Volume IV, Issue 36 | September 4, 2020 - Delhi Policy Group
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Volume IV, Issue 30 | July 24, 2020 Volume IV, Issue 36 | September 4, 2020
ABOUT US Founded in 1994, the Delhi Policy Group (DPG) is among India’s oldest think tanks with its primary focus on strategic and international issues of critical national interest. DPG is a non-partisan institution and is independently funded by a non-profit Trust. Over past decades, DPG has established itself in both domestic and international circles and is widely recognised today among the top security think tanks of India and of Asia’s major powers. Since 2016, in keeping with India’s increasing global profile, DPG has expanded its focus areas to include India’s regional and global role and its policies in the Indo-Pacific. In a realist environment, DPG remains mindful of the need to align India’s ambitions with matching strategies and capabilities, from diplomatic initiatives to security policy and military modernisation. At a time of disruptive change in the global order, DPG aims to deliver research based, relevant, reliable and realist policy perspectives to an actively engaged public, both at home and abroad. DPG is deeply committed to the growth of India’s national power and purpose, the security and prosperity of the people of India and India’s contributions to the global public good. We remain firmly anchored within these foundational principles which have defined DPG since its inception. DPG WEEKLY WORLD WATCH DPG Weekly World Watch is based on analysis of open source information. To subscribe please click here. Your comments and feedback can be addressed to Angana Guha Roy at angana@dpg.org.in. © 2020 by the Delhi Policy Group Delhi Policy Group Core 5A, 1st Floor, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi- 110003. www.delhipolicygroup.org
Contents South Asia ............................................................................................................. 1 East & South East Asia .................................................................................... 8 Central & West Asia .......................................................................................... 8 United States ..................................................................................................... 19 Europe & Russia ............................................................................................... 21 Africa & Latin America .................................................................................23
South Asia
India
Indian Army changes border posture
September 4, 2020, Hindustan Times
The Indian Army has changed its posture from border management to
securing the border on the 1,597 km Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh after
aggression by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army in the Chushul sector,
followed by additional induction of troops and support elements, people
familiar with the matter said.
Army, IAF chiefs visit forward areas, CDS Rawat warns of two-front threat
September 4, 2020, The Indian Express
On the day Army chief General MM Naravane reached forward areas in eastern
Ladakh to review operational preparedness, Chief of Defence Staff General
Bipin Rawat warned of the two-front threat from China and Pakistan, but said
Indian armed forces were fully prepared to deal with it.
Indian Navy Warships Hold Mega Exercise with Russia in Bay of Bengal
September 4, 2020, News 18
The primary aim of exercise INDRA NAVY-20 is to further consolidate inter-
operability built up by the two Navies over the years and also to enhance
understanding and procedures for multi-faceted maritime operations.
In dealing with Chinese power, Delhi needs an internationalism that is rooted
in realism
September 1, 2020, The Indian Express
Delhi’s pursuit of economic regionalism in East Asia and a multi-polar world in
partnership with China and Russia had severely underestimated the economic
and political consequences of China’s rapid rise.
China's "Coercive" Tactics Evident In Claims With India, Bhutan: Pentagon
September 2, 2020, NDTV
China has been using coercive tactics in pursuit of territorial and maritime
claims in the South and East China Seas, as well as along its border with India
and Bhutan, the Pentagon said.
1India implodes its own new Silk Road
September 2, 2020, Asia Times
There was a time when New Delhi was proudly selling the notion of
establishing its own New Silk Road – from the Gulf of Oman to the intersection
of Central and South Asia opening access from Iran, Afghanistan and Central
Asia from the Arabian Sea – to compete with China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
China requests meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on sidelines of
SCO amid border tension
September 4, 2020, Zee News
Amid border tension between India and China in eastern Ladakh, Chinese
Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe has requested for a meet with Union
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organization (SCO) meet on September 4.
