Grasp the pattern, read the trend

No. 21, May/2021, 4

Brought to you by CPG

Dear Readers,

The AiR team is presenting you this week’s brief on the latest events and developments in constitutional politics and governance, geopolitics and international relations in Asia.

Wishing you an informative read, I extend special greetings to readers in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Croatia, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Georgia, Guyana and Jordan, which celebrate Republic Day, Statehood Day, Independence Day, and National Day respectively in this week.

With best regards,

Henning Glaser

Editor in Chief 

Webpage: www.cpg-online.de, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CPGTU

Main Sections

• Law and Politics in East Asia

• Law and Politics in South Asia

• Law and Politics in Southeast Asia

• International Relations, Geopolitics and Security in Asia

• Announcements

Law and Politics in East Asia 

China: Advancing ‘sinicization’ and deepening CCP’s leadership in Tibet

(dql) The secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in Tibet has called for continued efforts to further ‘sinicize’ Buddhism and to crack down on separatism in the region. 

The call comes as China marks the 70th anniversary its seizure of control in Tibet in 1951 and shortly of the State Council, the country’s government, released its latest white paper on the region which concludes that after seven decades of CCP-led “peaceful liberation”, a “thousand years of darkness have dissipated,” and “Tibet has broken free from its backward, autocratic, isolated past to embrace prosperity, democracy, and an open future.” 

Criticizing foreign interference in Tibetan affairs and calling Tibetan independence a “product of imperialist aggression against China in modern times,” the report added that “only by following the Party’s guidelines for governing Tibet in a new era can the region transform into a modern and beautiful new socialist Tibet characterized by unity, prosperity, civility, and harmony.” [South China Morning Post] [State Council, China]

For a sharp criticism of the white paper decrying it as an “attempt to whitewash [China’s] colonial crimes like genocide, cultural annihilation, loot of natural resources, and blatant denial of human rights to the Tibetan people,” see [The Tibet Post]. Echoing this, recently elected leader of the Central Tibetan Administration, Tibet’s government in exile, Penpa Tsering warned of an “urgent threat” of “cultural genocide” in Tibet, while at the same time confirming that he will seek to resume talks with China. [Business Live] [Big News Network]

Led by the US, international support for the Tibetan community has grown over the past year, including rights groups and international governments accusing China of increased restrictions on Tibetan religious practice and language education. The US Congress in December approved the Tibet Policy and Support Act, which calls for the selection the next Dalai Lama by Tibetans, as well as for the establishment of a consulate in Lhasa. [Reuters]

China: Institutional expansion of Hong Kong Office

(dql) Beijing is reported set to expand the State Council’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office (HKMAO), China’s top office overseeing Hong Kong affairs, and create two new departments to be charged with national security and propaganda. The move is seen by observers as signal of the central government’s determination to prevail in the “ideological battle” in the former British colony.

Currently, the HKMAO is overseeing seven departments including secretary and administration, general affairs, policy and research, liaison, exchange and cooperation, law, and institutional party committee (personnel). [South China Morning Post]

Japan: Ruling party approves LGBT anti-discrimination bill

(dql) Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) approved a cross-party bill which aims at promoting greater awareness among the public of sexual minorities in country. Based on the outline laid out by the LDP panel, the bill contains the phrase "discrimination is unacceptable" which has been controversial within the party, reflected for example in a remark of LDP lawmaker Kazuo Yana in a party meeting warning that LGBT community members behave against the preservation of the species, while sexual minority couples were not "productive." The remark caused a backlash among opposition parties and rights activists. Its inclusion in the bill indicates that the party has met requests the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and others. 

Although a number of municipalities across Japan offer partnerships between members of the LGBT community, marriage is not legally recognized in the country. [Mainichi News] [Channel News Asia]

In related latest development, a joint defense panel of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party approved a draft proposal for the government which suggests – among other – to “drastically” increase the country’s defense budget in the wake of increased concerns over China’s security threats in the East and South China seas. [Mainichi News]

Mongolia: Presidential election campaign kicks off 

(nm) With the nation’s General Election Commission (GEC) approving the candidates nominated by three political parties and coalitions, Mongolia’s presidential election race has officially kicked off. As only groups represented in the State Great Khural, Mongolia’s parliament, are tasked with presenting presidential candidates, the GEC approved nominations by the ruling Mongolian People Party, the Democratic Party, and the Right Person Electorate Coalition for the upcoming June 9 elections. Candidates now have the possibility to engage with voters until the end of June 7, while their declaration of income and assets as well as their actions plan are laid open to the public. [AKIPress]

Recently, concerns have intensified about Mongolia’s human rights situation and democracy, including restrictions to the freedom of expression. [AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3]

South Korea: Ruling party’s real estate policy exposes internal division  

(nm) South Korea’s ruling Democratic Party (DP) is facing internal opposition as the party’s new leadership introduced its revised real estate policy, exposing internal party divisions. The DP’s new special real estate committee is currently considering measures to lower property tax burdens on homeowners and to loosen lending rules for first-time homebuyers, triggering opposition by some DP members who criticize that the measures are intended to “cut taxes for the rich.” 

After crushing defeats in recent local elections which are seen as key barometers for next year’s presidential election, the DP is currently seeking to reattract voters. Amid soaring housing prices and a major real estate scandal, housing policies have often been blamed for the defeats. [Korea Herald]

In a different bid to attract young voters, politicians also hotly debate South Korea’s mandatory military service which is seen by some as unjustly targeting young men without proper recognition or compensation, leading to especially dire poll results in this voter group. In April, one DP lawmaker suggested introducing female conscription in order to promote gender equality. According to a recent statement by South Korea’s gender equality minister, the debate had, however, inflamed divisions between the sexes rather than narrowed social gaps. [SCMP]

South Korea: All local governments pledge carbon neutrality by 2050 

(nm) All local governments of South Korea have pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, promising steps to implement climate-friendly plans in phases, to explore projects that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and to enhance their adaptability to the climate crisis. Federal Environment Minister Han Jeoung-ae celebrated the declaration, saying it marked the first time globally that every local government of a country made such commitments, adding carbon neutrality could not be achieved without the involvement of local governments. He also vowed to lend technical and financial support. 

The declaration marks the beginning of the “Green Future Week” which leads up to the 2021 P4G Seoul Summit, an international event hosted by South Korea that seeks to foster market-based partnerships that support sustainable and green growth. In October 2020, President Moon Jae-in had already declared his country’s commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. [Korea Herald] [IISD]

Law and Politics in South Asia 

Bangladesh: Prominent journalist arrested and charged over alleged document theft

(lm) One of Bangladesh’s most prominent investigative journalists, known for her strong reporting on official corruption, was granted bail on May 23, after her detention on charges of violating the colonial-era Official Secrets Act had sparked days of nationwide protests. [The Straits Times] [The Wire]

Rozina Islam, a senior reporter at the daily Prothom Alo newspaper faces criminal charges under the Penal Code and Official Secrets Act for the theft and photographing of sensitive state documents related to government negotiations to purchase coronavirus vaccines. If convicted, she faces up to 14 years in prison and the possibility of a death penalty. Several journalists’ bodies and rights organizations condemned the government’s move. [Committee to Protect Journalists] [Human Rights Watch] [The Guardian]

She was detained on May 17; her family claims she suffered physical assaults and “mental torture” while being held for more than five hours in a room of a personal assistant at the Ministry of Health before being handed over to police. The following day, she appeared in court, where police sought to remanded in their custody for five days and defense lawyers sought her release on bail. The magistrate rejected both appeals and sent her to jail until her next court appearance. [The Washington Post]

While being taken to the jail from the courts, Islam briefly told reporters that she is facing charges because of her anti-corruption reporting, including her investigations into bribery and corruption in the recruitment of medical staff and irregularities in the health ministry’s procurement of health equipment.

India: Farmers threatens to escalate protest if central government does not resume talks

(ad) While the country is currently grappling with one of the largest coronavirus outbreaks in the world, farmers are continuing to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to repeal three controversial agricultural reforms that they say will leave them at the mercy of corporations. [Deutsche Welle]

Months after talks between the government and farmers were suspended, the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Joint Farmers Front, SKM), an umbrella body of 40 farmers’ unions, on May 21 reached out to Prime Minister Modi, calling for his “immediate intervention”. The SKM as a whole has been protesting for nearly six months against the Centre’s agricultural laws. They have asked PM Modi to “resume talks” citing that the discussion of the laws was crucial. [The Indian Express 1]

12 major opposition parties also supported the SKM’s statement for nationwide protest on May 26, stating that the Centre needed to repeal the farm laws to protect farmers from becoming victims of the pandemic and large corporations. [The Indian Express 2]

In the meanwhile, the government has strongly appealed to the farmers to call off the protest as it could become a “super spreader”. Moreover, amid severe nationwide oxygen shortages, some leaders of Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party have leveled unfounded allegations that farmers were blocking oxygen cylinders and essential supplies from entering New Delhi. However, the farmers stated in their letter that the talks were “itself a life and death matter” and it was absolutely essential for them to be protected from corporate businesses. [Reuters]

India: In the midst of COVID-19, country faces ‘black fungus’ epidemic

(ad) While the country is grappling with the worst COVID-19 outbreak in the world, states across India have begun declaring a “black fungus” epidemic. 

A rare infection with a 50 percent mortality rate, the fungal disease affects recovered or recovering COVID-19 patients. Doctors seem to be correlating steroids used to treat COVID-19 and black fungus. Some are also suggesting that unhygienic conditions in hospitals allowed infections to rise. Moreover, patients with diabetes or weaker immune systems are more prone to the fungal disease. [CNA]

Health authorities have urged India’s 29 states to declare the disease an epidemic, with states like Gujarat and Telangana complying, while other states setting up wards to treat those infected. The epidemic has also led to a shortage in vital anti-fungal drugs, adding to the helplessness of the situation. [The Guardian]

The rise of black fungus has also led to opposition leader Sonia Gandhi from the Indian National Congress calling for an increase in antifungal drugs. In a letter to Prime Minister Modi, Gandhi called for “immediate action” in order to “bring relief” to those afflicted with black fungus. [BBC] [Twitter]

India: Government orders social media companies to remove content referring to ‘Indian variant’

(ad) The Information Technology Ministry on May 21 instructed social media companies in India to remove any content that refers to the “Indian variant” of COVID-19. The ministry stated that the term had no legitimacy as World Health Organization (WHO) had already classified the variant as B.1.617. [bbc] [Reuters]

Variants of the coronavirus are generally referred to based on the locations they were identified, including the United Kingdom, Brazil and South Africa variants. B.1.617, a more transmissible variant, was first detected in India last year and has spread to dozens of countries.

The latest order comes after Prime Minister Modi’s government last month told social media giants Twitter and Facebook to remove some posts critical of the prime minister’s handling of the second wave of the pandemic.

India's government earlier in February introduced guidelines it said were intended to restrain the spread of misinformation and inflammatory content. If what is termed "unlawful" material appears on a platform, the company can be given a takedown order. If it does not comply within a deadline, it can face the possibility of prosecution [see AiR No. 9, March/2021, 1]. The rules have come under criticism from news portals, journalists’ bodies and internet freedom advocates [see AiR No. 9, March/2021, 1].

India: Government to launch BBC World-like international TV channel

(ad) Weeks after receiving harsh coverage of the country’s COVID-19 surge, the Indian government looks to launch its own international news channel. [The Print]

While India’s vast media have become increasingly subservient to the government since Modi was first elected Prime Minister seven years ago, various newspapers have pulled their punches and started criticizing the Modi government’s handling of the second wave of COVID-19 infections. [CNN] [Washington Post]

Against this backdrop, state-owned broadcaster Doordarshan (DD), proposed to launch an Indian BBC World of sorts, designed to express India’s perspective of global politics and events. Although DD is autonomous, one can question the credibility of the news it presents and the influence of propaganda on its content. 

Maldives: President appoints special envoy to monitor investigation into attack on former president

(lm) President Ibrahim Solih has appointed Abbas Faiz as the government’s special envoy to oversee the investigation of suspects linked to the assassination attempt on Parliament Speaker and former President Mohamed Nasheed [see AiR No. 19, May/2021, 2]. [Xinhua]

An expert in Human Rights, Faiz formerly served as Amnesty International's Senior Researcher on South Asia. He currently teaches Human Rights at the School of Law at the University of Essex.

Meanwhile, police on May 20 arrested a known Islamist extremist in connection with the attack, the fourth person to be arrested [see AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3]. [The Straits Times]

Nepal: President dissolves parliament amid pandemic crisis, calls new elections for November

(lm) Nepal’s President Bidya Devi Bhandari on May 22 dissolved the parliament for the second time in five months, deepening a political crisis in the country. Opposition politicians expressed surprise, apparently daunted by the prospect of planning for an election while Nepal struggles with a devastating COVID-19 outbreak.

