China
Full text: Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at Session II of the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting. President Xi Jinping urged APEC members to strengthen digital, green, and inclusive development to counter global economic and security challenges. He proposed a World AI Cooperation Organization, promoted low-carbon growth, and backed deeper regional coordination on poverty, e-commerce, and demographic change, aiming to shape a sustainable Asia-Pacific future. Global Times, November 1
Xi says China’s city of Shenzhen to host APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in 2026. President Xi Jinping announced that Shenzhen will host the 2026 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, marking China’s third time as host. He emphasized APEC’s role in regional prosperity and pledged to advance cooperation in digital economy, AI, and connectivity. Leaders welcomed China’s chairmanship and shared commitment to regional development. Global Times, November 1
China’s updated sixth-generation fighter jets put U.S. on notice for air supremacy. China has unveiled updated sixth-generation fighter prototypes just 10 months after their first public appearance, signaling accelerated development. The Chengdu J-36 and Shenyang J-50 show major design changes, including thrust-vectoring nozzles and diverterless intakes for stealth. If development mirrors the J-20 timeline, they could enter service by 2031—potentially ahead of the U.S. F-47. Amber Wang, South China Morning Post, November 2
Japan
Koizumi builds ties with partners and airs concerns with China defense chief. Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi met regional counterparts at the ASEAN summit to expand defense cooperation, including talks on arms exports with New Zealand and others. In a meeting with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun, Koizumi expressed serious concerns over Beijing’s activities near the Senkaku Islands and pushed for activating the Japan-China military hotline. Jesse Johnson, The Japan Times, November 1
Takaichi rules out dissolving Lower House for snap election. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said she will not dissolve Japan’s Lower House for a general election, citing the need to prioritize economic measures and fulfill existing policy promises. She also reaffirmed Japan’s tariff deal with the U.S., supported APEC’s diplomatic agenda, and noted that Japan will chair the forum in 2031. The Japan Times, November 1
Japan’s PM says no plan to renegotiate $550 billion investment package with U.S. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi ruled out any renegotiation of the $550 billion investment agreement with the U.S., saying intergovernmental commitments must be upheld despite leadership changes. Speaking after the APEC summit, she also confirmed constructive talks with Chinese and South Korean leaders, and described her meeting with Trump as frank and personal. Ju-Min Park and Mariko Katsumura, Reuters, November 1
South Korea
Lee to deliver budget speech Tuesday to outline next year’s spending plan. President Lee Jae Myung will present South Korea’s 2026 budget bill to the National Assembly on Tuesday, calling for bipartisan support to pass a proposed 728 trillion South Korean Qon ($508.4 billion) package — a record high and an 8.1% increase from this year. The plan targets domestic demand growth and investment in advanced technologies like artificial intelligence. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, November 3
Lee’s approval rating rebounds to 53% on tariff deal with U.S.: poll. President Lee Jae Myung’s approval rating rose to 53%, up 1.8 percentage points, following a tariff agreement with the U.S. at APEC. Realmeter attributed the gain to diplomatic success and the KOSPI surpassing 4,000. Negative sentiment dropped to 43.3%. Party support also climbed, with the ruling Democratic Party reaching 45.4%. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, November 3
Thailand
People’s Party leads in Isan opinion poll, Anutin 2nd choice for PM. A Nida Poll survey of 2,000 voters in Thailand’s Northeast found the People’s Party leading with 26.05% support, followed by Bhumjaithai at 15.75% and Pheu Thai at 16.85%. For prime minister, 32.4% said no candidate was suitable, while Anutin Charnvirakul placed first among named options with 19.7%, ahead of People’s Party’s Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut at 18.55%. Bangkok Post, November 2
Pheu Thai ‘working out’ censure plan. The Pheu Thai Party is finalizing details of a no-confidence motion against the Bhumjaithai-led minority government and awaits confirmation on whether the People’s Party will support the move. Party leaders are also assessing ministerial misconduct and preparing for a possible election if parliament dissolves. Strategic debate continues on timing and whether to target the full cabinet. Bangkok Post, November 3