Pakistan
Pak-British naval drill held
August 29, 2020, Dawn
The Pakistan Navy and Britain’s Royal Navy have conducted exercise White
Star 2020 in the North Arabian Sea and Passage Exercise in the Gulf of Aden.
PN Ships Zulfiquar and Dehshat, PN Aviation fixed and rotary aircraft and PAF
JF-17 fighter participated with Royal Navy Ship HMS Argyll. The main objective
of naval exercises between PN and RN was to further enhance collaboration
through exchange of experience and improve interoperability between the two
navies.
Islamabad, Kabul vow to address challenges plaguing ties
September 1, 2020, Dawn
In a bilateral meetings between Pakistan and Afghanistan under the
Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS), both sides
vowed to make the best of this engagement framework for addressing the
challenges that keep plaguing their ties. “The two sides reiterated their
commitment to optimally utilise APAPPS to deliberate on all key issues,
effectively address common challenges, and pursue new opportunities,” a
statement issued by the Foreign Office said after the APAPPS second review
meeting in Kabul.
2Saudi envoy says kingdom wants better ties with Pakistan
September 2, 2020, Dawn
Saudi envoy to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Malki said that Riyadh
looks to deepen ties with Islamabad. “Highlighting the excellent relationship
between the leadership of the two countries, the ambassador underlined that
the kingdom would continue to work with Pakistan for further strengthening
of bilateral relations,” the Foreign Office said in a statement on the meeting
between Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed
Al-Malki and Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.
SPD chief discusses nuclear diplomacy with FM
September 3, 2020, Dawn
Director General of the Strategic Plans Division of Pakistan Lt Gen Nadeem Zaki
Manj called on Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi for a discussion on
nuclear diplomacy.
Pakistan's economic future linked to China: PM Imran
September 3, 2020, The Express Tribune
Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that the country's economic future is now
linked to China and the bilateral relations between Islamabad and Beijing are
'better than ever before'. In an interview with Qatar-based Al-Jazeera, the
premier said China's growth rate is faster than any other country in the world,
and Pakistan can benefit from the manner in which China has developed and
has lifted its people out of poverty.
Asim Bajwa decides to resign as SAPM
September 3, 2020, The Express Tribune
Asim Bajwa announced that he would resign as special assistant to the prime
minister on information and broadcasting but would continue as chairman of
CPEC Authority. Asim Bajwa’s decision to resign came shortly after he issued a
detailed rebuttal to the corruption allegations against him and his family made
by journalist Ahmad Noorani.
Officer, two soldiers martyred in North Waziristan attack
September 4, 2020, Dawn
An army officer and two soldiers were martyred in a terrorist attack on security
forces in North Waziristan on September 3. According to the Inter-Services
Public Relations, the terrorists planted an improvised explosive device on a
roadside. It went off near a convoy of troops providing protection to road
construction teams working on Ghariom section of Shaga-Nishpa road in
North Waziristan.
3Afghanistan
Afghan govt frees Taliban prisoners except 'few' opposed by foreign nations
September 3, 2020, The Express Tribune
The Afghan government had released 400 Taliban prisoners under an
exchange deal with the militants, except for "a few" opposed by foreign nations,
and expected peace negotiations to start soon. The two warring sides have
grown closer this week to launching direct talks in Qatar, tying up the end of a
contentious and months-long prisoner exchange.
US slaps sanctions on ICC prosecutor Bensouda over Afghanistan war probe
September 2, 2020, France 24
The United States imposed sanctions on International Criminal Court
prosecutor Fatou Bensouda, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, over her
investigation into whether American forces committed war crimes in
Afghanistan. The Hague-based tribunal reacted denouncing an
“unprecedented” attack against “the rule of law”.
Ghani, Abdullah Meet with Negotiation Team Ahead of Talks
September 2, 2020, Tolo News
President Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, the chairman of the High
Council for National Reconciliation, met with the negotiation team. President
Ghani assured the members that as a national team they have the strong
support of the government and people of Afghanistan and that Afghans see
strength in the team's diversity, unity and coordination.
