Asia Daily: May 7, 2025
China
China gives glimpse of Fujian aircraft carriers catapult technology in action. State broadcaster CCTV aired footage of China’s electromagnetic catapult system on the Fujian aircraft carrier, showing a jet launch sequence and air traffic control activity on deck. Experts noted the advanced launch mechanism allows fully fueled, fully armed aircraft to take off and may soon accommodate drones and early warning planes. Liu Zhen, South China Morning Post, May 6
China strongly condemns U.S. attempt to lure officials as informants. Beijing denounced the CIA’s release of Chinese-language videos soliciting Chinese officials to leak state secrets, calling it a blatant provocation and threat to national sovereignty. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian labeled the move political sabotage, vowing countermeasures. Analysts warned the CIA campaign aims to sow instability, framing it as a generational competition. Officials said the tactic undermines international norms and exposes U.S. intelligence hostility. Deng Xiaoci and Li Yawei, Global Times, May 6
Chinese vice premier to meet with U.S. official on economic and trade affairs in Switzerland. Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will travel to Switzerland from May 9 to 12 to hold bilateral talks with Swiss officials and meet U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent regarding China-U.S. economic and trade matters. He Lifeng, who also serves as China’s lead negotiator for these discussions, will then proceed to France to co-chair the 10th China-France High-Level Economic and Financial Dialogue. Global Times, May 7
Russia says Putin will travel to China in August. The Kremlin announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China in late August, aligning with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s current trip to Moscow. The visit will coincide with joint ceremonies in Beijing on September 3 to mark the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end in Asia. Associated Press, May 6
Japan
Chilean President Gabriel Boric to make first visit to Japan. Chilean President Gabriel Boric will travel to Japan on Friday for his first official visit since taking office in 2022. He is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, visit the World Exposition in Osaka, and attend Chile’s national day event on Monday. The trip aims to bolster economic ties amid global uncertainty over U.S. tariffs. The Japan Times, May 7
South Korea
PPP presidential candidate, ex-PM set to hold meeting with eye on unifying candidacies. People Power Party presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo and former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo planned a meeting on Wednesday to discuss a potential unified candidacy for the June 3 election. Kim, who suspended his campaign citing insufficient party support, has resisted internal pressure for unification. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, May 7
PPP candidate suspends campaign amid dispute over candidacy unification. People Power Party presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo suspended his campaign on Tuesday, citing lack of support from party leadership as discussions continue about unifying with independent candidate and former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Kim criticized efforts to hold a party convention and member survey as an attempt to replace him. Yoo Jee-ho, Yonhap News Agency, May 6
PPP presidential candidate, leadership clash over merger with Han. Tensions are mounting within the People Power Party as presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo clashes with party leadership over pressure to unify his candidacy with that of former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Although Kim won the party’s nomination, leaders are urging him to step aside in favor of Han, who is polling higher. Kim suspended his campaign on Tuesday in protest, accusing party officials of excluding him from key decisions. Jung Min-kyung, The Korea Herald, May 6
North Korea
Pyongyang officials told to lead rice-planting mobilization as May campaign approaches. North Korean authorities have ordered Pyongyang officials to spearhead rural mobilization efforts ahead of the spring rice-planting campaign. A recent Party Committee lecture accused officials of neglecting duties and demanded revolutionary discipline and loyalty. The capital is expected to lead national efforts amid food shortages, with office workers and students also mobilized. Jeong Seo-yeong, Daily NK, May 7
North Korea’s diplomatic missions double as trade brokers. North Korea’s overseas embassies are legally authorized to broker trade and investment deals and collect commissions of up to 5% to fund their operations, according to a 2020 cabinet directive obtained by Daily NK. These missions facilitate foreign economic activities and are tasked with acquiring “prosperity materials” such as advanced technologies. Mun Dong Hui, Daily NK, May 7
Belarusian delegation arrives in N. Korea for economic talks. A Belarusian government delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Shuleiko arrived in Pyongyang on Tuesday to attend the third meeting of the intergovernmental joint committee for trade and economic cooperation. The visit, set to run through Friday, comes amid North Korea’s efforts to deepen ties with Belarus as part of its broader alignment with Russia. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, May 7
Thailand
