Asia Daily: September 3, 2024
News
Mongolia ignores an international warrant for Putin’s arrest, giving him a red-carpet welcome. Russian President Vladimir Putin was welcomed in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, despite an ICC warrant for his arrest over alleged war crimes linked to the Ukraine invasion. Mongolia, which transitioned from Soviet-era communism to democracy in the 1990s, faces economic dependence on Russia and China, complicating its obligations as an ICC member. During his visit, Putin and Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa signed agreements on energy projects, railway development, and a feasibility study for a hydroelectric plant affecting Lake Baikal. AP News, September 3
No 2 Taiwan official visiting US for 2 weeks seeks ‘better understanding’. Lin Yu-chang, the DPP secretary general and second-highest official in Taiwan, is on a 13-day visit to the US to strengthen ties and build understanding between Taiwan and the US. Lin's trip coincides with scrutiny over whether Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has gained Washington's trust. Lin plans to meet senior US officials and experts in Washington, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Houston, aiming to reinforce Taiwan's position amid regional tensions. Khushboo Razdan, South China Morning Post, September 3
Kyrgyzstan closes Kloop; media outlet says work will go on. Kyrgyzstan's Supreme Court upheld the decision to liquidate Kloop Media, an investigative journalism outlet known for exposing government corruption. President Sadyr Japarov defended the closure, describing it as a measure against "anarchy" rather than a restriction on free speech. Kloop plans to continue publishing online despite the court ruling. The move has been condemned by international organizations, which view it as an attack on press freedom in the region. The Times of Central Asia, September 3
Yoon, Vietnam's new leader discuss bilateral ties over phone. President Yoon Suk Yeol spoke with Vietnam’s new president and general secretary of the Communist Party, To Lam, to discuss strengthening cooperation in trade, technology, defense, and more. Yoon congratulated Lam on his leadership roles and emphasized strategic collaboration across various fields. Lam expressed a desire to advance bilateral ties and supported South Korea’s efforts to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, September 3
New checkpoint opens on Kyrgyzstan's border with China. A new checkpoint at Bedel in the Issyk-Kul region has opened along the Kyrgyz-Chinese border, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations. Announced by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, the checkpoint aims to boost trade and strengthen ties between the two countries. This is the third checkpoint along their shared border, and it is expected to enhance transport, logistics, and economic cooperation. The project has been in discussions since 1996 and was finalized during Japarov's recent visit to China. Vagit Ismailov, The Times of Central Asia, September 3
Top leader holds phone talks with Japanese PM, highlighting economy as key cooperation area. Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida discussed enhancing economic cooperation, trade, investment, and technology during a phone call. Thuong emphasized the importance of Japan as a strategic partner and expressed hopes for expanding collaboration in energy, infrastructure, and supply chains. Kishida affirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s development goals and praised Vietnam's role in regional stability. Vietnam News, September 3
Outgoing Japanese leader Kishida will visit South Korea for a summit on improving ties. Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will visit South Korea for a summit with President Yoon Suk Yeol, likely marking their final meeting before Kishida steps down. The leaders aim to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation on regional and global issues. Kishida, who announced his resignation amid political challenges, expressed hope to end his term with positive developments in Japan-South Korea ties. Discussions will also focus on addressing historical disputes and enhancing security cooperation. Kim Tong-hyung, AP News, September 3
Singapore keen to invest in Nusantara: Roeslani. Singapore is interested in investing in Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara, with companies like Sembcorp considering a US$60 million solar panel project. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, who recently visited Singapore, highlighted the warm reception by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, noting Singapore's long-standing role as Indonesia’s top investor. Discussions also included potential investments from Raffles Education Center, aligning with Indonesia's Vision 2045 to become one of the world's top five economies. Antara News, September 3
Pheu Thai Party says new cabinet ready. Thailand's Pheu Thai Party has finalized the lineup for the new cabinet, which is expected to receive royal endorsement soon. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated that the new government will prioritize addressing urgent issues without a honeymoon period. The cabinet aims to continue the policies of the previous administration, including the digital wallet handout scheme, while adjusting details to better focus on vulnerable groups. The first cabinet meeting is set to occur after the ministers take their oath before the King. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, September 3
