Asia Daily: November 11, 2023
News
Yellen warns Beijing: Chinese firms aiding Russia face 'significant consequences'. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has expressed concerns about Chinese firms potentially aiding Russia's military efforts against Ukraine. During meetings with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, Yellen emphasized the importance of not supporting Russia's defense sector and warned of significant consequences, including sanctions, for any companies involved. The US has already sanctioned several private firms and financial institutions, some in China, for aiding Russia. Yellen urged China to enforce crackdowns on such activities. David Lawder and Ann Saphir, Reuters, November 10
China denies accusations of forced assimilation and curbs on religious freedom in Tibet. Xu Zhitao, vice chairman of the Tibet region government, has refuted claims of forced assimilation and restrictions on religious freedom in Tibet, emphasizing the adaptation of Tibetan Buddhism to the Chinese context. The system has faced scrutiny from U.N. human rights experts and the U.S. government, leading to visa restrictions on involved officials. Xu highlighted that the government's role in religious affairs is limited to matters affecting state and public interest and does not intrude on the internal dynamics of religious groups. The report released by the government praises economic and social progress in Tibet under Communist Party rule. AP News, November 10
EU-China summit on for December as wary Brussels eyes firms flouting Russia sanctions. The upcoming EU-China Summit, scheduled for December 7 and 8 in Beijing, comes amidst heightened scrutiny by the EU over Chinese firms possibly aiding Russia's military efforts in Ukraine. EU leaders are set to engage with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, discussing various contentious issues, including allegations of unfair Chinese trade practices and subsidy concerns in the electric vehicle and wind turbine sectors. The European Commission is also considering blacklisting companies assisting Russia, with a significant focus on those from China, which is believed to be a major conduit for circumventing sanctions. Finbarr Bermingham and Kinling Lo, South China Morning Post, November 10
N. Korea pulls out of Nepal in series of diplomatic mission closures. North Korea is closing its embassy in Nepal, part of a broader trend of shutting down its diplomatic missions worldwide, reportedly due to economic strains exacerbated by global sanctions. The closure aligns with North Korea's "changed priority" amid a deepening financial crisis. This move follows the recent shutdowns of its embassies in Angola, Spain, Uganda, and Hong Kong. South Korea's unification ministry suggests these closures reflect North Korea's challenged economy under tightened sanctions. North Korean missions traditionally fund their operations through illicit means, contributing to the country's foreign currency reserves. Lee Minji, Yonhap News Agency, November 10
Kazakh president uses language to deliver a surprising message to Russia. Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev employed a strategic linguistic shift during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, opting to speak in Kazakh instead of Russian. This move, seen as a departure from tradition, symbolized Kazakhstan's desire for greater respect for its sovereignty from Russia, especially in the context of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Tokayev's choice might also be a subtle response to Putin's repeated mispronunciation of his name, signaling a more assertive stance in Kazakhstan's foreign policy, balancing relations with both Russia and Western nations. Eurasianet, November 10
LDP heavyweight Hiroyuki Hosoda dies month after quitting as house speaker. Former Japanese House of Representatives Speaker Hiroyuki Hosoda passed away at 79 in a Tokyo hospital. His death comes shortly after stepping down from his role as Speaker for health reasons. Hosoda, a prominent figure in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, faced recent controversies regarding ties with the Unification Church and allegations of sexual harassment, which he denied. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed condolences, highlighting Hosoda's extensive political career, which included key government and LDP positions. A by-election is expected in April to fill his parliamentary seat. Kyodo News, November 10
US climate envoy John Kerry hails constructive talks with China ahead of COP28. U.S. climate envoy John Kerry commended the recent positive dialogue with China on climate change, considering it a significant step forward. The talks, which occurred in Sunnylands, California, resulted in Beijing announcing a plan to address methane emissions, signaling a potential new climate agreement. Kerry stressed the urgency for governments and businesses to escalate environmental actions, especially in the lead-up to COP28 in Dubai. Despite some countries backtracking on climate commitments, Kerry remains optimistic about meeting the challenges, emphasizing the need for collective action and sustainability. Darrelle Ng, Channel News Asia, November 10
US and India reaffirm security ties as their top diplomats and defense officials hold talks. The United States and India have reinforced their commitment to enhancing security ties. During a meeting in New Delhi, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed regional security, China, and conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza with their Indian counterparts. The discussions also touched on the Middle East crisis, with both nations expressing support for Israel against terrorist attacks. India's External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar emphasized the need for dialogue regarding Palestine. The meeting further addressed India's strained relations with China and a recent diplomatic dispute between India and Canada. The U.S. and India are deepening defense cooperation, including technology-sharing and defense production. Ashok Sharma, AP News, November 10
