. This approach seeks to address global concerns about trade practices and align with long-term economic goals. Alex Lo, South China Morning Post, June 5
How the Trans-Caspian Middle Corridor Can Help Revive Asia-Europe Trade. The Trans-Caspian Middle Corridor has the potential to revitalize trade between Asia and Europe by providing a strategic alternative to traditional routes. This corridor, connecting Central Asia with Europe through the Caspian Sea, offers significant advantages in terms of reduced transit times and enhanced logistical efficiency. The development of this route could play a crucial role in boosting economic connectivity and trade flows across the region. Marat Karabayev, South China Morning Post, June 5.
How Asia’s Demand for Air Con Threatens Its Climate Change Goals. Asia's increasing demand for air conditioning poses a significant threat to its climate change goals. The rising use of energy-intensive cooling systems contributes to higher greenhouse gas emissions, undermining efforts to combat global warming. To address this issue, there is a pressing need for energy-efficient technologies and sustainable cooling solutions across the region. Kamala Thiagarajan, South China Morning Post, June 5
How the U.S.-China Trade War is Reshaping Global Trade. The ongoing U.S.-China trade war is significantly reshaping global trade patterns, causing shifts in supply chains and international economic relations. Companies are diversifying their sourcing and manufacturing locations to mitigate risks, leading to increased trade activities in other regions. This geopolitical tension is prompting countries to re-evaluate their trade policies and economic strategies. Xu Qiyuan, The Japan Times, June 5