News
China investigates former senior justice official and Interpol committee member Liu Zhiqiang. Liu Zhiqiang, China's former vice-minister of justice and member of Interpol's committee, is under investigation by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection for suspected serious violations of discipline and law, indicative of corruption. The investigation into Liu aligns with President Xi Jinping's intensified anti-corruption efforts targeting high-ranking officials within China's security and law enforcement apparatus. This move reflects Xi's ongoing anti-corruption campaign, now in its 11th year, which has seen the downfall of numerous senior officials. Sylvie Zhuang, South China Morning Post, May 2
Yen falls to lower 155 zone vs. dollar after suspected intervention. The Japanese yen dropped to the lower 155 range against the U.S. dollar following suspected market interventions. This movement in currency values comes amid growing speculation and remarks by the Federal Reserve Chair, which have influenced market dynamics and investor behavior. The significant shift in the yen's value raises concerns about the potential impacts on Japan's economy, particularly on exports and inflation. Financial authorities and market analysts are closely monitoring these developments, as further interventions could be necessary to stabilize the currency and mitigate economic disruptions. Kyodo News, May 2
Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan may swap territories to ease border tensions. To address their longstanding border demarcation dispute, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan are contemplating a territorial exchange. The border in the Batken region traverses challenging terrain and densely populated areas, causing disruptions to daily life. Both nations are pursuing balance and compromise in border negotiations, striving for peaceful resolutions. Recent progress on the matter includes a border agreement adding 17.98 kilometers, signaling improved relations. The Times of Central Asia, May 2
‘China slowly taking over Rozul Reef.’ China's presence in the Rozul Reef within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone is expanding, marked by the activities of 33 Chinese maritime vessels observed "swarming" the area. Recent surveillance has revealed environmental damage and the establishment of a semi-permanent Chinese presence through tactics such as "rafting" ships together to form floating outposts. This escalation has led to concerns about China's intentions and the legal implications under international maritime law. Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, May 2
Myanmar junta bans conscription-age men from leaving country for work. The Myanmar military government has imposed a travel ban on conscription-age men, preventing them from leaving the country for work. This measure is part of the junta's efforts to control the population amidst ongoing civil unrest and resistance movements since the military coup. The ban reflects the government's strategy to potentially mobilize these individuals for military purposes as it faces widespread domestic and international criticism for its actions. Aung NaingMin Min, Myanmar Now, May 2
Singaporean diplomat under probe for alleged voyeurism in Tokyo. A Singaporean diplomat is currently under investigation for alleged voyeurism in Tokyo, Japan. This case involves accusations of inappropriate behavior that could potentially have significant diplomatic repercussions. The incident is a sensitive matter, given the involved parties' diplomatic status, and it highlights the complex issues of conduct and privacy that can arise in international relations. The authorities are proceeding with caution to address these allegations while maintaining the necessary diplomatic protocols. Kyodo News, May 2
Cambodia’s Defense Ministry says explosion at military base that killed 20 soldiers was an accident. The Defense Ministry of Cambodia announced that the recent explosion at a military base in southwestern Cambodia, which claimed the lives of 20 soldiers and wounded many others, was an accident caused by a "technical issue" related to old and deteriorated ammunition during transportation. The Ministry's statement countered allegations by exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy, who claimed without evidence that the explosion was an attack. According to Army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Mao Phalla, soldiers were transferring ammunition when the blast occurred, causing extensive damage to the base and nearby structures. AP News, May 2
Lawmakers relieve Vương Đình Huệ from NA Chairman position. Vietnam's National Assembly has officially relieved Vương Đình Huệ from his roles as NA Chairman, NA deputy, and member of the National Defence and Security Council, following his own request for resignation. Trần Thanh Mẫn, previously serving as the Permanent NA Vice Chairman and a member of the Politburo, has been appointed to lead the NA and its Standing Committee. This change aims to ensure stable governance and continuity within Vietnam's legislative framework. Vietnam News, May 2
Activists defy ministerial pick. In Thailand, activist networks have challenged the appointment of Pichit Chuenban as the PM's Office Minister, submitting a petition to the Election Commission to review his qualifications. They highlight Chuenban's past criminal conviction and subsequent loss of his lawyer license, arguing that these disqualify him from ministerial positions under constitutional moral standards. The groups also seek to prevent Chuenban from assuming office until the Constitutional Court reviews the case. Bangkok Post, May 1
Manet meeting with journos to hear concerns, gain understanding. Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet is set to engage directly with journalists on May 3 at Koh Pich, coinciding with World Press Freedom Day. This meeting is designed to address the concerns of journalists, aiming to enhance mutual understanding and communication between the government and the media. The initiative mirrors the tradition started by his predecessor, Hun Sen, highlighting the government’s ongoing effort to maintain a dialogue with the press. Niem Chheng, The Phnom Penh Post, May 2
New case against Nazarbayev’s former niece-in-law brought to court. The Anti-Corruption Service of Kazakhstan has concluded its investigation into Gulmira Satybaldy, the former wife of Kairat Satybaldy, the nephew of Kazakhstan's former President Nursultan Nazarbayev. Satybaldy faces charges of illegal imprisonment, large-scale extortion, and arbitrariness leading to serious consequences, with the case now transferred to a specialized court in Almaty. Specific details are undisclosed at present. Her ex-husband, Kairat, has been convicted of abusing power and embezzling funds from Kazakhtelecom. The Times of Central Asia, May 2
