Asia Daily: November 10, 2023
News
Taiwan monitors Chinese carrier group in sensitive Taiwan Strait. In a display of heightened vigilance, Taiwan's military has been closely observing a Chinese naval formation led by the aircraft carrier Shandong as it navigates the politically sensitive Taiwan Strait. The Shandong, which has participated in previous military exercises near Taiwan, maintained a course along the Chinese side of the waterway's median line, considered an unofficial boundary. This action occurs against a backdrop of increased military activity by China around the democratically governed island, with Beijing never renouncing the use of force to assert its control over Taiwan. The Taiwanese government stands firm in rejecting China's sovereignty claims, mirroring the U.S’ challenge to China's assertion that the Taiwan Strait is not an international waterway. Ben Blanchard, Reuters, November 9
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Chinese counterpart He Lifeng begin talks to help lay groundwork for Biden-Xi meeting. In San Francisco, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Vice-Premier He Lifeng are engaging in a two-day discussion focusing on using economic tools for national security, coinciding with the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders’ summit. Yellen is advocating for targeted actions to protect allied national security, seeking transparency to minimize misinterpretations, and aims to address economic practices that hinder fair competition. These talks signal a step towards diplomatic conciliation, amidst recent U.S. investment restrictions in Chinese tech and ongoing concerns over Beijing's economic policies. Amber Wang, South China Morning Post, November 10
Kazakhstan: Opposition politician on hunger strike over closed-doors trial. In Kazakhstan, opposition leader Marat Zhylanbayev is on a hunger strike, protesting the court's decision to hold his trial, related to charges of involvement with an extremist group, in secret. Zhylanbayev, known for his marathon running, has dramatically sewn his mouth shut in defiance. His lawyer contests the closed proceedings, asserting a lack of justification and accuses the prosecutors of fabricating connections between Zhylanbayev and the banned Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan movement. Activists and human rights groups are demanding accountability for alleged evidence falsification in this politically charged case. Eurasianet, November 9
US and South Korea close ranks on common global issues during Blinken visit. The United States and South Korea have unified their stance on several global concerns, including North Korea, Russia, and China. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and South Korea's leadership agreed on continued support for Ukraine against Russia's invasion and to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza amidst Israel's conflict with Hamas. Discussions in Seoul highlighted North Korea's growing threat, including its suspected arms supply to Russia and its destabilizing missile tests. The diplomats called on China to leverage its influence over North Korea to curb such activities. This coordination precedes a scheduled meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Forum summit. Matthew Lee and Kim Tong-hyung, AP News, November 9
Pakistan, Turkey, Iran leaders visit Central Asia in diplomatic push. Central Asia is witnessing significant diplomatic activity with the concurrent visits of leaders from Pakistan, Turkey, Iran, and Russia seeking to forge stronger ties and expand influence in a region historically under Russian sway. Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Kazakh counterpart emphasized their forward-looking strategic partnership, while the Economic Cooperation Organisation summit in Uzbekistan is drawing together leaders to discuss trade, humanitarian cooperation, and transport issues. Amidst Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine, Central Asian nations are exploring new global partnerships, with China also vying for influence through its extensive Belt and Road Initiative. Al Jazeera, November 9
Opposition unilaterally passes contentious pro-labor bill after PPP withdraws filibuster plan. South Korea's opposition-dominated National Assembly swiftly passed a pro-labor bill and three other significant measures as the ruling People Power Party (PPP) abandoned its filibuster tactic. The PPP's decision aimed to prevent the Democratic Party (DP) from passing another motion to impeach the head of the country's broadcasting watchdog. The passage of the "yellow envelope bill," aimed at restricting companies from claiming damages against legitimate labor union actions, and amendments to broadcasting laws could face a presidential veto, which would require a substantial parliamentary majority to override. The DP lacks the numbers for such a move, setting the stage for a potential political standoff. Kang Jae-eun, Yonhap News Agency, November 9
Japan's April-Sept. current surplus triples to record 12.7 tril. yen. Japan's current account surplus has hit a record high in the first half of fiscal 2023, reaching 12.71 trillion yen, a threefold increase from the previous year. This surge is attributed to a substantial rise in foreign investment returns and a decrease in energy import costs. Despite a flat export rate, a weaker yen and a boost in tourism have contributed to this economic milestone, with a travel surplus indicating more foreign spending in Japan. The Bank of Japan's maintenance of ultralow rates, in contrast to rate hikes by other major economies, has influenced the yen's valuation and the country's trade dynamics. Kyodo News, November 9