Karzai evades Afghan govt team for talks with Taliban
August 30, 2020, The Express Tribune
Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai excused himself from being placed in
the official negotiating team for talks with the Taliban. This came hours after
Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani issued a decree approving a list of
48 prominent figures for the High Council for National Reconciliation for the
proposed talks with the Taliban with the name of Karzai right on the top.
Taliban Violated Afghan Deal With Shelling of American Bases, U.S. Officials
Say
August 30, 2020, The New York Times
Rockets launched at a U.S. military base and a joint U.S.-Afghan airfield in
southern Afghanistan in recent weeks are believed to have been fired by the
Taliban, according to three American military officials, in what would amount
4to a clear breach of the peace agreement between the United States and the
insurgent group.
Abdullah Opposes Ghani’s Decree on Reconciliation Council Members
August 31, 2020, Tolo News
Abdullah Abdullah, the chairman of the High Council for National
Reconciliation issued a statement opposing President Ashraf Ghani’s decree
officially listing members of the council, saying that according to the political
agreement it is the authority of the head of the council to appoint its members.
Abdullah quoted the agreement signed in May, saying: “The head of the High
Council of National Reconciliation forms the council in consultation with the
president, sides and political leaders, speakers of the houses of parliament, the
civil society and elites of the country.”
Nepal
Raxaul-Kathmandu rail link: India seeks Nepal's permission to conduct detailed
study
September 3, 2020, Zee News
India has sought permission from Nepal to conduct a detailed study of the
Raxaul-Kathmandu rail link without any delays. A proposal sent by the Indian
Embassy in Kathmandu to the Nepal government has promised to follow health
and safety protocols amid COVID-19 while carrying out the study.
Nepal directs its forces to "closely monitor" Indian Army activities at Lipulekh
September 2, 2020, The Economic Times
Nepal government has directed its forces to "closely monitor" Indian Army's
activities at Lipulekh area amid escalating Indo-China border tension
Determinants in Indo-Nepal relations
August 4, 2020, The Kathmandu Post
Policy consequences and exit strategies must be considered when determining
the course of Indo-Nepal bilateralism.
Shyam Sharan’s punitive prescriptions: Perils to Nepal-India relations
August 31, 2020, My Republica
Irrespective of how putrid the Oli led government maybe for its excesses, the
Nepali people will stand unwaveringly united and support the government
over the border dispute with India. Any sinister attempt to wedge a divide is
bound to fuel more resentment.The reaction came from a senior former Nepali
diplomat after reading the recent op-ed piece by India’s former foreign
Secretary Shyam Sharan that appeared in The Hindu last week.
5Bangladesh
Bangladesh national flag flies at half mast as country pays homage to Pranab
Mukherjee
September 2, 2020, WION
Bangladesh's national flew at half mast as the country paid homage to former
Indian President Pranab Mukherjee who departed on August 31, 2020.
Bangladesh is marking one day of national mourning for Mukherjee who was
a well-known figure in the country and had close ties with Bangladeshi Prime
Minister Sheikh Hasina.
India, Bangladesh launch new initiative to connect landlocked North East
September 3, 2020, The Economic Times
Partnership between India and Bangladesh reached another milestone,
following the operationalization of the Daukandi (Bangladesh) – Sonamura
(Tripura) Inland Waterway Protocol route, adding a new feather in the field of
cross-border connectivity initiatives.
Japan adds India and Bangladesh to 'China exit' subsidy destinations
September 4, 2020, Nikkei Asian Review
Japanese manufacturers will now be eligible for subsidies if they shift
production out of China to India or Bangladesh, in an expansion of a
government program aimed at diversifying the country's supply chains.