China further repatriates hundreds of N. Korean defectors: civic group. Chinese authorities have resumed the forced repatriation of around 200 North Korean defectors detained in Jilin province, bordering North Korea, according to the North Korean People's Liberation Front. This action follows the deportation of approximately 600 defectors after the Asian Games in Hangzhou in October 2023. Despite South Korea's objections and surveillance by its intelligence agency, China appears to persist in repatriating defectors. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, May 2
Long Form
While West mulls engaging with the Taliban, Central Asia has been at it for years. While Western countries are grappling with the prospects of engaging the Taliban, Central Asian nations like Turkmenistan have already established longstanding relationships. Turkmenistan's engagement is notably advanced, showcasing their interactions with the Taliban even before the fall of Kabul in August 2021. This includes a series of diplomatic and economic exchanges such as the trans-Afghan TAPI gas pipeline support and extensive bilateral trade, totaling $481 million in 2023. Further, Turkmenistan and other Central Asian states are pushing forward with major infrastructure projects including railroads and power lines, aiming to bolster economic ties and regional connectivity. Despite the Taliban's control, these countries are increasingly viewing Afghanistan more as a trade partner than a security threat, although concerns over regional stability and resource sharing, particularly water from the Amu Darya River, persist. Peter Leonard,
, May 2The Myth of the Asian Swing State. The concept of Asian "swing states" in U.S.-China relations is becoming increasingly complex. Despite perceptions of a new Cold War, Asian countries today are vastly more stable and politically autonomous than during the Cold War. Their domestic politics do not always align neatly with the strategic priorities of the U.S. or China. For instance, the Biden administration's framing of global politics as a struggle between autocracy and democracy does not necessarily resonate within these nations. Countries like Nepal and Pakistan illustrate the nuanced and often internally focused political landscapes that do not conform to the dichotomy of U.S. vs. China. Instead, these nations navigate their geopolitical choices based on varied domestic interests and the complex dynamics of regional politics, often adopting a pragmatic approach to foreign relations with both superpowers. Paul Staniland, Foreign Affairs, May 2
The Geopolitics of Tesla’s China Breakthrough. Tesla has achieved a significant milestone in China, obtaining automotive data security certification, a rarity for foreign EV brands. This certification allows Tesla vehicles unrestricted access to sensitive areas across China, marking a crucial advancement amidst the broader tech rivalry between the U.S. and China. Elon Musk's recent visit and meetings with top Chinese officials, including Premier Li Qiang, underline this diplomatic and strategic engagement. Marina Yue Zhang, The Diplomat, May 2
Thailand’s Grand Reconciliation: The Shinawatras and the Establishment. The longstanding political rift between Thaksin Shinawatra and the Thai establishment seems to have reached a resolution, marking a decade since the 2014 military coup that significantly altered Thailand's political landscape. This reconciliation, however, does not address the historical mistakes of Thailand’s political crises but instead appears to repeat them. The political scene has evolved with the Pheu Thai Party, once victims of the coup, now leading a coalition government. Despite the change in monarchy and the retirement of coup leader General Prayut Chan-o-cha, the influence of the 2014 coup and its aftermath still looms large, shaping current political dynamics and the nation’s governance. James Buchanan, The Diplomat, May 2
West needs to realize India values democracy differently. India's unique approach to democracy emphasizes leading by example rather than proselytizing, differing significantly from Western methods of democracy promotion. India's internal and foreign policies reflect a cautious stance on promoting democratic ideals aggressively, focusing more on technical assistance and less on influencing domestic politics of other nations. This approach, while aligning with many emerging economies, contrasts with Western strategies that often condition aid on democratic reforms, leading to differing perceptions between India and its Western counterparts about the role and promotion of democracy. Chietigj Bajpaee, Nikkei Asia, May 2
Xi Jinping's vision of war seen in creation of 'Information Force'. China has launched a new military branch called the Information Support Force (ISF), which President Xi Jinping says will be central to modern warfare, focusing on information-related security. The restructuring has dissolved the older Strategic Support Force into separate entities, aiming to improve specialization and accountability amidst concerns of corruption within the military. This demonstrates China's intent to enhance its military readiness in information-centric warfare, potentially impacting the global cybersecurity landscape significantly. Anushka Saxena, Nikkei Asia, May 2
Seizing Malaysia’s economic momentum. Malaysia is positioned to capitalize on its economic potential amid global shifts, especially in the semiconductor industry. With foreign companies diversifying away from China due to the 'China+1' strategy, Malaysia stands to gain, particularly in areas like Penang where semiconductor firms are investing heavily. However, Malaysia must address structural inefficiencies, strengthen its domestic capabilities, and enhance fiscal policies to truly harness this momentum. The formation of strategic clusters like the Penang Automation Cluster and initiatives like the largest integrated circuit design park in Southeast Asia are steps in the right direction. These efforts, along with Malaysia's active participation in major free trade agreements, set the stage for a potential economic resurgence, provided it continues to innovate and align with global economic and environmental standards. E Hun Tan, East Asia Forum, May 2
China’s beleaguered economy pushing young people towards public service. China's economic struggles are driving young professionals toward careers in the public sector, marking a shift from innovation-driven private industries to more stable government jobs. The allure of governmental positions, historically prestigious in China, has intensified due to economic uncertainties exacerbated by U.S.-China tensions, the COVID-19 pandemic, and a steep decline in foreign direct investment. This shift poses a threat to China's future economic dynamism, as the best and brightest are funneled away from entrepreneurial ventures critical for innovation and growth. To counteract this trend, China must revitalize its private sector to attract and retain young talent. Yao-Yuan Yeh, East Asia Forum, May 2