Asia Daily: March 13, 2024
News
Beijing hits back after Biden White House seeks US$100 million to boost Taiwan’s cross-strait deterrence. Beijing opposes the Biden administration's request for $100 million to enhance Taiwan's deterrence capabilities against China, emphasizing China's commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This request is part of a broader American effort to support Taiwan amid increasing regional tensions and is seen as a significant move to strengthen ties with the island. Lawrence Chung, South China Morning Post, March 12
China demands Japan start Fukushima treated water compensation system. China has called on Japan to establish a compensation system for potential economic damages related to the discharge of treated radioactive wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant. Despite the International Atomic Energy Agency's assurance of safety, China insists on the need for compensation, continuing its import ban on Japanese seafood since the water release began. This request marks a significant point of contention between the two nations. Kyodo News, March 12
Election Commission to seek Move Forward's dissolution. The Election Commission of Thailand has resolved to request the Constitutional Court dissolve the Move Forward Party, citing a violation related to its stance on the lese majeste law. This significant political development follows the Constitutional Court's finding against the party's policy on amending the royal defamation law. The case marks a pivotal moment in Thai politics, reflecting the ongoing debate over freedom of expression and the monarchy's role. Mongkol Bangprapa, Bangkok Post, March 12
Unification minister calls for ceaseless efforts to improve N.K.'s human rights situation. South Korea's Unification Minister, Kim Yung-ho, emphasizes the need for ongoing international efforts to address North Korea's human rights issues. Speaking at the advisory committee's meeting, Kim advocated for awareness and global unity to instigate positive changes for North Koreans. This committee plays a crucial role in tackling key human rights concerns in North Korea. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, March 12
‘Watch yourself’: Beijing warns South Korea after remarks on South China Sea clashes. Beijing has issued a caution to Seoul following South Korean comments on recent South China Sea confrontations between China and the Philippines. China's foreign ministry spokesman, Wang Wenbin, criticized South Korea for departing from its traditionally neutral stance and warned against further complicating China-South Korea relations. This comes after South Korea expressed concern over the use of water cannons against Philippine vessels. Liu Zhen, South China Morning Post, March 12
Myanmar Plans to Launch Direct Flights From Yangon to Vientiane in May. Myanmar Airways International (MAI) is set to initiate direct flights between Yangon and Vientiane starting early May, as part of an expansion to strengthen its international network. This announcement reflects efforts to enhance connectivity and promote travel between Myanmar and Laos. The new routes aim to facilitate exchanges and benefit passengers and businesses in both countries. Chono Lapuekou, Laotian Times, March 12
Uzbekistan, China eye joint uranium exploration. Uzbekistan is negotiating with China to embark on uranium exploration and development projects in the Navoi region, highlighting a significant move towards energy cooperation. This partnership aims to bolster both nations' strategic interests in the energy sector, with potential implications for regional energy dynamics and market supply. The initiative marks a step forward in the deepening ties between Uzbekistan and China, reflecting their shared goals for sustainable energy development and economic growth. Eurasianet, March 12
Yoon urges prompt medical reform amid prolonged walkout. President Yoon Suk Yeol has called for immediate action on medical reform plans, including an increase in medical school student numbers, in response to a widespread strike by trainee doctors. The strike, protesting the government's enrollment expansion, has seen over 90% participation, disrupting medical services. Yoon emphasized the need for emergency responses for critical patients, while officials warned of firm actions against any medical professionals abandoning their duties. Kang Yoon-seung, Yonhap News Agency, March 12
India troops begin Maldives pullout after pro-China leader's order: Reports. Following the directive of the Maldives' new pro-China President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, India has started the withdrawal of its military personnel from the nation. This step marks a significant shift in the Maldives' external alliances and underscores the deepening ties between the Maldives and China. The removal of Indian military staff is part of a broader realignment in the region's strategic dynamics. Al Jazeera, March 12
Germany vows to defend PH rights in South China Sea. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has affirmed Germany's support for the Philippines' rights in the South China Sea during a press conference with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Scholz highlighted the significance of following international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, to ensure peace and stability in the region. This commitment reflects Germany's stance on global maritime disputes. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, March 12
Long Form
