Asia Daily: October 18, 2024
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Thai election commission begins probe into ruling Phue Thai party, media report. Thailand's Election Commission has launched an investigation into the ruling Pheu Thai party over allegations that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is improperly influencing party activities. This inquiry, which could result in the party’s dissolution, follows similar actions that led to the dissolution of the Move Forward party in August. The investigation centers on Thai law prohibiting political parties from being directed by outsiders. Panarat Thepgumpanat and Chayut Setboonsarng, Reuters, October 18
Decrease expected in Central Asia’s economic growth. The World Bank predicts economic growth in Central Asia to slow to 4.3% in 2024, down from 5.6% in 2023, with Kazakhstan's growth projected to drop to 3.4%. The slowdown is attributed to delays in oil field expansion and reduced government spending. While consumer spending and remittances from Russia support other Central Asian countries, overall per capita GDP growth remains slow. Inflation rates vary across the region, with Uzbekistan facing 10% inflation due to energy subsidy cuts. Sadokat Jalolova, The Times of Central Asia, October 18
UK Foreign Secretary Lammy urges China against supporting Russia’s military. During his visit to Beijing, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called on China to prevent its companies from supplying military equipment to Russia amid the war in Ukraine. In meetings with Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Lammy expressed concerns about China’s actions affecting European peace. He also raised human rights issues regarding Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Both sides agreed to continue discussions on these and other geopolitical issues. AP News, October 18
Senators press drug war probe. Philippine Senators Risa Hontiveros and others called for the Senate Committee of the Whole to investigate the Duterte administration’s drug war, expressing concerns over impartiality if Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, a key figure in the campaign, leads the inquiry. Senate President Francis Escudero is considering alternate committees. Some, including Senator Imee Marcos, propose the Department of Justice file charges instead. Bernadette E. Tamayo, Red Mendoza, Javier Joe Ismael, Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, October 18
Philippine political rift widens as VP Duterte accuses Marcos of incompetence. Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte launched a sharp attack on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., accusing him of incompetence and a lack of leadership. In a press conference, Duterte attributed issues like inflation and food insecurity to Marcos' failure to implement clear policies. The former allies' relationship has soured since Duterte resigned from the cabinet in June, as tensions rise ahead of the 2025 midterm elections. Mikhail Flores, Reuters, October 18
Yoon holds emergency security meeting amid N. Korea's alleged troop deployment to Russia. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol convened an emergency security meeting following reports that North Korea is deploying 12,000 troops, including special forces, to support Russia's war in Ukraine. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) confirmed North Korea's decision to send four brigades, marking a significant escalation in military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. South Korea vowed to respond in coordination with international allies. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, October 18
Vietnam, China deepen defence cooperation. Vietnam's National Defence Minister General Phan Van Giang met with China's newly-appointed Ambassador He Wei to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. Both sides emphasized the importance of military cooperation, highlighting achievements in areas like delegation exchanges, joint research, and collaboration between military forces. The meeting further aimed at enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership and fostering a shared future. Giang also invited Chinese leaders to attend key events in December. Vietnam News, October 18
South Africa asks Taiwan to move its de facto embassy from Pretoria. South Africa has requested Taiwan to relocate its de facto embassy from Pretoria to Johannesburg, citing the non-political nature of their relations, which officially ended in 1997. Taiwan criticized the move as being influenced by China, while South Africa emphasized it was a standard diplomatic procedure. China welcomed the decision, as South Africa looks to deepen ties with its largest trading partner. Taiwan warned it would consider responses to protect its sovereignty. Nellie Peyton, Reuters, October 18
Seoul official calls Korean Peninsula unification 'moral' obligation. South Korea's Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho described unification as a "moral obligation," during a lecture in Washington, despite North Korea’s removal of unification references in its constitution. He emphasized that unification should be approached from a values-based perspective rather than economic considerations. Kim reiterated that South Korea aims for a peaceful, free unification, not one achieved by absorbing the North. Song Sang-ho, Yonhap News Agency, October 18
