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India's BJP set to win Haryana vote in boost for Modi, Congress rejects outcome. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised for an unexpected victory in Haryana's provincial election, despite initial projections favoring Congress. Congress has contested the results, claiming manipulation and citing discrepancies with electronic voting machines. This win strengthens the BJP ahead of upcoming state elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. Meanwhile, in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress-led alliance secured victory, marking the region's first election in a decade. Sakshi Dayal and YP Rajesh, Reuters, October 8
Ishiba’s election policy over fund scandal sows rift in ruling LDP. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's decision to withhold endorsements from scandal-tainted lawmakers in the upcoming Lower House election has created divisions within the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Some party members criticized the move, which impacts at least six lawmakers, for being made too late. The decision comes amid the LDP's efforts to restore public trust after a political funds scandal. Affected lawmakers may run as independents but will face significant campaign disadvantages. The Asahi Shimbun, October 8
Laos and Thailand set sights on USD 11 billion trade goal by 2025. Laos and Thailand, during the 24th Economic Community Council Meeting in Vientiane, agreed to target USD 11 billion in bilateral trade by 2025. Key topics included eliminating non-tariff barriers on Lao agricultural products and aligning policies with the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA). Laos emphasized supporting domestic production, reducing the trade deficit, and attracting Thai investment in processing industries. The “Made in Laos 2024” fair showcased local products to promote Lao entrepreneurship and exports. Phontham Visapra, The Laotian Times, October 8
China and Russia stage joint anti-submarine exercise in Pacific. Chinese and Russian warships recently conducted anti-submarine drills in the northwest Pacific as part of a joint naval patrol. Russian destroyers and a Ka-27PL helicopter participated, while China deployed several ships, including a Type 055 destroyer. The exercise followed last month’s Beibu/Interaction 2024 drills. Chinese officials emphasized the exercises enhance strategic cooperation and real combat readiness between the two countries. Liu Zhen, South China Morning Post, October 8
Blinken to discuss Myanmar, South China Sea and Ukraine at Asia summits Laos. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will attend summits in Laos this week, focusing on Myanmar’s human rights issues, China’s actions in the South China Sea, and support for Ukraine. Blinken will represent the U.S. at ASEAN and East Asia summits. Officials emphasize Washington's commitment to ASEAN, despite President Biden's absence due to domestic matters. Blinken is also expected to address China's growing support for Russia and Myanmar's upcoming controversial elections. David Brunnstrom, Michael Martina and Doina Chiacu, Reuters, October 8
China fires water cannons at Philippine boats that ‘invaded’ waters near Scarborough Shoal. China's coastguard used water cannons against two Philippine vessels in the disputed Scarborough Shoal, claiming the boats entered Chinese waters without permission. China Coast Guard spokesman Liu Dejun stated the coastguard acted professionally and urged the Philippines to cease such actions. Philippine officials confirmed the incident but said their boats completed their resupply mission. Tensions between the two nations have escalated under Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr. Sylvie Zhuang, South China Morning Post, October 8
Vietnamese PM meets with Philippine president in Vientiane. During talks at the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính and Philippine President Marcos Jr. agreed to strengthen their countries’ strategic partnership. Key areas of focus included increasing collaboration on trade, agriculture, and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and green energy. The leaders also prioritized maritime cooperation and emphasized respect for international law. Both countries expressed a commitment to deepening ties within the ASEAN framework. Vietnam News, October 8
Philippines, China trade blame in latest South China Sea spat. Tensions flared between the Philippines and China on Tuesday after the Philippines accused China's coast guard of using water cannons to disrupt a supply mission near the disputed Scarborough Shoal. China defended its actions, claiming the Philippine vessels had intruded into Chinese waters. The Philippines denied this, stating its ships were on a routine resupply mission. The incident comes amid broader regional disputes over the South China Sea. Joe Cash and Mikhail Flores, Reuters, October 8
Myanmar to send representative to regional summit for first time in three years. Myanmar will participate in an ASEAN summit this week by sending a senior foreign ministry official, marking the junta’s first representation in three years. Since the 2021 military coup, ASEAN barred junta leaders from attending. The crisis in Myanmar, including the junta’s failure to follow the “five-point consensus” for peace, is a key topic for the summit. The junta’s decision to send a delegate may indicate a shift toward engaging in regional diplomacy. The Irrawaddy, October 8