Sri Lanka
Indian Coast Guard sends 3 ships, aircraft after Sri Lanka seeks help in fighting
fire onboard oil tanker
September 3, 2020, Financial Express
The Indian Coast Guard said it has pressed into action its three ships and a
Dornier aircraft after the Sri Lankan Navy sought assistance to control a fire
onboard an oil tanker off the east coast of the island nation. In a swift sea and
air coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operation, the Coast Guard said it
immediately diverted ICG Ships Shaurya, Sarang and Samudra Paheredar,
besides a Dornier aircraft for the firefight on oil tanker New Diamond.
6Sri Lanka, India, and China: Here’s what keeps neighbours friendly – and what
doesn’t
September 1, 2020, Daily Ft
A comparative analysis will need to holistically explore relations, not only
between India and Sri Lanka, but also those between India and other countries,
Sri Lanka, and other countries and amongst third party countries.
US sanctions could put China's Sri Lanka project in trouble
August 28, 2020, Tribune
The US’ first-ever sanctioning of Chinese companies involved in building
artificial islands in South China Sea may affect the fate of several of Beijing’s
under-construction One Belt, One Road (OBOR) projects including the
strategically-sensitive Port City Colombo project.
7East & South East Asia
China
Why does India recklessly focus on blocking Chinese apps?
September 3, 2020, Global Times
Right after Indian troops once again illegally crossed the Line of Actual Control,
New Delhi imposed a new ban on a swath of Chinese apps, showing reckless
intention to further decouple with China economically. The move is a double-
edged sword which will cause losses to both China and India, while offering a
perfect opportunity for the US to take over the market.
Influencing Indo-Pacific region difficult for Europe
September 3, 2020, Global Times
The German government set out the course for its future policy on countries in
the Indo-Pacific region. The policy guidelines, with the theme "Germany-
Europe-Asia: Shaping the 21st century together," argue that the shifting
geopolitical power structures in the Indo-Pacific have a direct impact on
Germany. This new policy is centered on greater security and economic
cooperation. "Indo-Pacific" is a not a simple political term, nor is it value-
neutral, as an SWP research paper published in July pointed out. Invented by
the Trump administration, this term implies one of the geopolitical focal points
of the intensifying US-China strategic rivalry.
Foreign force's attempt to agitate Inner Mongolia bound to fail
September 3, 2020, Global Times
The Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region has started to promote the use of
state-compiled textbooks in the teaching of some subjects in the first year of
primary and secondary schools. While there is widespread public support, a few
people don't understand it. I think that's normal. Over a period of time, the
relevant problems will certainly be resolved.
Pentagon won’t sacrifice soldiers for non-core US interests
September 3, 2020, Global Times
The Pentagon's annual report on "Military and Security Developments
Involving the People's Republic of China," released illustrates an overview of
military imbalance in the Taiwan Straits. It warns that the People's Liberation
Army is preparing to unify the island of Taiwan with the Chinese mainland by
force, listing a range of China's military options to "invade" the island. The part
was certainly not choreographed for the sake of Taiwan. It aims solely at China.
The report coordinates with US President Donald Trump administration's
8China policy, providing excuses for Washington's tough strategy against
Beijing.
Indian troops’ illegal crossing of LAC a move to deflect domestic attention
September 1, 2020,Global Times
India reported its sharpest GDP contraction on record, as the economy shrank
23.9 percent in the second quarter. With the looming prospect that it may even
take over the US as the global pandemic center, the Indian economy may sink
deeper into the mire in the second half of the year. Indian troops, amid the
sharp economic contraction and devastating epidemic situation, once again
illegally crossed the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Playing Tibet card will incur damage to New Delhi
September 3, 2020, Global Times
Some Indian media recently said India's "Special Frontier Force" (SFF), a force
recruited mostly from exiled Tibetans, has "thwarted" the People's Liberation
Army (PLA)'s actions along the China-India border area. A Tibetan member
died and another was critically wounded during the SFF's illegal crossing of the
Line of Actual (LAC) near the south bank of the Pangong Lake. Indian Prime
Minister Narendra Modi in June declared that Indian deaths in the Galwan
Valley clash "will not be in vain." And now, India is letting these exiled Tibetans
rush to the forefront. It seems that New Delhi may try to play the Tibet card.