President Bhandari announced the move shortly after midnight, observing that neither caretaker Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli nor Sher Bahadur Deuba, leader of the opposition Nepali Congress (NC), had been able to demonstrate a majority to form a new government by the May 21 deadline set by Bhandari. New elections would be held in two phases on November 12 and 19. [The New York Times] [The Straits Times]

The statement also said that the decision was made on the recommendation of the cabinet headed by caretaker Prime Minister Oli, who had summoned an emergency meeting of the Council of Ministers close to midnight, immediately after the president had rejected claims of both the aspirants for the PM's post - Oli and Deuba, citing their claims were short of required provisions. [The Himalayan Times 1] [The Himalayan Times 2]

Oli was reappointed as prime minister only two weeks ago as no leader could muster a majority after the veteran communist lost a vote of confidence. As the leader of a minority government, Oli was to prove he had the majority support of lawmakers within 30 days – a struggle since his own party had split and other parties were unwilling to support him. [AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3]

Nepal: President issues ordinance to amend citizenship act

(lm) President Bidya Devi Bhandari on May 23 issued an ordinance to amend the Nepali Citizenship Act at the recommendation of the Council of Ministers chaired by caretaker Prime Minister Oli.

As per the ordinance, citizenship by descent will be provided to offsprings of 'bona fide' citizens of Nepal, those owning citizenship by birthright. Further, the children whose mothers are Nepali citizens, but their fathers' identities cannot be established, will be granted Nepali citizenship. [Business Standard] [The Himalayan Times]

The ordinance assumes added significance, because a bill to amend the Nepali Citizenship Act has been pending in parliament since August of 2018, with the prime minister’s now-defunct Nepal Communist Party (NCP) unwilling to pass the bill in the House.

In June of 2020, against the larger backdrop of border tension with neighboring India, the NCP re-introduced the long-dormant bill to parliament. At the time, the revised bill mandated foreign women married to Nepali men to wait seven years before becoming naturalized residents, while at the same time not granting Nepali women the right to similarly extend their citizenship to foreign husbands [AiR No. 26, June/2020, 5].

The amendment is expected to especially affect families living along the southern plane known as the Terai region, where cross-border marriage is particularly prevalent. Observers therefore believe the ordinance to be an attempt by the prime minister to appease a faction of the People’s Socialist Party, Nepal, (PSP-N), which represents the Madhesi, people of Indian ancestry residing in the Terai that make up about 20 percent of the country’s total population. [The Kathmandu Post]

Lawmakers close to leaders of the now-defunct Rastriya Janata Party Nepal (RJPN) stayed neutral when the trust motion tabled by the prime minister was put to vote in parliament’s lower house earlier this month [see AiR No. 19, May/2021, 2]. What is more, the faction then refused to support the opposition alliance of Nepali Congress (NC) and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) (CPN(M)), and thereby allowed Oli to lead a minority government, albeit temporarily [see AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3].

Nepal: Army forges deal with Chinese companies on expressway, ignores parliamentary committee

(lm) The Nepalese Army (NA) has awarded contracts to build sections of an expressway scheme to two Chinese companies despite a ruling from a parliamentary committee that the project should be halted over irregularities in the procurement process. [The Kathmandu Post]

The deal was to build tunnels and bridges for the Kathmandu-to-Terai Fast Track motorway, a $1 billion highway that will link the Nepalese capital Kathmandu with Nijgadh in the southern plains and cut travel time by about a third.

Last month, Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee directed the scrapping of the entire process after it had found the deal violated the competitive bidding process set out in the country’s 2015 Public Procurement Act. Some 22 companies expressed interest in bidding for the project, but the army considered only Poly Changda for the second package of work. The first package, which also involves tunnels and bridges, was awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation. The company bid unsuccessfully for the second package. [Global Construction Review]

Pakistan: Senior member of Prime Minister Khan’s ruling party forms breakaway group

(ra) A senior member of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has formed a breakaway group in the lower house of parliament and the assembly of Punjab state, following a recent fallout with the prime minister. [The Express Tribune]

Businessman and sugar tycoon Jahangir Khan Tareen is backed by 40 lawmakers of the federal National Assembly and the provincial Legislative Assembly of Punjab. Members of group have alleged that the PTI-led government in the state was targeting them with fake legal cases. Notably, Tareen is currently being investigated in a sugar scam case and appeared before court on May 19 for renewal of his bail. [Geo News] [The Straits Times]

The move assumes added significance, for Tareen is seen as a kingmaker known to have wooed many politicians to join Khan's PTI, prior to the general election in 2018. He is also considered as having played a vital role in putting together the PTI’s government in Punjab in 2019, efforts that were lauded as instrumental by the prime minister.

By May 21, however, the group seemed to have lost some momentum, after its members had failed to follow through with plans voiced earlier, including abstaining from an upcoming budget session and lodging formal complaints on the alleged vindictive actions against them. [Dawn]

Pakistan: Domestic violence cases spike amid COVID-19 surge

(ra) A Pakistan-based advocacy organization has called on the government to implement laws to better protect women and children, after it had found that eight out of nine research indicators including domestic violence had high occurrence across the country in 2020. Observers say that as Pakistan experiences another lockdown, domestic violence cases are likely to increase.

Because incidences of violence were missing from official government records, the Sustainable Social Development Organization begun gathering data of the registered cases and reported against a total of nine research indicators, including domestic violence, violence against women and child abuse among others.

According to the report, there was a spike in calls reporting domestic violence, amid the nationwide partial lockdown from April to May 2020. In January 2020, there were 2,096 calls, a number which increased to 3,090 calls in May 2020 – corresponding with the lockdown. During the last six months of 2020, more than 1,400 cases of domestic violence and almost 9,500 cases of violence against were reported. [The Nation]

The report revealed that the highest number of domestic violence cases were reported in the state of Punjab, which witnessed a 25 percent rise in domestic violence when the partial lockdown began in April of last year. [Ani News]

Pakistan: Mob attacks police station in capital Islamabad, demands blasphemy accused be handed over

(ra) A mob attacked a police station in the capital Islamabad on May 18, allegedly in an attempt to lynch a man who was detained there on charges of blasphemy. The mob overwhelmed the police station’s guards and managed to enter, ransacking it. Reinforcements, which included the counterterrorism department and anti-riot unit were deployed to rescue staff in the police station by using tear gas and batons on the mob. [Swarajya] [The Hindu]

Sri Lanka: Parliament passes law to create powerful Colombo Port City Economic Commission

(lm) Sri Lanka’s Parliament on May 20 passed a law installing a high-powered economic commission to administer a Chinese-funded development project in the capital Colombo, after altering elements of the bill ruled unconstitutional by the country’s Supreme Court (SC). The bill to create the Colombo Port City Economic Commission (CPCEC) passed with a 149-58 vote in Sri Lanka’s 225-member Parliament.

A $1.4 billion joint venture project between a Chinese state-owned enterprise and the Sri Lankan government, the Colombo Port City (CPC) includes the creation of a financial district - pitched as a new hub between Singapore and Dubai - through offshore land reclamation. Sri Lanka regularly discredits concerns that the CPC, alongside with other Chinese-backed infrastructure projects, is part of Beijing’s alleged “dept-trap diplomacy”, saying the project would provide a lifeline for an economy hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

Late last month, the government introduced a draft bill in Parliament to pave the way for the establishment of the CPCEC [see AiR No. 16, April/2021, 3]. After hearing several petitions filed by opposition parties, civil society groups and labor unions against the proposed piece of legislation, Sri Lanka’s apex court last week decided that some elements of the bill conflicted with the Constitution, saying some clauses would need approval in a public referendum to become law. The SC also suggested ways to amend the bill so it would conform with the Constitution. [Associated Press] [Bloomberg]

The government in response amended the bill so that a majority of the five to seven commission members appointed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa will be Sri Lankan. The government rejected an opposition proposal to have part of the commission’s funds allocated by Parliament to ensure that the commission stays under direct supervision by regulators, including the state and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

Law and Politics in Southeast Asia 

Cambodia: ECCC denies request to forward case file of former Khmer Rouge naval commander

(ad/lm) The Pre-Trial Chamber of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) on May 20 denied a request of the international co-prosecutor to forward the case file of former Khmer Rouge Navy Commander Meas Muth to the trial chamber. [Khmer Times] [The Phnom Penh Post]

Muth, who was charged by the ECCC in absentia in March of 2015, is believed to have committed various crimes while acting as commander of a naval division during the Khmer Rouge regime, which ruled Cabomdia between 1975 and 1979. Among these are allegations of genocide, grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of 1949, and crimes against humanity such as murder, extermination, imprisonment, enslavement, torture and persecution on racial and political grounds.

In November 2018, the co-investigating judges assigned to the case delivered conflicting closing orders on these charges. While international co-investigating judge Michael Bohlander issued an indictment sending Muth to trial, the Cambodian court member issued an order dismissing the case. The national and international co-prosecutors and the co-lawyers for Muth each lodged separate appeals.

Last month, then, the ECCC went through another round of internal wrangling when international and Cambodian court members delivered a split decision in the appeal against the conflicting closing orders, leaving the case in limbo. While the national judges opined that that the case file simply be held at the ECCC archives, the international judges upheld the indictment. [Voice of America]

Cambodia: Villagers set up guard tents to prevent farmland clearing for airport project

(ad) 40 families living in Kandal Province, have set up guard tents and blocked roads to their village to prevent their farmlands from being cleared. The clearing was part of the new Phnom Penh International Airport project. The residents protested that they were yet to receive compensation for the loss of their farmland. For some families, the farmland has already been cleared and they are left without any compensation. 

This is the third time a company has violated an agreement of giving compensation to the owner prior to clearing their land. 2,000 plots of land are to be cleared for the airport, of which 1,000 plots have already been cleared. [The Phnom Penh Post]

Two Indonesian soldiers killed by Papuan rebel groups

(ra) Two Indonesian soldiers were killed in attack on 18 May while on patrol in the Yahukimo regency of the province Papua. Indonesian security authorities blame Papuan rebel groups for the lethal attack.

Additionally, four military personnel suffered gunshot wounds from a Papuan separatist group in Papua’s Pegunungan Bintang Regency.  

Patrolling efforts in Papua have been recently heightened after the province saw increased violent attacks by armed separatist terrorist groups over the past months, including the killing of General I Gusti Putu Danny Karya Nugraha, Papua’s intelligence chief, in April. [The Straits Times] [Antara News]

Additional 400 troops have been recently deployed in response to the worsening conflict,with regards to its resolution Paulus Waterpauw, an indigenous Papuan and head of Indonesian police intelligence, expressed his determination to suppress the separatist groups in the strongest word made so far: “The objective is to wipe out those behind these horrible acts of violence." He added that ‘[t]his operation will go on until we get the maximum result. As long as they have not been arrested, we will do our utmost to incapacitate them and catch them."  [Reuters]

Papua had declared independence from the Dutch in 1961, but Jakarta seized control  two years later. While Indonesia claims that Papuans had voted in favour of being part of Indonesia in the 1969 referendum, the vote has been widely considered as heavily rigged. 

Indonesia: Social security data leaked to hacking forum

(ra) A social media user posted on an online forum personal data one million Indonesian citizens, while claiming to have access to data of 270 million people in Indonesia. The data resemble those held by BPJS Kesehatan, Indonesia’s Healthcare and Social and Security Agency, whichruns the country’s Indonesia’s universal healthcare program. BPJS Kesehatan confirmed a social security data leak but claimed that the breach is much smaller in scale than claimed by the hacker.

Another Indonesian agency, the Communication and Information Ministry, also claimed that far fewer samples of data have been leaked, counting 100,002. [The Straits Times] 

Currently, BPJS Kesehatan is identifying the root cause of the data leak. On Friday, it was called in by Indonesian authorities to conduct this investigation. Some experts say that the data leak points to Indonesia’s weak cyber security. [Reuters]

Indonesia rises in Fragile State Index 

(ra) In the latest Fragile State Index (FSI) for 2020, Indonesia is ranked at the 96th place among 178 reviewed country. The list is topped by Yemen on the 1st place as the most fragile state worldwide, followed by Somalia and South Sudan.  The FSI, annual report published by the US think tank the Fund for Peace and the Geneva-based news magazine the New Humanitarian, measures a country’s progress in four aspects – economic, social, community cohesion and political progress. 

Indonesia has seen improvement in all aspects except for one – political progress, which has decreased due to the weakening of state legitimacy and provision of public services. [Kompas] [FSI]

Malaysia’s 1MDB scandal: Government fails to forfeit RM 114 million

(tcy) The government failed in its application to forfeit RM 114 million, allegedly belonging to UMNO and former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, as it was not able to prove to the court that the money, seized by the authorities for allegedly being linked to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal, was proceeds from money laundering. 