Pope has packed first day in Indonesia with visits to president, clergy in test of stamina, health. Pope Francis began his 11-day tour of Asia and Oceania in Indonesia, meeting President Joko Widodo and addressing government officials. He also visited Jakarta’s Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral to meet with clergy and nuns, emphasizing interfaith harmony in the predominantly Muslim nation. Francis' trip aims to support Indonesia's small Catholic community and address religious intolerance, including his upcoming visit to the Istiqlal mosque for an interfaith meeting. Nicole Winfield and Edna Tarigan, AP News, September 3
China’s military prods southern Japan with eye on first island chain route: analysts. China has increased military activity near Japan, including naval and air operations around key strategic areas like the Tokara Strait and the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands, as it seeks routes through the “first island chain” controlled by U.S. allies. Analysts suggest these actions aim to collect intelligence and plan potential future operations, demonstrating China’s assertion of freedom of navigation and overflight. The moves come amid heightened military exercises and defense agreements between Japan, the U.S., and other regional partners. Khushboo Razdan, South China Morning Post, September 3
Senior Indian officer talks cooperation with Myanmar military’s No. 3. Major General Ajay Kumar Singh of India’s National Defence College met with Myanmar’s Chief of General Staff, General Maung Maung Aye, in Naypyitaw to discuss military cooperation, training, and border stability. This engagement is part of India’s ongoing military collaboration with Myanmar despite the latter's global condemnation for human rights violations. India remains a significant arms supplier to Myanmar’s military, reflecting its strategic interests in the region. The Irrawaddy, September 3
Prime Minister urges education reform, accountability for new school year. Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone called for education reforms as the new school year began, highlighting issues like high dropout rates, teacher shortages, and limited access to higher education. He urged educators and administrators to improve oversight, foster student engagement, and create supportive learning environments. The government plans to improve conditions for volunteer teachers and promote vocational education to equip students with practical skills. Kheuakham Chanlivong, The Laotian Times, September 3
On eve of FOCAC summit, China urges closer Africa ties to counter ‘surging hegemonism’. Ahead of the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, China’s special representative for African affairs, Liu Yuxi, emphasized the importance of China and Africa working together to counter "surging hegemonism" and support the interests of developing nations. Liu highlighted the shared philosophies and goals between China and Africa, stressing the need for solidarity and cooperation to promote peace and uphold the international order. The summit will host around 50 African leaders in Beijing to discuss further collaboration. Dewey Sim, South China Morning Post, September 3
Japan gov't spokesman Hayashi joins ruling party leadership election. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi announced his candidacy in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's leadership race, aiming to succeed Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Hayashi, 63, has held several key ministerial roles and promises to restore public trust in the scandal-hit party, review political funds, and push for constitutional amendments. The race has multiple contenders, with Hayashi being the second Cabinet member to enter the contest ahead of the September 27 election. Kyodo News, September 3
Cambodia ramps up efforts to combat fake news. Cambodia's government is intensifying its efforts to counter fake news, with recent incidents involving false claims about government officials. The Ministry of Information plans to launch a "Say No to Fake News!" campaign to encourage responsible information sharing among citizens. The campaign aims to raise public awareness about verifying information before dissemination and reducing the spread of misinformation. The Cambodian Journalists Alliance emphasizes the need to define fake news clearly and ensure efforts do not infringe on freedom of speech. Niem Chheng, The Phnom Penh Post, September 3
Analysis & Opinion
Hong Kong Keeps Russia’s Dark Fleet Afloat. Hong Kong is playing a critical role in enabling Russia's "dark fleet" of vessels to evade international sanctions. A report by the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation reveals that Hong Kong has become a hub for transshipment and sanctions evasion, with local companies aiding Russia by supplying restricted technologies and facilitating shipping operations for sanctioned goods. Despite global condemnation, Hong Kong's government continues to resist aligning with unilateral sanctions. Selwyn Parker, Lowy Institute, September 3
A Pilgrimage to China for Vietnam’s New Leader. Vietnam's new President, To Lam, recently visited China to strengthen bilateral relations and continue the legacy of cooperation initiated by Ho Chi Minh. The visit fosuced on historical ties and current strategic alignment, including economic collaboration and cultural exchanges. Thi Mai Anh Nguyen, Lowy Institute, September 2