India's new ban on 118 Chinese apps criticized
September 3, 2020, China Daily
The Ministry of Commerce said that it was firmly opposed to the Indian
government's decision to ban 118 Chinese apps and urged the neighboring
country to desist from such actions against Chinese enterprises.The Indian
government is abusing the concept of national security, and has adopted
discriminatory and restrictive measures against Chinese enterprises, which are
in violation of the World Trade Organization rules, ministry spokesman Gao
Feng said during a news briefing.
One-China principle political foundation of China-Czech ties: Chinese FM
September 2, 2020, Xinhua
Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that the one-China
principle serves as the political foundation of China-Czech relations. Wang
made the remarks during a press conference with German Foreign Minister
Heiko Maas, when answering a question over China's strong reaction to Czech
Senate President Milos Vystrcil's visit to Taiwan.
9Xi: Party, people will never be divided
September 4, 2020, Xinhua
The Chinese people will not allow attempts by any individual or force to
alienate them from the Communist Party of China, President Xi Jinping said in
Beijing. Speaking at a symposium commemorating the 75th anniversary of
victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the
World Anti-Fascist War, Xi said that the great rejuvenation of the Chinese
nation must count on the leadership of the CPC, put people first and steadfastly
follow the path of peaceful development.
UN experts condemn Hong Kong security law in letter to China
September 04, 2020, Al Jazeera
United Nations human rights experts have written to China to warn the
national security legislation imposed on Hong Kong at the end of June is a
serious risk to the territory's political and civic freedoms, urging Beijing to
review and reconsider the law.
New evidence of China’s concentration camps shows its hardening resolve to
wipe out the Uighurs
September 04, 2020, The Washington Post
Last week, Chinese officials were asked at a news conference about the
continuing reports that China has locked in concentration camps more than 1
million ethnic Muslim Uighurs, Kazakhs and others in Xinjiang province. A
spokesman for the regional government responded that it was “outright
nonsense”.. If so much is “outright nonsense,” then how to explain the barbed
wire, guard towers and cement that have been rising around Xinjiang, in far
western China?
Tibet Was China’s First Laboratory of Repression
August 31, 2020, Foreign Policy
In the early 2000s, the Free Tibet movement galvanized the world. From
celebrity endorsements to Simpsons cameos, the media launched the plight of
Tibet into the Western imagination; the suffering of Tibetans under a foreign
regime became well known. But today, with atrocities in Xinjiang and Hong
Kong dominating the narrative and Tibet now more sealed off than ever, news
about the Himalayan region has been reduced to stray sentences in coverage
on Chinese aggression.
10Taiwan's redesigned passport shrinks words 'Republic of China'
September 02, 2020, BBC
Taiwanese officials have announced changes to the passport design, making
the word "Taiwan" larger and shrinking the words "Republic of China".
Authorities said the redesign was to stop confusion between its nationals and
citizens of China. The island is for all practical purposes an independent state
but China sees it as a breakaway province.
Japan
Cabinet approves signing of India-Japan pact on cooperation in textiles
September 2, 2020, The Times of India
The government approved for signing a pact between India and Japan aimed
at increasing India's exports of textile and apparel to the Japanese market, and
to boost co-operation in the textiles sector.
What will Japan’s China policy be post-Abe?
September 2, 2020, Asia Times
Dealing with geography and balancing geopolitics have been two staple factors
influencing Japanese foreign policy. Along the same tangent, China’s location
as a geographic neighbor and the brewing geopolitical rivalry between Tokyo
and Beijing in the maritime domain have served as two episodic aspects of
Japan’s China policy.
Who succeeds Abe’s foreign policy?
