Asia Daily: November 13, 2023
News
Xi-Biden Apec summit: ex-US envoy Max Baucus calls for frank talks on Taiwan to ease ties. Ahead of the Apec summit, former US ambassador to China Max Baucus emphasized the need for candid discussions between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, particularly on the sensitive issue of Taiwan. Baucus highlighted the importance of the US understanding China's firm stance on Taiwan, suggesting non-confrontational clarity from Beijing could lead to more informed US policies. Tensions between the US and China have escalated over Taiwan, with the US stepping up arms sales and contacts with Taipei, actions that have been met with strong opposition from Beijing. Kawala Xie, South China Morning Post, November 12
North Korea lashes out at U.N. Command over meeting in Seoul. North Korea has condemned the United Nations Command (UNC), labeling it an "illegal war organization," in response to a scheduled meeting of UNC member states in South Korea. The UNC, led by the U.S., oversees the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea. The meeting aims to address Pyongyang's "illegal activities" and enforce U.N. security resolutions. This criticism follows a trilateral meeting where U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and counterparts from South Korea and Japan agreed on a real-time data sharing scheme about North Korean missiles and condemned the growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. Hyunsu Yim, Reuters, November 13
Japanese island holds disaster drill in shadow of Taiwan threat. Japan conducted a tsunami evacuation drill on Yonaguni Island, its westernmost territory. This exercise was not only a preparation for natural disasters but also a proactive measure in response to potential emergencies related to tensions over Taiwan. Around 200 officials and Self-Defense Forces members participated, although strong winds prevented helicopters and landing craft from joining. Yonaguni's strategic location, close to Taiwan, underscores its significance in regional security dynamics amid growing concerns over China's assertive actions in the region. The Japan Times, November 12
Yoon calls for combined U.S.-S. Korea defense posture against any N. Korean provocations. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has urged U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to uphold a strong combined defense posture with South Korea against potential North Korean provocations. This statement was made during a dinner meeting with Austin and U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff General Charles Q. Brown, Jr., in anticipation of the ROK-U.S. Security Consultative Meeting. Yoon emphasized the need for readiness against surprise attacks and linked regional conflicts, like those in Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas, to North Korean activities. The upcoming meeting will focus on reinforcing defenses against North Korea's missile and nuclear threats. Choi Kyang-ae, Yonhap News Agency, November 12
Dozens of Chinese ships chase Philippine vessels as US renews warning it will defend its treaty ally. In a tense confrontation in the South China Sea, Chinese coast guard and accompanying ships chased and encircled Philippine vessels near Second Thomas Shoal. A U.S. Navy surveillance plane monitored the incident, where a Chinese ship used a water cannon against a Philippine boat delivering supplies to Filipino forces. Despite China's aggressive maneuvers, the Philippine contingent successfully completed its mission. This escalation occurs amid broader regional tensions, with the U.S. reiterating its commitment to defend the Philippines under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty. Jim Gomez and Joeal Calupitan, AP News, November 11
A military jet crashes in eastern Myanmar. Ethnic resistance groups claim they shot it down. A Myanmar military jet fighter crashed in the eastern state of Kayah, a combat zone. The Karenni Nationalities Defense Force, an ethnic armed group, claimed responsibility for shooting down the aircraft amid heavy fighting near Loikaw, the state capital. However, a military officer from Myanmar, speaking under anonymity, confirmed the crash but could not ascertain if it was due to being shot down or a technical failure. A search for the crashed jet and its two pilots is ongoing. Grant Peck, AP News, November 11
Senator seeks recall of PH envoy to China. Philippine Senator Francis Tolentino has called for the recall of the country's ambassador to Beijing, Jaime FlorCruz, following the China Coast Guard's (CCG) recent harassment of a Philippine boat in the West Philippine Sea. This move aims to protest China's violation of international law and assert Philippine rights in the disputed region. Despite the proposal, Tolentino clarified that the embassy would remain operational for visa applications, indicating that the recall is not intended to sever diplomatic relations with China. The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea and Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri have also condemned China's actions, emphasizing the need to uphold the Philippines' sovereign rights within its exclusive economic zone. Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, November 12
Vietnamese, Chinese officials talk territorial, border issues. Vietnamese and Chinese officials, including Vietnam's Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyễn Minh Vũ and China's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong, met in Hà Nội to discuss territorial and border issues. They expressed satisfaction with the development of their strategic partnership, particularly following the historic visit of Party General Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trọng to China in October 2022. The meeting focused on land border management, cooperation in less sensitive maritime areas, and the implementation of the 2011 Agreement on basic principles for settling sea issues. Both sides committed to maintaining peace and stability, exercising self-restraint, and seeking long-term solutions in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Vietnam News, November 12