Water cannon used anew on supply boat. The Philippine government has accused the China Coast Guard (CCG) of using a water cannon against a Philippine boat on a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal. This incident, involving harassment and blockade by the CCG and Chinese Maritime Militia, marks a repeat of similar aggressive actions from China. Despite the harassment, the Philippine boat completed its mission. The Philippine Embassy in Beijing has lodged a formal protest, condemning China's actions as a violation of international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez urged China to respect the 2016 Hague tribunal ruling, emphasizing the Philippines' determination to uphold its rights. Franco Jose C. Baroña and Red Mendoza, The Manila Times, November 11
Timor-Leste backs PH in South China Sea row. Timor-Leste has expressed support for the Philippines' stance in the South China Sea dispute, aligning with the international community. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted this support during a joint press statement with Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, where they discussed bilateral cooperation and partnership. Timor-Leste's backing comes as the Philippines advocates for adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated Beijing's extensive claims in the South China Sea. The two leaders also agreed on various cooperative initiatives, including bilateral agreements and social security setups for professionals from both countries. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, November 11
Long Form
Increased Diplomatic Push in Kazakhstan: Balancing Geopolitical Alliances. Kazakhstan is experiencing an increased diplomatic push, navigating complex geopolitical relationships. Since its independence in 1991, Kazakhstan has pursued a "multi-vector foreign policy," striving to balance alliances with Russia, economic ties with China, and ambitions to establish closer ties with the West. Additionally, Kazakhstan is deepening integration with the wider Turkic world through the Organization of Turkic States. This diplomatic strategy reflects Astana's efforts to maintain autonomy and leverage its strategic position in Central Asia, amidst the backdrop of Russia's isolation from the West and involvement in Ukraine. Nikola Mikovic, The Diplomat, November 10
Farmers Adapt to Chinese Market Demands, Transforming Agricultural Practices. In central Vietnam's highlands, farmers are significantly altering their agricultural practices to cater to the evolving tastes of the Chinese market. Traditionally known for growing coffee, these regions are now witnessing a shift towards cultivating durians, a fruit that has gained immense popularity in China. This change is bringing considerable economic benefits to the farmers, enabling them to invest in new irrigation systems, pay off loans, and upgrade their homes. However, this dependency on the Chinese market raises concerns about the potential impact on these farming communities if China's demand for these fruits were to decrease. Jon Emont and Trang Bui, The Wall Street Journal, November 10
India and China's Rivalry Intensifies in the Maldives. The Maldives, known for its idyllic beaches and clear waters, has become a focal point in the strategic rivalry between India and China for influence in the Indian Ocean. The archipelago nation is already burdened with Chinese loans, which have been used for various infrastructure projects, including high rises on an artificial island, roads, and a significant bridge. In response, India is now financing a $500 million bridge project that will connect three islands to the Maldivian capital, Malé. This development underscores the growing geopolitical competition between the two Asian powers in strategically important regions. Rajesh Roy, The Wall Street Journal, November 11
Thailand Experiences a Tectonic Political Shift. Thailand's political landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with the Move Forward Party (MFP) leading the change. In the May 2023 Thai general election, the MFP secured 151 seats out of 500, demonstrating a stark contrast to the decline in support for Thailand's longstanding conservative elite parties. This shift is attributed to the near collapse of the Democrat Party and the diminishing influence of key political figures. The MFP's success in mainstreaming issues like same-sex marriage, ending military conscription, and exposing government corruption has strengthened its position as a formidable opposition force. The next election is poised to be a pivotal moment for the MFP as it continues to challenge the status quo and promote its reform agenda. William J Jones and Douglas L Rhein, East Asia Forum, November 11
Xi and Biden Need to Rebuild Trust in Front of a Watching World. The upcoming summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden marks a critical step towards rebuilding trust between the two nations. Amidst strained bilateral relations, this meeting signals a potential thaw and a move away from the recent low point marked by the Chinese balloon incident. The summit is not expected to completely reset relations but offers a chance to find common ground on global issues like debt alleviation, market stabilization, technology governance, and climate change. It also reassures other nations concerned about the Sino-US rivalry's impact on global peace. The anticipated resumption of exchanges at various levels, especially at the student level, is crucial for mutual understanding. This summit is a pivotal moment for establishing guidelines in the Sino-US rivalry, aiming to safeguard global peace and stability. South China Morning Post, November 11