South Korea warns it can send arms to Ukraine after reports of North’s troops in Russia. South Korea may send weapons to Ukraine after reports of North Korea dispatching troops to aid Russia in its war against Ukraine. Though Russia and North Korea deny the claims, South Korea views this as a serious security threat. Officials discussed phased responses, including military options, if cooperation between Russia and North Korea escalates. NATO called the potential deployment a "significant escalation." Hyung-jin Kim, AP News, October 22
Duterte no show, de Lima attends quad comm probe on drug killings. Former President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte did not attend a House hearing on his administration's war on drugs, citing the need to rest after returning to Davao. His lawyer conveyed Duterte's willingness to attend after November 1. Meanwhile, former Senator Leila de Lima, a key critic of Duterte's anti-drug campaign, attended as a resource person and expressed hope that Duterte would eventually face the investigation. Reina C. Tolentino, The Manila Times, October 22
Kazakhstan and Afghanistan discuss transport links for trade with China. Kazakhstan and Afghanistan are exploring transport routes for trade with China, focusing on reverse logistics for containers passing through Kazakhstan. Two potential routes involve either a circular train route through China, Kazakhstan, and Pakistan or reloading Afghan goods in Kazakhstan before returning to China. Kazakhstan also proposed utilizing logistics terminals in China. The meeting also highlighted growing bilateral trade, with Kazakhstan exporting $316.5 million worth of goods to Afghanistan from January to August 2024. Sergey Kwan, The Times of Central Asia, October 22
Vietnam-EU Joint Committee holds fifth meeting in Hanoi. The fifth meeting of the Vietnam-EU Joint Committee took place in Hanoi, where discussions focused on the implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the broader Strategic Partnership between the two sides. The meeting addressed economic cooperation, environmental sustainability, and other shared interests, aiming to enhance ties and tackle challenges like climate change. The EU reiterated its commitment to Vietnam's sustainable development goals. Vietnam News, October 22
Foreign Companies to Invest in Waste Recycling Plants across Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan has secured $1.3 billion in investments from foreign companies to construct waste recycling plants, aiming to address the country's low recycling rate. Chinese firms CAMC Engineering and Shanghai SUS Environment will build facilities in various regions, while the UAE and South Korea also contribute. These plants, set to be operational by 2027, will process millions of tons of waste and generate significant electricity, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sergey Kwan, The Times of Central Asia, October 22
Taiwan says live fire China drills may be part of a 'deterrence' effect. Taiwan's defense ministry stated that recent Chinese live fire drills near Taiwan are part of routine exercises but may also be aimed at increasing China's deterrence in the Taiwan Strait. The drills, close to Taiwan-controlled islands, follow China's war games warning against Taiwan's "separatist acts." Taiwan condemned the frequent military activity, stressing it raises unnecessary tensions and undermines regional peace. Ben Blanchard, Reuters, October 22
Yoon promises to consider personnel reshuffle if problems found with aides. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has said he would review any allegations of misconduct involving aides close to First Lady Kim Keon Hee if provided with specifics. This followed ruling party leader Han Dong-hoon’s call for a reshuffle over concerns about Kim’s public activities. Yoon also defended the First Lady’s reduced public engagements and suggested awaiting the prosecution’s investigation into allegations against her. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, October 22
Taiwan rejects South African demand to move its representative office from capital. Taiwan has refused South Africa's demand to relocate its representative office from Pretoria to Johannesburg, citing a violation of their 1997 agreement. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry expressed that this move is seen as a concession to China, which continues to isolate Taiwan diplomatically. South Africa's request follows similar actions by China to limit Taiwan's global presence, sparking concern among U.S. lawmakers. Christopher Bodeen, AP News, October 22
Preparing for a Chinese blockade, Taiwan maps out wartime food plans. Taiwan is developing strategies to maintain food security in case of a Chinese blockade, including monthly inventories of rice and other essential supplies. Current rice stocks can support the island for seven months, with plans to expand local cultivation of sweet potatoes, soybeans, and vegetables. The government is also preparing measures for aquaculture and rationing during a crisis. Taiwan’s National Security Bureau noted that Chinese military exercises have increased, aimed at blockading Taiwan’s ports. Yimou Lee and Ben Blanchard, Reuters, October 22
Lao-Thai railway boosts regional connectivity, economic growth. The new Lao-Thai railway is playing a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and fostering economic development in the Asia-Pacific region. This railway connects Thailand's Nong Khai province with Laos' capital, Vientiane, facilitating more efficient cross-border trade and transportation. The project underscores the growing importance of regional infrastructure in promoting integration and economic growth, particularly by linking landlocked Laos to broader international markets. The Laotian Times, October 22