China – Central Asia Trade “Can Reach US$100 Billion” – Kazakhstan Prime Minister. Kazakhstan's Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov projected that trade between China and Central Asian nations could reach US$100 billion by 2030. This goal will be pursued by expanding trade and simplifying administrative procedures. In 2022, trade between China and Central Asia was US$70 billion, with Kazakhstan accounting for 45%. Kazakhstan's significant contributions include being a major producer of wheat and flour and a key transport and logistics hub in the region, with about 85% of all land transit traffic from China to Europe passing through it. Silk Road Briefing, November 12
Two South Koreans among 18 sentenced to death in Vietnam drug bust. In a major drug bust in Vietnam, two South Koreans and 16 others were sentenced to death for drug smuggling and trafficking. The convicted individuals, including South Korean ex-police officer Kim Soon-sik and Kang Seon-hok, were part of a group found guilty of dealing over 216kg of various narcotics. The operation, which involved trafficking drugs from Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City, was intercepted by Vietnamese authorities in July 2020, leading to the seizure of 39.5kg of methamphetamine. Vietnam's strict drug laws often result in severe penalties, including death sentences, for drug-related crimes. Channel News Asia, November 12
Long Form
China's Disregard for Small State Agency Hampers Its Foreign Policy. China's recent maritime dispute with the Philippines highlights Beijing's tendency to view smaller states as mere pawns in a larger US containment strategy. This perspective was evident in the October 2023 incident near Second Thomas Shoal, where a China Coast Guard ship collided with a Philippine vessel. Beijing's refusal to acknowledge the Philippines' legitimate grievances in the South China Sea, instead framing them as part of a US plot, undermines its foreign policy effectiveness. Gregory Poling and Jude Blanchette, East Asia Forum, November 12
A Lorry Ride With Singapore’s Migrant Workers. Singapore stands out as one of the few developed countries where it's legal to transport migrant workers in lorries, vehicles designed for cargo, not passengers. This practice, deeply ingrained in the city-state's labor system, particularly affects workers in construction, shipyard, and processing sectors. Despite the risks highlighted by severe accidents and the lack of safety features like seatbelts in lorries, the Singapore government maintains this practice citing cost concerns and logistical challenges. Ada Cheong, The Diplomat, November 11
Foxconn Under Fire. Foxconn, the electronics manufacturing giant, faces scrutiny in China over alleged tax and land use offenses. This investigation comes at a critical time as Foxconn's founder, Terry Gou, announces his candidacy for the Taiwanese presidential election. The news, first reported by Chinese state media, raises questions about Beijing's intentions towards Foxconn and Gou. Foxconn, known for its significant role in China's position as a leading manufacturing center, is also exploring business diversification globally. Aaron McNicholas, The Wire China, November 12
The IP Odyssey: Liu Cixin and 'The Three-Body Problem'. Liu Cixin, the celebrated author of the 'Remembrance of Earth’s Past' trilogy, notably known for its first novel 'The Three-Body Problem', has significantly influenced the global science fiction landscape. The novel, originally published in China in 2008 and translated into English in 2012, quickly became a global phenomenon, selling over 30 million copies and being translated into more than 30 languages. Liu's work earned him the distinction of being the first Asian writer to win a Hugo Award in 2015. The novel's success even garnered the attention of former President Barack Obama. The 2023 World Science Fiction Convention in Chengdu, China, a significant event in the science fiction community, can be largely attributed to Liu's impact. His work, particularly 'The Three-Body Problem', stands as a testament to the growing global influence of Chinese science fiction. Grady McGregor, The Wire China, November 12
How America Should React to China’s Economic Slowdown. China's economic performance has undergone significant changes, diverging from its decades-long rapid growth trend. The slowdown, more pronounced since 2021, is attributed to various factors, including COVID-19 impacts, a contracting property sector, and rising debt servicing costs. This shift challenges the long-held perception of China's economic model and its implications for global growth. By Daniel Rosen and Logan Wright, Foreign Affairs, November 13
Placating Xi Won’t Change China’s Behavior. The U.S. faces a complex challenge in balancing its economic strategy with China, especially in light of Beijing's actions that undermine American and allied security interests. China's support for other authoritarian regimes and efforts to create an alternative global financial system pose significant threats. Despite China's weakening economy, which offers an opportunity for the U.S. to influence Beijing's policies, a hard-line approach is necessary. President Biden's meeting with Xi Jinping is crucial in addressing these issues, with the need for clear communication and strategic actions to counter China's mercantilism and support for Russian and Iranian aggression. Thomas J. Duesterberg, The Wall Street Journal, November 13