Chinese State Investors Do Not Seem to Profit From Higher U.S. Interest Rates. Despite the global rise in interest rates, Chinese state investors, such as the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) and China Investment Corporation (CIC), have not seen increased profits from their U.S. investments. The reported income from foreign assets has declined, raising questions about the accuracy of China's financial data or the effectiveness of its investment strategies. Brad W. Setser, Council on Foreign Relations, September 2
The Revolving Door of Nepali Politics. Nepali politics remains unstable due to frequent power shifts, fragile alliances, and corruption. The 2022 elections saw Nepali Congress and CPN–UML emerge as the largest parties, but infighting and strategic betrayals led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Prachanda. Despite forming a "national unity government," the coalition lacks a clear agenda, focusing on maintaining power rather than pursuing reforms. Anil Sigdel, East Asia Forum, September 3
How Much of Vietnam’s Policy Reform Is Driven by FTAs? Vietnam's economic transformation from a centrally planned to a dynamic market-based economy has been influenced by various free trade agreements (FTAs). While the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) have driven reforms in intellectual property and labor laws, their impact on state-owned enterprise reform has been limited. These agreements facilitate Vietnam's integration into global supply chains but highlight challenges in achieving comprehensive reforms. Jayant Menon, East Asia Forum, September 3
Japan’s Continuing Zeal for Free Trade Agreements. Japan is actively pursuing new free trade agreements to improve economic security and resilience amid a challenging global trade environment. With FTAs already covering 80% of its trade, the Kishida government is negotiating additional agreements with the Gulf Cooperation Council, Bangladesh, and Mercosur, and restarting trilateral talks with China and South Korea. These moves aim to counter economic coercion and maintain a rules-based order, crucial for Japan's economic strategy. Saori N. Katada, East Asia Forum, September 3
Finding Home in Bishkek: Kyrgyzstan’s South Asian Expats. South Asian expats in Bishkek, primarily from India and Pakistan, face challenges such as racial violence and cultural adaptation. Despite these difficulties, many remain due to the community and opportunities in Kyrgyzstan. Entrepreneurs like Sandeep Bijawat and Nitin Rao have built businesses and cultural connections, fostering a multicultural environment amid occasional racial tensions. Jessica Sims and Haley Zehrung, The Diplomat, September 3
Kim Jong Un Abandoned Unification. What Do North Koreans Think? Kim Jong Un has officially abandoned the goal of unification with South Korea, removing pro-unification symbols and language from North Korea’s propaganda. Despite these changes, many North Koreans remain confused or resistant, retaining hopes for reunification. Surveys indicate a gap between the regime's new policies and public sentiment, with many citizens still wishing for unification as a path to a better life. Kwangbaek Lee and Rose Adams, The Diplomat, September 2
Japan’s Proactive Approach to U.S. Electoral Uncertainty. Japan is preparing for the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming U.S. presidential election by leveraging its political, economic, and security strengths. The country aims to shape U.S. engagement in the Asia-Pacific region, regardless of whether a Democratic or Republican candidate wins, to maintain regional stability and safeguard its interests. Stephen R. Nagy, The Japan Times, September 1
Golkar’s Takeover and the Waning of Joko Widodo’s Power. Indonesian President Joko Widodo's influence is diminishing as his attempts to maintain power post-presidency face setbacks. The rapid takeover of Golkar by Jokowi loyalists highlights political maneuvering but also reveals his weakening grip on power, amid rising public protests and political challenges. Made Supriatma, FULCRUM, September 3
Run For Their Money: Unequal Constituency Development Funds in Malaysia. Malaysian opposition MPs face significant challenges due to unequal distribution of Constituency Development Funds (CDFs), which favors government-aligned MPs. This practice has persisted despite various political changes, highlighting the need for reform through legislation to ensure fair and transparent fund allocation to all MPs, regardless of political affiliation. Tricia Yeoh, FULCRUM, September 2
The Waning of Malaysia’s Green Wave? Too Early to Call. The so-called "Green Wave" of support for Perikatan Nasional (PN) in Malaysia may be diminishing, as evidenced by Barisan Nasional's (BN) recent by-election win in Kelantan's Nenggiri. However, PN's continued popularity in other areas like Penang suggests that the "Green Wave" remains a significant force, albeit with fluctuating influence depending on regional dynamics and demographic factors. Syaza Shukri, FULCRUM, September 3
India, NATO, and the SCO: Why the South Asian Country Should Convene a Dialogue Between Both Organizations. India is uniquely positioned to facilitate a dialogue between NATO and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to address increasing global tensions and bridge the divide between Western and non-Western blocs. Hosting such discussions would improve India's image as a neutral power and champion of global peace, balancing its relationships with both organizations amid geopolitical conflicts. Thong Yi Shang, The Geopolitics, August 30