House to vote Thursday whether to accept committee’s report on amnesty bill. Thailand’s House of Representatives will vote on Thursday on whether to accept the scrutiny report on the amnesty bill. The bill, proposed by the Pheu Thai Party, aims to grant amnesty for political offenses committed between 2004 and 2014. The House committee reviewing the bill submitted its report, which has sparked debate, particularly over clauses that may shield politicians and officials involved in violent crackdowns from legal repercussions. Opponents argue it could obstruct justice for victims of past political conflicts. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, October 22
Indonesian President Prabowo plans new state investment firm. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is set to establish a state-owned investment agency, Daya Anagata Nusantara Investment Management, modeled after Singapore's Temasek. The agency will consolidate scattered state investments and leverage them for growth. Discussions are ongoing with the SOEs ministry and Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund. Prabowo also retained key economic ministers for policy continuity, aiming to improve the investment climate and streamline processes. Stefanno Sulaiman, Reuters, October 22
China and the Vatican agree to extend an agreement on appointing bishops. China and the Vatican have extended their 2018 provisional agreement on appointing Catholic bishops for four more years. The deal, aimed at resolving the longstanding conflict over control of the church in China, has faced criticism but continues to foster dialogue. The Vatican hopes to further develop bilateral relations, despite challenges from China's insistence on naming bishops and Vatican critics who feel the deal compromises the church's authority. AP News, October 22
China confirms pact with India to ‘resolve’ conflict over disputed border. China has confirmed reaching an agreement with India to address their long-standing border dispute in the Himalayan region. While details of the pact remain vague, it follows India’s announcement that military patrols along the frontier had been settled. Relations between the two nations have been strained since 2020, when clashes led to fatalities on both sides. The pact is seen as a positive step toward restoring peace along the 3,488km Line of Actual Control. Al Jazeera, October 22
Renewed focus on revising Japan-U.S. SOFA ahead of election. As Japan’s Lower House election approaches, discussions on revising the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) have gained attention, driven by concerns in Okinawa over U.S. military activities, including noise pollution and environmental issues. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has pushed for reforms, echoing calls from opposition parties, while the Foreign and Defense ministries remain cautious, fearing it could strain U.S.-Japan relations. Taro Ono, Kazuyuki Ito and Shino Matsuyama, The Asahi Shimbun, October 22
Poll shows support for Charter change high. A recent Tangere survey conducted from October 14 to 16 revealed that 61.9 percent of Filipinos support proposed constitutional amendments focused on economic reforms. The highest support came from Northern and Central Luzon, with lower backing in Mindanao and the National Capital Region. Support was strongest among respondents aged 26 to 45, who hope reforms will create jobs, lower costs, and boost economic growth. The survey involved 1,500 participants, with a margin of error of 2.50%. Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, October 22
Son of Singapore's founder says he is now political refugee as family spat snowballs. Lee Hsien Yang, son of Singapore's late founder Lee Kuan Yew, announced he is now a political refugee in the UK, citing persecution fears after a prolonged family dispute over his father's home. He sought asylum in 2022 and claims he can't safely return to Singapore. The government dismissed his persecution claim as baseless. Lee’s fallout with his elder brother, former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, has been highly publicized. Rozanna Latiff, Reuters, October 22
Court asks prosecution to explain delay with petition against Thaksin. Thailand's Criminal Court has requested the public prosecutor to clarify the delay in handling a petition against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The petition seeks to revoke Thaksin's suspended sentence granted as part of his recent return to Thailand after years in self-exile. Critics argue that his favorable treatment undermines judicial fairness. The prosecution has been given until November 3 to provide an explanation, with the court set to make a decision thereafter. Bangkok Post, October 22
Amid Intensifying Sino-US Rivalry, Southeast Asia Can Help Bolster Regional Security. As US-China rivalry escalates in Asia, Southeast Asian countries play a crucial role in maintaining regional security. With both powers increasing military exercises, Southeast Asia should embrace the involvement of external powers like Europe to protect vital sea lanes and uphold maritime rules. Despite logistical challenges, regular cooperation between Southeast Asian and European navies, along with Japan and Australia, can promote stability amid growing confrontations, particularly in the South China Sea. Lee Sue-ann and William Choong, Fulcrum, October 22
