Asia Daily: March 11, 2025

China

China vows utmost efforts for peaceful reunification with Taiwan. Beijing reiterated its commitment to peaceful reunification while warning that it will take "all necessary measures" to counter Taiwan independence and external interference. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that Taiwan is China's "insurmountable red line" and demanded the U.S. stop arms sales to the island. Military pressure on Taiwan remains high, with Beijing continuing war games near its territory. Lewis Jackson and Ryan Woo, Reuters, March 10

Trump may meet Xi in China as soon as April despite escalating trade war, insiders say. U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are in talks for a potential summit in China, possibly in April. Both leaders seek to frame the visit as a diplomatic success, despite ongoing trade tensions. The U.S. recently doubled tariffs on Chinese goods, prompting Beijing’s retaliation. Trump aims to negotiate a trade deal while navigating foreign policy challenges, including Ukraine. South China Morning Post, March 10

China’s falling arms imports signal massive growth in military self-reliance. China’s arms imports dropped by 64% over the past five years as domestic production replaced reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly Russia. A Stockholm International Peace Research Institute report credits China’s advancements in aircraft engines, helicopters, and naval systems. China also fell out of the top 10 arms importers for the first time since the 1990s, signaling a shift toward self-sufficiency. Seong Hyeon Choi, South China Morning Post, March 10

Japan

Opposition parties split on whether to restrict or ban corporate donations. Japan’s opposition parties clashed over whether to impose restrictions or an outright ban on corporate and group donations during political reform talks. The debate casts doubt on Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s goal of securing a consensus before the Upper House elections. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which received ¥2.3 billion ($15.6 million) in corporate donations last year, continues to push for transparency rather than prohibition. Himari Semans, The Japan Times, March 10

U.S. makes no promises on tariff exemptions for Japan in trade talks. Japanese Trade Minister Yoji Muto met with U.S. officials to seek exemptions from President Donald Trump’s tariffs on steel, automobiles, and other imports but failed to secure guarantees. Talks with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick focused on Japan’s economic contributions, but no deal was reached. Meanwhile, Trump’s 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports are set to take effect. Kyodo News, March 10

Ishiba seeks unity at LDP convention for summer elections. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba urged his Liberal Democratic Party to rally together ahead of Upper House and Tokyo metropolitan assembly elections. Acknowledging public distrust following a political funds scandal, Ishiba pledged economic reforms, wage increases, and stronger U.S. ties. Labor leader Tomoko Yoshino attended the convention, calling for a dual-surname system. The LDP also reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional revisions, though a national referendum was not mentioned. Hayato Jinno, The Asahi Shimbun, March 10

South Korea

Acting president vows 'zero tolerance' for any violence amid imminent ruling on Yoon’s impeachment. Acting President Choi Sang-mok warned that illegal protests or disruptions surrounding the Constitutional Court’s upcoming ruling on impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol will face strict enforcement. Authorities anticipate large demonstrations from both Yoon’s supporters and opponents. Police have designated areas around the court as special crime prevention zones to prevent unrest. Kim Han-joo, Yonhap News Agency, March 11

S. Korea, EU hold inaugural meeting of space security dialogue. South Korea and the European Union held their first Space Security Dialogue in Brussels to strengthen cooperation against space threats. Officials discussed global space security regulations and ways to enhance bilateral collaboration. South Korea emphasized working with EU allies to counter North Korea’s growing space-based threats. Separate talks also addressed concerns over North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, March 11

Prosecutor general defies resignation, faces impeachment push. Tensions escalated as Prosecutor General Sim Woo-jung rejected calls to resign following his decision not to appeal the court ruling that freed President Yoon Suk Yeol. The Democratic Party of Korea announced plans to introduce an impeachment motion, accusing Sim of favoritism. If approved, it would be the first impeachment of a prosecutor general in 24 years. The ruling People Power Party condemned the move as politically motivated. Lee Ji-woon, The Dong-A Ilbo, March 11

North Korea

North Korea fires several ballistic missiles after the U.S. and South Korea began military drills. North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the sea as the U.S. and South Korea kicked off their annual Freedom Shield military exercises. Pyongyang condemned the drills as a provocation and warned of potential conflict. The missile test follows heightened tensions, with Kim Jong Un pledging to expand North Korea’s nuclear capabilities. Kim Tong-hyung and Hyung-jin Kim, AP News, March 10