September 2, 2020, The Japan Times
In a parliamentary democracy, the political weather can change overnight. The
sudden announcement of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s resignation on Aug. 28
has rewritten political weather forecasts both in the ruling and opposition
parties. A new power game has begun in Tokyo.That said, the endgame of this
political game is probably easier to predict than the 2020 U.S. presidential
election. This time, Abe resigned out of his deep sense of responsibility. Eight
years of his foreign policy has made Tokyo more influential, trusted and even
respected than any other period in Japan’s post-World War II diplomatic
history.Why was he so successful in foreign policy? Was it just good luck? What
made the difference? Who will succeed Abe as prime minister? And, ultimately,
what will their foreign policy look like?
11Kono backs Suga for prime minister, but still has his eye on top job
September 4, 2020, Japan Today
Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono said he supports Chief Cabinet Secretary
Yoshihide Suga as the country's next leader to provide continuity in tackling
the coronavirus crisis but also predicted he will one day be prime minister.
U.N. chief urges Japan, others to meet goals on climate change
September 4, 2020, Japan Today
The United Nations chief urged Japan and other wealthy nations to give up
their reliance on coal and other fossil fuels and commit to investments in green
energy as they recover from the coronavirus pandemic.
View: As Shinzo Abe prepares to leave, his legacy will continue to reshape Asia
September 2, 2020, The Economic Times
With the announcement by Japanese PM Shinzo Abe on August 28 that he is
stepping down from office for health reasons, India will be losing a trusted
friend, Asia a charismatic statesman and Japan an inspired leader who has
forged political stability and set Japan firmly on the path of national revival.
When he relinquishes office, he will leave behind an irreplaceable void but also
a legacy that will likely endure.
Why India and Indo-Pacific will miss PM Abe more than Japan
September 3, 2020, The Print
No leader in recent memory has so completely and profoundly transformed
strategic thinking in Asia and his vision is integral to how diplomats and
politicians in the region operate.
Chinese Experts Think US-China Rivalry Accelerated Abe Shinzo’s Departure
September 2, 2020, The Diplomat
Experts in Beijing believe Abe got caught up in the unending hostility between
Japan’s key ally, the U.S. and China, its largest trading partner — just like in
2007.
Korea
Russian oil firm denies exports to Pyongyang
September 4, 2020, The Korea Times
Rosneft, a Russian energy company, has denied allegations that it exported oil
products to North Korea between 2018 and 2019, despite international
sanctions on Pyongyang.
12Trump says KORUS FTA led to US losses before
September 4, 2020, The Korea Herald
US President Donald Trump again blasted his Democratic presidential rival Joe
Biden for supporting the Korea-US free trade agreement (FTA) in its original
form, arguing the initial pact only caused losses for the United States.
Behold South Korea’s Very Expensive Stealth Fighter
September 3, 2020, Forbes
South Korea is developing its own stealth fighter. And now we finally have our
first glimpse of the number-one prototype at a facility belonging to Korean
Aerospace Industries.
North Korea waiting for US elections to resume talks, South Korean ambassador
says
September 4, 2020, Defense News
North Korea is likely waiting until after the U.S. elections to reopen negotiations
with Washington over its nuclear arsenal, the South Korean ambassador to the
U.S. said.
Is South Korea Involved In Taiwan’s Indigenous Submarine Project ?
September 3, 2020, Naval News
In the early May, Taiwanese media reported that over 250 foreign advisors and
engineers, who are participating in Taiwan’s Indigenous Defense Submarine
(IDS) project considered that staying in Taiwan is safer than going home,
because of Taiwan’s effective COVID-19 control protocols. According to the
local media reports, the foreign advisors and engineers came from the United
States, Europe, Japan and South Korea. South Korean media reports also
claimed that that Korean engineers are participating in the submarine
development project.
Southeast Asia
India, ASEAN trade ministers call for starting discussions to determine FTA
review scope
August 30, 2020, The Economic Times
Trade ministers of India and 10-member ASEAN countries have instructed
their officials to start discussions for determining the scope of review of free
trade agreement (FTA) at the earliest with a view to make the pact more user-
friendly, simple, and trade facilitative for businesses.