However, no order has yet been made for the money, which is currently with Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), to be returned to UMNO and Najib, who are third party claimants. Najib’s lawyer Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah said that he will be sending a legal letter to deputy public prosecutor for the money to be returned to their rightful owners. [Bernama] [Malay Mail]

In Najib’s ongoing 1MDB trial, his lawyers have sought to put responsibility on the now fugitive Low Taek Jho, otherwise known as Jho Low, as part of Najib’s defence against the power abuse and money laundering charges. Describing Jho Low as an “octopus” with “tentacles” in many countries, Najib’s lawyers asserted that “the real thief” who siphoned off hundreds of millions of US dollars from 1MDB funds was Jho Low. [Malay Mail]

Malaysia: 29 out of 115 initiatives of National Anti-Corruption Plan completed

(tcy) The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) announced the completion of 29 of the 115 initiatives of the National Anti-Corruption Plan (NACP) 2019-2023 as of December 31 last year. The remaining 86 initiatives are still in progress. Among the completed NACP initiatives are the introduction of asset declarations for administrator members and improvements to the policy on gifts, allowances and payments to administrative members.

The wide-ranging NACP was launched in January 2019 by the Pakatan Harapan government that was then in power. The move came in response to the massive 1MDB graft scandal and other corruption cases. [Bernama] [The Straits Times]

Malaysia: Opposition urges Parliament to reconvene as COVID-19 cases on the rise

(tcy) Democratic Action Party secretary-general Lim Guan Eng has called for the Perikatan Nasional government to reconvene Parliament to address the escalating COVID-19 situation, citing the record number of 6806 COVID-19 new cases and 59 deaths announced on May 20 as clear proof of the government’s failure to handle the pandemic. Lim has demanded for the PN government to explain why the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic fallout has taken a turn for the worse despite having had billions of ringgit in funds injected to help the situation.

Parliament has not been convened since December last year, after the King declared a nationwide state of Emergency which has suspended Parliament at least until the Emergency ends on August 1. However, Muhyiddin’s political opponents have accused the prime minister of using the Emergency to cling onto power as he fears not having the majority support among MPs required to maintain his position. Striving to “placate the chronic political insecurity of Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin”, Lim also promised that DAP MPs would not support any no-confidence motion against Muhyiddin and would only discuss COVID-19 prevention measures. [Malay Mail]

Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi appears in person in court for the first time

(lm) After weeks of delay to her legal case, Myanmar’s deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi appeared in person at a court hearing on May 23, the first time since her government was overthrown by the military in a February 1 coup. [Channel NewsAsia]

Before, in a virtual interview with a Hong Kong-based broadcaster, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing said on May 22 that Suu Kyi was healthy at home and would appear in court in a few days. During the interview, Min Aung Hlaing also reiterated that the army had seized power because it had identified fraud in an election won by Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party in November. He also said that the army would hold elections and potential changes to the constitution had been identified and would be made if they were “the people’s will”. [The Straits Times] [The Voice of America]

Prior to May 23, multiple court hearings in the capital Naypyidaw had seen Suu Kyi attending via video link from under house arrest. Since the coup, the de facto leader has been charged with six alleged crimes, including flouting COVID-19 restrictions during last year’s election campaign and possessing unlicensed walkie-talkies [see AiR No. 16, April/2021, 3]. Most seriously, she is charged with violating the country’s colonial-era Official Secrets Act – a case that is pending in a court in the city of Yangon. A conviction could carry a sentence of up to 14 years.

Myanmar: Fighting surges in growing anti-junta conflict

(lf) The military junta is fighting a growing number of conflicts, as resistance to the coup is intensifying beyond street protests and civil disobedience and some of the ethnic armed groups that have waged war for decades to demand greater autonomy have been joined by new groups opposed to the coup.

Forces of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) on May 18 attacked tanker trucks in the northern state of Shan, which is home to several armed ethnic armies, on suspicion that they were carrying aviation fuel for Myanmar’s junta. For the military has been using jet fighters to retake control of a strategic hilltop base on the Chinese border in the neighboring state of Kachin, which was seized by the KIA in late March [see AiR No. 13, March/2021, 5]. [The Irrawaddy 1]

On May 22, then, members of the KIA attacked military positions at a township in the north-western jade-mining area of Sagaing, marking an advance into new territory by the ethnic armed group. According to unconfirmed reports, the site attacked was near a mining venture that involves the Myanmar Economic Holdings (MEHL), a conglomerate controlled by Myanmar’s military. [The Straits Times 1]

More than a dozen members of the country’s security forces were killed on May 23, after heavy fighting with rebel fighters opposed to the military junta in Myanmar’s eastern fringe near the border of Southern Shan and Kayah states. The same day, a gun battle erupted between security forces and members of the KIA and three other ethnic armed groups in Muse, one of the main crossing points to China. [Arab News] [The Straits Times 2]

While the junta is struggling with new conflicts on several fronts, a militia allied to Myanmar’s military has been recruiting villagers in the state of Kachin to fight the KIA and the People’s Defence Force (PDF), a civilian anti-junta movement recently established the shadow government that fights back against security forces with homemade weapons [AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3]. [The Irrawaddy 2]

Moreover, members of the military, widely known as the Tatmadaw, have been harassing and looting from villagers in a township in the Mandalay region, since they raided the area on in mid-May, causing thousands of locals to flee to distant villages. [The Irrawaddy 3]

Myanmar: Junta releases former ultranationalist party leaders

(lf) The junta has released two pro-military ultranationalists who were arrested under the ousted National League for Democracy-led government for sedition in late January. Michael Kyaw Myint, the General Secretary of the ultranationalist Yeomanry Development Party and a central executive committee member of the YDP said on May 18 that charges against them were withdrawn at the instruction of the State Administrative Council, the military regime’s governing body. [The Irrawaddy]

Kyaw Myint has been a vocal supporter of the military since before the elections, despite singing up his own party Union Development Party for the elections. Importantly, he was among the representatives of 34 political parties that had met with coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing in August of last year, in the run-up to the November elections.

Myanmar: Election chief considers dissolving Suu Kyi's Party

(lf/lm) Myanmar’s junta-appointed election commission said on May 21 it will consider dissolving deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi's party for alleged involvement in electoral fraud and having its leaders charged with treason. [Voice of America]

The chairman of the Union Election Commission (UEE) said an investigation of last November’s elections that would soon be completed showed that Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy had illegally worked with the government to give itself an advantage at the polls. That day, political parties were called to discuss the junta's plan to change the country's election system from "first past the post" to proportional representation. Almost all the major parties — including the NLD — refused to go attend the UEE’s meeting, as they regard the body as illegitimate. [Reuters 1]

Importantly, a nonpartisan election monitoring organization on May 17 said that the results of last November’s election were “by and large, representative of the will of the people,” rejecting the narrative of the widespread electoral fraud that the junta has used to justify the coup. The Asia Network for Free Elections in a report said in a report that it "lacked sufficient information to independently verify the allegations of voter list fraud" because the election law did not allow it access to voting lists, but that it had not seen any credible evidence of any massive irregularities. [The Irrawaddy]

The European Union on May 23 therefore denounced the proposal to dissolve the NLD, underscoring that the party's victory had been confirmed by all independent domestic and international observers. [Reuters 2]

In its report, however, the group also noted that Myanmar’s electoral process is “fundamentally undemocratic” because its 2008 constitution, written during army rule, grants the military an automatic 25 percent share of all parliamentary seats, enough to block constitutional changes. Large sectors of the population, most notably the Muslim Rohingya minority, are deprived of citizenship rights, including the right to vote. [Associated Press]

Myanmar: More than 125,000 teachers suspended for opposing coup

(lf) More than 125,000 schoolteachers — nearly a third of the total — as well as almost 20,000 university staff have been suspended by the military authorities for joining the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), just days before the start of a new school year. [The Straits Times]

Since late in April, the junta has been issuing arrest warrants against teachers and education staff who joined the CDM on charges of incitement. As of May 18, 220 teachers, including professors, headmasters and headmistresses, education officers and officials, have been put on the list. But despite the pressure, an estimated 60 percent of educators and administrative staff, alongside with 80 to 90 percent of students, continue their anti-junta action. [The Irrawaddy]

Myanmar: Junta scraps retirement age for military chiefs

(lf) The military junta has eliminated its mandatory retirement age of 65 for military chiefs, thus enabling junta leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who turned 65 last month, to continue in his post. Importantly, the ministry did not set a new age limit, meaning Min Aung Hlaing and his deputy Vice Senior General Soe Win can remain in their post until they are toppled or step down voluntarily. [The Irrawaddy]

Previously, the military chief’s mandatory retirement age was 60, and Min Aung Hlaing– whose period had been extended for five years beyond that age – was originally due to step down as commander-in-chief in July this year. But the Ministry of Defense scrapped the age limit for commander-in-chief and deputy commander-in-chief on February 4, just three days after Min Aung Hlaing seized power in a coup.

Philippines: Marawi City to rehabilitate before end of Duterte’s term

(lp) President Rodrigo Duterte was urged to certify a bill compensating victims of the five-months long war in Marawi. On March 23 of 2017, the Islamic State (IS)-linked Maute Group took control of Marawi City, and the war against the government resulted in the killing of nearly one thousand terrorists and 250 government troops and civilians, injury of 1400, displacement of around 1.1 million residents. [Manila Standard]

Even though the war ended more than three years ago, the city is still undergoing rehabilitation. The government provided emergency assistance, water, food, clothing, financial and livelihood support, health services, hygiene and sanitation, biometric profiling to internally displaced persons (IDPs) during the first phase of rehabilitation from November 2017 to October 2018. Moreover, the government removed debris, recovered and detonated explosive devices during the second phase of rehabilitation from October 2018 to February 2020. Finally, the government is expected to complete the rehabilitation of infrastructure projects inside the most affected areas by December 2021 in accordance with the third phase of rehabilitation. [Manila Bulletin]

Singapore: Authorities order Facebook, Twitter to carry correction notice on virus strain

(tcy) Singapore on May 20 issued correction orders to Facebook and Twitter to carry a correction notice to users of the social media platforms in the country over what it says is a false statement about a new virus variant originating in Singapore. [Reuters]

The move came after an Indian chief minister in a Twitter post on May 18 claimed a “new strain” of COVID-19 found in Singapore could result in a third wave of infections in India and urged for a ban on flights. Both the Singapore and Indian governments have criticized the opposition politician, with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar saying the comments were “irresponsible.” Singapore’s Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, in turn, reiterated that the two countries should focus on resolving the pandemic situation in their respective countries and helping one another. [Mothership.sg] [The Straits Times]

The correction orders were issued under Singapore's fake news law, or the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act, which gives the government significant leverage over social media platforms and users to issue corrections or remove posts it finds to contain falsehoods. Facebook and Twitter confirmed receipt of the order and said they complied as per the local law.

Thailand: Anniversary of coup draws stinging criticism from opposition

(pr) May 22 marked seven years since the Royal Thai Armed Forces, led by then Commander of the Royal Thai Army, General Prayut Chan-o-Cha launched a coup d'état against the caretaker government of then Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra.

Over the weekend, academics and leading opposition politicians, including former Pheu Thai strategist, Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, used the occasion to castigate the current government, calling the past seven years a lost opportunity to reform the country and pursue reconciliation. [Thai Examiner]

The government, currently engaged in a battle against a third wave of COVID-19 infections, was also the subject of a broadside of former Prime Minister Yingluck. Taking to social media, she referred to the time since the coup as “years when the people’s voice means nothing, […] when people are hopelessly waiting for a new constitution”. [Bangkok Post 1]

Looking into the future, some observers expect Prime Minister Prayut to remain in power for another four years after the next parliamentary election scheduled in 2023 due to the constitutional design of the 2017 Charter drafted under the watchful eye of the military. [Bangkok Post 2] Besides the disqualifications of oppositional figures and the dissolution of opposition parties since the 2019 elections, the election system and the role of 250 unelected Senators in electing the Prime Minister together with 500 elected Representatives make a change of power hardly conceivable. 

The mixed-member proportional representation election system makes a single-party majority in the lower house hardly possible. As such, senators handpicked by Prime Minister Prayut will have a key role in in choosing the next prime minister. Trillions of baht in money handouts, and political support bases established by influential politicians also helped secure his support base. 

Thailand: Government to borrow additional $15.9 billion, closes in on nation’s debt ceiling

(pr/lm) A new emergency decree allows the Ministry of Finance to borrow an additional $15.9 billion to restore Thailand’s battered economy and combat the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. [The Nation Thailand 1]

The fresh borrowing comes as a third wave of COVID-19 infections has clouded the outlook for the tourism-dependent country, with the finance ministry having almost completely exhausted a 1-trillion baht stimulus package authorized by the Senate in June of last year [see AiR No. 23, June/2020, 2].