Yoon vows to complete medical reform despite prolonged standoff. President Yoon Suk Yeol reaffirmed his commitment to reform South Korea’s healthcare system, focusing on increasing the number of doctors to meet rising healthcare demands due to an aging population. Despite the ongoing protests by trainee doctors opposing the government’s plan to increase medical school quotas, Yoon emphasized the importance of pushing through with the reforms, describing them as crucial for sustaining the country’s healthcare system and preparing for future challenges. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, October 8
N. Korea amends socialist constitution at parliamentary meeting without disclosing details. North Korea revised its constitution during the 11th session of the 14th Supreme People's Assembly, according to state media, though no specifics were provided on whether clauses about unification or territorial boundaries were removed. Kim Jong-un did not attend the meeting, which also saw No Kwang-chol replace Kang Sun-nam as defense minister. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, October 9
China puts provisional tariffs on European brandy after EU OKs duties on Chinese EVs. China has announced provisional tariffs of 30.6% to 39% on European brandy, effective Friday, in response to the EU's recent approval of duties on Chinese electric vehicles. The move targets mainly French cognac brands like Martell and Hennessey, with tariffs varying by company. This retaliatory action follows China's claims of European brandy dumping and comes as tensions rise over Chinese EV exports to Europe. Ken Moritsugo, AP News, October 8
Vietnam upgrades ties with France to highest level. Vietnam and France have elevated their relationship to a "comprehensive strategic partnership" during a visit by Vietnamese President To Lam to Paris. The agreement, which emphasizes security and defense cooperation, also aims to boost collaboration in aerospace, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure. This marks a key milestone in Vietnam’s "bamboo diplomacy" and strengthens its global role. Trade between the two nations reached $3.4 billion in the first eight months of 2024. Phuong Nguyen, Reuters, October 8
USAID launches green solutions in Kyrgyzstan. USAID has launched a new five-year "Green Solutions Activity" in Kyrgyzstan, supported by a $24 million investment. The initiative aims to help small and medium enterprises adopt sustainable energy practices and increase renewable energy use. The program also includes green finance initiatives, working with local banks to promote green technologies. The launch took place at Kyrgyzstan's first rooftop photovoltaic solar plant, which is part of a broader effort to diversify the country's energy sector. Sergey Kwan, The Times of Central Asia, October 8
24 junior ministers had Unification Church ties. An investigation revealed that 24 of the 54 junior ministers in Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s Cabinet had connections to the Unification Church, although none were linked to the ruling party’s fundraising scandal. Among them, Hiroaki Saito, the newly appointed finance state minister, admitted to receiving support from the group. Justice Minister Hideki Makihara also disclosed previously undisclosed ties. Ishiba emphasized transparency in reporting any such connections. Ai Asanuma, Wataru Netsu, Kazumichi Kubota, The Asahi Shimbun, October 8
South Korea, Singapore aim to become strategic partners next year. South Korea and Singapore will upgrade their relationship to a strategic partnership in 2024, celebrating 50 years of diplomatic ties. During President Yoon Suk Yeol's state visit, both nations signed an extradition treaty and agreements on supply chains, technology, and LNG cooperation. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized the importance of deeper collaboration in defense, AI, and climate change. Joyce Lee and Xinghui Kok, Reuters, October 8
Japan, U.S. defense chiefs agree to ramp up bilateral alliance. Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin agreed in phone talks to bolster the Japan-U.S. alliance, amid growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific. They discussed the need to counter unilateral actions in the region and affirmed closer cooperation with other partners. Both sides committed to strengthening deterrence, response capabilities, and coordination between Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and U.S. military presence in Japan. Kyodo News, October 8
Singapore sets new national climate target for 2035, Govt invites public feedback. Singapore launched a public consultation on its updated decarbonisation plans, seeking input on measures such as clean energy imports and policies to reduce emissions. The government aims to submit new climate targets for 2035, with plans for net-zero emissions by 2050. The consultation addresses issues like carbon taxes, solar energy, and carbon credits, and the public is encouraged to participate via an online questionnaire. Cheryl Tan, The Straits Times, October 8
Who’s in, who’s up, and who’s really representing who in Indonesia’s regional elections? Indonesia’s regional elections on November 27 will decide key positions, from governor to district levels. Jakarta's gubernatorial race garners large attention, with Ridwan Kamil, backed by Prabowo Subianto's coalition, leading in polls but facing opposition as an outsider. Other major candidates include Pramono Anung, supported by the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle, and independent Dharma Pongrekun. In East Java, three women candidates compete, a rare gender dynamic in these elections. Erin Cook, Lowy Institute, October 9
