Asia Daily: October 19, 2023
News
China’s Xi promises open markets and billions in new investments for ‘Belt and Road’ projects. Chinese President Xi Jinping has pledged to promote open markets and is committing billions of dollars in new investments for the ambitious 'Belt and Road' infrastructure projects. This announcement signifies China's dedication to advancing its global connectivity initiatives and strengthening international partnerships. These commitments come at a time when the 'Belt and Road' initiative is seen as a crucial part of China's strategy to solidify its role in global economic development and to foster closer ties with participating nations. Simina Mistreanu, AP News, October 18
US announces seizure of 17 website domains used by North Korea IT workers. The United States has declared the confiscation of 17 website domains that were reportedly used by IT professionals from North Korea. This action is part of ongoing efforts by the U.S. to counteract North Korea's cyber operations and prevent its attempts at evading sanctions and gathering funds. The move underscores the U.S. government's vigilance in monitoring online activities associated with North Korea, especially in light of increasing cyber threats and challenges to global digital security. Kanishka Singh, Reuters, October 18
US should be ‘peacemaker’ between Beijing and Taipei, Ma Ying-jeou says. Ma Ying-jeou, the former president of Taiwan, has expressed that the United States should play the role of a "peacemaker" between Beijing and Taipei. This statement comes amidst rising cross-strait tensions and increased international focus on the Taiwan Strait. Ma emphasizes the importance of dialogue and peaceful engagement to navigate the complexities and foster understanding between the two sides. He believes the U.S. can leverage its diplomatic influence to encourage constructive conversations and reduce potential escalations in the region. Lawrence Chung, South China Morning Post, October 18
Việt Nam – good model for developing countries: UN Secretary-General. The UN Secretary-General has lauded Việt Nam as a commendable model for developing nations. Recognizing its significant progress in various sectors, the United Nations chief highlighted the country's achievements in sustainable development, poverty reduction, and its proactive approach to combating climate change. Việt Nam's commitment to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its success in translating them into tangible results have set a benchmark for other nations striving for similar progress. Vietnam News, October 18
Russia's Lavrov arrives in North Korea as cooperation deepens. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has landed in North Korea, marking a significant visit amidst increasing cooperation between the two nations. The trip underscores the strengthening diplomatic ties and collaborations on various fronts, such as trade and defense. This development is closely watched by international observers, considering the geopolitical implications of a more profound Russia-North Korea alliance, especially amidst regional and global challenges. Josh Smith and Guy Faulconbridge, Reuters, October 18
Fijian prime minister ‘more comfortable dealing with traditional friends’ like Australia than China. The Prime Minister of Fiji has expressed a stronger inclination towards nurturing ties with traditional allies, particularly Australia, over China. This perspective reflects a broader trend among Pacific nations, which are weighing their diplomatic and economic associations. Fiji's stance comes at a time when regional dynamics and global geopolitics have been shifting, and nations are reassessing their strategic partnerships. AP News, October 18
Cambodian court sentences jailed opposition politician to 3 more years in prison. A Cambodian court has added three more years to the prison term of a prominent opposition politician, highlighting the growing clampdown on political dissent in the nation. The decision, which follows previous sentences against opposition members, underscores the increasing pressure on voices challenging the current regime. International observers and human rights advocates have raised concerns about the diminishing political space and potential implications for democracy in Cambodia. Sopheng Cheang, AP News, October 18
Japan, Saudi Arabia agree to work to address humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In a significant diplomatic development, Japan and Saudi Arabia have come to a mutual agreement to collaboratively address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The commitment signifies the shared concerns and aspirations of both nations to play a proactive role in the stabilization and betterment of the region. Their collaborative efforts aim to provide relief and support to the affected populations, while also pushing for lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. Kyodo News, October 18
S. Korea mulling sanctions amid suspected N. Korea-Russia arms deal: minister. South Korea is seriously considering the imposition of sanctions in light of suspicions surrounding a potential arms deal between North Korea and Russia. This comes as concerns rise in Seoul about the security implications of such a transaction. The move signifies South Korea's intent to assert its stance and possibly deter any further escalation in the region. It underscores the sensitive nature of inter-Korean relations and the broader geopolitical landscape of Northeast Asia. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, October 18
S. Korean envoy calls N. Korean escapee repatriation 'grave' human rights incident. The South Korean envoy has labeled the repatriation of a North Korean escapee as a 'grave' human rights incident, highlighting the deep concerns over the treatment of defectors upon their return to the North. The statement emphasizes Seoul's commitment to addressing human rights abuses in the North and accentuates the ongoing tensions between the two Koreas regarding the treatment of defectors. This incident sheds light on the dire situation faced by those attempting to flee North Korea and the potential consequences of their return. Song Sang-ho, Yonhap News Agency, October 18
Long Form
Xi and Putin Give a Show of Unity in Beijing At the Belt and Road Forum, Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping presented a united front without explicitly mentioning their previously announced "no limits" partnership. The leaders demonstrated mutual support, effectively challenging U.S. influence. The forum marked the 10th anniversary of Beijing's $1 trillion global infrastructure initiative. By Barry van Wyk for The China Project, October 18
China's Belt and Road Initiative and the Taliban's Economic Dreams The Taliban's participation in the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing signals interest in economic cooperation with China, particularly through the extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan. However, the current state of governance and competence in Afghanistan makes the realization of these projects uncertain. Additionally, strained relations between the Taliban and Pakistan pose challenges to the extension of CPEC into Afghanistan. By Shanthie Mariet D’Souza for The Diplomat, October 18
Who Will Actually Benefit From the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railroad? The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) railroad project aims to improve connectivity for landlocked Central Asian countries. However, the project raises concerns about lack of transparency, smuggling risks, and potential debt traps. While the railroad could reduce transport time and costs, it may disproportionately benefit elites and could be used to circumvent sanctions. The project's financing remains uncertain, especially for Kyrgyzstan, which is already close to its debt limit with China. By Navruz Karimov and Abror Kurbonmuratov for The Diplomat, October 18
Baidu Recreates American Software Successes in China. Baidu, China's leading search engine, has successfully replicated various American software products for the Chinese market. With 76% of China's search engine market share and 677 million monthly active users, Baidu reported $17.9 billion in revenue in 2022. The company offers a wide range of software products, including online maps, internet browsers, and cloud storage. It also operates Baidu Baike, the world's largest user-edited Chinese-language encyclopedia, and iQIYI, a paid video streaming service that reported $4.2 billion in revenue in 2022. By Samo Burja for Bismarck Analysis, October 18
Australia's Bid to Join ASEAN: A Non-Starter? Conflicting reports suggest Australia is considering joining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Such a move could significantly alter the dynamics of the regional organization, potentially even bringing New Zealand into the fold. However, divisions within ASEAN raise questions about whether Australia's inclusion would be more beneficial or disruptive. By B A Hamzah for Asia Sentinel October 18