Vietnam
Pentagon chief says U.S. seeks deeper military ties with Vietnam. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington aims to strengthen defense cooperation with Vietnam following the delivery of three coastguard cutters and T-6 trainer aircraft. Speaking in Hanoi before a meeting with Defense Minister Phan Van Giang, Hegseth affirmed U.S. support for an independent Vietnam and pledged continued engagement on future defense initiatives. Francesco Guarascio and Phuong Nguyen, Reuters, November 2
Myanmar
UN rights envoy urges global rejection of Myanmar’s ‘sham’ election. UN special rapporteur Tom Andrews called on countries to denounce Myanmar’s planned elections, labeling them fraudulent due to mass detentions, restricted media, and disbanded opposition parties. Speaking at the UN General Assembly, he warned that accepting the junta’s vote would legitimize war crimes. He also echoed ASEAN’s demand to end violence before any credible vote. Phoe Tar, The Irrawaddy, November 1
Laos
Laos sets new economic direction under 2026–2030 development strategy. Laos unveiled a five-year plan to boost industrialization, strengthen fiscal stability, and build a self-reliant economy. The strategy targets 5.5% annual GDP growth, with industry and trade projected to reach 36.2% of GDP. Key reforms include digitalization, MSME support, financial discipline, and expanded regional banking integration to enhance transparency and growth. Beatrice Siviero, The Laotian Times, November 3
Cambodia
Cambodia and Thailand begin withdrawal of heavy weapons to cement border peace. Cambodia has started pulling back tanks and artillery from the Thai border under a three-phase demilitarization plan set by the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration. The agreement, witnessed by U.S. President Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar, includes ASEAN monitoring and aims to secure the release of 18 detained Cambodian troops. Ben Sokhean, Khmer Times, November 2
Philippines
Philippines, Canada sign pact on troops to deepen defense ties. The Philippines and Canada signed their first military agreement in the Indo-Pacific, allowing troops to train in each other’s countries under a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement. The pact enhances bilateral coordination and complements Manila’s security ties with the U.S., as both nations counter China’s regional assertiveness. Karen Lema, Reuters, November 2
PH secures major investments, defense, energy partnerships from APEC summit. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. secured new investment pledges at the APEC summit, including Hanwha Ocean’s proposal to support the Philippine Navy’s submarine program with training, local base construction, and advanced technology. DL E&C and Meralco agreed to pursue small modular nuclear reactors, while Samsung Electro-Mechanics signed a deal for a 50.7 billion-peso plant expansion creating 3,000 jobs. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, November 2
Indonesia
Prabowo confirms ongoing Indonesia-U.S. zero-tariff talks. President Prabowo Subianto confirmed that Indonesia is continuing negotiations with the U.S. to secure zero-percent import tariffs on key exports, including palm oil, rubber, and cocoa. Officials aim to match Malaysia’s recent trade gains. Talks on critical minerals are proceeding separately as part of broader supply chain cooperation. ANTARA News, November 1
Indonesian Army to build 750 combat battalions by 2029. The Indonesian Army will establish 750 new combat battalions by 2029 to bolster defense in strategic and conflict-prone regions. The expansion supports the Optimum Essential Force concept and includes economic development roles such as farming and infrastructure. Deployment will prioritize border areas like Papua and Kalimantan, with progress dependent on budget availability. Jakarta Globe, November 2
Malaysia
Sultan Ibrahim leaves for historic state visit to Saudi Arabia, first by a Malaysian monarch in decades. His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim departed for a state visit to Saudi Arabia, the first by a Malaysian King since 1984. Scheduled to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, he will continue to Bahrain on November 6. Senior Malaysian ministers attended the send-off ceremony at the Subang air base. Malay Mail, November 3
Taiwan
Trump says Xi understands ‘consequences’ if Beijing takes Taiwan. U.S. President Donald Trump said Chinese leader Xi Jinping understands the consequences of a military move on Taiwan but refused to clarify whether the U.S. would intervene militarily. He stated Taiwan was not discussed at their summit and declined to elaborate, citing secrecy. Trump claimed Beijing would not act against Taiwan while he remains president. South China Morning Post, November 2.