The government proposes to spend approx. $5.4 billion of the new borrowing to help various sections of Thai society affected by the latest outbreak, while around $9.5 billion will be used to finance stimulus measure for the economy. The remaining $950 million have been earmarked for the purchase of medical supplies and vaccines shots to contain the latest outbreak. [Bloomberg] [The Nation Thailand]

Before the announcement, a meeting of the cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha approved a draft executive decree allowing the finance ministry to borrow an additional $ 22.3 billion. [Bangkok Post 1]

A former finance minister days later petitioned the Supreme Administrative Court asking it to revoke the cabinet’s approval, while the main opposition Pheu Thai Party (PTP) called on the government to cut back on the defense spending, instead. [Bangkok Post 2][Bangkok Post 3]

According to the Public Debt Management Office, the reduction of the loan by almost 25 percent was necessitated by the suitability and necessity requirements. However, it is worth noting that, with the additional borrowing, Thailand’s public debt-to-gross domestic product ratio may rise to 58.6 percent by September, which is close to the fiscal sustainability framework ceiling of 60 percent. Thereafter, the government will need to issue an emergency law that needs to be endorsed by the King before the public debt management office can begin raising fresh debt. [Thansettakij, in Thai]

Thailand: Government considers releasing inmates, as COVID-19 infections in prisons worsens

(pr) Thailand is considering cutting its prison population by as much as 16 percent to counter the rapid spread of infections of infections among inmates and workers in overcrowded facilities. The Corrections Department (CD) last week reported a total of 11,670 COVID-19 infections in prisons nationwide. [Bloomberg] [CNN]

Thailand's prison clusters came to light when several pro-democracy protest leaders, accused of insulting the monarchy and held in pre-trial detention, announced they had tested positive for COVID-19 after being released on bail. Following the news, Thai authorities began mass testing the country's prison population [see AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3]. 

At about 311,000 inmates, prisons in Thailand are exceeding their capacity by 5 percent. More than 80 percent of those incarcerated face charges for narcotics violations. Thus, the Justice Ministry is looking at a special early-release program for about 50,000 inmates, that could include the use of electronic-monitoring systems and adjustment of criteria. [Prachatai English]

In addition, the current priority is to administer vaccines to inmates and officers. In the long term, drug laws shall be amended for shorter sentences and to become more rehabilitation-focused. [Bangkok Post]

Thailand: Anti-Corruption body publishes assets of former ministers, lawmaker

(pr) The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has published the declared assets and liabilities of three former ministers following their exit from the cabinet earlier in February after being sentenced to imprisonment. The former cabinet members – two ministers and a deputy-minister – were among a group of 14 political leaders handed jail terms ranging from five years to seven years and four months in February for their involvement in the 2013-2014 protests [see AiR No. 9, March/2021, 1]. [Bangkok Post]

Under the Constitution, ministers must not have been sentenced to imprisonment regardless of whether the ruling was final or whether the jail term was suspended except if the offense was a minor offense. Further, under the Organic Act on Counter Corruption, holders of political positions must declare their assets and liabilities to the NACC prior to and after holding office.

The NACC also published the assets of former Democrat lawmaker Thepthai Senpong, who was convicted of vote-buying in a 2014 local election. The Appeals Court last week upheld the two-year prison sentence against Thepthai and his younger brother. Both are seeking to appeal to the Supreme Court [see AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3].

Thailand: New law granting more power to combat fake news ready is coming

(pr) A draft bill enabling authorities to collect log flies from internet providers and overseeing the registration of social media platforms is planned to be completed next month. The Ministry of Digital, Economy and Society (MDES) is working on amending the key legislation used by Thai authorities to limit the dissemination of false information. [Bangkok Post]

Under the 2007 Computer Crime Act content-related offenses such as dissemination of false information or defamation, as opposed to computer system offenses, are punishable up to five years of imprisonment. 

On a related note, the MDES’s Anti-Fake News Center, a task force set up last month to combat so-called “false information” surrounding COVID-19 [see AiR No. 18, May/2021, 1], has so far examined almost 350 news stories, 121 of which were deemed fake, 24 were considered distorted, and 15 were found to be accurate.

Thailand: Activist groups call for Prime Minister Prayut to resign

(pr) Amidst a worsening COVID-19 crisis, politics in Thailand have taken a surprising twist, as supporters of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-Ocha have joined calls for the leader to resign and pave the way for a prime minister not nominated by a political party.

The Prachachon Khonthai group (The Peoples of Thailand) lodged a petition with the government's complaint center, claiming that in his seven years in office, Prime Minister Prayut had failed to carry out national reforms, eradicate corruption, resolve the COVID-19 crisis, and allowed insults of the monarchy. [Bangkok Post 1]

To many observers, the move came as a surprise, for the leadership of the group includes key members of the now-defunct royalist political pressure groups People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) and People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC). Both umbrella groups had played a leading role in the protests against former Prime Ministers Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra and in support of the military government that ousted them, which includes incumbent Prime Minister Prayut.

The group was established in September 2020 and had rallied in support of the royal institution back in October last year by submitting a letter to the German Embassy in Bangkok, as a countermove to the anti-government protestors submission of a letter relating to the King’s presence in Germany [see AiR No. 43, October/2020, 4]. The group also protested at the United States’ embassy in Bangkok against alleged US interference in Thailand’s internal affairs earlier in April [see AiR No. 17, April/2021, 4].

Therefore, the group’s motive is still unclear. Some observers believe that they acted in discontent as the prime minister distanced himself from his political allies increasingly relying on the senior bureaucracy. However, the group still has few powerful allies.

Interestingly, a progressive anti-government group called Samakkhi Prachachon (Thai people) also submitted a letter to the Prime Minister’s Office to demand Prime Minister Prayut to resign. Members of the group include anti-government activist Adul Khiewboriboon and Jatuporn Prompan, the chairman of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD). [Bangkok Post 2] [MGR Online, in Thai] [Thai PBS World]

Thailand: More charges against critics of government’s handling of pandemic and vaccine policy

(pr) Two more people are facing legal charges under the country’s lèse majesté law and the Computer Crime Act for criticizing the government’s handling of allegedly sharing false information on the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last week, the Office of the Prime Minister, filed a report with the police against a popular singer and economic analyst who he alleged of having defamed the royal institution and sharing false information on the coronavirus pandemic on social media. [Prachatai English 1]

Separately, a social media user reported to police after the Office of the Prime Minister had filed a complaint as she had posted a short video clip criticizing the Thai government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The woman denied all charges and is required to report back on July 13 to the public prosecutor. [Prachatai 2]

These two were not the only people who were vocal of the government’s vaccine policy that has been prosecuted. Other notable figures include opposition politican Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit and leader of the student protests Parit “Penguin” Chiwarak [see e.g. AiR No. 4, January/2021, 4]

Thailand: Three protestors summoned for allegedly violating Emergency Decree

(pr) Three people, including the mother of prominent political activist Panusaya "Rung" Sithijirawattanakul, have received a police summons on charges of violating the Emergency Decree. [Prachatai English]

All three are accused of having participated in a series of protests held since March at various locations across Bangkok to demand the release of activists detained in pretrial detention. The Decree prohibits gatherings of more than 20 people, but the activists say that they complied with all requirements.

Interestingly, no other participants in the “Stand Against Detention” protest have so far been charged with violating the Emergency Decree, according to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR). [Twitter, in Thai]

Vietnam: Election held for largely rubber-stamp legislature dominated by ruling Communist Party

(lm) Legislative elections were held in Vietnam on May 23 to elect members of the National Assembly and the People’s Councils at all levels for the 2021-2026 term. Results of the elections are expected in June. [Reuters]

The elections follow the twice-a-decade National Congress of the ruling Communist Party (VCP), which saw the appointments of the country’s top four leadership posts – secretary general, state president, prime minister, and chair of the National Assembly – for the coming five-year term [see AiR No. 5, February/2021, 1].

Constitutionally, the National Assembly is the highest government organization and the highest-level representative body of the Vietnamese people. Ultimately, however, the VCP - one of the last ruling communist parties in the world - has great influence over the legislature and, as in previous elections, is expected to dominate the polls and extend its rule for the next five years. 

For the National Election Commission, established by the NA and responsible for organizing the election, is headed by Vuong Dinh Hue, a high-ranking party member who earlier this year was appointed Chairman of the National Assembly.

Moreover, the law mandates a particular significant role in electoral nominations of the Vietnamese Fatherland Front, an umbrella group of mass movements largely subservient to the ruling Communist Party. Specifically, endorsement by the Front is generally required (in practice, if not in theory) to be a candidate for election.

In addition to a vetting process that favors VCP members, at least two independent candidates have been arrested, and several others subjected to harassment and intimidation by police for their involvement in the election and for criticizing government policies. [The Diplomat]

It does not come as a surprise, then, that some 92 per cent of 868 candidates standing for the 500-seat legislature are party members, including most of the party's decision-making politburo and all 180 members of its Central Committee. Further, only 74 independent candidates are standing in the election, down from the 97 in the previous elections in 2016, while local media say the number of assembly deputies who were not party members halved over the last three elections. [The Straits Times]

International Relations, Geopolitics and Security in Asia

China: Xi promises to support Covid-response of developing countries with 3 billion USD 

(dql) Underscoring China’s claim to leadership in global health governance, Chinese President Xi Jinping has pledged 3 billion USD in aid over the next three years to help developing countries recover from the coronavirus pandemic at last week’s G20 Global Health Summit, co-hosted by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi. Xi also proposed to establish an international forum on vaccine cooperation. [South China Morning Post]

The pledge comes only days after US President Biden announced plans to distribute some 80 million doses of the vaccine overseas by the end of June. Earlier in February Biden announced at G7 virtual summit that the US would provide up to 4 billion USD to COVAX, the World Health Organization-backed initiative aimed at ensuring equitable access to vaccines around the world. [AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3] [US Today]

China-US relations: Biden administration extends deadline of ban on Chinese-military linked securities

(dql) The US Treasury Department has announced that it has extended the deadline to ban American investors from certain Chinese companies by two weeks allowing them to trade securities in subsidiaries of blacklisted Chinese companies until June 11.

In November last year, former president Donald Trump signed an executive order which prohibited US investment in companies the US Defence Department claimed were linked to the Chinese military. More than 40 Chinese firms have been put on the list. [South China Morning Post]

China-US relations: US lawmakers hit out against Beijing Olympics

(dql) US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called for a US diplomatic boycott of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, citing an “a genocide that is ongoing” in China, while warning that global leaders who attend would lose their moral authority. [Reuters]

Echoing Pelosi’s stance, Massachusetts Democrat Representative Jim McGovern suggested: “If we can postpone an Olympics by a year for a pandemic, we can surely postpone an Olympics for a year for a genocide,” adding that this “would give the IOC time to relocate to a country whose government is not committing atrocities.” [South China Morning Post]

China-UK relations: Boris John sends warning towards Beijing ahead of aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth’s historic maiden deployment to Asia

(dql) Ahead of the maiden deployment of the Britain’s flagship aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth to Asia, Prime Minister Boris Johnson sent a warning towards China saying that the aircraft carrier’s deployment signals the UK’s believe in the international law of the sea, adding: “One of the things we’ll be doing clearly is showing to our friends in China that we believe in the international law of the sea, and in a confident but not a confrontational way, we will be vindicating that point.” 

The UK will be sailing its largest and most powerful aircraft carrier, along with a fleet of warships, in what the Royal Navy calls its “most significant deployment” for the past 25 years. The 65,000-ton warship will carry eight British F-35B fighter jets and 10 US Marine Corps F-35s, with a 1.700-strong crew including 250 US Marines. On its journey over the next seven months, it will lead the flotilla alongside two destroyers, two frigates, a submarine and two support ships, to be joined later by a US Navy destroyer and a Dutch frigate. 

The group will sail through the Mediterranean Sea, the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, on its way to the Philippine Sea, visiting and interacting with 40 nations, with stops in India and Singapore. [Reuters] [CNN]

China-EU relations: EU Parliament freezes investment deal, Lithuania withdraws from China+17 

(dql) With overwhelming majority, the European Parliament has The European parliament has voted suspend any further consideration of the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI). With 599 votes for, 30 votes against and with 58 abstentions, the lawmakers passed a resolution to demand “that China lift the sanctions before parliament can deal with the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI),” referring to sanctions Beijing imposed in March on EU politicians, think-tanks and diplomatic bodies, in response to the EU’s sanctions against Chinese officials accused of being implicit in mass detentions of Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang. [The Guardian] [Reuters] [AiR No. 12, March/2021, 4]

The decision is a setback for Sino-EU relations in general and for the investment deal in particular, agreed on in principle between leaders of the EU and China in December after seven years of negotiations and since then awaiting its ratification by the assembly.  

