Asia Daily: May 9, 2024
News
Beijing’s threat to release audio of Spratly deal shows China’s ‘frustration’ at Philippines. Beijing’s intention to publish a recorded conversation with a Philippine military official highlights increasing tensions over the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. This unusual step by China underscores frustrations with the Philippines' stance on maritime disputes and could escalate existing frictions. The situation reflects broader regional dynamics, where both nations assert their positions amid sensitive territorial negotiations. Laura Zhou, South China Morning Post, May 9
China criticizes US for ship’s passage through Taiwan Strait weeks before new leader takes office. China objected to the U.S. destroyer USS Halsey's transit through the Taiwan Strait, calling it a provocative act ahead of Taiwan’s presidential inauguration. The U.S. Navy responded by stating the transit was routine and in accordance with international law to uphold navigation freedoms. The incident is part of ongoing tensions, with frequent military maneuvers in the region. Christopher Bodeen, AP News, May 9
DFA to Chinese envoy: Respect PH laws. The Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs has instructed Chinese diplomats to comply with local laws after allegations surfaced of a Chinese diplomat wiretapping a Filipino military officer. This incident relates to a sensitive discussion about Ayungin Shoal, a contentious area in the South China Sea, contributing to strained Philippine-Chinese relations over territorial disputes. Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, May 9
Thaksin ‘met with Malaysia's Anwar.’ Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Phuket, discussing issues including the unrest in Thailand's deep South and the conflict in Myanmar. Thaksin's engagements come amid speculation about his political intentions and potential impacts on regional stability. The discussions also touched on the roles both leaders could play in mediating regional conflicts. Mongkol Bangprapa & Aekarach Sattaburuth, The Bangkok Post, May 9
Việt Nam interested in BRICS membership expansion: foreign ministry. Việt Nam is actively exploring the possibility of joining BRICS, highlighting its readiness to engage in global and regional multilateral mechanisms. The country's interest comes as it seeks to align with the group's recent expansion, which now includes nations from the Middle East and Africa. This move would ostensibly draw Vietnam closer to China in economic matters, whereas the U.S-Vietnam relationship has rapidly expanded in recent years. Vietnam News, May 9
Kazakhstan cracking down on illegal migration in aftermath of Moscow terror attack. Kazakhstan intensifies its crackdown on illegal migration, particularly among Tajik labor migrants, following a terrorist attack in Moscow. The focus is on enhanced security measures and compliance with immigration laws, amid broader regional concerns about security and labor practices. This response includes mass detentions and deportations of migrants lacking proper documentation. Almaz Kumenov, Eurasianet, May 9
Myanmar junta rebuffs Cambodia ex-leader’s request to meet Suu Kyi. Myanmar's military government denied a request from former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen to meet with detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi. This refusal continues the junta's policy of limiting Suu Kyi's interactions with foreign diplomats and leaders amid ongoing national crises. The decision was communicated by junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun, who noted the military's focus on proceeding with promised elections without external disturbances. Myanmar Now, May 9
Forging forward: ASEAN, EU launch Blue Book 2024-2025. ASEAN and the EU unveiled the ASEAN-EU Blue Book 2024-2025, reinforcing their strategic partnership and detailing new cooperation under the EU's Global Gateway strategy. The launch in Jakarta highlighted initiatives on sustainable connectivity and the green transition, with a commitment of €10 billion from Team Europe. This publication marks a significant milestone in ASEAN-EU relations, showcasing joint efforts towards regional peace, security, and sustainable development. Chono Lapuekou, The Laotian Times, May 9
India completes troop exit from Maldives at pro-China leader's request. Following a request from President Mohamed Muizzu, India has replaced approximately 80 military personnel in the Maldives with civilians, aligning with Muizzu's pivot towards China. The Indian soldiers previously supported operations including marine surveillance and medical evacuations. This change coincides with Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer's visit to India, amidst growing regional influence concerns. Krishn Kaushik, Reuters, May 9
PM-to-be Lawrence Wong willing to make 'hard decisions' but will listen to all views: Economist interview. Lawrence Wong, soon to be Singapore's Prime Minister, emphasized his commitment to making tough decisions while being open to diverse opinions, in an interview with The Economist. Wong discussed leadership challenges, particularly the navigation of complex US-China relations, and his approach to inclusive policy-making. This dialogue underscores his readiness to guide Singapore through global and domestic challenges as he prepares to assume office. Channel News Asia, May 9