U.S. working overtime to speed up delayed F-16 deliveries, Taiwan says. Taiwan’s defense ministry reported that the U.S. is running 20-hour production shifts to accelerate delivery of 66 F-16V jets delayed by factory disruptions. Ten jets are set for testing this year with delivery in 2026. Glide bombs and torpedoes face delays, while HIMARS systems will arrive ahead of schedule. Ben Blanchard, Reuters, November 3
Pakistan
Pakistan eyes 2026 launch for first Chinese submarine in $5 billion arms deal. Pakistan expects its first Chinese-built Hangor-class submarine to enter service in 2026 under an eight-vessel, $5 billion arms deal. Four submarines will be constructed in China and the rest in Pakistan to build local capacity. Admiral Naveed Ashraf said the submarines will project power in the Indian Ocean, reinforcing strategic cooperation with Beijing. Joe Cash, Reuters, November 3
East Asia
Ahead of APEC, Trump Signs Flurry of Bilateral Minerals Agreements on Asia Tour. After launching an October 27 Asia trip, President Trump announced critical minerals deals with Malaysia, Thailand and Japan and advanced frameworks with Australia and Japan to build resilient supply chains. The Australia pact commits each government to deploy one billion dollars within six months and both frameworks coordinate price support, streamlined permitting, mapping, recycling and strategic stockpiles while tightening investment screening. Projects highlighted include Lynas’s plan to expand heavy rare earth separation in Malaysia and MP Materials’ buildout of magnet manufacturing in the United States. Washington reported a one year pause of China’s rare earth export limits following talks with Xi alongside tariff adjustments. Gracelin Baskaran and Meredith Schwartz, CSIS, October 31
Busan diplomacy: When Xi and Trump met as equals. The leaders held a smooth summit in Busan on October 30 2025, after five rounds of preparatory talks, including a session in Kuala Lumpur between He Lifeng and senior US economic officials. Beijing confirmed the meeting only a day ahead to limit expectations. A framework emerged that paused tariff escalation, linked to US soybean purchases and cooperation on fentanyl, rare earths and port fees. Trump praised Xi and floated a G2 framing, while both sides signaled reciprocal visits in 2026. Taiwan stayed off the agenda yet shaped perceptions and drew reassurances from Washington. The meeting reflected peer competition wrapped in calm and highlighted the need for disciplined management of enduring disputes. Zhiqun Zhu, ThinkChina, October 31
Rewriting world history to redefine the global order: Xi’s claim to China’s moral right to lead. Xi Jinping used Victory Day and National Day speeches to link World War II remembrance to the Chinese Communist Party’s present authority and to justify a new order under Chinese leadership. Beijing recasts wartime history, including celebrating the Restoration of Taiwan, to strengthen sovereignty claims and to justify leadership in global governance. Compared with 2015’s inclusive tone, 2025 featured an assertive narrative and the presence of Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un. Calls for genuine multilateralism accompany BRI, AIIB, the Global Development Initiative, and the Global Security Initiative. Alignment with Russia and focus on spheres of influence signal a challenge to US-backed security structures. Claus Soong, MERICS, October 31
China’s Belt and Road Initiative is booming. Xi Jinping is steering growth and security through a revived BRI that deepens ties with global south as US tariffs rise. China’s export share to America fell from nearly 20 percent in early 2018 to under 12 percent this year, while shipments to ASEAN and Latin America rose 15 percent in September and exports to Africa jumped 57 percent. BRI engagement rebounded from 92.4 billion dollars in 2023 to nearly 122 billion dollars in 2024 and exceeded 123 billion dollars in the first half of 2025. Mega deals in Nigeria and Kazakhstan sit beside expanding green energy and telecoms investment. Benefits bring leverage at the UN, yet debt burdens and protectionist pushback persist. The Economist, November 2
Viral ultra-short dramas are challenging China’s memory politics. Beijing’s 80th anniversary campaign to commemorate victory over Japan, capped by the 3 September parade, sits alongside a booming market for wartime micro dramas on Douyin. These bite-sized shows turn history into spectacle with revenge arcs, anachronistic gadgets, and hyperpatriotic heroics that draw young audiences. Their commercial incentives clash with disciplined propaganda, diluting the Party’s narrative control. Regulators responded on 21 July with stricter oversight, condemning anti-intellectual and outrageous depictions, after earlier removals of 25,000 programs in late 2022 and early 2023. Both official storytelling and viral content distort the past, exposing a deeper legitimacy struggle over who defines war memory in a high-velocity attention economy. Ratish Mehta, East Asia Forum, October 31