Vietnamese President to attend APEC Summit in San Francisco: Foreign ministry. Vietnamese President Võ Văn Thưởng will attend the APEC Leaders' Summit in San Francisco at the invitation of U.S. President Joe Biden. The visit coincides with significant anniversaries: 30 years since the first APEC Leaders' meeting and 25 years of Vietnam's APEC membership. With the theme of building a resilient and sustainable future, the summit will focus on interconnectedness, innovation, and inclusivity. The visit underscores the strengthening Vietnam-U.S. relationship, aiming to further economic, scientific, and educational cooperation, following the recent elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Vietnam News, November 9
International Donors, Local Officials Unite to Accelerate UXO Removal Efforts in Laos. International donors and Laos officials are intensifying their collaborative efforts to clear unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the country, which faces a significant challenge as the most heavily bombed nation per capita from the second Indochina War. Recent visits by a delegation to Xieng Khouang Province highlight ongoing clearance projects and partnerships. Despite the daunting presence of millions of UXOs, Laos has made notable progress in the past decade, including meeting its land clearance target for 2022 as stipulated in the country’s Convention on Cluster Munitions. Namfon Chanthavong, The Laotian Times, November 9
Former Malaysian minister Syed Saddiq gets 7 years' jail, US$2.1m fine and caning for corruption. Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, a Malaysian lawmaker, was convicted on charges including criminal breach of trust and money laundering by the Kuala Lumpur High Court. He was sentenced to seven years in prison, fined RM10 million (US$2.1 million), and received a caning sentence. Saddiq, associated with the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA), maintains his position as a member of parliament even after the charges. He has been granted a stay of execution pending an appeal. Channel News Asia, November 9
Long Form
China's Singles Day Price War Takes on Painful New Dimensions. China's Singles Day, an annual shopping event, is witnessing a fierce price war among e-commerce giants due to slowing sales and increased competition. The emphasis on low prices became apparent when Alibaba's top livestreamer on Taobao was accused of pressuring brands for exclusive deals for viewers. This year's event, marked by deep discounts, raises questions about whether such strategies will be sufficient to retain shoppers in a challenging economic environment. Cissy Zhou, Nikkei Asia, November 10
The Prospects for North Korea-Russia Nuclear Cooperation. The recent meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome signals a potential shift in nuclear cooperation between the two nations. Putin's willingness to assist North Korea in space technology, which closely aligns with intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) technology, raises concerns about the transfer of advanced nuclear capabilities to Pyongyang. Despite the optimism in Western and South Korean circles about the emerging North Korea-Russia nuclear coalition, the potential for Russia to provide breakthrough technology for North Korea's nuclear weapons program is a significant cause for concern. This development could have far-reaching implications for regional and global security. By Do Young Lee for The Diplomat, November 10
China’s Misunderstood Nuclear Expansion. China is significantly transforming its nuclear weapons program, marked by rapid expansion and modernization. This transformation includes constructing new silo fields for intercontinental ballistic missiles, testing a hypersonic glide vehicle, and developing a nuclear triad. By 2030, China's nuclear arsenal is expected to exceed 1,000 warheads, a substantial increase from its historical size. The expansion reflects China's response to perceived threats from changes in U.S. nuclear strategy, rather than a shift in Chinese intentions. M. Taylor Fravel, Henrik Stålhane Hiim, Magnus Langset Trøan, Foreign Affairs, November 10
The Geopolitical Challenge to the AIIB. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), a multilateral development bank led by China, is facing geopolitical challenges due to allegations of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) interference in its governance. Canada's recent suspension of activities with the AIIB, pending a review of these allegations, highlights the growing concerns about China's influence in international institutions. Despite the AIIB's efforts to establish itself as a responsible member of the multilateral development bank community, these allegations have found resonance in countries like Canada, where suspicion of China is high. Chris Legg, East Asia Forum, November 10
Science as a Pillar of China's Political Culture. Science and technology (S&T) have been central to China's political and cultural landscape for over a century. This focus on S&T, which began as a means to achieve wealth and power in the early 20th century, has evolved into a national quest under the People's Republic of China. The recent emphasis on building a "national innovation system" to strengthen the Central Committee's control over scientific institutions reflects a deep-rooted nationalism. The historical evolution of China's relationship with S&T highlights the tension between scientism and humanism, influencing the nation's approach to S&T under current leadership. Nicholas Welch, ChinaTalk, November 10