EC offers poll reward to whistleblowers. Thailand’s Election Commission is offering cash rewards of up to one million baht for verifiable reports of fraud in the upcoming May 11 municipal elections. Whistleblowers must submit detailed information in person, including identities of those involved and clear evidence. The reward amount depends on investigation results or court rulings. The elections will fill vacancies in 76 provinces, with 4,558 mayoral and 60,521 council candidates vying for office. Chairith Yonpiam, Bangkok Post, May 7
PM Paetongtarn affirms Thaksin was genuinely ill. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra defended her father’s extended hospital stay, stating he was seriously ill and had undergone surgery. She dismissed public skepticism, saying doubters would remain unconvinced regardless of explanations. The Supreme Court has summoned Thaksin and relevant officials to present medical evidence justifying his detainment at Police General Hospital by June 13. The case follows his 2023 return from exile and royal pardon. The Nation, May 6
More troops deployed to deep South following surge in violence, says PM. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra confirmed additional troops have been sent to Thailand’s southern border provinces following a surge in attacks attributed to Malay Muslim insurgents. The Barisan Revolusi Nasional denied targeting civilians despite several Buddhist casualties. With 38 incidents recorded in early 2025 alone, nearly matching last year's total, security agencies have been ordered to coordinate efforts. The Nation, May 6
Vietnam
Vietnam establishes Strategic Partnership with Kazakhstan, its first in Central Asia. Vietnam and Kazakhstan have elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership after talks between Party General Secretary To Lam and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana. The agreement covers expanded cooperation in trade, defense, education, and transportation, with a target to raise bilateral trade to $5 billion by 2030. Both sides agreed to facilitate business ties and improve visa access. Vietnam News, May 6
Proactive stance in trade talks to both safeguard core interests, meet U.S. demands: PM. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized the need for a composed and proactive approach in upcoming trade talks with the U.S., urging ministries to balance Vietnam’s national interests with U.S. demands. Talks will begin May 7, with a second round in South Korea. Vietnam News, May 6
Myanmar
Myanmar junta boss heads to Moscow despite international arrest warrant. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing is visiting Moscow to attend Russia’s WWII victory parade on May 9 at Vladimir Putin’s invitation, amid heightened global scrutiny and an international arrest warrant issued by Argentina. The trip, his fifth to Russia since 2021, aims to deepen bilateral cooperation in economic and security sectors. The Irrawaddy, May 6
Myanmar junta intensifies effort to retake key roads near Hpakant. Over 600 junta troops have launched an offensive toward Hpakant in Kachin State, aiming to reclaim key routes now held by the Kachin Independence Army and Kachin People's Defence Force. Control of these roads is strategic due to Hpakant’s significance as a jade-mining hub. Min Maung and Sa Tun Aung, Myanmar Now, May 6
Laos
Gunfire near Lao-Thai border leaves two Lao soldiers dead, bullet strikes Thai home. A deadly clash along the Lao–Thai border on May 3 left two Lao soldiers dead after an ambush by armed drug traffickers near Phamon hill in Bokeo Province. The incident followed a major drug bust involving 20 million meth pills. Stray gunfire struck a Thai home in Chiang Rai, though no injuries were reported. Phontham Visapra, The Laotian Times, May 6
Cambodia
‘Golden Dragon’ military exercise ready to launch. Cambodia and China will conduct their annual “Golden Dragon” joint military exercise from May 14 to 28, focusing on counter-terrorism and humanitarian relief. Held in Kampong Chhnang and Preah Sihanouk provinces, the drills will involve 2,176 troops and a wide range of advanced military equipment, including warships, drones, robotic units, and helicopters. Torn Vibol, Khmer Times, May 6
Philippines
VP Sara Duterte brands lawmakers as ‘products of warlordism’. Vice President Sara Duterte lashed out at lawmakers Zia Alonto Adiong and Paolo Ortega V, calling them “products of warlordism” after being criticized for her silence on maritime issues and alleged misuse of public funds. Duterte defended her stance on China, asserting her focus is on Filipino voters, not foreign affairs. Zacarian Sarao, Philippine Daily Inquirer, May 6
Filipino, American troops hold CSAR exercise in Iba. Philippine and US Air Force personnel conducted a combat search and rescue (CSAR) drill in Iba, Zambales as part of Balikatan 40-2025, simulating the recovery of downed airmen in hostile maritime conditions. Supported by Bell 205A and Super Huey helicopters, the exercise included in-flight medical treatment and hoist extractions. The drill complements broader Balikatan activities involving 20,000 troops. Francisco Tuyay, The Manila Times, May 7
Indonesia
VP election valid, do not heed impeachment call: Lemhannas. Indonesia’s National Resilience Institute has declared Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s election valid and urged the public to reject impeachment demands, emphasizing the outcome was determined through a legitimate democratic process. Lemhannas stressed that respecting the Constitution and election results is essential to preserving national stability. ANTARA News, May 6