Myanmar junta airstrikes target Buddhist celebrations. The Myanmar junta launched airstrikes on Nawnghkio town in Shan State, targeting a checkpoint and administrative buildings during the Thadingyut festival, a Buddhist celebration marking the end of Lent. Residents reported seven bombs dropped over three hours, destroying buildings, though casualty details remain unknown. The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), which controls the town, has been engaged in ongoing battles with the junta, as part of the Brotherhood Alliance. The Irrawaddy, October 18
MPs split on including lese majeste in amnesty bill. Thai lawmakers are divided over whether lese majeste offenses should be included in an amnesty bill. Opposition MPs from the People's Party support including Section 112 of the Criminal Code, while government MPs oppose extending amnesty to lese majeste offenders. A special House committee's report presented three options: granting amnesty, excluding it, or offering a conditional amnesty. Some argue that including such offenses is essential for national reconciliation, while others warn it could cause political fallout. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, October 18
Chinese investment in major trade and logistics center in northern Kyrgyzstan. On October 17, Kyrgyzstan and China launched the construction of a large trade and logistics hub near Bishkek. The project, called the Manas Trade and Logistics City, will cover 700 hectares and involve $4.2 billion in investment. It aims to enhance regional trade, create jobs, and improve export conditions. The Kyrgyz government holds a 49% stake in the project, which highlights China's growing role as a key trading partner. Sergey Kwan, The Times of Central Asia, October 18
Hong Kong eases visa rules for Lao, Cambodian, and Myanmar citizens. Hong Kong has relaxed visa rules for citizens of Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, enabling them to apply for multiple-entry visas more easily for business and travel purposes. Announced by Chief Executive John Lee, this change strengthens economic and travel ties with ASEAN countries. Additionally, a fast-track visa processing system was introduced for group visitors and business travelers, streamlining the process through local agents. Phonethida Sitthixay, The Laotian Times, October 17
Korea’s Strategic Futures Between Continental and Maritime Powers. The Korean Peninsula has long been influenced by both continental powers like China and maritime powers such as Japan and the U.S. Today, South Korea aligns with U.S.-led maritime coalitions, while North Korea retains strong ties with China and Russia. This geopolitical positioning reflects the ongoing strategic competition between land-based and sea-based powers in the region. Jeffrey Robertson, Korea Economic Institute of America, October 18
Japan’s rice crisis shows the price of faulty food security policy. Japan’s rice shortage in 2024 revealed critical flaws in the country’s food security policies. Despite sufficient stockpiles, the government refused to release reserves, prioritizing producer interests over consumers, especially ahead of key elections. The crisis exposed the vulnerability of Japan’s food system to minor disruptions and emphasized the need for policy reforms that balance long-term supply security with market stability and public trust. Masayoshi Honma, East Asia Forum, October 18
Why Kazakhstan is Refraining from Joining BRICS. Kazakhstan has opted not to pursue BRICS membership due to its commitment to a balanced foreign policy and neutrality in international relations. The country values its ability to mediate between conflicting powers and maintain relationships with both China and Russia, as well as the West. Aligning too closely with BRICS could compromise its geopolitical positioning and neutral stance. Michael Rossi, Geopolitical Monitor, October 18
Why China’s Rock Music Scene Isn’t Bothered by a Troublesome Textbook. A new Chinese textbook labels rock music as a potential threat to national security, but China’s rock musicians remain largely unaffected. Indie artists, like Yang Haisong, dismiss the claims, highlighting the enduring resilience of the music scene despite decades of censorship. Musicians argue that young, educated audiences are skeptical of such government-driven narratives. The underground rock community continues to thrive, buoyed by growing fan bases and public interest. Larry Mullin, The Diplomat, October 18
Beijing’s success is a conundrum for Nobel winners. China's rapid economic growth, achieved under an authoritarian regime, challenges traditional economic theories that link wealth with democratic institutions. This success raises questions about whether prosperity can be sustained without the inclusive institutions that have historically driven wealth in other nations. Nobel-winning economists are now faced with the task of rethinking assumptions about governance and development in light of China's model. Mihir Sharma, The Japan Times, October 18
State Complicity in Religious Intolerance under the Widodo Administration. Religious intolerance in Indonesia persists due to political and security motivations, with local officials often yielding to pressure from intolerant groups. Despite some reforms, such as the 2018 Religious Moderation program, incidents like the halted construction of a Christian school in Parepare reveal ongoing issues. Local authorities prioritize public security over minority rights, reflecting deeper state complicity. Haula Noor and A’an Suryana, Fulcrum, October 18.