Japan can be a hub and ‘guardian’ for the submarine cable system. Tokyo is moving from piecemeal fixes to a whole-of-government plan that treats cables as essential infrastructure carrying nearly all international communications. With 25 systems and exposure to routes touching authoritarian states, Japan is scrutinizing suppliers and subsidizing domestic production and repair ships. Only about 60 vessels serve over 500 networks and repairs can take months, so Tokyo seeks more ships and tighter coordination with NTT, KDDI and NEC. AI fault detection promises sub-hour alerts and AUVs like Kawasaki’s SPICE add rapid inspection. Diversified routes, Quad cooperation and clearer rules aim to cut downtime and make Japan an Indo Pacific hub. Athena Tong, Gabriele Maletta and Yuichi Yoshida, Nikkei Asia, November 2
Korea’s Rise and America’s Retreat in Southeast Asian Defense. Southeast Asian militaries are redirecting procurement toward South Korean and European systems, weakening longstanding U.S. interoperability and training links. Korean exports rose from $7.25 billion in 2021 to $14 billion in 2025 as Malaysia bought eighteen FA-50s, the Philippines expanded its Korean fleet and Indonesia deepened multibillion-dollar partnerships. Seoul offers NATO standard hardware, quicker delivery in eighteen months, technology transfer and local production at competitive prices, such as fifty million dollars for an FA-50. Hanwha’s $250 million sale of twenty K-9 howitzers to Vietnam shows penetration beyond aircraft. Defense spending exceeded $50.6 billion in 2024 while Korea’s backlog reached $73.1 billion, showing demand for strategic autonomy and fewer political strings. Xiaolong James Wang, Sino-Southeast Initiative, October 31
Southeast Asia
Citizens are the Mekong’s new guardians. The Mekong sustains nearly seventy million people yet faces rising pressures from dams, sand mining, climate change, and sharpening rivalry. USAID programs have closed, leaving a monitoring gap. Communities across the basin are responding with citizen science that trains villagers to track flows, fish, sediment and salinity. In Chiang Khong the Living River Association builds on the Tai Baan movement whose 2020 monitoring linked damaging water swings to upstream operations. In Vietnam’s delta farmers use handheld meters in Ben Tre and Soc Trang and women in Tra Vinh track climate-sensitive disease risks. Partnerships with universities and regional networks help validate local evidence and strengthen advocacy despite official pushback and shrinking aid. James Borton and Nguyen Minh Quang, East Asia Forum, November 1
Trump’s Cambodia Charm Offensive Confronts China in Southeast Asia. At the ASEAN summit in Malaysia, Trump announced a minerals agreement with Cambodia, Malaysia, and Thailand, tariff reductions, and presided over a Cambodian Thai ceasefire ceremony. Cambodia’s U.S. tariff rate fell from 49 percent to 19 percent, and bilateral defense talks resumed for the first time since 2017. Hun Manet nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize after July calls urging de-escalation. The approach prioritizes transactions over values to court partners and counter Beijing. Phnom Penh seeks diversification amid Belt and Road projects and an expanding Chinese footprint at Ream Naval Base. Public demonstrations signaled new warmth toward Washington. Elite praise grew, yet risks include entrenching authoritarian rule and enabling controversial deals. Derek Grossman, Foreign Policy, October 31
Indonesia’s Fragile Middle Class. Protests over lawmakers’ housing allowance rise escalated after rideshare driver Affan Kurniawan died when a police car struck him on August 28 this year, exposing insecurity among an aspiring middle excluded from programs. Period of macro stability masks a safety net that broadened in 2020, narrowed through 2023, widened before the 2024 election, then receded. With no unemployment insurance, most new jobs since 2019 are informal with low pay. The middle class has shrunk while overdue loans climbed and deposits weakened. Steps include targeted cash support and electricity discounts for 2200 KWh households. Longer term, deregulation and formal growth in manufacturing, tourism, and creative sectors are needed beyond capital intensive resource sectors. Muhamad Chatib Basri, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, October 2025
Why Did Indonesia Decide to Buy China’s J-10 Fighter Jet? Indonesia is weighing a purchase of 42 J-10s, reportedly second hand J-10B models financed by a roughly 1.6 billion dollar credit, as a stopgap while awaiting next generation aircraft from South Korea and Türkiye. Diversifying suppliers to avoid dependence drives the move, but mixing Chinese, Russian, and Western systems complicates logistics, training, and data links. Price matters, with J-10C often cited at 30 to 40 million dollars per plane, while older Bs would be cheaper. Geopolitics figures too, signaling balanced ties with East and West. Washington could reconsider the planned F-15EX sale, yet cooperation need not collapse. A concluded deal would mark China’s first significant breakthrough in Southeast Asia’s fighter market. Ian Storey, FULCRUM, October 31