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, Vietnam adopt joint statement on establishment of strategic partnership. Kazakhstan and Vietnam formalized a strategic partnership during General Secretary To Lam’s state visit, signing agreements on technology, culture, justice, aviation, and trade. Vietnam pledged to support Kazakhstan’s engagement with ASEAN, while Kazakhstan proposed use of the Trans-Caspian route. Saniya Sakenova, The Astana Times, May 6
Kazakhstan and Mongolia seek to enhance trade and investment cooperation. Officials from Kazakhstan and Mongolia discussed boosting bilateral cooperation, focusing on trade, investment, and transport logistics. Both sides emphasized the importance of implementing high-level agreements and agreed to maintain active engagement between their foreign ministries. Zhanna Nurmaganbetova, Kazinform, May 6
Uzbekistan
Uzbek Senate discusses prospects for Uzbek-Polish inter-parliamentary cooperation. Senate Chairperson Tanzila Narbaeva met with Polish Deputy Speaker Michał Kamiński to advance Uzbek-Polish inter-parliamentary ties, emphasizing legislative collaboration and regular delegation exchanges. The discussion included expanding cooperation in education, healthcare, tourism, and agriculture, as well as launching joint educational and humanitarian initiatives. Uzbekistan Daily, May 6
Northeast Asia
Coal Exports from Rason at Highest Levels in Years. Satellite imagery reveals that coal exports from North Korea’s Rason port have surged to levels not seen in years, with large coal stockpiles visible around a pier operated by Russia’s RasonConTrans, which holds a 49-year lease on the site. It remains unclear whether the coal is North Korean or Russian, as the latter may qualify for exemption under UN sanctions. This resurgence follows a period of inactivity during the COVID-19 pandemic, when borders were closed and trade halted. Since April 2024, coal has steadily reappeared at Rason, with ships recorded loading coal on multiple occasions through 2025. Rason’s strategic value lies in its year-round accessibility, avoiding the seasonal ice closures that impact Russian ports like Vladivostok. A Russian-gauge railway connects the port directly to Russia, facilitating trade. Meanwhile, coal exports from Nampho on the west coast also show growth, with bulk carriers frequently observed collecting coal. Despite difficulties in estimating precise volumes due to storage in covered bins, activity has significantly increased since late 2023. These suggest renewed coal trade, potentially circumventing sanctions, and show North Korea’s efforts to boost revenue through its natural resources. Martyn Williams, 38 North, May 6
Southeast Asia
Is ASEAN Leaving the U.S. Behind on Trade? ASEAN, China, Japan, and South Korea have issued a joint statement on regional cooperation and economic resilience in response to rising global trade protectionism, indirectly signaling a move away from U.S. trade leadership. While not explicitly naming the United States, the statement critiques the unpredictability of current U.S. trade policy and expresses continued support for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, from which the U.S. is excluded. CFR fellows note that although ASEAN's structure limits its ability to act decisively, the group appears increasingly inclined to deepen intra-Asian ties and reduce dependency on U.S.-centered economic frameworks. However, internal challenges, including divergent national interests and reliance on external markets to absorb trade surpluses, constrain the bloc's capacity to act independently. Analysts also argue that resilience cannot be achieved through trade rhetoric alone and highlight the region's lack of domestic demand and overreliance on exports. While the statement avoids direct criticism of the United States, its tone and timing suggest an intentional distancing, with leaders signaling to both domestic and international audiences that Asia is capable of strengthening its economic architecture without U.S. dominance. Rebecca Patterson, Brad W. Setser, and Joshua Kurlantzick, Council on Foreign Relations, May 6
Malaysian flag gaffes expose how AI can inflame deep social divisions. During Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Malaysia, the Chinese-language newspaper Sin Chew Daily mistakenly published an image of the Malaysian flag without its yellow crescent, a symbol of Islam and Malay monarchy. The error sparked intense backlash in Malaysia’s racially sensitive climate, with over 40 police reports filed and suspensions of editorial staff. Though labeled a technical mistake, the incident fueled suspicions of Chinese disloyalty, given historical grievances and concerns about Chinese influence. A similar error by another newspaper the next day amplified these fears. While it remains unclear whether the image was AI-generated, Sin Chew pledged to review its procedures, specifically around artificial intelligence. The episode underscores the risks of AI misuse in polarized societies, especially when symbols of national and ethnic identity are involved. It also highlights broader challenges, such as diminished human oversight, the erosion of editorial standards, and the societal consequences of over-reliance on AI. The controversy reveals how digital tools, if unregulated or poorly supervised, can unintentionally escalate ethnic tensions and feed narratives of foreign interference, raising alarms in multiethnic nations already fraught with historical divisions. Elina Noor, South China Morning Post, May 6