In another blow for China’s ambitions in Europe, Lithuania has decided to withdrawn from the 17+1 cooperation mechanism between China and Central and Eastern Europe Countries (China-CEECs). Commenting on this decision, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis sharply said: “"There is no such thing as 17+1 anymore, as for practical purposes Lithuania is out," adding a call on the EU to urgently “move from a dividing 16+1 format to a more uniting and therefore much more efficient 27+1.” [Politico]

China-Russia relations: Agreement on deepening nuclear cooperation 

(dql) In a latest sign of increasingly close relations between China and Russia, both countries have agreed to deepen cooperation on nuclear energy and pledged to play a bigger role to combat climate change. The pledge was made during the launch of the construction of four new reactors at two nuclear plants in China, witnessed via video link by Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. 

Using Russian technology, the reactors along with the plants – Tianwan in Jiangsu and Xudapu in Liaoning – are part of a 2.9 billion USD nuclear energy deal concluded in 2018. The reactors are expected to produce 37.6 billion kilowatt-hours annually in full capacity by 2026, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 30.7 million tonnes per year. [South China Morning Post] [Asia Times]

China-Iran relations: Xi pledges support for Tehran’s demands concerning reviving nuclear deal

(dql) During a phone call on Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping assured his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani of Beijing’s support for Theran’s demands in efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal as well as its commitment to safeguarding both countries’ common interests. [CGTN]

Xi’s assurance comes amid uncertainties about the future of the nuclear deal from which the US withdrew in 2018. Subsequent US sanctions imposed on Iran have since then deepened the rift between Tehran and Washington and its allies.

In a latest development, Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the global nuclear watchdog, have agreed to extend a technical agreement reached in February for one month until June 24, providing an important window for the ongoing negotiations in Vienna aimed at reinstating the nuclear. Under the agreement the IAEA is allowed to maintain its monitoring equipment at Iranian nuclear sites, while Iran will keep the tapes until the nuclear deal is restored and the US sanctions are lifted. [Aljazeera]

Cross-strait relations: Possibility of China-Taiwan war at “all-time-high”, Chinese research institute says

(dql) According to a report of the Hong Kong-based China Cross-Strait Academy, the possibility of a full-scale war between China and Taiwan has reached an ‘all-time high’, identifying the risk level at 7.21 for 2021 on a scale of 10, compared with 6.7 in the early 1950s, when the Nationalist forces escaped from the mainland to Taiwan, above 6.5 for much of the 1970s, 4.55 in 1978 when the US established diplomatic ties with Beijing, and again over 6 during the Trump administration. The report cites for its assessment of the two sides being “on the brink of war” two “destructive factors”: a shifting political dynamic across the Taiwan Strait and closer ties between the US and Taiwan.

The academy’s head Lei Xiying, who is also a committee member of the Communist Party-backed All-China Youth Federation, added that ‘[i]f the current trend continues … China’s unification of Taiwan by force will only be a matter of time.” [Express] [South China Morning Post]

Meanwhile, the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) the Taiwan Strait last week. It was the fifth time a US warship has navigated the waterway since US President Joe Biden assumed office in January. [Taipei Times]

In another move, equally angering Beijing, the US mission in Taipei together with the Australian and the Japanese mission issued a joint statement in support for the participation of Taiwan as an observer in the World Health Assembly (WHA). The statement came a day after the opening of the virtually held annual meeting of the WHA, the decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO). Taiwan, excluded for the fifth consecutive year, criticized the WHO for its “continued indifference to the health rights of Taiwan’s 23.5 million people,” and urged it to “maintain a professional and neutral stance,” and to “reject China’s political interference.” [Focus Taiwan] [Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Taiwan]

China-Vietnam relations: President Nguyen calls on President Xi to handle maritime issues according to international law

(dql) In a phone with Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for greater bilateral cooperation, suggesting to expand trade and promote high-level infrastructure connectivity through the Belt and Road Initiative. Xi, furthermore, assured that China was ready to provide Vietnam help in combatting the pandemic. [Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China]

Nguyen, meanwhile, proposed to strengthen the two countries’ cooperation against Covid-19 and to increase the quality of trade and investment ties. At the same, he also suggested that both sides “handle maritime issues “in accordance with the law and based on international rules such as the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and continue to coordinate at multilateral forums.” [VN Express]

Japan to drop 1% GDP limit of annual defense spending to cope with China

(dql) Japan’s Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi has signaled a shift in the country’s defense spending saying in an interview that Tokyo is ready to “allocate the funding we need to protect our nation,” indicating to give up Japan’s longstanding 1% GDP cap on annual defense spending in response to a security environment that he described as “changing rapidly with heightened uncertainty.” Citing advancements of China’s military in new areas of warfare such as space, cyber and electromagnetics, he acknowledged the need to boost the country’s defense capabilities “at a radically different pace than in the past.” [Japan Today]

Since the 1990s, Japan’s defense budget has consistently not exceeded 1% of the country’s GDP, with the only exception in 2010 due the impact of the financial crisis. The 2020 defense spending stood at 49.1 billion USD, equaling 1.0 % of the country’s GDP. [Sputnik News] [SIPRI]

Meanwhile, four Chinese coast guard ships entered on Monday Japanese territorial waters off the Senkaku Islands, which controlled by Japan and claimed by China and Taiwan. It was 16th intrusion in this year, coming on the heels of last week’s live-fire drills conducted by Navy fleets of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) attached to the Eastern, Northern and Southern Theatre Commands. [NHK] [South China Morning Post]

For an account of the current status of efforts of the Japanese Defense Ministry to build new “Aegis Equipped Ships”, see Yoshihiro Inaba in [Naval News].

South Korea-US relations: Moon and Biden hold summit 

(nm) South Korean President Moon Jae-in and US President Joe Biden met for their first bilateral summit in Washington last Friday, concluding a five-day visit by Moon to the US. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to cooperate on issues including North Korea, Covid-19 vaccination efforts, semiconductor manufacturing, and regional peace and security. They further agreed to terminate guidelines restricting Seoul’s missile development. However, no stance was taken on how to deal with China and the related issue of South Korea’s cooperation with the Quad alliance. 

Biden and Moon secured partnerships in their Covid-19 vaccination efforts and in the semiconductor industry. South Korea agreed to produce US-developed vaccines, while the US will help to vaccinate about 500,000 South Korean service members. South Korea has recently struggled to obtain enough vaccine doses for its population and had first been left out as the US sought cooperation with other allies, including the Quad forum. In the business realm, they further agreed to cooperate in the electric battery and semiconductor industry “through the promotion of increased mutual investments as well as research and development cooperation.” Four major South Korean companies, including Samsung, simultaneously announced plans to invest about 39 billion USD in the US. Biden is currently seeking to strengthen US domestic chip production amid growing technological challenges from China and a global chip shortage during the pandemic, which turned the widely-used technology into a topic of geopolitical salience. [Korea Times 1] [Nikkei Asia 1]

On China, both sides avoided any direct remarks, but the joint statement made references to peace in the Taiwan Strait, freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and beyond, as well as a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” 

China reacted to the statement on Monday with Chinese Ambassador Xing Haiming claiming Beijing was aware it was targeting China, while China’s Foreign Ministry condemned it for interfering in domestic affairs and violating basic norms governing international relations. 

Seoul is facing the sensitive task of balancing US and Chinese interests due to their strategic and economic importance to Korea, respectively. Although some observers believe the statement indicates a tip in Washington’s favour, others believe it shows that Washington and Seoul have yet to agree on how to deal with China. [Korea Times 2] [Korea Herald] [Nikkei Asia 2]

Alongside the summit, Moon also visited a White House Medal of Honor ceremony, honoring a Korean War veteran and highlighting the countries’ longstanding military alliance. On Thursday, Moon further held talks with US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on how to promote bilateral relations. After a meeting with US Vice President Kamala Harris, Moon reaffirmed his country will be standing with the US in “defending liberal democratic order,” strengthening the alliance while avoiding a tough stance on China. [Korea Times 3] [Korea Times 4] [Nikkei Asia 3]

The full text of the Moon-Biden joint statement is available at [Korea Times 4]. 

For commentaries on the importance of the US-South Korea alliance, please visit [Carnegie Endowment] and [The Diplomat].

North Korea-US relations: Biden administration to build on Singapore Agreement 

(nm) The US Biden administration announced it would build on the 2018 Panjunmon Declaration and the Singapore Joint Statement when engaging with North Korea, highlighting its commitment to achieving denuclearization through diplomacy. In a joint statement released after a bilateral meeting between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and US President Joe Biden on Friday, Seoul and Washington emphasized their “shared commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and their intent to address […] [the North’s] nuclear and ballistic missile programs.” Moon welcomed the “calibrated and practical approach” laid out in the US’ North Korea policy review, reiterating the wording chosen when it was first introduced. 

The Panjunmon Declaration had been adopted during the historic 2018 meeting between Moon and the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in which both sides agreed to work towards officially ending the Korean War, the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, as well as to improve inter-Korean ties. Similarly, the Singapore Joint Statement focussed on peace building and diplomatic means to achieve denuclearization and on establishing new ties between the US and the North. Moon is said to have wanted the accords included. [Korea Times 1] [Korea Times 2]

Signaling further readiness to resume talks, Biden also appointed a Special Envoy for the DPRK. Veteran Korean American diplomat Sung Kim will be tasked with coordinating the US’s diplomatic outreach to Pyongyang. On Sunday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also explicitly stated that Washington was prepared to talk but expressed doubt whether North Korea would be willing to engage, adding that “[t]he ball is in their court.”  [Korea Herald]

However, Biden also expressed deep concern over the North’s nuclear program and laid out pre-conditions for a possible meeting with Kim Jong-un. According to Biden, he only engages in dialogue if Kim seriously commits to discussing Pyongyang’s nuclear arsenal and de-escalation. He also acknowledged the many challenges standing in the way of achieving concrete measures. [The New York Times 1] [Nikkei Asia] 

Washington had reached out to Pyongyang in March, but the North has since remained unresponsive, saying it will continue ignoring any approaches until Washington gives up its hostility. The Biden administration recently finished its months-long North Korea policy review but had until now refrained from disclosing any details other than pointing at a practical and calibrated approach. 

For a piece arguing that Pyongyang will not give up its nuclear arsenal, please see [The New York Times 2].

India, China yet to de-escalate simmering border tensions along LAC

(ad/lm) Indian Army Chief General Naravane said on May 19 that his country would continue to maintain an enhanced troop presence along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, as de-escalation with China is yet to take place. 

After almost a year of skirmishes along the disputed Himalayan border, both countries in February began withdrawing from their positions on the southern and northern banks of Pangong Lake as part of a phased, synchronized military disengagement [see AiR No. 8, February/2021, 4]. According to the Indian army chief, no transgression has taken place since.

But Beijing and New Delhi are yet to resolve other “friction points”, including Gogra, Hot Springs and the Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh, which did not feature in the purported disengagement plan [see AiR No. 45, November/2020, 2]. As of now, India, still has between 50,000 and 60,000 troops in Eastern Ladakh near the LAC. [The Indian Express 1]

Two days after delivering the remarks, General Naravane commenced a two-day visit to India’s northeastern region to review the army’s operational readiness along the northern border of the state of Arunachal Pradesh, a major part of which is claimed by both China and Taiwan as part of the region of South Tibet.

The visit assumes added significance, coming as it does just days after China completed the construction of a strategic highway through a canyon along the Yarlung Tsangbo (Brahmaputra River) in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). Construction on the highway, which began back in 2014, sparked concerns in India, partly because the highway is believed to accelerate Chinese efforts to construct dams and a hydropower plant on the lower reaches of the River, which would significantly affect water supplies downstream in the Indian states. Against this backdrop, in December of last year, New Delhi announced it was considering to build a 10-gigawatt (GW) hydropower project in its remote Arunachal Pradesh state [see AiR No. 48, December/2020, 1]. [The EurAsian Times] [The New Indian Express 2]

Furthermore, India’s Ministry of Defense last week cleared a proposal to allow its Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to build a tunnel under a mountain pass on the border between the states of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh. [Hindustan Times] [The Times of India]

Pakistan welcomes Israeli-Palestinian cease-fire

(ra/lm) Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has welcomed a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas reached after eleven days of bombardment, in which more than 240 have died, most of them in the Gaza Strip. [Geo News]

Qureshi was speaking from New York, where he attended an Emergency Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on May 20. The trip was preceded by a phone call between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, during which the two leaders had agreed to jointly draw international attention to the deteriorating situation in the Strip [see AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3].