13For China and Indonesia, a delicate balancing act for better ties
September 4, 2020, SCMP
Indonesia and China marked 70 years of diplomatic relations earlier this year,
but it has not been a smooth friendship.
Philippines will not follow US in blacklisting China firms: official
September 1, 2020, Yahoo
The Philippines will not follow the US lead in blacklisting Chinese companies
involved in the construction of artificial islands in the disputed South China
Sea, the president's spokesman said, arguing Manila needed Beijing's
investment.
Why China wants Suu Kyi to win Myanmar’s polls
September 3, 2020, Asia Times
As Myanmar enters an election season, the economy, Covid-19 and issues of
war and peace are expected to dominate the campaign trail discourse.
China, Myanmar vow to further advance ties, cooperation
September 4, 2020, CCTV
Noting that Chinese President Xi Jinping's successful visit to Myanmar this
January has advanced the relations between the two countries into a new era,
Yang said China is willing to work with Myanmar to implement the consensus
reached by the leaders of the two countries and jointly build a China-Myanmar
community with a shared future.
COVID-19 and China’s information diplomacy in Southeast Asia
September 3, 2020, Brookings
Amidst growing attention in the United States to authoritarian foreign
influence operations, China has been actively developing and mounting its
own information campaigns in an attempt to shape global narratives. Such
narratives are not only propagated through official channels and traditional
state media propaganda — including what have come to be known as “wolf
warrior”-style diplomats — but also amplified through the manipulation of
social media platforms. Especially in response to recent crises such as the
COVID-19 pandemic and the Hong Kong protests, Beijing appears to have
partially adopted Moscow’s disinformation playbook.
Singapore shares lack mojo as India-China border tensions escalate
September 3, 2020, Business Times
Singapore shares languished as the border tension between India and China
escalated amid persistent Sino-US rivalry.
14Forget China, can India match Vietnam?
September 2, 2020, The Hindu Business Line
On most trade indicators, Vietnam scores over India. And, now, it’s going all
out to woo firms moving out of China.
15Central & West Asia
Central Asia
From Central Asia to the Black Sea
September 2, 2020, Modern Diplomacy
In early June, China unveiled a new transportation corridor when a rail cargo
of 230 tons of electrical appliances worth some $2,6 million arrived in the Uzbek
capital of Tashkent. Though distant from the South Caucasus, the development
nevertheless has a direct impact on the geopolitics of the South Caucasus
energy and transport corridor.
Small Openings in Central Asia’s Pandemic-Closed Borders
September 1, 2020, The diplomat
In mid-March, as the three Central Asian states of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and
Uzbekistan began confirming their first cases of COVID-19, the disease caused
by the novel coronavirus that originated in China in late 2019, border closures
were among the region’s first actions. Now, as the pandemic drags on, some
states in region are testing the waters for re-opening border.
Chinese hydroelectric investments in Central Asia: A snapshot
August 31, 2020. Eurasia Net
Any investor wishing to stay friendly with all five Central Asian republics knows
to steer clear of major hydropower projects.When the five countries were part
of the Soviet Union, interdependence worked: Moscow built some of the
world’s tallest dams in upstream Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan; downstream
Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan shared their abundant oil and gas
when the rivers froze in winter.
Kavkaz 2020: Why Russia’s Latest Military Drills Are a Golden Opportunity for
Pakistan
September 2, 2020, The Diplomat
Beyond a chance to deepen ties with Russia, Pakistan hopes to build bridges
with Central Asian countries through the Kavkaz 2020 exercises.
Kazakhstan cuts oil supplies to China amid OPEC+ deal: sources
August 31, 2020, Energy World
Exports of Kazakh crude to China fell to 12,100 tonnes in July, their lowest since
March when shipments were hit by organic chloride contamination and down
from 98,865 tonnes in June. August shipments stood at 10,000 tonnes as of
Aug. 28
16Why Did Tajikistan Make an Appearance in the China Military Power Report?
