The fate of the VFA: Balancing costs and benefits for the Philippines
The Duterte administration is expected to thoroughly review its military cooperation agreement with the US and to negotiate for more equitable terms.
US
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.
Cambodia’s veiled criticism of Chinese vaccines hints at Hun Sen’s foreign policy plans
It is unclear if Cambodia’s apparent criticism of Chinese coronavirus vaccines is meant to refute the country’s reputation as China’s proxy. If that is the case, then Cambodia needs to do far more to introduce balance to its foreign policy.
US aid for Cambodia to come with conditions: What does it mean for the bilateral relationship?
The US has placed conditions on its aid to Cambodia over the kingdom’s human rights violations and growing ties to China. The change is not likely to achieve any major changes unless the US comes with an offer that matches China’s commitment to the current regime in Cambodia.
Why would the Philippines terminate its military pact with the US?
Duterte’s threat to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the US appears to be an attempt to negotiate a better defense partnership. The tenuous situation is likely to persist until the two sides reach an agreement.
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.
Is the Quad’s anti-China vision pushing ASEAN away?
In the past, the “Quad” of Australia, India, Japan and the United States has been unable to offer ASEAN anything concrete to back up its alleged aim of building a rules-based international order. As the forum rapidly becomes an anti-China block, it may push ASEAN further away.
Why has the US blacklisted a Chinese firm in Cambodia?
The United States has blacklisted a Chinese firm building an extensive resort in Cambodia, alleging human rights violations and corruption. However, there is much more to the project and the US’s actions than meets the eye.
Are Southeast Asia’s cyber defenses vulnerable to Chinese attacks?
Chinese cyber spies have been attacking Southeast Asia for a long time. It is high time that ASEAN and Southeast Asian governments find an effective way of plugging the existing technological loophole.
How has Indonesia’s Islamic diplomacy helped the Afghan peace process?
Has Indonesia’s Islamic diplomacy proved effective in the Afghan peace process?