During the session, Qureshi called for the UN to play a bigger role in stopping Israel’s bombings of the Palestinian enclave. The Pakistani official was one of 95 representatives, including 12 ministers from Arab and Islamic countries, who addressed the gathering, with the vast majority reiterating support for Palestinian self-determination, demanding an immediate ceasefire, and lamenting the destruction and loss of life in the Gaza Strip. [The News]

Along with the Palestinian authorities, Qureshi also requested an extraordinary session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to be held on May 27. The UN did not immediately say how many of the Council’s 47 member states had backed the call, but at least a third must come out in support for a special session request to be granted. [Dawn]

Pakistan seeks broad-based partnership with United States

(ra/lm) Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on May 16 talked to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken over the phone and highlighted Pakistan’s continued support for the Afghan peace process and Islamabad’s commitment to reducing financing and money-laundering amongst terrorist groups. [Dawn]

This was the second telephonic conversation between the two foreign ministers since Blinken took office in January. Their first call on January 29 was overshadowed by the decision of Pakistan’s Supreme Court to release a British-born Islamist and three others, who had been convicted in 2002 on charges of kidnapping and murder of a US journalist. [AiR No. 5, February/2021, 1]

While a Pakistani statement claimed that Qureshi had stressed the “importance of [a] US role” in de-escalating the latest conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, the US readout made no mention of such discussion. [Al Jazeera] [U.S. Department of State]

On May 23, then, Pakistan’s newly appointed National Security Advisor Moeed Yusuf [see article in this edition] met with his American counterpart, Jake Sullivan, in Geneva. During the meeting, Yusuf expressed how bilateral ties between Islamabad and Washington should go beyond working towards peace in Afghanistan. Both NSAs agreed to heighten cooperation on other issues of mutual interest. [Dawn] [The News]

Both meetings followed on a meeting between Pakistan’s Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Washington’s charge d’affaires to Pakistan on May 12. During the meeting, the Pakistani general expressed his support in promoting a more stable and peaceful Afghanistan, while the US envoy acknowledged Islamabad’s efforts to support peace and stability in the region and pledged to enhance relations between Pakistan and the United States. [AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3]

Pakistan, China celebrate 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations

(lm) Top leaders of Pakistan and China last week exchanged a series of letters on 70 years of diplomatic ties, highlighting mutual trust and pledging to further strengthen bilateral ties. Both sides also agreed to accelerate the completion of projects under the multibillion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) agreement. [Dawn] [Global Times]

In related news, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan on May 23 approved the establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Karachi, the country’s largest city and capital of Sindh province. At present, a total of nine SEZs are planned under the CPEC, including three priority SEZs in the provinces of Sindh, Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

Since being officially launched in April of 2015, the CPEC has been one of the most watched set of projects under the aegis of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s international infrastructure strategy known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). For an in-depth analysis of into the mechanics of how the BRI is unfolding on the ground in Pakistan, please consider a newly launched research project at the [Carnegie Endowment For International Peace]

India hit with two cyclones in a matter of weeks

(ad) Last week, India faced Cyclone Tauktae, which formed over the Arabian Sea. The cyclone impacted the entire Indian west coast, ravaging people and infrastructure in five states. The cyclone was a rare case where a cyclone impacted so many states. Cyclone Tauktae led to 104 deaths, one of the highest death counts from cyclones in the subcontinent and second highest death count since 2010. [The Indian Express]

Meanwhile, another cyclone, Cyclone Yaas is approaching the Indian east coast from Bay of Bengal. It is predicted to intensify within the next two days and affect three states along the east coast. Amidst India’s second and destructive wave of COVID-19, the cyclones have proven to be the last thing India wants to see. [Financial Express]

Pakistan seeks strong ties with European Union, army chief tells EU envoy

(ra) Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa expressed his country’s commitment to the European Union (EU). During a meeting with the EU’s Ambassador to Islamabad on May 17 the army chief said he hoped to enhance mutually beneficial relations with the bloc of 27 countries. [The News]

Talks between the Pakistani general and the EU envoy come shortly after the European Parliament in April adopted a resolution demanding Islamabad allow freedom for religious minorities and asked the EU to reconsider the South Asian country’s preferential trade status.

Pakistan seeks to deepen defense ties with Ukraine

(ra) Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa last week concluded an official visit to the Ukraine, during which he held several meetings with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and other ministers and high-ranking military officials.

During the meetings, matters of mutual interest, regional security situation including recent developments in Afghan Peace Process and enhanced bilateral and defence cooperation in various fields were discussed. In particular, COAS Bajwa expressed his country’s interest in enhancing defence cooperation with Ukraine on the basis of technology transfer and joint ventures. [Daily Pakistan] [Geo]

Bangladesh orders lockdown in Rohingya camps as COVID-19 cases jump

(lm) Authorities on May 20 ordered a strict lockdown in five of the 34 sprawling Rohingya refugee camps Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar District after test results showed a higher rate of transmission of the coronavirus. [Reuters]

The government has said it will include Rohingya refugees in the nation’s vaccine roll-out, but vaccination efforts have been hit hard after neighboring India halted its exports in April. Bangladesh was supposed to receive about 30 million doses of Covishield (the local name for the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine developed in the United Kingdom) from India this year, but has only received 7 million, and has so far vaccinated just 2 percent of its 170 million people.

Against this backdrop, Bangladesh’s Refugee, Relief and Repatriation Commission (RRRC) has requested the UN Refugee Agency and held meetings with the World Health Organization to initiate a vaccination campaign in the sprawling camps in southeastern Bangladesh. The country’s Foreign Ministry also asked Canada and China to provide COVID-19 vaccines. [Anadolu Agency]

Separately, the Organization for Migration (IOM) and UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on May 28 launched a $943 million plan to “safeguard the well-being and dignity” of the more than 880,000 Rohingya refugees and 472,000 Bangladeshis in the surrounding host communities in Cox’s Bazar District. [UN News]

Pakistan appoints new national security advisor, amidst rapprochement with India

(ra/lm) Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan has appointed Moeed Yusuf as the country’s new National Security Advisor (NSA), after the position had been vacated since June 2018, indicating Islamabad’s efforts to resume deeper lines of communication with neighboring India. [The Express Tribune]

The NSA participates in meetings of the country’s National Security Council, a federal institutional and consultative body mandated with considering national security and foreign policy matters. The position was abolished in 2019, as Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi at the time opposed the appointment of an NSA, fearing challenge to his mandate.

Observers consider the revival of the NSA to be linked with Pakistan’s ongoing efforts seeking a rapprochement with India. Previous backchannel talks between Indian National Security Advisor Ajjit Doval And General Faiz Hameed, the head of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), are believed to have led to the restoration of a 2003 ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control in Kashmir [see AiR No. 9, March/2021, 1].

Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen defends close ties with China, points at Beijing’s financial lifeline

(ad) Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen has defended his close relationship with China after facing criticisms of being too dependent on Beijing. While attending the “The Future of Asia” conference through video channel, the premier on May 20 called concerns that Phnom Penh has become over-reliant on, and a proxy for, Beijing "unjust."[Nikkei Asia]

The following day, the Chinese Foreign Ministry also stated that China reciprocated Cambodia’s relations and perceptions, saying that Beijing’s help was to facilitate Cambodia's development in a “win-win” cooperation. [Agence Presse Kampuchea]

The Cambodian prime minister also remained defiant about European Union (EU) trade sanctions imposed on the country last August, saying that EU’s assessment "did not conform with reality" and that his government would not seek to overturn the decision.

Back then, Brussels partially suspended the “Everything But Arms” trade privileges granted to the EU bloc for 20 percent of Cambodia's exports, over what it called persistent human rights abuses and anti-democratic repression in the country [see AiR No. 33, August/2020, 3]. The move was a blow for the country's $10 billion garment manufacturing sector, which relies on the European market.

Indonesia: Government urged to boycott Israeli products amid Palestinian solidarity rallies

(sa) Chairman of the House of Representatives (DPR) Commission VIII Yandri Susanto has urged the Government to boycott Israel's products over its actions over the Gaza strip. [Tempo].

Meanwhile, in a broader reflection of popular sentiments, dozens of organizations and their followers gathered in front of the US Embassy to express solidarity with the Palestinian cause and decry Israeli occupation. [Jakarta Globe]

President Joko Widodo has earlier condemned the Israeli attacks on Palestine (See AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3).

Indonesia: Main body of sunken Indonesian navy submarine still lost at sea

(ra) KRI Nanggala-402, a submarine of the Indonesian navy, has not been located after search efforts since it sank on April 21. The sinking of the submarine, which was built in 1977 in Germany, has raised questions about the quality of Indonesia’s defense equipment. Furthermore, the sinking has cast doubt about Indonesia’s military readiness. Currently, Chinese rescue vessels are involved in the salvage operation and have recovered some piece of debris from the submarine. [Al Jazeera]

Spiraling conflict in Myanmar sends thousands fleeing to neighboring countries as military targets rebels

(ad/lf/lm) People displaced by an upsurge of fighting in Myanmar’s state of Chin have voiced concerns over shelter and supplies, as the country speeds toward collapse and thousands of refugees pour into India, Thailand and China. [The Washington Post]

In the past week, most of the 12,000 residents of the north-western town of Mindat were hiding in jungles, villages and valleys after the army advanced into the town following days battling local militias, using artillery bombardments and helicopter attacks [see AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3]. Displaced people hiding in the jungles are facing extreme hardship, including a lack of food as well as a shortage of oils and fuel for motorcycles. [Reuters 1]

The exodus threatens to push more people over the nearby border into the northeast Indian state of Mizoram, where influx began in late February [see AiR No. 10, March/2021, 2]. India said on May 18 that more than 15,000 people had so far crossed the border to seek refuge, adding that it expected the numbers to increase. [Reuters 2] [Reuters 3]

Making matters worse, assistance from United Nations agencies to refugees in other areas of the country has dwindled, as access has been cut off with the spreading unrest. [Radio Free Asia]

UN special envoy remains hopeful Myanmar junta will allow her into the country

(lm) The UN Special Envoy on Myanmar, Christine Schraner Burgener, said on May 24 she still hopes to visit the country after seven weeks spent in the region waiting for the junta to allow her in.

While meeting on the sidelines of last month’s summit of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders in Jakarta, coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing “didn’t say that he doesn’t want to speak with me anymore,” Schraner Burgener said at a virtual press conference in Bangkok, where she has spent most of her time since early April. [South China Morning Post]

The Swiss diplomat met with Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha on May 14, after the Thai premier had skipped the ASEAN summit [see AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3]. Schraner Burgener said she would travel to Japan on May 25 for meetings with officials there.

Asked about the draft UN resolution proposed by Liechtenstein, and supported by the United States and the European Union, that includes “an immediate suspension” of all arms shipments to Myanmar, the envoy expressed caution, emphasizing that is was vital “to show unity in the General Assembly”.

A UN General Assembly vote scheduled for May 18 on a non-binding resolution calling “for an immediate suspension of the direct and indirect supply, sale or transfer of all weapons and munitions” to Myanmar was postponed indefinitely, because of a lack of support from Asian countries in the region [see AiR No. 20, May/2021, 3].

A meeting is expected to take place this week between the drafters of the text and the Asian countries, but the latter want the paragraph relating to an arms embargo to be removed and language linked to the field of human rights to be reduced.

Myanmar’s military junta moves ahead with projects under the Belt and Road Initiative

(lm) Myanmar’s military regime has reorganized three crucial committees as it pushes ahead with plans to implement giant infrastructure projects under the umbrella of the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), despite a looming civil war and protests against Beijing’s suspected support for the junta. [The Irrawaddy]

In March, the junta ousted all civilian government members of a joint committee supervising the implementation of the China-Myanmar-Economic-Corridor (CMEC), a 1,700-kilometer infrastructure route that promises to connect the Indian Ocean oil trade to China’s remote and underdeveloped Yunnan Province. Theoretically designed to upgrade the deep-water port at Kyaukphyu, the CMEC passes through Myanmar’s major economic hubs — first Mandalay in central Myanmar, then east Yangon and west to the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Rakhine State.

The CMEC Joint Committee now includes not only key economic ministers appointed by the coup leaders, but also members of its governing State Administrative Council in the states and regions that the CMEC will pass through. The regime has also removed the clause that encourages the participation of Myanmar people in the establishment of CEMC, one of the main functions of the committee under the National League for Democracy (NLD)-led civilian government.

Moreover, the junta has also reorganized both the central committee and the working group committee for the implementation of a framework agreement on the establishment of cross-border economic cooperation zones (CBECZ). A part of the CMEC, the CBECZ are planned to be constructed in the eastern border region of Myanmar, in the states of Shan and Kachin.