White House reaffirms commitment to ‘complete’ denuclearization of N. Korea after regime’s missile launches. The White House reiterated its stance on North Korea’s denuclearization following Pyongyang’s latest ballistic missile tests. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command condemned the launches as destabilizing but assessed no immediate threat to U.S. forces or allies. Washington pledged continued coordination with South Korea and Japan amid ongoing Freedom Shield military exercises. Song Sang-ho, Yonhap News Agency, March 11

India

Tibetans scuffle with police outside the Chinese Embassy in India as they mark uprising anniversary. Tibetan protesters clashed with Indian police while attempting to demonstrate outside the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi on the 66th anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan uprising. Authorities detained some demonstrators as they carried Tibetan flags and chanted anti-China slogans. In Dharamshala, hundreds marched in solidarity, accusing Beijing of erasing Tibetan identity. China maintains that Tibet has been part of its territory for centuries. Rishi Lekhi and Ashwini Bhatia, AP News, March 10

Nepal

Thousands in Nepal want monarchy back as public frustration with politics grows. Thousands of Nepalis rallied in Kathmandu, demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy and Hinduism as the state religion. Protesters blocked the main entrance to Tribhuvan International Airport as former King Gyanendra Shah returned from a tour. Many expressed disillusionment with the republic, citing political instability and corruption. While support for Gyanendra is rising, the likelihood of his return to power remains slim. Binaj Gurubacharya, AP News, March 9

Thailand

Opposition to keep mentions of Thaksin. Thailand’s opposition rejected House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha’s request to remove references to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra from a censure motion against his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut vowed to defend the motion, arguing that Thaksin’s influence over the administration is a legitimate issue. If Wan blocks the debate, the opposition may take further action. Mongkol Bangprapa, Bangkok Post, March 11

Censure motion targets Thaksin’s influence on PM Paetongtarn: Nattapong. Opposition leader Nattapong Ruengpanyawut defended the inclusion of Thaksin Shinawatra in a censure motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, arguing that Thaksin holds real authority over the administration. He criticized the government’s decision to limit the debate to one day and dismissed suggestions of joining the ruling coalition. The motion will also address corruption allegations and governance failures. The Nation, March 10

Vietnam

Vietnam to sign U.S. deals as trade, energy officials meet, document shows. Vietnam is set to finalize agreements with the U.S. following meetings between Trade Minister Nguyen Hong Dien and American trade and energy officials. The visit aims to ease tensions over Vietnam’s trade surplus and includes discussions on liquefied natural gas imports and tariff adjustments. State-controlled firms PetroVietnam Gas and EVN will send representatives. Emily Chow, Francesco Guarascio and Khanh Vu, Reuters, March 10

Legislators discuss railway law overhaul to boost infrastructure investment. Vietnam’s National Assembly Standing Committee reviewed amendments to the Railway Law aimed at streamlining investment and improving railway efficiency. The draft law proposes reducing administrative procedures by 20% and business conditions by 33%, while mobilizing local and private sector funds for infrastructure projects. Lawmakers emphasized the need for clear oversight, safety regulations, and coordination between national and local authorities. Vietnam News, March 10

Vietnam, Indonesia agree to upgrade ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Party General Secretary To Lam and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced the elevation of bilateral relations, marking 70 years of diplomatic ties. The partnership will enhance cooperation in defense, trade, digital transformation, and green energy. Both nations reaffirmed commitments to ASEAN unity and peaceful dispute resolution in the South China Sea. Agreements were signed on economic and technological collaboration. Vietnam News, March 10

Myanmar

Myanmar junta boss calls for opposition cooperation ahead of controversial election. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing urged opposition forces to collaborate with the military regime to establish a multi-party democracy, warning against obstruction. He reiterated plans to hold elections by December or early January, despite widespread rejection from Western nations and anti-regime groups. Russia and Belarus will send observers, but the junta has lost control of much of the country. Maung Kavi, The Irrawaddy, March 10

Myanmar junta blacklists hundreds of doctors for declining to work for them. Military authorities are withholding degree certificates from around 800 doctors who started their residencies before the 2021 coup, preventing them from securing employment. The blacklisting appears to be retaliation for refusing government jobs under the junta. Affected doctors are also barred from practicing medicine or traveling abroad. Only a fraction of students from the 2018 medical class will be allowed to graduate. Aung Naing, Myanmar Now, March 11