The Taliban warn journalists and experts against cooperating with Afghanistan International TV. The Taliban have officially warned journalists and experts in Afghanistan against collaborating with Afghanistan International TV, headquartered in London. This directive marks the first explicit prohibition against a specific media outlet, with accusations of professional violations. The Taliban's Ministry of Information and Culture has declared any cooperation with the station a criminal offense, intensifying the already severe restrictions on press freedom in the country. AP News, May 9
Ruling parties find agreement on political reform, but gaps remain. Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner Komeito have reached a preliminary agreement on revising the political funds control law to enhance transparency. However, details on contentious issues remain unresolved, reflecting a compromise to meet Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's directive for a joint proposal. The reform aims to tighten rules on undisclosed political funds and increase accountability for misconduct. Gabriele Ninivaggi and Kanako Takahara, The Japan Times, May 9
Yoon addresses wife's allegations, livelihood issues in somber, apologetic tone. President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea offered apologies at a rare press conference for issues involving the first lady and government missteps in enhancing public welfare. Amidst political setbacks and public scrutiny, Yoon also tackled queries on sensitive allegations against his wife, stressing legal process adherence before considering further investigations. His approach aimed to bolster transparency and address criticism of his administration's communication style. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, May 9
Singapore couple donates 400-year-old Buddha statue to Bhutan in late son’s name. Dr. Tommy Ong and his wife Heidi from Singapore donated a 400-year-old Buddha statue to Bhutan in memory of their late son, Zi Yun. This culturally significant artifact, presented to the Bhutanese ambassador in Singapore, originates from Bhutan and holds substantial historical value. It was returned to its homeland as a tribute to their son and to contribute to the preservation of Bhutan's cultural heritage. Therese Soh, The Straits Times, May 9
Long Form
Mahua Moitra Refuses to be Intimidated by Narendra Modi. Mahua Moitra, a prominent figure in Indian politics, stands firm against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the current electoral battle in Krishnanagar, West Bengal. As a key member of the opposition Trinamool Congress party, Moitra, 49, has faced political backlash, including suspension from the Lok Sabha on corruption charges last December. This suspension is widely regarded as a consequence of her relentless criticism of Modi's close ties with industrialist Gautam Adani. Moitra's campaign continues vigorously in her rural constituency, which is set to vote on May 13, despite the ongoing controversies and her outspoken stance against the governing Bharatiya Janata Party. Kavita Chowdhury, The Diplomat, May 9.
China’s Investment in the Balkans: A Decade of Discontent. Chinese investments in the Western Balkans, part of the Belt and Road Initiative since 2014, have sparked public dissatisfaction and numerous legal battles. This region has been targeted for its strategic importance to China's plans, involving massive infrastructure projects intended to boost economic development and connectivity. Despite the investments aimed at enhancing infrastructure, energy access, and job creation, the response from local populations and governments has been mixed, with many projects facing prolonged legal disputes and public opposition. Notably, Serbia has embraced these projects, even celebrating Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent visit, which shows the ongoing partnership and forthcoming investment agreements. Nils Resare, Wawa Wang, The Diplomat, May 9
Beneath the Surface: Mongolia’s Quest for Minerals Integrity. Mongolia's shift from a Soviet satellite to a burgeoning democracy and market economy highlights its dramatic evolution towards utilizing its vast mineral resources. The country, with a small population exceeding just 3 million, has transformed its economy from traditional nomadic animal husbandry to one rich in mineral wealth, particularly copper and rare earth elements. These minerals are crucial for modern technologies in electronics, renewable energy, and defense. Mongolia's educated workforce, boasting a literacy rate of over 98%, is set to drive this mineral-rich nation towards further economic growth and stability, underscoring the importance of maintaining democratic values and good governance in its quest. Isabel Cane, The Diplomat, May 9
Kishida deserved the warm embrace Macron gave Xi. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's understated visit to Paris, in contrast to the grand welcome for Chinese President Xi Jinping, underscored significant yet low-profile advancements in France-Japan relations. Kishida’s trip, coinciding with an OECD meeting he chaired, facilitated key agreements on critical mineral supply chains and initiated talks on a military cooperation pact. This visit shows the alignment of Japan and France on democratic values, multilateralism, and a rules-based order, emphasizing their collaborative efforts across various domains, including defense, digital governance, and climate action. These developments display the deepening strategic partnership, aiming to strengthen both nations' positions on the global stage amidst varied international challenges. Celine Pajon, Nikkei Asia, May 9