Myanmar air force chief in Russia for military expo

(lm) The chief of Myanmar’s air force, General Maung Maung Kyaw, and other high-ranking military officials have visited Russia last week to attend an exhibition displaying combat helicopters. Sources in Myanmar added that the delegation members will discuss with their Russian counterparts over 20 megaprojects including procurement of arms and military hardware. [Reuters]

Russia said in March it wanted to strengthen military ties with Myanmar despite the coup. Moscow’s deputy minister of defence was the highest-ranking foreign official to attend Myanmar’s Armed Forces Day parade in the capital Naypyidaw, where he also met with junta leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

After China, Russia is the country’s second-largest supplier of arms, being the source of at least 16 percent of weaponry procured by Myanmar from 2014 to 2019. The regime is now awaiting delivery of six Su-30 fighter jets ordered in 2019, and in January 2021 the two sides signed contracts for the purchase of a Russian air defense system and a suite of surveillance drones. [AiR No. 18, May/2021, 1]

Joining the delegation was well-known Myanmar tycoon U Tay Za, Founder and Chairman of the Htoo Group of Companies. Once described as "a notorious regime henchman and arms dealer" by the United States, Tay Za is considered a close associate of General Than Shwe, former chairman of the now-defunct State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), which ruled Myanmar between 1988 and 2011. [The Irrawaddy]

Malaysia urges world to focus on aid and reconstruction for Palestine after ceasefire

(tcy) Responding to the Israel-Hamas ceasefire brokered by Egypt on May 21, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein has urged the world to focus on humanitarian and reconstruction aid for the Palestinian people. [Bernama 1]

The Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement also responded to the ceasefire agreement, with President Muhammad Faisal Abdul Aziz pressing the United Nations (UN) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to set up a special peacekeeping mission in Palestine and come up with a comprehensive long-term plan in order to uphold the rights of the Palestinian people. [Bernama 2]

Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, meanwhile, said that Muslim nations should use their strengths and realise their weaknesses in formulating strategies against the Israeli occupation in Palestine, urging Muslim countries to utilise their control of raw materials such as oil to put pressure on Israel. [Bernama 3] 

Malaysia and China to strengthen cooperation in multiple areas

(tcy) After a video conference with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin affirmed the close bilateral ties between Malaysia and China and announced that the two countries are exploring new areas of common interest to strengthen bilateral collaboration, after seeing the need for closer and more proactive cooperation to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic and drive the recovery process. [Bernama 1]

Following this, the Malaysian government announced that it would be acquiring a total of 8.2 million doses of China’s Sinovac vaccine by the end of June. [Bernama 2] The Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) also recommended the setting up of a joint special committee with the People’s Republic of China to strengthen the interaction and exchanges between official agencies and pandemic experts in both countries. [Malay Mail] In addition, the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) also signed two memorandums of understanding with China’s International Medical Exchange and Cooperation Committee (IMECC) and Hangzhou Rende Maternity Hospital respectively with the aim of collaboratively improving patient experience for healthcare travelers from China. [Bernama 3]

Apart from healthcare, other areas of bilateral cooperation discussed include collaboration in the fields of electronic commerce, high technology and digital economy, agriculture and agrofood, as well as the development of food security and poverty eradication programs. The two leaders also touched on international issues involving the situation in Palestine and Myanmar, with both agreeing on the need for international pressure to settle the conflicts.

Malaysia: Two Vietnamese fishing boats seized for entering Malaysian waters

(tcy) The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) of Kelantan has seized two Vietnamese fishing boats for encroaching and fishing in the national territorial waters. Kelantan MMEA director, Maritime Captain Muhd Nur Syam Asmawie Yaacob said that the two boats did not have permits to catch fish under the Fisheries Act 1985, and that all the fishermen had also violated the Immigration Act 1959/63 as they did not possess valid identification documents. The offence is punishable by fine of up to RM6 million against the skipper and RM600,000 on every crew if found guilty [Malay Mail]

Prime Ministers of Singapore and Malaysia call for international cooperation amidst COVID-19 pandemic

(tcy) Speaking at the US Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural Global Forum on Economic Recovery, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong emphasized the importance of international cooperation amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that a small and open country such as Singapore cannot afford to turn towards autarky and seal its borders off, stressing the need for global cooperation to mitigate supply chain disruptions as it would be “very harmful” for every country to make everything onshore. PM Lee also expressed his happiness towards US’ re-engagement with the World Trade Organisation (WTO), urging the US to work multilaterally with more partners to establish trust and rules that apply to everyone. [The Straits Times]

Malaysian Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin echoed these sentiments during his speech at the Nikkei’s Future of Asia conference, urging Asia to shift away from a purely nationalistic approach to health services and move towards investing in health as a global public good. He attributed the failure of global leadership to address the COVID-19 pandemic to human biases such as tribalism, dysfunctional competition, and short-term thinking. Muhyiddin also mentioned that success was contingent on whether Asian regional institutions can strengthen themselves with more robust conflict management mechanisms and move towards a flexible view of state sovereignty. [Bernama]

Philippines, China to ease tensions in South China Sea

(lp) During the sixth meeting of the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) on the South China Sea, the Philippines and China committed to ease tensions in the South China Sea through dialogue, to increase cooperation in fisheries, marine research and protection. However, it is highly unlikely that China will respect the Philippines’ maritime claims, especially because multiple investigations have confirmed the continuous expansion of Chinese maritime militia in the area. Moreover, talks regarding the payment to Filipino fishers whose boat was sunk by a Chinese vessel in 2019 are scheduled for June 2. [Philippine Star 1] [Radio Free Asia] [ABS-CBN 1]

Though avoiding direct confrontation, the Philippines has been signaling its intent to protect the country’s waters. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) installed lighted ocean buoys to assert sovereignty over the Philippine Rise area, which might be a site for oil exploration. Moreover, the PCG said it has intensified its training exercises in the South China Sea. Furthermore, the National Security Council (NSC) signed an agreement with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to implement satellite technology which will provide continuous, detailed monitoring of the country’s exclusive economic zones. The Philippines is also to acquire Israeli missile-capable patrol boats. [Business Mirror] [Manila Bulletin 1] [Inquirer 1] [The Defense Post]

Meanwhile, President Rodrigo Duterte considered meeting with the country’s ex-presidents to discuss issues pertaining to the South China Sea, as an alternative to a National Security Council (NSC) meeting, which he deemed inconsequential. However, Duterte might drop both meetings because he prefers not to antagonize China that explicitly. Duterte is also still undecided whether to renew the Visit Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States this year. [Manila Standard] [Philippine Star 2]

Philippines to protect Filipinos in Israel

(lp) The Philippines plans to restrict travel of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) to Israel in response to the escalation of conflict between the Israeli state and the militant group Hamas. Besides facilitating in-country evacuation away from conflict, the Philippine government prepares to evacuate Filipinos who wish to return to the Philippines, in compliance with its obligation to protect Filipinos in and out of the country. While the Philippines lauded the ceasefire pact between the Israeli state and the militant group Hamas, it has not communicated any change of plans. [Asian News International] [Manila Bulletin]

Moreover, the Philippines might have to review its employment agreements with Israel whenever the former allows OFWs to travel there again. For instance, the Philippine government could address these workers’ accusations that they are underpaid, forced to live in crowded spaces, hazardous working conditions. Or it could urge Israel to stop deporting OFWs if they marry or give birth. [The New York Times]

Philippines, Japan to increase cooperation

(lp) Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga informed Philippine President Duterte during a phone call that Japan is slated to release a loan for 20 billion Japanese Yen which will help finance the Philippines’ pandemic response measures. Moreover, Duterte thanked Suga for Japan’s funding of subway and railway projects in the Philippines. Furthermore, the two leaders agreed to cooperate toward the maintenance of peace and stability in the East and South China Sea. [Manila Bulletin]

At the virtual Nikkei Future of Asia Conference on May 21, Duterte encouraged Japanese firms to invest more in the Philippine agricultural sector, public health system, agro-industrial business corridors. [Philippine Star]

Philippines, Australia to increase cooperation

(lp) The Philippines wants to buy six naval vessels from an Australian firm, but negotiations are still ongoing, as Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Steven Robinson confirmed ongoing talks with the Philippine Department of National Defense over Australia providing six offshore patrol  vessels, worth approximately 600 million USD, through shipbuilder Austal, an Australian-based global ship building company and defense prime contractor specializing in both defence and commercial vessels. 

Moreover, in a video message, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both countries, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison assured that the two countries will continue to cooperate to promote prosperity and freedom in the Indo-Pacific region. [CNN] [Philippine Star]

Singapore reminds US embassy ‘not to interfere’ with domestic matters over LGBT issue

(tcy) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reminded the United States embassy in Singapore that foreign missions here "are not to interfere in our domestic social and political matters", including "how sexual orientation should be dealt with in public policy". The statement was issued in response to a webinar the US embassy had co-hosted with a local LGBT non-profit organisation on May 17.

In response to media queries, the US embassy responded that "the United States promotes the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons worldwide" and regularly works with civil society partners to do so. Oogachaga’s executive director Leow Yangfa also said that they noted MFA’s statement “with surprise”, noting that no financial remuneration was received from the US government for the conduct of the event and that the webinar involved an academic discussion of Professor Lee Badgett’s book, with none of the speakers discussing how sexual orientation should be dealt with in public policy. [Channel News Asia]

Singapore’s penal code currently criminalises sex between consenting male adults, and recent court challenges to repeal the law have been dismissed by the High Court. [The Straits Times]

Shangri-La Dialogue on June 4-5 in Singapore cancelled due to COVID-19 situation

(tcy) Organizers have announced that the Shangri-La Dialogue scheduled to be held in Singapore on June 4 to 5 has been cancelled, citing the rise of infectious new COVID-19 variants and local cases, as well as the recently introduced tightened restrictions on social gatherings.

It was previously announced last week that the security summit for high-level defense policymakers from more than 40 countries around the world would still continue to be held as planned despite the World Economic Forum cancelling its special annual meeting scheduled to be held in Singapore in August [see AIR No. 20, May/2021, 3].

The cancellation of the Shangri-La Dialogue and World Economic Forum leaves the Bloomberg New Economy Forum, scheduled for November 16 to 19, as the only signature event on Singapore’s calendar. If it proceeds, the conference will gather government leaders and top businessmen around the world to discuss the global challenges of the day. [The Straits Times]

Singapore to continue to support sustainable development and conservation efforts in the Arctic

(tcy) During the 12th Arctic Council (AC) Ministerial Meeting, Singapore has affirmed its commitment in contributing to the sustainable development of the Arctic, including green shipping and tackling marine litter, as well as the conservation of flora and fauna in the region. The Singaporean officials also emphasised the need for stakeholders to collaborate and highlighted that her country would look into strengthening youth engagement with the AC. [Mothership.sg]

Singapore’s interests and active participation in the Arctic region stem from two main insecurities. As a low-lying island-state, Singapore is particularly vulnerable to the physical changes of the glaciers and rising sea levels. Furthermore, the melting of Arctic ice could open up a shorter alternative Northern Sea Route connecting East Asia and Europe, causing ships to bypass the port in Singapore and affecting the maritime industry.

Thailand military warns Myanmar counterparts over mortar shots

(pr) The Thai Army has announced it would submit a letter to demand its Myanmar counterparts not to extend their operations into Thai territory, after three mortar shots landed on Thai soil. [Bangkok Post]

The northern Thai province of Mae Hong Son borders with Myanmar in the east. Large sections of the territory across the border are being controlled by the Karen National Union (KNU), one of Myanmar’s two dozen ethnic armed groups that have been fighting for decades to gain more autonomy from Myanmar’s central government.

Earlier in March and April, the group took control of three military outposts near the Thai-Myanmar border, killing nearly 200 soldiers and wounding another 220. The Myanmar army then launched multiple airstrikes on Karen villages in retaliation for the attacks on military outposts, displacing more than 30,000 people in the area. [AiR No. 13, March/2021, 5]

Thailand ready to increase multilateral cooperation for post-pandemic world, says Prime Minister Prayut

(pr) Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha has expressed his country’s readiness join efforts to boost regional and global economic cooperation in a post-COVID-19 world. The prime minister was attending “The Future of Asia” conference, an annual gathering that brings together political, economic and academic leaders from the Asia-Pacific, through video channel. [Future of Asia]

Specifically, the Thai leader emphasized the strong partnership between Thailand and Japan. He said Thailand is ready to improve the business environment for foreign investors and act on recommendations of Japanese businesses in Thailand. He said Thailand will also expand trade and investment ties with Japan, in addition to relations under the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement and the ASEAN-Japan Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Partnership. [Bangkok Post]

When touching on a potential Thai membership of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Prayut said that his government was ready to consider making the move. Earlier this month, the cabinet gave itself time until June 24 to consider a potential membership of the country in the CPTPP, the second extension after a three-months deadline announced earlier in February expired [see AiR No. 19, May/2021, 2].

In addition, he said Thailand will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting next year and will initiate talks on the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific plan.