Laos

Lao foreign minister to visit China for strengthening bilateral ties. Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane will visit China from March 12-14 at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The visit aims to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations and implement agreements set by their top leaders. Discussions will cover bilateral cooperation, regional stability, and China’s growing economic role in Laos. Phontham Visapra, The Laotian Times, March 11

India supports major food fortification initiative in Laos. The Lao government and the United Nations have launched a $1 million project, funded by India, to enhance large-scale food fortification. Implemented by the World Food Programme, the initiative focuses on enriching rice with essential vitamins and minerals to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Around 40% of women of childbearing age and 44% of children under five suffer from iron deficiency anemia. Officials emphasize the project’s role in improving national nutrition. Vientiane Times, March 11

Philippines

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte arrested on ICC warrant. Rodrigo Duterte was arrested upon returning to Manila from Hong Kong after the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for crimes against humanity related to his war on drugs. Duterte previously stated he would accept his fate if arrested. His legal team called the arrest unlawful, claiming police denied them access during the warrant’s execution. His daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, also faces an impeachment trial. Alex Gintz, The Asia Cable, March 10

Evidence vs. VP Sara Duterte is ‘strong’ – Chua. House prosecutor Rep. Joel Chua expressed confidence in securing a conviction against Vice President Sara Duterte, citing strong evidence of corruption and misuse of confidential funds. Lawmakers uncovered questionable acknowledgment receipts bearing fictitious names. Duterte faces seven impeachment charges, including bribery, high crimes, and threats against President Marcos Jr. The prosecution panel is preparing additional testimonies and legal arguments. Gabriel Pabico Lalu, Philippine Daily Inquirer, March 11

No warrant of arrest, says Duterte daughter Kitty. Veronica “Kitty” Duterte defended her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, following his arrest upon arrival in Manila. She claimed he was being detained without a valid warrant and accused authorities of violating his rights. Duterte himself demanded to see the legal basis for his detention, asserting he was under “someone else’s jurisdiction.” His legal team has also challenged the legitimacy of the arrest. Aric John Sy Cua, The Manila Times, March 11

Indonesia

Prabowo seeks stronger Indonesia-Vietnam strategic ties. President Prabowo Subianto called for upgrading Indonesia-Vietnam relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership during talks with Communist Party of Vietnam leader To Lam. Speaking at Merdeka Palace, Prabowo highlighted shared histories of resistance against colonialism and a joint vision for achieving developed nation status by 2045. He emphasized cooperation in economic growth, poverty reduction, and regional stability. ANTARA News, March 10

U.N. migration agency says aid to Rohingya in Indonesia reinstated. The International Organization for Migration resumed humanitarian assistance for over 900 Rohingya refugees in Indonesia after securing necessary resources. The aid had been reduced following U.S. funding cuts under President Donald Trump’s administration. The agency confirmed that its largest relief program remains operational, with no further service reductions planned. Indonesia hosts around 2,800 Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar and Bangladesh. Stanley Widianto, Reuters, March 11

Singapore

Budgets approved in this term of government steered Singapore through uncharted waters: Indranee. Leader of the House Indranee Rajah highlighted how Singapore’s budgets from 2021 to 2025 helped navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and global instability. She emphasized the importance of long-term planning in maintaining economic resilience. Budget 2025, the largest in this government’s term, was passed ahead of an expected general election by November. Tang See Kit, Channel News Asia, March 10

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan and Italy to strengthen military cooperation. Kazakhstan and Italy are deepening defense ties through joint training programs, personnel exchanges, and military technology advancements. The partnership will include cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and border security efforts. Italian defense expertise and technology will support Kazakhstan’s military modernization, with potential agreements on equipment production. Kazakhstan sees this collaboration as a strategic move to diversify security partnerships beyond Russia and China. Stephen M. Bland, The Times of Central Asia, March 10

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan implement free trade agreement. The free trade agreement between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan took effect on Feb. 25, 2025, eliminating customs duties on most goods, including cement, textiles, and plastics. Uzbek exports to Turkmenistan are expected to rise, though Turkmen imports from Uzbekistan declined by 30% in early 2024. Officials anticipate strengthened economic and political ties, with potential for regional integration. Sadokat Jalolova and Stephen M. Bland, The Times of Central Asia, March 10

