News
China rolls out large language model based on Xi Jinping Thought. China’s top internet regulator launched a large language model (LLM) based on President Xi Jinping’s political philosophy, termed “Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.” Developed by the China Cyberspace Research Institute under the Cyberspace Administration of China, this closed AI system is designed to ensure security and reliability. The model, which remains under internal testing and accessible by invitation only, can answer questions, outline reports, summarize information, and translate between Chinese and English, all based on a fixed pool of official Chinese documents. Sylvie Zhuang, South China Morning Post, May 21
Parliament to relieve Tô Lâm from Public Security Minister position, paves way for presidency. Vietnam's parliament is set to relieve Tô Lâm of his duties as Minister of Public Security, positioning him for a potential presidential role. The move follows recent political shifts within the Communist Party. Tô Lâm's expected promotion reflects his significant influence and longstanding service in the security sector. This transition is part of broader political reshuffling taking place in the country in recent months. Vietnam News, May 21
Japan lower house OKs bill to reform foreign trainee program. Japan's lower house approved a bill to reform the foreign trainee program to address human rights abuses and poor working conditions. The bill aims to enhance oversight and support for foreign workers, ensuring better protection and integration. It now proceeds to the upper house for final approval, marking a significant step in improving conditions for foreign trainees in Japan. Kyodo News, May 21
Kyrgyzstan’s president warns of swift crackdown if unrest flares again. President Sadyr Japarov warned of immediate and strict measures against potential unrest, referencing past protests that caused significant political upheaval. He stressed the government's focus on stability and preventing chaos, indicating readiness to act decisively to maintain order. Japarov's remarks come amid growing public discontent and economic challenges, highlighting the administration's concern over potential disturbances and commitment to ensuring national security. The Times of Central Asia, May 21
Russian delegation arrives in Pyongyang: KCNA. A Russian delegation led by Grigoriy Rapota, a member of Russia's Federation Council and chairman of the Russia-North Korea friendship parliamentary group, arrived in Pyongyang on Monday, according to North Korea's state media. The Russian Embassy in North Korea confirmed the delegation's arrival and announced their stay in Pyongyang until Friday, during which they will discuss parliamentary interaction and future plans. This visit follows a recent North Korean delegation's trip to Russia's Far East and upcoming resumption of passenger trains between Vladivostok and North Korea after a pandemic-related suspension. Kim Han-joo, Yonhap News, May 21
Japan govt urged to address higher debt costs, fiscal reform. Japanese lawmakers and experts have called on the government to tackle rising debt costs and pursue fiscal reforms. Amidst increasing interest rates and mounting national debt, there is a growing need to stabilize public finances. The focus is on implementing sustainable economic policies to manage debt effectively and ensure long-term fiscal health. The government faces pressure to act swiftly to prevent further economic challenges. Kyodo News, May 21
Kazakhstan joins UN Crime Prevention Commission for first time. Kazakhstan has been elected to the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice for the first time. This membership allows Kazakhstan to contribute to international crime prevention efforts and shape global policies. The commission focuses on crime prevention, criminal justice, and addressing international organized crime. The Times of Central Asia, May 21
Yoon vetoes bill on special counsel probe into Marine's death. President Yoon Suk Yeol vetoed a bill mandating a special counsel investigation into the military's response to a Marine's death, marking the 10th time he has used his veto powers in two years. The bill, passed by the opposition Democratic Party, aimed to investigate alleged interference by Yoon's office and the defense ministry in the case of Cpl. Chae Su-geun, who died during a mission in July 2023 The Democratic Party plans to push for a revote, needing a two-thirds majority in the 300-member National Assembly to override the veto. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, May 21
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin to meet again in July to build on Beijing visit: Lavrov. Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan in July, marking their second meeting in two months, following Xi's hosting of Putin in China. The announcement was made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, where Lavrov highlighted the leaders' upcoming engagement at the SCO summit in Astana. Xi and Putin aim to strengthen political, economic, and military ties amid Western pressure. Wang emphasized mutual support and regional stability, aligning with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's goals. Discussions also covered global security issues, with a focus on building a new security framework for Eurasia. Laura Zhou, South China Morning Post, May 21
Australia and Bangladesh vow to boost trade as foreign ministers meet in Dhaka. Australia and Bangladesh committed to expanding trade and cooperation in security and addressing the Rohingya refugee crisis during Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong's two-day visit to Dhaka. Wong met with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud, expressing support for Bangladesh's transition to developing country status by 2026. Wong highlighted regional maritime security and climate change as key areas of collaboration. She praised Bangladesh's efforts in hosting over 1 million Rohingya refugees and emphasized Australia's continued humanitarian support and advocacy for accountability in Myanmar. AP News, May 21
Kazakhstan: Government grappling with discontent over disaster relief compensation. The Kazakh government is facing public discontent regarding inadequate compensation for recent natural disaster victims. Criticism has intensified due to perceived slow and insufficient financial support for those affected by floods and other calamities. The government's response includes pledges to reassess and improve the aid distribution process. Almaz Kumenov, Eurasianet, May 21
Vatican makes fresh overture to China, reaffirms that Catholic Church is no threat to sovereignty. The Vatican made a significant overture to China, reaffirming that the Catholic Church poses no threat to Beijing's sovereignty and acknowledging past errors by Western missionaries. The Vatican hosted Shanghai Bishop Joseph Shen Bin and Cardinal Pietro Parolin for a high-level commemoration of a 1924 Shanghai meeting, marking the first time a mainland bishop spoke at a Vatican event. Pope Francis emphasized the need for a Chinese face in the church, while Shen highlighted the church's respect for Chinese culture. Nicole Winfield, AP News, May 21