Thailand to share experience in combating IUU fishing

(pr) Thailand is one of six countries invited to share their experiences on combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing during the third meeting of the parties to the Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA). The meeting is jointly organized by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization and the European Commission and will be held between May 31 and June 5. [Bangkok Post] [FAO]

The PSMA is the first binding international agreement that specifically targets IUU fishing and requires international ports to carry out regular inspections on fishing vessels and to deny port services to offending vessels. In 2015, the European Union (EU) issued the so-called “yellow card” for Thailand, a warning from the EU that the country at the time was not sufficiently tackling IUU fishing. Since then, Thailand has updated its mechanisms to regulate fishing activities by improving fishing laws, introducing vessel monitoring and traceability systems, and strictly enforcing laws, which led the EU to  delists Thailand from the group of "warned countries" in 2019.

Seventh United States-Thailand Strategic Dialogue reaffirms defense alliance

(pr) On 21 May, delegations from the United States and Thailand held the seventh round of their joint strategic dialogue. Both sides discussed issues relating to regional security, economic prosperity, health cooperation, and reaffirmed the US-Thai defense alliance. They also emphasized the importance of cooperation in other regional forums such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Mekong-U.S. Partnership.

The U.S. side highlighted the importance of human rights and freedoms and expressed concern over the crisis in Myanmar. [U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Thailand 1]

The Strategic Dialogue is an important part of the U.S.- Thai relationship. It covers political, economic, and security cooperation. The previous Strategic Dialogue was held back in 2017. Recently, Washington has already provided nearly $30 million as health-related assistance to Thailand. [U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Thailand 2]

Announcements

Upcoming Online Events 

26 May 2021 @ 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. (GMT-5), Foreign Policy Research Institute, USA

Beyond Britain: Brexit’s Impact on the U.S., Northern Ireland, and the International Community 

Much has been said about the effect Brexit has had on the relationship between the U.K. and the E.U., but it has also had far-reaching economic, political, and security consequences. How has Brexit impacted the trade relationships between the U.S. and the U.K. and between the U.S. and the E.U.? Find answers to this question at this webinar.

For more information, see [FPRI].

26 May 2021 @ 8:30 - 9:15 a.m. (GMT-5), The Heritage Foundation, USA

An Address by Burmese Foreign Minister Zin Mar Aung

This online event feature a discussion with Daw Zin Mar Aung, Foreign Minister of the National Unity Government (NUG) on the current political situation in Myanmar. 

If you want to join this event, please register here: [Heritage]

26 May 2021 @ 8:30 - 10:00 a.m. (GMT-4), Stimson, USA

One Year Since Galwan: How Has the Border Standoff Impacted the India-China Relationship? 

This event will examine how the crisis on the Line of Actual Control has impacted each country’s threat perceptions, strategic posture, and diplomatic and economic approach, as well as what these moves may mean for Sino-Indian bilateral ties moving forward.

Further details on the event are available at [Stimson].

27 May 2021 @ 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. (GMT-5), Institute for Policy Studies, USA

Creating Exciting Consciousness-Raising Events 

In the social justice world there are several types of events that may include interactive methods known as popular education exercises. Depending on your goals, these range from briefings with policy makers and press conferences, to rallies and public education forums. This online event offers a lass on creating compelling and exciting events for social change. 

For more information, see [IPS].

27 May 2021 @ 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. (GMT-4), The German Marshall Fund of the United States, USA

The Fate of Civil Society in Afghanistan, Post-withdrawal 

The withdrawal of NATO forces from Afghanistan begins in July and U.S. President Joe Biden says all U.S. troops will be gone by the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. This online panel will discuss whether and how civil society can continue in Afghanistan after Sept. 11, especially when it comes to women’s programs and initiatives.

For more information, see [GMF].

27 May 2021 @ 2:00 p.m. (GMT+2), Diplo Foundation, Switzerland 

Byzantine diplomacy: The elixir of longevity

Byzantine diplomacy was the key to this empire’s long survival. After the fall of Rome in 476, the Byzantine Empire tried to continue Rome's tradition and restore its glory, but without the power of the Roman Empire, it had to turn to diplomacy to a greater extent. Join this webinar a discussion on Byzantine diplomacy and its legacy

Find more event details at [DIPLO].

27 May 2021 @ 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. (GMT+2),  Danish Institute for International Studies, Denmark 

Book-launch: Festschrift for Mark Juergensmeyer 

This webinar launches the publication “Religion, Conflict and Global Society – A Festschrift Celebrating Mark Juergensmeyer” edited by Mona Kanwal Sheikh and Isak Svensson. Distinguished contributors and the author himself will address the themes that the book takes up, such as conceptual debates on secularism, cosmic war, and the globalization of Global Studies.

For more information, see [DIIS]. 

27 May 2021 @ 9:00 - 10:15 a.m. (GMT-5), The Dialogue, USA

Decoding China’s Covid-19 Diplomacy—What Effect on US-China-Latin America Relations? 

China’s role in Latin America has in many ways intensified amid the Covid-19 pandemic. To what extent has the pandemic in fact bolstered China-Latin America cooperation? How is messaging from Beijing and Washington being received in the region amid the pandemic? How should Latin American governments navigate the current geopolitical environment, while also looking to mitigate the spread of Covid-19 and boost economic growth? And what can the US and China do to best support the region’s post-pandemic recovery?  If you want to know the answers on these question, join this online event.

Further details are accessible via [Dialogue].

27 May 2021 @ 11:30 a.m. (GMT-4), Center for a New American Security, USA    

Virtual Report Rollout: Advancing a Liberal Digital Order in the Indo-Pacific 

This report launch and subsequent expert panel will take a look at the challenges of digital technologies in the Indo-Pacific region: How can the United States cooperate with democracies in the region to ensure that digital technologies and infrastructure are used to advance free and open societies rather than strengthen autocratic trends? 

If you wish to join this event, please visit [CNAS].

27 May 2021 @ 5:00 p.m. (GMT-7), Asia Society Northern California, USA    

Biden and Asia: Different Views on Human Rights 

In this webinar, experts from Asia and the US will discuss the human rights situation in China, Myanmar, and the Philippines, as well as the Biden administration’s perspective. 

For more information, please visit [Asia Society].

27 May 2021 @ 12:00 p.m. (GMT-4), Center for American Progress, USA    

Next Steps for U.S. Policy in the Ongoing Crisis in the Middle East 

Amid the ongoing conflict Israel and the Hamas, this virtual conversation seeks to assess the status of the current conflict and to discuss ideas about how US diplomatic engagement can prioritize basic security and rights. 

For more information, please follow [American Progress].

28 May 2021 @ 12:00 p.m. (GMT-4), Hudson Institute, USA 

A Conversation with Acting Army Secretary John E. Whitley 

As the US Biden administration releases its first defense budget and as the US Army is undertaking its most significant modernization since the Cold War, this discussion with acting Army Secretary John E. Whitley will evaluate the challenges and opportunities facing America’s ground forces.  

Details are accessible under [Hudson Institute].

 28 May 2021 @ 10:00 - 11:15 a.m. (GMT+8), ISEAS, Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore

Assessing Broad Structural Shifts in Malaysia’s Political Landscape

Malaysian politics is undergoing deep-rooted changes such as the degree to which specific parties uncontestedly appeal to different ethnic groups, and the extent to which broad coalitions are able to be formed before elections. This new state of affairs will lead to corresponding changes in the way politics is carried out. This talk will look at two specific examples to explore these shifts.

For further information, see [ISEAS],

31 May 2021 @ 3:00 - 4:00 a.m. (GMT+8), ISEAS, Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore

Ongoing Challenges of COVID-19 for ASEAN: Quantitative Analyses and Policy Responses

The widespread downturn in ASEAN from the pandemic has triggered economic and social shocks that are expected to last into 2021 and potentially even beyond. This webinar will present key findings of the 2021 edition of the OECD Economic Outlook for Southeast Asia, China and India and discuss the importance of reallocating resources to digitalisation in response to Covid-19 pandemic.

You can find more details about the event at [ISEAS].

31 May 2021 @ 16:00 pm (GMT+1), Istituto Affari Internazionali, Italy

Sustainable Investment for a Post-Covid World: the role of the G20 

The aim of this webinar is to shape a dialogue focused on how public and private institutions can support a long-term shift to build a green and just recovery and on how the Italian Presidency of the G20 can support this effort. In the framework of a green and just recovery, this webinar will focus on how to foster long-term inclusive and sustainable development.

Please register here: [IAI]

31 May 2021 @ 9:00 - 11:00 am (GMT-5), Asian Development, USA

ADBI-Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Webinar on Sanitation and Development: Unintended Consequences of Public Intervention in Sanitation in Peru and India. 

This ADBI-Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation webinar will feature Britta Augsburg of the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) and Antonella Bancalari of the University of St Andrews and IFS who will discuss studies on sewerage expansion in Peru and community toilet maintenance in India, and how public intervention in sanitation infrastructure aimed at improving public health can lead to hazardous, unintended outcomes if improperly approached.

For more information, see [ADB].

1 June 2021 @ 10:30 a.m. (GMT+2), European Council on Foreign Relations, Berlin  

EU defence: Looking for a Strategic Compass 

As expectations have risen about the EU’s contribution to crisis prevention, stabilisation, and peacebuilding with a simultaneous lack of collective action in the same area, this webinar tries to understand: How do Europeans see the future of EU crisis management? What are the EU military capabilities? How does the EU’s defence initiatives complement those of NATO?

Please visit [ECFR] for details and mandatory registration. 

1 June 2021 @ 4:00 p.m. (GMT+2), Egmont Institute, Belgium   

The EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy: A European-Asian Conversation 

Against the backdrop of the EU’s first Indo-Pacific strategy, this webinar explores the EU’s objectives for the region as well as the expectations within the region itself, considering areas of diplomacy, the economy, and security. 

Details are accessible under [Egmont Institute]. 

1 June 2021 @ 4:00 p.m. (GMT+2), Clingendael, the Netherlands 

The prospects of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans  

The first webinar of this new series will focus on “Energising enlargement?”, asking if the Green Agenda that has extended the EU’s climate ambitions to the six South-Eastern European countries that aspire to join the union might lead to a new impetus for their accession procedures. 

For more information and registration details, please visit [Clingendael]. 

2 June 2021 @ 10:00 a.m. (GMT+8), Universiti Malaya, Asia-Europe Institute, Malaysia 

Digitalization and Regionalism: Challenges faced by SMEs in Malaysia 

In this webinar co-hosted by Huawei, several experts and practitioners will evaluate the challenges faced by small and medium-sized companies in Malaysia through presentations and a subsequent panel discussion. 

For more details and information on how to join, please visit [AEI]. 

3 June 2021 @ 3:00 p.m. (GMT+2), The Swedish Institute of International Affairs, Sweden   

Where domestic and foreign policy meet: transnational political Islam in conflict with France and UAE 

This webinar tries to understand the dynamics involved in the interplay between and within states and the use of religion, including political mobilization through religion, the rightward turn in domestic politics, and the populism underpinning such turns. It asks: How is religion manifesting itself as a political phenomenon in France and the UAE and how does this connect to the domestic politics of the states and their interaction on the international arena?

Please see [UI] for more information. 

3 June 2021 @ 8:00 a.m. (GMT-4), Asia Society Policy Institute, United States    

Challenges and Opportunities for US-Japan-Korea Trade Relations 

In cooperation with Korea Society and Japan Society, this panel discussion on the dynamics of trade relations and regional economic integration looks at how the US, Japan, and Korea can overcome hurdles to cooperation on shared challenges, as well as what the Biden administration means for US trade policy. 

If you would like to join the event, please visit [Asia Society].

3 June 2021 @ 2:00 p.m. (GMT+8), Philippine Institute for Development Studies, Philippines     

Paving the Road to the Philippines’ Digital Integration with the Asia-Pacific 

This event which is co-organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific will take a closer look at the digital integration and regional health integration within the Asia-Pacific region, presenting recent research findings. 

For more information, please follow [PIDS].

Recent book releases 

Amy Klobuchar, Antitrust: Taking on Monopoly Power from the Gilded Age to the Digital Age, Knopf, 624 pages, April 27, 2021, reviewed in [New York Times].

Louis Menand, The Free World: Art and Thought in the Cold War, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 880 pages, April 20, 2021, with a review in [New York Times].

Calls

University of Illinois Press invites to submit papers on for the issue Empires in World History of the World History Connected journal. Deadline for submission is June 15, 2021. For more information, see [H-net]

The Leiden University Institute for History and Huygens Institute for Dutch History and Culture welcomes paper submissions for its conference Monarchy in turmoil: princes, courts, and politics in revolution and restoration 1780-1830, to be held May 18-20,  2022, in Leiden. Closing date for submission is May 31. 2021. 

Further details are accessible via [Leiden University].

Jobs & positions

The University of Antwerp is offering a position of Research Fellow in Civil Law. Closing date for application May, 26, 2021. For more details, see [Researchgate]

The European Institute for Gender Equality is hiring Researcher in Gender Equality. Deadline for application is May, 28, 2021. For more details, see [Researchgate]

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