Uzbekistan launches drive to develop minerals, mining sector. Uzbekistan announced a $2.6 billion investment plan to develop its mineral resources, aiming to become a key supplier of rare earths for U.S. businesses. The three-year initiative includes 76 projects focused on extracting tungsten, lithium, titanium, and vanadium. The U.S. has expressed strong interest, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizing investment opportunities. Uzbekistan seeks technological expertise to enhance mineral refinement and manufacturing capabilities. Eurasianet, March 10

Tajikistan

Loss of U.S. assistance hampering Tajikistan’s efforts to contain HIV – U.N. agency. The suspension of U.S. foreign aid has severely impacted Tajikistan’s ability to combat HIV, according to a UNAIDS report. The U.S., previously a key partner through USAID, provided critical support for prevention programs, antiretroviral therapy, and statistical data collection. Without funding, local health services struggle to maintain HIV treatment, increasing risks for vulnerable populations. Experts warn that cases may rise as regional cooperation weakens. Eurasianet, March 10

Northeast Asia

North Korean deployment in Kursk: A window into the DPRK military. North Korea has sent an estimated 10,000-12,000 troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine, marking its most significant military deployment abroad. Soldiers have been placed under Russian command near Kursk, equipped with modernized weapons but using outdated battlefield tactics. In return, Pyongyang is receiving Russian satellite technology and financial support for its nuclear program. The deployment highlights deepening North Korea-Russia ties amid Western sanctions. Lorenzo Fedrigo, Geopolitical Monitor, March 10

How will China achieve its 5% growth target? China has historically met its GDP growth targets, but with exports slowing and domestic demand weak, the government must shift its economic model toward private consumption. While household savings exceed GDP, confidence remains low due to past market downturns. Policymakers are betting on economic stimulus and regulatory adjustments to encourage spending, but trade barriers and external pressures complicate growth prospects. Weijian Shan, South China Morning Post, March 11

Southeast Asia

Challenges and priorities for Myanmar’s conflicted economy. Myanmar’s economy continues to struggle under military rule, with declining GDP, soaring inflation, and increasing poverty. The opposition claims the junta has printed 30 trillion kyat since the coup, fueling inflation that peaked at 35% in late 2022. Wages have stagnated while migration and labor shortages disrupt businesses. The country is also a major hub for illicit trade, including drugs and online scams, as formal investment collapses. Jared Bissinger, Fulcrum, March 11

Why Thai and Indonesian youth oppose increasing military influence in society. Young people in Thailand and Indonesia strongly reject military expansion into civilian governance, with Thai undergraduates expressing the highest opposition to conscription (59.68%) and increased defense budgets (38.52%). In Indonesia, skepticism is growing over President Prabowo Subianto’s plans to expand military roles. Historical experiences, including Thailand’s repeated coups and Indonesia’s past under Suharto’s rule, have shaped youth resistance to military influence. Iim Halimatusa’diyah and Panarat Anamwathana, Fulcrum, March 10

Cambodia’s tightrope act: The Hun Sen dynasty’s struggle for survival between China, the U.S., and the underworld. Cambodia’s economy is in crisis, with rising debt, a collapsing real estate sector, and declining foreign investment. China, once a key financial backer, has scaled back loans, while the U.S. increases pressure over corruption and military ties to Beijing. The ruling elite now rely on revenue from illicit cyber scams, further entangling the country in organized crime. Sam Rainsy, The Geopolitics, March 10

Impeachment a key weapon in the Philippines’ Marcos-Duterte divide. Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment reflects a shift in the Philippines’ use of impeachment from a moral accountability tool to a political strategy. While previous impeachments were driven by civic mobilization, Duterte’s case advanced primarily through President Marcos Jr.’s congressional allies. The case underscores concerns over the erosion of democratic institutions and the increasing politicization of constitutional safeguards. Paolo S Tamase and Athena Charanne Presto, East Asia Forum, March 10

Central Asia

Taliban’s fractured regime teeters toward collapse. Deep internal divisions, economic mismanagement, and growing public dissatisfaction threaten the Taliban’s grip on Afghanistan. Under Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, factionalism within the regime has intensified, with key figures clashing over resources and policies. The economy, already fragile, faces inflation and currency depreciation, worsened by reduced foreign aid. Strict social controls and diplomatic isolation further weaken the government’s legitimacy, raising concerns that Afghanistan could descend into renewed instability. Muhammad Burhan, Asia Times, March 11

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