Closing the loopholes in Indonesia’s VAT system. Indonesia’s Value Added Tax (VAT) system, which contributes around 28 percent of national tax revenue, remains inefficient due to loopholes and weak enforcement. With a stagnant VAT-to-GDP ratio of approximately 3.4 percent—well below regional peers—the country faces major tax leakages, especially from the informal sector. A key issue is the IDR 4.8 billion (US$300,000) annual revenue threshold for VAT registration, which many businesses exploit by splitting operations into multiple entities to avoid tax obligations. To address this, the 2021 Tax Harmonisation Law reclassified non-taxable goods and services into the VAT framework, enabling broader transaction monitoring without necessarily imposing VAT charges. This reform improves transparency and integrates previously untracked business activities. The proposal to similarly integrate all SMEs into the VAT system, without obligating VAT collection but requiring issuance of tax invoices, aims to improve oversight while minimizing burdens on small enterprises. By redefining the VAT threshold from a registration criterion to an administrative benchmark, authorities can ensure better compliance and reduce evasion. These reforms seek to create a more equitable tax environment, increase revenue, and support sustainable economic development by balancing enforcement with flexibility for genuine SMEs. Agatha Bagus Ilhamy, East Asia Forum, May 7
Duterte ICC arrest drama reveals Filipinos’ drug war ambivalence. The arrest and surrender of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court over alleged crimes against humanity during his violent drug war has ignited deep political and societal divisions. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr justified the arrest as part of international obligations, but critics see it as a strategic move to neutralize a political rival. While human rights groups and victims' families welcomed the arrest, many Filipinos view Duterte as a martyr, reflecting lingering public ambivalence. Despite broad support for his harsh anti-drug policies—once backed by supermajority approval—there was widespread awareness of extrajudicial killings, with over 6,000 officially reported deaths and up to 30,000 claimed by rights groups. Surveys show a narrow majority supporting ICC proceedings, indicating discomfort with the brutality that Duterte framed as unavoidable “collateral damage.” His family has revived tough-on-crime rhetoric, accusing the current administration of corruption and security failures. With midterm elections approaching, the pro-Duterte bloc trails behind Marcos-aligned candidates. Meanwhile, Marcos Jr’s softer, community-focused anti-drug approach lacks deeper reforms in policing and public health. The country remains torn between nostalgia for punitive populism and the need for humane, institutionally credible drug policy. Mark R Thompson and Kevin Nielsen M Agojo, East Asia Forum, May 6
Bangkok Politics in 2025: Beacon of Thai Pluralism. Bangkok continues to lead Thailand in democratic local governance, with its history of municipal elections dating back to 1975. The 2025 political landscape is dominated by incumbent Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, a widely admired independent, seeking re-election against rising opposition from the progressive People’s Party (PP), formerly Move Forward. Chadchart, once affiliated with the Pheu Thai (PT) party, has cultivated an image of incorruptibility, responsiveness, and independence, resolving over 700,000 complaints through his digital platform and implementing notable civic improvements. PT currently dominates the Bangkok Metropolitan Council due in part to Chadchart’s popularity and the decline of the Democrat Party. However, PP has built a strong youth following and nearly swept the capital in the 2023 general election. While Chadchart's independence is questioned due to his PT ties, his incumbency remains an asset. Criticisms of his administration include inefficiencies in traffic management, project completion, and disaster response. As the 2026 election approaches, his political fate may hinge on demonstrating effective governance in the final stretch of his term. The contest between PT and PP reflects a broader trend of increasing political pluralism in Bangkok, marking a shift from conservative dominance toward progressive competition. Paul Chambers, Fulcrum, May 6
South Asia
Are India and Pakistan now at war? India has launched “Operation Sindoor,” executing at least 24 missile strikes across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 in Indian-administered Kashmir. The strikes have left at least eight dead and over 30 injured, while Pakistan claims to have downed two Indian jets. Cross-border fire along the Line of Control has caused additional fatalities. Kashmir remains under strict security measures, including mass surveillance, demolitions, and detentions. Airports in Srinagar are closed, airspace is restricted, and hospitals in Pakistan-administered Kashmir have declared emergencies. Schools in Punjab have shut down amid safety concerns, and India has initiated evacuation drills. Prime Minister Modi has suspended the Indus Water Treaty, intending to stop water flows into Pakistan, and protests have erupted in Hyderabad. Despite the tensions, India signed a major trade deal with the UK. Globally, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged restraint, citing global instability risks, while U.S. President Donald Trump called the escalation “a shame” and urged a swift resolution. The UAE has appealed for de-escalation, and Australia has updated its travel guidance. Pakistan has declared the strikes an “act of war” and vowed a forceful response, leaving the region on edge. Leoni Connah, Lowy Institute, May 7