Report shows Southeast Asia’s views on US, China are shifting
A new report shows rising trust in the US among Southeast Asia’s upper classes, along with anxiety about China’s dominance and a continued commitment to neutrality.
Laos
China eyes Southeast Asia to build legitimacy for its COVID-19 vaccine despite unclear efficacy data
China has found major buyers for its COVID-19 vaccines in Southeast Asia, even after studies of its Sinovac vaccine have reported wildly divergent efficacy results. The growing acceptance of Beijing’s vaccine without globally-recognized clinical trial results may end up undermining China’s image as a credible vaccine supplier.
Police arrested ‘Asia’s El Chapo’, but will it mean less meth?
The arrest of Tse Chi Lop, head of Asia’s largest drug syndicate, does little to alter the structures that facilitate the region’s booming narcotics trade. From Myanmar’s ethnic armies and state-backed militias to Hong Kong triad organizations, the profits driving the trade will continue—Tse Chi Lop, like any link in the supply chain, is replaceable.
Lao leadership shuffle will see precarious development, foreign policy continue
Facebook0TwitterReddit0Linkedinemail The new government of Laos, largely a reshuffle of party leaders, is set to continue policies that do little to achieve inclusive development while…
How could outreach to Southeast Asia help Turkey?
Faced with economic and strategic challenges, Turkey has turned to Southeast Asia to potentially help revive its economy. Ankara may find support from China in its new push, but building ties with the region will depend on Turkey’s ability to keep religion out of the equation.
Geopolitics plays out on the Mekong with doubts on dams and promises of cooperation
The geopolitics of the Mekong river continue to evolve, with key announcements from China, Thailand and the Mekong River Commission.
Severe storms show how dams, displacement magnify climate impacts in Laos
Southeast Asia has been hammered by storms in recent weeks, with flooding displacing thousands and destroying homes. In Laos, residents already displaced for the construction of dams now say they face added dangers from severe weather.
ASEAN Summit: Leaders agree on concrete measures to overcome challenges
The 37th ASEAN Summit, which ended on November 15, saw member states adopt decisive and concrete measures to bolster internal and external cooperation and to overcome major challenges facing the regional bloc, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
Could ASEAN expel Cambodia and Laos over their allegiance to China?
ASEAN remains a key player in Southeast Asia’s diplomatic architecture. However, a growing debate on the expulsion of member states may divide the grouping deeply.
The Lowy Institute 2020 Asia Power Index: Overstating the impact of COVID-19?
The Lowy Institute annual Asia Power Index offers comprehensive analysis but requires more scrutiny when it comes to gauging how countries stand diplomatically or militarily—or how prepared they are to tackle future challenges.