PM announces new genocide study institute. Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has declared the formation of a new institute focused on the study of genocide, aiming to educate the public about the Khmer Rouge atrocities. The institute will concentrate on research, documentation, and educational outreach to prevent future genocides. This initiative is part of efforts to preserve historical memory and promote human rights education, ensuring that the horrors of the past are neither forgotten nor repeated. Niem Chheng, The Phnom Penh Post, May 21
Chin resistance forces seize town near Myanmar-India border. Chin resistance forces have taken control of a strategic town near the Myanmar-India border, marking a significant victory in their ongoing conflict against the military junta. The town's capture disrupts key supply routes used by the Myanmar military and strengthens the resistance's position in the region. The resistance fighters have been bolstered by local support and have fortified their defenses, anticipating potential counterattacks. This seizure may influence cross-border relations, as India closely monitors the developments for any spillover effects. Soe Zeya Tun, Myanmar Now, May 21
Embattled Pichit resigns as PM’s Office Minister. Pichit Akrathit has resigned from his position as PM’s Office Minister amid mounting pressure and allegations of misconduct. His resignation follows accusations of corruption and misuse of power, which have prompted investigations by the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Pichit's departure is seen as an effort by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to address growing public discontent and restore confidence in the government. Bangkok Post, May 21
Marcos backs new Senate leadership. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed his support for the new leadership in the Philippine Senate, endorsing Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri as Senate President and Senator Joel Villanueva as Senate Majority Leader. This change comes as part of a broader effort to align the legislative agenda with the administration's priorities. Marcos emphasized the importance of a cooperative relationship between the executive and legislative branches to ensure the passage of key reforms and policies. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, May 21
Thousands protest against contentious Taiwan parliament reforms. Thousands protested outside Taiwan's parliament against measures to increase legislative oversight over the government, which were pushed by opposition parties despite the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s (DDP) objections. Protesters accused the opposition of undermining democracy and collaborating with China. The Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People's Party (TPP) support reforms for greater parliamentary scrutiny, including punishing officials for false statements. Despite the heavy police presence, the protests remained peaceful. Fabian Hamacher, Angie Teo and Ann Wang, Reuters, May 21
Long Form
China’s rush to fill power vacuum in Iraq could backfire. Chinese firms have secured most of the oil and gas exploration licenses in Iraq as Beijing seeks to boost energy supplies amidst slowing domestic growth. This move, capitalizing on opportunities left by Western firms wary of investing in conflict-ridden Iraq, aims to solidify China’s presence in the Middle East. However, challenges loom as China navigates deep-seated regional conflicts and political complexities. Beijing’s strategy may falter amid escalating tensions and rivalries, particularly as Gulf nations assert their power. China’s involvement could necessitate cooperation with Western and regional powers, complicating its unilateral ambitions. James David Spellman, South China Morning Post, May 21
In China, a ‘Good Death’ Still Means Putting the Family First. In China, the concept of a "good death" is deeply rooted in traditional values, emphasizing the importance of family presence and natural death. Despite modern medical advancements, many Chinese prioritize extensive life-prolonging treatments due to filial piety, often resulting in prolonged suffering for the patient. The Confucian ideal places family and social ties above individual autonomy. This cultural perspective impacts decisions around end-of-life care, revealing a complex interplay between tradition and modernity in contemporary Chinese society. Tu Jiong, Sixth Tone, May 21
By, With, and Through at the Second Thomas Shoal. The Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea remains a potential flashpoint for conflict between China and the Philippines. China claims sovereignty over the shoal, within the Philippine exclusive economic zone, leading to escalating tensions. The U.S. has pledged support for the Philippines, highlighting the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty. Strategies to counter China's aggression include increased military presence, improved maritime domain awareness, and enhanced bilateral and multilateral cooperation. The U.S. aims to support the Philippines without direct military intervention to deter Chinese advances. Nick Danby, War on the Rocks, May 20
Fox in the Henhouse: The Growing Harms of North Korea’s Remote IT Workforce. North Korea has embedded thousands of IT professionals into contractors and subcontractors for major U.S. companies, using false identities to generate revenue for its regime. These funds support North Korea's missile and nuclear programs and enable cyber attacks, IP theft, and ransomware. The covert operation poses a significant risk to corporate networks, with North Korean workers often resorting to extortion when discovered. The infiltration highlights the need for stringent hiring and cybersecurity practices to mitigate this threat. Glenn Chafetz, The Diplomat, May 21
Thailand’s showdown over interest rates, explained. Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been pressuring the Bank of Thailand to lower interest rates, which have remained at 2.5% despite political pressure. Low interest rates historically helped keep the Thai baht from appreciating and managed consumer debt. However, following the U.S. Federal Reserve's rate hikes, Thailand must raise rates to prevent rapid depreciation of the baht. Srettha's push for lower rates aims to ease consumer debt and support fiscal spending plans but risks destabilizing the economy. James Guild, The Diplomat, May 21
How China Will Squeeze, Not Seize, Taiwan. Admiral Philip Davidson's warning of a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan has shaped U.S. defense strategy. However, China's long-term policy suggests a gradual encroachment through gray-zone operations, including airspace and maritime incursions, and information warfare. This strategy aims to prevent Taiwan's formal independence while avoiding outright war. Taiwan must build defenses in all domains, enhance its surveillance capabilities, and expand its coast guard. The U.S. should support Taiwan's buffer zones, bolster surveillance, and involve the Coast Guard to counter China's non-military tactics. Isaac Kardon and Jennifer Kavanagh, Foreign Affairs, May 21