Will Success in Agalega Compensate for India’s Assumption Island Debacle? India's efforts in the Indian Ocean have seen a new development with the inauguration of infrastructure on Mauritius's remote island of North Agalega by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth. This development, including a jetty and an aviation strip, marks a significant step in India's naval presence in the region, offering a staging base for the Indian Navy to patrol the Mozambique Channel and oversee commercial corridors in southern Africa. This move is seen as a crucial achievement for India, especially after setbacks in gaining military access to Seychelles and the Maldives. The project in Agalega not only signifies India's ongoing competition with China in the Indian Ocean but also highlights the importance of Mauritius in India's maritime security plans. Gaurav Sen, The Diplomat, March 13
China Faces Familiar Growth Dilemma as Economy Slows. China is once again at a crossroads, grappling with a slowing economy without wanting to reignite a property bubble. Amidst challenges such as a weak housing market, significant local government debt, rising youth unemployment, and deflationary pressure, the National People's Congress (NPC) revealed little in terms of a robust policy response. Beijing has set a modest growth target of around 5% for 2024, signaling caution over expansion. This conservative stance reflects concerns over exacerbating financial risks, particularly in the real estate sector, which has seen prices fall 10% after a period of rapid growth. While technological investment, particularly in high-tech industries like electric vehicles and biomanufacturing, is highlighted as a path to revitalizing the economy, analysts remain skeptical about this shift significantly altering China's growth trajectory. The focus remains on managing the fallout from the housing crisis and recalibrating the economy towards more sustainable growth drivers. Ck Tan, Nikkei Asia, March 13
Understanding Taiwan Beyond Geopolitics. The 2024 presidential election in Taiwan is more than a leadership change; it's a declaration of Taiwan's political identity and global strategic significance. Vice President Lai Ching-te's ascent to the presidency, despite Beijing's warnings, demonstrates Taiwan's commitment to democracy. Western narratives often simplify Taiwan's complex societal fabric and economic vitality to mere strategic interests, neglecting the essence of Taiwanese identity. This approach risks reducing Taiwan to a geopolitical pawn, overlooking its cultural uniqueness, technological leadership, and democratic values. Taiwan's semiconductor industry exemplifies its critical economic role, highlighting the island's irreplaceable position in the global supply chain. Amid US-China tensions, it's crucial to view Taiwan through a multifaceted lens, acknowledging its intrinsic value and contributions to global commerce and democracy. Taiwan represents more than a potential conflict zone; it is a vibrant democracy and a significant player in global trade, deserving recognition for its right to self-determination and cultural expression. Dennis LC Weng, Jarad Jeter, East Asia Forum, March 13
Chinese Aggression Ramps Up in the South China Sea. In 2023, China increased its maritime assertiveness in the South China Sea, particularly against the Philippines, with the Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia displaying unprecedented aggression. This escalation prompted the Philippines to enhance defense cooperation with the United States and allies, leading to increased patrols, public exposure of Chinese coercion, and significant military exercises with the US and other partners. The Philippines' response, including granting the US access to additional bases and engaging in joint military exercises, shows a strategic pivot towards bolstering its defense capabilities amid rising tensions. Moreover, ASEAN's efforts to negotiate a code of conduct in the South China Sea gained momentum under Indonesia's leadership, reflecting regional attempts to manage the disputes diplomatically. Carlyle Thayer, East Asia Forum, March 13.
Indian Democracy’s Moment of Truth. As India approaches its 2024 general election, the largest democratic exercise in history, serious concerns loom over the state of its democracy. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is criticized for eroding democratic norms, criminalizing dissent, and undermining free speech over the last decade. Accusations against the BJP include repressing political opposition, intimidating journalists and activists, and misusing laws to stifle criticism. These actions represent a shift away from India's traditionally pluralistic society and raise questions about the future direction of the world's largest democracy. This election may be a critical juncture for Indians to decide on their democratic values and the country's path forward. Shashi Tharoor, Project Syndicate, March 13
How China Found New Value in Its Oldest Gods. China's folk pantheon, rich and chaotic, reflects a society deeply intertwined with its traditional deities, spanning from the craftsmen's guardian, Lu Ban, to the protector of fishermen, Mazu. Despite the decline of many cults over the past century, gods of salt have maintained a robust following, symbolizing not just wealth but also the challenging history and diversity of salt production in China. These deities, ranging from mythological figures like Chi You to historical figures such as Guan Zhong, and even animals, highlight the deep connection between livelihood, resource scarcity, and spiritual reverence in Chinese culture. Interestingly, many salt gods also serve as gods of wealth, a testament to the critical economic and social role of salt throughout Chinese history. This multifaceted worship is a demonstration of the pragmatic nature of Chinese folk beliefs, where the identity of a deity is less important than the benefits and protection they are believed to offer. Xu Shengnan, Sixth Tone, March 13