Monday Review: Calls for Elections Louder and Louder

While the junta seeks reasons to remain in power, the public, politicians and even the anti-election protesters from 2014 are increasing their demands for elections.   The National Council for Peace and Order is once again attempting to delay the country’s democratisation. 

The Effects of Thailand’s Proposed Electoral System

On 29 January, the second group of constitutional drafters appointed by Thailand’s NCPO released the draft of another new Constitution. 

Belt and Road Initiative, a Joint Endeavour for Shared Prosperity

The ancient Silk Road was a route that linked several major civilisations 2,000 years ago through trade and cultural exchanges.

Thailand’s Shocking Failures in Pursuing its ASEAN Goals

No Thai government in recent memory has invested so much energy and money into Asean-related projects as the current administration.

Việt Nam, China Discuss Defence Co-operation 

Việt Nam hopes to strengthen trust with China, improving the two countries’ co-operation in sustaining peace and stability in the East Sea (South China Sea) based on respect for each other’s interests and international law, …

Reform Political Apparatus, Experts Say

A revitalised Government is necessary but not enough to achieve targeted economic breakthroughs. Only a thorough reform of the whole political system can do it, experts said at a conference.

Myanmar, an Unfinished Nation

Historical tensions over identity still threaten the country's future. 

Lee Family Spat: Many Concerned about Fallout

People worry about Singapore's reputation, but some say claims of abuse must be addressed. 

Minister Sees Need for Scrutiny of Judiciary

"(…) maybe, there is a case for greater scrutiny of the judiciary. The particular incident you have cited only underscores the compelling need."

Japan Accused of Stifling Freedom with New Terror Law

Japan's parliament has passed a controversial "anti-conspiracy" bill which critics say could be used to curb civil liberties across the country.

Xi Jinping’s Marco Polo Strategy

Last month, Chinese President Xi Jinping presided over a heavily orchestrated ‘Belt and Road’ forum in Beijing. The two-day event attracted 29 heads of state, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin, and 1,200 delegates…

AIIB may Finance Projects for North Korea

"The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank may finance infrastructure projects for North Korea...is the decision of the board of governors", said AIIB President Jin Liqun at a press conference…

China's Nuclear Weapons R&D Attains Highest Level

China's nuclear weapons research and development has attained the world's most advanced level although the country's nuclear weapons stockpile is small, experts said Sunday, one day after the 50th anniversary of the country's first test of a hydrogen bomb.

Hong Kong’s PLA Garrison no Longer just Symbolic, top Brass say 

The People’s Liberation Army has signalled that its Hong Kong garrison is no longer just a sovereign symbol but a combat-ready force that could demonstrate China’s military might.

India’s Ceasefire Violations took 832 Lives in AJK

Lahore - Unprovoked firing by Indian forces across the Line of Control (LoC) has taken 832 lives in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs learnt on Monday. 3,000 civilians have been injured and 3,300 houses been damaged in repeated Indian aggression.