Asia Daily: May 20, 2024
News
China-Iran ties to stay on course despite death of ‘good friend’ president Raisi. Diplomatic observers affirm that China-Iran relations will remain strong despite Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences and emphasized the enduring strategic partnership. Analysts noted that the Iranian presidency is less influential than the Supreme Leader, ensuring policy continuity. While regional tensions may fluctuate, the fundamental dynamics of China’s role in the Middle East are expected to stay stable. Alyssa Chen, South China Morning Post, May 20
Taiwan’s new President Lai in his inauguration speech urges China to stop its military intimidation. Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, emphasized peace with China and called for an end to military threats. He urged China to respect Taiwan's existence and engage in dialogue. Lai committed to defending Taiwan while seeking stability, continuing Tsai Ing-wen's policies, and enhancing ties with the U.S. and regional partners. China's Taiwan Affairs Office criticized Lai's speech as separatist and reiterated its stance on reunification. Christopher Bodeen and Simina Mistreanu, AP News, May 20
Marcos orders probe of embassy 'wiretap'. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered an investigation into allegations that the Chinese Embassy in Manila wiretapped a high-ranking Armed Forces of the Philippines official. Marcos stated that the investigation aims to verify the existence of a tape that purportedly confirms an agreement. This development follows a ceremony marking an alliance between Marcos' Partido Federal ng Pilipinas and the Nationalist People's Coalition in Makati City. Kristina Maralit and Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, May 20
U.S. positions official in Tokyo to monitor China The United States will station an official in Tokyo specifically to monitor China's activities, marking a strategic expansion in U.S.-Japan cooperation on security matters. This move underscores the growing importance of the Indo-Pacific region in American foreign policy and reflects increasing concerns over China's regional ambitions. This initiative aims to enhance coordination and response strategies between the U.S. and its key ally Japan amidst rising geopolitical tensions. Kyodo News, May 18
Viet Nam, Indonesia step up security cooperation Vietnam and Indonesia are intensifying their security cooperation, which encompasses counter-terrorism efforts and maintaining peace in the South China Sea. This partnership aims to bolster regional security and ensure safe navigation and overflight in these critical waters. Both nations are focusing on combating terrorism and safeguarding maritime domains amid heightening tension in the region. Vietnam News, May 20
U.S. Ambassador Heather Variava outlines vision for strengthening relations with Laos. Ambassador Heather Variava, who began her tenure in February, highlighted her goals for expanding US-Laos relations. She emphasized support for Laos's ASEAN chairmanship, economic collaboration, and health initiatives, particularly in rural areas. The ambassador underscored the importance of cultural preservation and assistance for people with disabilities. Phontham Visapra, The Laotian Times, May 20
MFP launches new agenda despite court threat The Move Forward Party (MFP) in Thailand has launched a new policy agenda despite facing legal challenges from the Constitutional Court, which could potentially dissolve the party. The party's new agenda includes proposals for significant reforms in education, economic policy, and public health, aimed at addressing social inequality and fostering sustainable development. Bangkok Post, May 19
High gold prices keep the Uzbek economy afloat. In March, Uzbekistan sold eleven tons of gold, becoming the world's largest seller to maintain reserves amidst rising debt and a budget deficit. With foreign exchange reserves at $34.2 billion, $26.5 billion in gold, the country relies on high gold prices amid geopolitical instability. However, analysts warn that continual gold sales are not sustainable, urging development of industrial production and high-value exports. Despite reforms attracting foreign investment, Uzbekistan's trade deficit reached $13.7 billion in 2023. The Times of Central Asia, May 20
Hun Sen: No room for ‘extremists’ in a democracy. Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen emphasized to Japanese Ambassador Atsushi Ueno that extremists have no place in a democratic society, predicting democracy will thrive without such groups. He linked past opposition figures like Sam Rainsy to extremism and warned that political radicalism could lead to societal chaos. Others, like Ou Chanrath and Pa Chanroeun, argued that extremism should be defined by actions violating the law, not mere criticism. The Phnom Penh Post, May 20
Kyrgyzstan and China aim to increase trade. On May 18, Chairman of the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers, Akylbek Japarov, met with Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong in Bishkek to discuss increasing bilateral trade, which reached $19.8 billion in 2023. Japarov emphasized the importance of enhancing border checkpoint functionality and developing logistics infrastructure. Liu highlighted the strategic significance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and expanding trade and tourism. The Times of Central Asia, May 20
Global Impact: Europe seemingly still split over China after Xi Jinping’s whistle stop tour does little to tip the scales. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s European tour highlighted the continent's divisions over relations with Beijing. In Paris, he faced tough questions on China's economic practices and ties with Russia. Despite signing cooperation agreements, EU unity on China remains fractured, with Germany and Hungary showing divergent stances. Xi's trip underscored China's influence in Eastern Europe but did little to shift overall EU-China dynamics. Finbarr Bermingham, South China Morning Post, May 20