Suspicious minds are complicating Asia's financial markets. Growing geopolitical tensions and economic decoupling are reshaping investment destinations, particularly between the U.S. and China. Investment firms traditionally focused on China are diversifying their geographical focus due to political pressures from U.S. stakeholders like pension funds and university endowments. This is benefiting politically stable markets such as Japan and India, which have been among Asia's top performers this year. Despite these changes, the disengagement from Chinese markets comes with risks, including missed opportunities in a market that is showing signs of rebounding attractiveness due to lower valuations and high dividend yields. This trend is complicating investment strategies and may lead U.S. pensioners to regret losing out on potential gains from Chinese exposure. Henny Sender, Nikkei Asia, May 9
China’s Digital Silk Road taking its shot at the global stage. China's Digital Silk Road (DSR) is intensifying its global presence, aiming to reshape digital landscapes in developing countries with affordable technological alternatives. This initiative, a component of the broader Belt and Road Initiative, extends China's influence by providing critical digital infrastructure like 5G networks and data centers. The DSR, while enhancing connectivity, also raises security concerns due to potential surveillance and data collection capabilities. Developing nations, particularly in Africa and the Indo-Pacific, have been key targets, with agreements that often include data-sharing provisions that favor Chinese interests. These moves challenge the US’s technological dominance and prompt Western nations to reconsider their digital strategy in developing regions to counteract China's growing influence. Evan Williams, East Asia Forum, May 9
Maldives–India political fallout tests tourism ties. Recent political tensions between the Maldives and India, sparked by comments from Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu's administration, have negatively impacted tourist arrivals from India, historically a major contributor to the Maldivian economy. The "India-Out" campaign, coupled with efforts to draw closer to China, has shifted the dynamics of regional tourism and geopolitics. Despite these challenges, the longstanding bilateral relationships, underscored by various cooperative agreements, continue to signify the potential for reconciliation and sustained partnership. The decline in Indian tourists, essential for Maldives' economic stability, shows the importance of mending ties to avoid significant economic and regional instability. Samatha Mallempati, East Asia Forum, May 9
The bird flu outbreak brings more questions than answers. The recent bird flu outbreak has escalated concerns about its potential to become a serious human pandemic, drawing parallels with the weariness left by COVID-19. Infectious disease experts, such as Michael Osterholm from the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, emphasize the virus's unknown trajectory and the growing number of unanswered questions surrounding its spread and risks to humans. This situation shows the urgent need for more effective collaboration and rapid response from public health agencies to address and mitigate these uncertainties. Lisa Jarvis, The Japan Times, May 9
Zooming into China's ongoing equipment renewal scheme. China has launched an ambitious nationwide equipment renewal initiative, planned for completion by 2027, to stimulate investment and consumption against the backdrop of sluggish domestic demand. The State Council's action plan targets critical sectors such as industry, agriculture, and healthcare, aiming to enhance technological innovation and green transformation across the board. With an estimated annual market value of 5 trillion yuan, this scheme represents a significant shift towards upgrading industrial infrastructure and boosting economic growth. It also incorporates incentives like tax reductions and increased lending to encourage participation from both state-owned and private entities.
, May 9Fiji’s Bainimarama jailed for something. The imprisonment of Fiji's former leader Voreqe Bainimarama is presented in a manner reminiscent of Al Capone's arrest, where underlying crimes are overshadowed by lesser charges. Bainimarama, along with his former police commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho, were convicted on comparatively minor issues related to the University of the South Pacific, despite a history marred by accusations of more severe offenses, such as human rights abuses. This situation stems from constitutional protections they implemented, granting immunity for actions taken during their political tenures. The case's handling by the Fiji justice system has been criticized, and the likelihood of a successful appeal is suggested, highlighting ongoing challenges within Fiji's legal framework.
, May 9