Asia Daily: March 15, 2024
News
North Korea's Kim test drives a new tank and orders troops to prepare for war. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally tested a new tank model and instructed his military to be ready for war, amid South Korea and the U.S. concluding their annual drills. This marks Kim's third observation of military exercises during the 11-day South Korea-U.S. drills, criticized by North Korea as invasion rehearsals. Kim's actions signal a heightened state of military readiness in response to perceived threats. Hyung-jin Kim, AP News, March 14
Japan to provide IAEA $20 million to support nuclear watchdog's activities. Japan announced a contribution of approximately $20 million to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to aid its operations, coinciding with IAEA chief Rafael Grossi's visit. This funding is part of Japan's cooperation with the IAEA, especially regarding the treated radioactive water release from the Fukushima plant. The support aims to enhance nuclear safety, technology, and nonproliferation efforts globally. Kyodo News, March 14
US knew Nauru might cut ties to Taiwan before it did so, State Department official says. The US was aware that Nauru considered switching diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China before the decision was made in January. Daniel Kritenbrink highlighted efforts to support Nauru and warned remaining Pacific allies of Taiwan about the potential unfulfilled promises from China. The strategic competition in the Pacific, involving influence and military access, underscores the geopolitical significance of the region to both Washington and Beijing. Khushboo Razdan, South China Morning Post, March 15
PPP campaign committee co-chair seeks clarity on ex-minister's departure. Amid controversy, Ahn Cheol-soo, co-chair of the People Power Party's campaign committee, has called for a detailed explanation from the government regarding the appointment of former Defense Minister Lee Jong-sub as ambassador to Australia during an ongoing investigation. Ahn emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in this sensitive situation. Kang Jae-eun, Yonhap News Agency, March 14
Kyrgyzstan: Parliament adopts contentious foreign agents law without debate. Kyrgyzstan's parliament has swiftly passed a law affecting NGOs, particularly those in human rights and media, without debate, amid international concern. This move follows global criticism and contrasts with President Sadyr Japarov's recent withdrawal of another controversial bill. The law, mirroring Russia's, could severely restrict NGO operations and is part of broader authoritarian trends in Kyrgyzstan. Ayzirek Imanaliyeva, Eurasianet, March 14
Japan high court rules same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional. In a landmark decision, a Japanese high court has ruled that the country's ban on same-sex marriage is in an unconstitutional state. This judgment represents a pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ rights in Japan, signaling potential changes in the legal landscape regarding marriage equality. The court's decision underscores the growing recognition of same-sex couples' rights within the Japanese judicial system. Kyodo News, March 14
Opposition MP questions whether Thaksin was ever seriously ill. Rangsiman Rome of the Move Forward Party has raised doubts about the severity of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's illness, which was a key reason for his early release from prison. Thaksin's recent activities in Chiang Mai have fueled skepticism about the government's claims regarding his health condition. This controversy comes amid Thaksin's return to public life following his hospital stay and subsequent release. Bangkok Post, March 14
United States launches initiative to foster Central Asian connectivity. The US is advancing an economic initiative to strengthen ties in Central Asia, focusing on enhancing connectivity among states and promoting public-private cooperation. This new approach, shifting from previous rule of law promotion, aims to foster economic development and trade. The inaugural B5+1 forum in Almaty reflects a commitment to this vision, emphasizing economic integration and resilience, with the hope that successful collaboration will lead to increased US investment in the region. Eurasianet, March 14
Indonesian presidential rivals to contest election results. The teams of two Indonesian presidential candidates plan to challenge the official election results in the Constitutional Court, alleging widespread fraud. The dispute follows an election where Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, Anies Baswedan, and Ganjar Pranowo competed. With over 78% of votes counted, Subianto leads. Both Baswedan and Pranowo refuse to concede, citing irregularities. The official results are expected by March 20. Niniek Karmini, AP News, March 14
NA Standing Committee to discuss seven draft laws during 31st session. The National Assembly (NA) Standing Committee of Vietnam is set to scrutinize seven draft laws from March 14-19, including amendments and new propositions across various sectors like capital law, social insurance, road traffic, and judiciary organization. This session reflects Vietnam's legislative efforts to address contemporary issues and enhance legal frameworks. Additionally, decisions on key administrative adjustments within Bình Dương and Tiền Giang provinces will be deliberated. Vietnam News, March 14
Khmer Rouge tribunal hosts moot court as part of international law competition. The Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, known as the Khmer Rouge tribunal, co-hosted a regional round of the John H Jackson Moot Court Competition, focusing on international trade laws. Teams from Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam participated, with finalists advancing to the global round in Geneva. Sok Raksa, Phnom Penh Post, March 14
Taiwanese firms in mainland China adopt cautious investment stance. A survey shows Taiwanese businesses in China becoming wary, with many planning to maintain or reduce investments due to geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties. The shift includes considering cuts in assets and staffing, reflecting concerns over the business environment and political risks. This cautious approach is influenced by factors like the US-China trade war and the cost of business operations, driving some companies to look towards other markets like Vietnam for expansion. Ralph Jennings, South China Morning Post, March 15
Vietnam urges respect of international law as China draws Gulf of Tonkin baseline. Vietnam emphasizes the importance of international law and the rights of states in light of China's recent delineation of a baseline in the Gulf of Tonkin. This move by China aims to define territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, touching on sensitive territorial disputes in the region. Vietnam references the UNCLOS 1982 agreement, urging coastal nations to adhere to established guidelines for baseline determination. Francesco Guarascio, Reuters, March 14