Tajikistan: Officials sign deal to modernize TALCO, the country’s largest industrial enterprise. Tajikistan and China have signed a deal to modernize the TALCO aluminum plant, Tajikistan's largest industrial enterprise. The agreement includes infrastructure projects in Dushanbe, Dangara, and Gorno-Badakhshan. TALCO, described by President Emomali Rahmon as "Tajikistan’s business card," aims to boost aluminum output from 66,000 tons in 2023 to 84,000 tons in 2024. Specific details on timelines and financial commitments remain sparse. Eurasianet, May 20
Another military base falls to KIA-led forces in Myanmar’s north. Kachin Independence Army (KIA) fighters and allies captured the Nam Byu base in Tanai Township, Kachin State, on Thursday, seizing control of significant amber and gold deposits. This strategic victory undermines the junta's hold on the region. The base, crucial for controlling KIA’s Battalion 14 territory, had been under junta control since 2018, facilitating tax collection from mining operations. Min Maung, Myanmar Now, May 20
China’s top diplomat Wang Yi vows stronger security, anti-terror ties with Tajikistan. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pledged to deepen security cooperation and combat terrorism with Tajikistan during a meeting with President Emomali Rahmon in Dushanbe. Wang emphasized supporting Tajikistan’s development strategies in energy, food security, and industrialization. The visit, part of a broader trip, highlighted China’s focus on regional frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation to strengthen ties with Central Asian nations amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Orange Wang, South China Morning Post, May 19
Widodo keen to step up cooperation with Fiji. President Joko Widodo urged stronger ties between Indonesia and Fiji during a bilateral meeting with President Williame Maivalili Katonivere in Bali. Emphasizing economic and agricultural collaboration, Widodo highlighted the planned Demonstration Farm and Regional Training Center for Agriculture in Fiji's Rakiraki region. He also praised Fiji's respect for Indonesia's sovereignty and their mutual commitment to regional stability and development. Ranga P and Tegar Nurfitra, ANTARA News, May 20
China sanctions Boeing, two U.S. defense contractors for Taiwan arms sales. China’s Ministry of Commerce imposed sanctions on Boeing Defense, Space & Security, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, and General Dynamics Land Systems due to their arms sales to Taiwan. The sanctions include investment bans and travel restrictions for senior management. This action coincided with Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's inauguration and his vow to enhance Taiwan's defense capabilities. Previous sanctions have targeted assets and corporate leaders involved in supplying weapons to Taiwan. AP News, May 20
Putin briefed on tourist exchanges with N. Korea, prep for visit under way: Kremlin. Russian President Vladimir Putin has been updated on tourist exchanges with North Korea, and preparations for his visit are ongoing, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Alexander Kozlov, Russia's environment minister, discussed recent exchanges and future plans with North Korean counterparts. Although unrelated to the visit preparations, Kozlov highlighted successful exchanges like zoo and ballet visits. Yoo Jee-ho, Yonhap News Agency, May 19
Long Form
William Lai must try to ease tensions with pledge on Taiwan Strait status quo. Taiwan's new leader, William Lai Ching-te, pledged to maintain the status quo with China, advocating for peace and reconciliation. Despite a tougher stance than his predecessor, Lai's call for peaceful coexistence and resumption of bilateral tourism marked his inauguration. He also sought Western support, emphasizing Taiwan's sovereignty and democracy. Beijing remains skeptical, viewing Lai as a pro-independence troublemaker, leading to continued tensions. South China Morning Post, May 20
When Will Washington Get Serious About Taiwan? As Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te takes office, the U.S. must treat Taiwan as a serious partner. This includes delivering purchased weapons, pressing for an asymmetric defense strategy, and leveraging alliances. Washington's outdated approach, focused on symbolic gestures, must shift to one that addresses the real military threat posed by China. Taiwan's democratic maturity and strategic importance necessitate genuine support and meaningful defense collaboration to deter Chinese aggression. Raymond Kuo, Michael Hunzeker, and Mark Christopher, Foreign Policy, May 20
The Luzon Economic Corridor: A Badly-Needed Win For the US in Southeast Asia? The Luzon Economic Corridor, announced at the U.S.-Japan-Philippines trilateral summit, includes significant projects like the Subic-Clark railway and upgrades to Clark International Airport. This initiative aims to bolster U.S. economic influence in Southeast Asia, contrasting China's Belt and Road Initiative with a focus on private investment. Success hinges on careful planning and alignment of Western and local priorities to attract investment and meet regional infrastructure needs. Kevin Chen, The Diplomat, May 20
New Singapore PM’s Key Priorities and Challenges. Lawrence Wong, Singapore’s new Prime Minister, outlined his vision for the nation, emphasizing fresh approaches to governance, immigration control, and balancing US-China relations. He highlighted the need for inclusivity and accountability amidst demands from younger generations. Wong aims to navigate geopolitical challenges, particularly US-China tensions, while ensuring economic stability and leveraging globalization benefits. Tridivesh Singh Maini, The Geopolitics, May 19
Indonesia, and the origins of a decolonialisation movement that swept the world. David Van Reybrouck’s book, Revolusi: Indonesia and the Birth of the Modern World, explores Indonesia’s decolonial struggle, highlighting the brutal colonial history and its impact. The 1955 Bandung Conference showcased Indonesia's significant role in global decolonization. Van Reybrouck draws connections between Indonesia’s independence and broader anti-colonial movements, emphasizing the swift, armed struggle for sovereignty that influenced other nations. Stephen Grenville, The Interpreter, May 20