What Japan’s new Prime Minister thinks about Indo-Pacific peace. Japan's new Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, supports strengthening Japan’s security policies, including its alliance with the U.S., advocating for an “alliance of equals.” He promotes collective security frameworks in the Indo-Pacific, with a vision for partnerships like the Quad and AUKUS to evolve into a NATO-like network. Ishiba faces domestic challenges, including economic reforms and political scandals, but his regional defense expertise offers opportunities to improve security cooperation. Jenny Bloomfield, Lowy Institute, October 8
Governor Tim Walz and Minnesota’s relations with China. Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota has faced criticism for his connections to China, including his numerous trips to the country since 1989. His engagement with Chinese officials and organizations has led to political attacks, but his record as governor shows a mixed approach. While improving economic ties, Walz did not adopt a strategic China policy, avoiding both aggressive opposition and appeasement. His administration's actions reflect pragmatic diplomacy rather than ideological alignment. Czeslaw Tubilewicz, Lowy Institute, October 9
American Public Opinion on US Foreign Policy in East Asia and the Korean Peninsula. A 2024 YouGov survey, commissioned by the Korea Economic Institute of America, reveals strong U.S. public support for maintaining alliances in East Asia, particularly with South Korea. The majority of Americans view China as the most critical foreign policy challenge, with North Korea's nuclear issue also prominent. Additionally, there is broad backing for U.S. troop presence in South Korea, with continued military cooperation seen as aligned with national security interests. Je Heon (James) Kim, Scott Snyder, Andy Hong, Jennifer Ahn, KEI, October 8
French brandy makers sacrificial lambs in China-EU trade war. In response to the EU's decision to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, China has implemented provisional anti-dumping tariffs of up to 39% on EU brandy imports, with French brands like Hennessy and Remy Martin being affected. China cites the EU’s electric vehicle tariffs as the catalyst for its retaliation, targeting French goods, particularly from industries where France plays a leading role. Jeff Pao, Asia Times, October 9
South Korea piles in with US in arming up the Philippines. South Korea has deepened its defense ties with the Philippines, joining the U.S. in bolstering Manila’s military capabilities amid growing tensions with China. South Korea will actively participate in the Philippines' $35 billion military modernization plan, supplying advanced equipment like fighter jets and warships. This shows President Yoon Suk Yeol's shift towards more assertive defense diplomacy, aligning closely with the U.S. while balancing regional relations. Richard Javad Heydarian, Asia Times, October 8
Rhodium Climate Outlook 2024: Probabilistic Global Emissions and Energy Projections. The report projects that, under current policies, the world is on track for a temperature rise of 2.7°C by the end of the century. While progress in decarbonizing power generation and transportation is evident, industrial emissions remain a challenge. The likelihood of staying below a 2°C rise increases to 68% if mid-century emissions targets are met. Expanding global net-zero targets by 2070 could push this probability to 96%. Kate Larsen et al., Rhodium Group, October 8
Women get to work in Bangladesh. Protests in Bangladesh in June 2024, which toppled Sheikh Hasina’s government, saw active leadership by female students. This shows the shift in women's roles, driven by education, labor participation, and microcredit programs. Women played a crucial part in the job quota reform movement, advocating for transparency and merit-based employment. Their participation demonstrates the changing gender dynamics and growing political influence, with economic empowerment through education and labor opportunities contributing to their increasing societal leadership. Asad Islam and Fariha Kabir, East Asia Forum, October 8
Investigation: What Happened at Buthidaung Town in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. An investigation into the May 2024 capture of Buthidaung by the Arakan Army reveals human rights abuses, including allegations of arson, killings, and forced displacement targeting the Rohingya population. Both the Arakan Army and the Myanmar military deny attacking civilians, but eyewitness accounts and reports from international bodies suggest widespread violence and involvement of Rohingya militants. The town's destruction reflects deepening ethnic tensions and ongoing conflict in Rakhine State. Rajeev Bhattacharyya, The Diplomat, October 8
Beneath Polarisation, Malaysia’s Youth Have Common Yearnings for Fairness. A 2024 survey of Malaysian youth reveals sharp polarization over ethnic privilege and equality, with 73% of Malay respondents supporting pro-Malay policies, while 92% of Chinese and Indian youth favor equality. Despite these divisions, a common theme emerges—young Malaysians across ethnic lines share dissatisfaction with the fairness of current policies, with many believing that the rich and politically connected benefit disproportionately. This shared frustration suggests potential for bridging divides through more inclusive reforms. Lee Hwok-Aun, Fulcrum, October 8