Asia Daily: October 9, 2023
News
China calls for ‘calm and restraint’ as Israel declares war after deadly Hamas raid. China has expressed deep concern over the escalating tension and violence between Palestine and Israel. The Chinese foreign ministry urged all involved parties to exercise calm and restraint, immediately cease fire, protect the civilian population, and prevent further deterioration of the situation. This call for peace comes in the wake of a surprise Hamas assault on Saturday, which led to Israeli air strikes on Gaza. By Laura Zhou for South China Morning Post, October 8
US Senate leader raises trade and fentanyl at start of 1st congressional visit to China since 2019. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stated on Saturday that the U.S. does not aim to sever economic ties with China. Schumer emphasized the U.S.'s readiness to compete without conflict. He also addressed the issue of Chinese companies that have ceased fentanyl production but are allegedly still supplying ingredients for its production in Mexico. AP News, October 7
Unification ministry urges N. Korea to immediately send detained S. Koreans back home. The South Korean unification ministry has called on North Korea to promptly repatriate a South Korean pastor and five other nationals, denouncing their prolonged detention as "illegal and inhumane." The South Korean government is actively collaborating with various sectors, including religious and civic groups, to ascertain the detainees' locations and advocate for their return. By Kim Soo-yeon for Yonhap News Agency, October 8
Kenya to seek US$1b from China for stalled railway, ‘more time’ to repay debts, deputy president says. Kenya intends to request US$1 billion from China to finance halted infrastructure projects during President William Ruto's forthcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Additionally, Kenya will advocate for loan restructuring and extended repayment durations. The funds aim to finalize the China-built Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), a major element of Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative. By Jevans Nyabiage for South China Morning Post, October 6
Indian rescuers struggle to reach flood-hit areas where over 140 are missing. Rescue efforts are underway in India as teams struggle to reach flood-affected areas where more than 140 individuals are reported missing. The situation has been exacerbated by the challenging terrain and the scale of the disaster. The floods have caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and have displaced thousands of residents. By Subrata Nag Choudhury for Reuters, October 7
Hydrogen-powered plane tech to receive Japanese aid. Japan plans to subsidize hydrogen fuel cell systems and other equipment with a total of 30.6 billion yen ($205 million), according to a report by Nikkei business daily. This move is part of Japan's efforts to promote sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions. The decision to allocate funds for electric aircraft systems comes as countries globally are looking to reduce carbon emissions and transition to greener technologies in various sectors, including aviation. By Riho Nagao for Nikkei, October 8
US restricts trade with 42 Chinese entities over Russia support. The U.S. has imposed trade restrictions on 42 Chinese entities due to their alleged support for Russia's military. This action underscores the growing concerns in Washington over the deepening ties between Beijing and Moscow, especially in the realm of military cooperation. The specific nature of the support these entities provided to Russia remains unclear. By David Shepardson, Karen Freifeld and Mike Stone for Reuters, October 7
American mountaineer, local guide dead after avalanches hit Tibetan mountain. Two others are missing Avalanches on Tibet’s Mount Shishapangma claimed the lives of an American mountaineer and a Nepalese guide. Two others are missing. The avalanches occurred at altitudes around 25,000 ft and 26,000 ft. Climbing activities on the mountain have been suspended due to snow conditions. Experts warn that climate change has heightened avalanche risks in the Himalayas. AP News, October 8
Hackers seek election division: officials. Beijing's tactics against Taiwan are evolving, with hackers now targeting network devices to disseminate disinformation ahead of Taiwan's upcoming presidential and legislative elections. Recent incidents have seen hackers infiltrate devices to spread false information, making it appear as if it originated from a Taiwanese source. By Chien Li-chung for Taipei Times, October 9
Desperate people dig out dead and injured from quakes that killed over 2,000 in Afghanistan. Powerful earthquakes in western Afghanistan have resulted in the deaths of at least 2,000 people. Entire villages were flattened, and many remain trapped under the rubble. Aid has been slow to arrive, with only a few countries, including China and Pakistan, publicly offering support. The situation is exacerbated by the region's already fragile infrastructure and the international community's hesitancy to engage with the Taliban-led government. By Riazat Butt for AP News, October 8
Long Form
Sailing South: Taiwan’s Strategic Reimagining of Regional Ties. Taiwan's relationships with Asian countries, particularly in the context of the New Southbound Policy, have been pivotal in its strategic response to China's aggressive actions. Despite the overshadowing China factor, Taiwan has made significant strides in fostering relationships, especially with India and Australia. The policy underscores Taiwan's broader vision of establishing itself as a credible partner in the Indo-Pacific region, beyond its challenges with China and its relations with the West. By Alan H. Yang and Sana Hashmi for The Diplomat, October 8
Thailand’s Mall Shooting Highlights Need to Address Online Black Markets. The recent mall shooting in Thailand is linked to a booming online black market for firearms. The shooter, a teenager, used a blank-firing pistol modified to fire live rounds, which he likely acquired online. The country's primary gun law, established in 1947, needs significant updates to address the evolving challenges posed by online markets and emerging technologies. By Michael Picard for The Diplomat, October 8
Mongolia’s Search for a Third Way. Sandwiched between two major powers, China and Russia, Mongolia has tried to maintain distance from both for three decades. As China and Russia grow closer, Mongolia's space to maneuver diminishes. The U.S. may be able to help Mongolia maintain its independence by facilitating trade, investment, and educational programs. This approach could serve as a model for U.S. engagement in Central Asia. By Tuvshinzaya Gantulga and Sergey Radchenko for Foreign Affairs, October 8
China’s Economy Ahead of the Third Plenum: The End of the “China Miracle”? China's economic performance has been a topic of debate, especially after its second-quarter economic numbers showed a 3.2% annualized growth rate. While some analysts believe that China's economic model is losing momentum, others argue that the current economic situation is a transitional phase towards President Xi Jinping’s new development model. By Bert Hofman for Asia Society, October 2023
The Breaking Ice: A Portrait of Angst and Ennui Among Chinese Youth. Growing disillusionment and restlessness are evident among Chinese youth due to societal pressures, economic challenges, and traditional expectations. Many are grappling with feelings of angst and ennui.Contributing to the issue are cultural and societal factors, the impact of technology, the role of education, and youth aspirations in the context of China's socio-economic landscape. By Li Wei for The China Project, October 6