Loopholes in Malaysia’s Anti-Defection Law. Malaysia's 2022 anti-defection law aims to curb party-hopping, but contains several loopholes. MPs expelled from their party are not required to vacate their seats, and defecting MPs can still contest in by-elections. The law also allows mid-term party realignments, creating risks similar to the Sheraton Move. Moreover, defecting MPs can still receive government positions. Reforms are needed to clarify terms, prevent misuse, and restrict political rewards for defectors. Shad Saleem Faruqi, Fulcrum, October 22
U-Turn: Female Food Couriers Find Strength in Stereotypes. Female food couriers in China are navigating a male-dominated industry by leveraging traditional gender roles. Despite facing stereotypes of physical weakness and poor driving skills, many women use traits like patience, communication skills, and emotional labor to gain advantages in their jobs. They also rely on help from others to overcome challenges like heavy deliveries. These women balance work with family responsibilities, often outsourcing child-rearing to grandparents. Sun Ping, Sixth Tone, October 22
Russian Pacific Fleet Redux: Japan’s North as a New Center of Gravity. Japan is seeing increased Russian submarine activity near its northern waters, with Russia strengthening its Pacific Fleet’s nuclear forces. As troops in the Russian Far East are redeployed to Ukraine, this growing submarine presence in the Sea of Okhotsk poses a strategic challenge to the U.S.-Japan alliance. Enhanced cooperation with Canada and Indo-Pacific partners may help counterbalance Russian and Chinese activities in the region. Yu Koizumi, War on the Rocks, October 22
China’s Relentless Legal Warfare to Strangle Taiwan. While China’s military actions against Taiwan grab headlines, its persistent diplomatic pressure and legal warfare pose an equally significant threat to Taiwan’s autonomy. Beijing's use of U.N. Resolution 2758 to delegitimize Taiwan's participation in international organizations, including barring Taiwanese experts from the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, is a key tactic. Recent pushback from democracies highlights the growing awareness of China’s aggressive legal maneuvers. Jonas Parello-Plesner, Foreign Policy, October 21
Clean technology ecosystem in Asia Pacific key to regional prosperity. As climate change intensifies, fostering a clean technology ecosystem is crucial for the Asia Pacific’s prosperity. China’s dominance in clean tech, including solar panels and electric vehicles, poses both challenges and opportunities for regional collaboration. Diversification strategies and leveraging each country’s strengths—such as resources and labor—can help build resilient supply chains, reduce carbon footprints, and drive economic growth. Coordinated regional cooperation is essential to achieve sustainable industrialization. Marina Yue Zhang and Muyi Yang, East Asia Forum, October 22
The Unraveling Nexus: U.S.-China Trade, Dollar Dominance, and the Quiet Erosion of Global Financial Power. The U.S.-China trade relationship is reshaping global finance, with China's reduction of U.S. debt holdings and growing use of the yuan in trade signaling a shift from dollar dominance. As China decouples financially, countries are diversifying reserves to reduce dependency on the dollar, weakening U.S. economic influence. This shift could challenge the U.S. dollar’s status as the global reserve currency, potentially leading to broader economic consequences. Emir J. Phillips, The Geopolitics, October 21
Reflection from the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly: Charting the Future of Arctic Governance. The 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík focused on Arctic governance, climate change, and economic opportunities. Key debates included balancing environmental protection with economic development, geopolitical tensions, and the increasing militarization of the Arctic. The event also emphasized multilateral cooperation, indigenous participation, and science-based policy for sustainable governance. The Assembly’s discussions aim to shape a more inclusive and resilient Arctic governance framework. Nong Hong, Institute for China-America Studies, October 22
DPRK aggression: near-term concerns, longer-term challenges. As tensions rise on the Korean Peninsula, concerns over North Korea’s provocations grow. Recent actions by Pyongyang, including accusations of South Korean drone flights and the exchange of threats, underscore the risks of escalation. North Korea's growing nuclear capabilities, backed by cooperation with Russia, may embolden Kim Jong-un to take more aggressive actions. While current tensions seem manageable, there is concern that future provocations could target the U.S.-ROK alliance, complicating diplomacy and military planning. Sydney Seiler, CSIS, October 21
The tragedy of Joko Widodo. Joko Widodo, Indonesia's outgoing president, once hailed as a reformer and political outsider, has seen his legacy tarnished by his alliances and governance failures. Initially celebrated for his anti-corruption stance and promises of democratic reform, Jokowi gradually aligned himself with entrenched elites, including Prabowo Subianto, a former rival with a history of anti-democratic tendencies. Jokowi also allowed the anti-corruption commission to weaken and oversaw environmental degradation. His legacy now includes establishing a powerful political dynasty, with his son as vice president. Joshua Kurlantzick, Council on Foreign Relations, October 22