September 3, 2020, The Diplomat
The U.S. Department of Defense included Tajikistan in a list of possible
locations for future Chinese military facilities.
China may want more bases in Tajikistan, Pentagon says
September 2, 2020, Eurasia Net
China’s security assistance to its impoverished neighbor has been growing
rapidly over the past few years.
West Asia
India Supports Syria's National Reconstruction Efforts: V Muraleedharan
September 04, 2020, Yahoo News
Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan held a discussion with
Vice Foreign Minister of Syria, HE Faysal Mekdad, at the India-Syria Ministerial
Consultations (September 03). During the meeting, Muraleedharan conveyed
India's support for Syria's national reconstruction efforts.
Bahrain To Allow Flights Between Israel and UAE to Cross Its Airspace
September 03, 2020, The Jerusalem Post
Flights between Israel and the United Arab Emirates will be able to fly over
Bahrain after the kingdom (September 3) said all services to and from the UAE
can cross its airspace.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister Voices Support to Ceasefire, Formation of New
Presidential Council in Libya in Meeting With EU’s Borrell
September 03, 2020, Egypt Today
Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry (September 03) affirmed Egypt’s support for a
ceasefire in Libya, the formation of a new presidential council and a fair
distribution of wealth, as he met with Josep Borrell, the European Union’s high
representative for foreign affairs.
US, Europeans Part Ways in UN over Repatriation of ISIS Detainees
September 02, 2020, The Arab Weekly
The United States refused to back the resolution in the UN because it did not
demand countries actively repatriate foreign fighters who travelled to the
Middle East to join al-Qaeda and ISIS.
17U.S. Sanctions 11 Companies It Says Have Enabled Sales, Shipments of Iranian
Oil
September 03, 2020, Radio Liberty
The Treasury Department said on September 3 the sanctions have been
imposed on six companies based in Iran, the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), and
China.
Israel Launches Airstrikes on Strategic T-4 Airbase in Syria
September 02, 2020, Al-Monitor
Syria’s government said its air defenses responded to Israeli airstrikes targeting
the T4 air base in Syria’s Homs desert.
Turkey Warns the West It Will Continue to Shop Around for Missiles
September 04, 2020, Bloomberg
Turkey said it would continue to turn to other providers of air-defense weapons
if traditional western allies fail to deliver, suggesting the rancor prompted by
Ankara’s decision to buy Russian missiles may be repeated.
18United States
United States
China's Military Has Surpassed US in Ships, Missiles and Air Defense, DoD
Report Finds
September 1, 2020, Military.com
China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) has already surpassed the U.S. in missile
development and its number of warships and air defense systems under the
Chinese Communist Party's plan to achieve dominance by 2049, the Defense
Department said in a sobering report.
China tested more missiles last year than all western nations combined: Mike
Pompeo
September 3, 2020, The Economic Times
United States’ Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on September 02 stated that
more missile tests were done in China last year than all western nations
combined.
Hoping for peaceful resolution of India-China border dispute, says US
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo
September 2, 2020, Hindustan Times
The US Secretary of State further said that China had a patter of ‘bullying’ its
neighbours and this pattern was evident in the developments happening in the
South China Sea.
Mike Pompeo announces fresh restrictions on Chinese diplomats in US
September 3, 2020, The Indian Express
The United States said it would require senior Chinese diplomats to get State
Department approval before visiting U.S. university campuses or holding
cultural events with more than 50 people outside mission grounds.
US Army pursues new mid-range missile, as tactical missile upgrade hits delay
September 3, 2020, Defense News
The effort is meant to fill a gap in the service’s long-range precision fires
portfolio that includes the future Precision Strike Missile and hypersonic
weapons capabilities.
19Palau invites U.S. to build bases as China seeks regional clout
September 4, 2020, Japan Times
The tiny Pacific nation of Palau has urged the United States military to build
bases on its territory — which lies in a region where Washington is pushing
back against growing Chinese influence.
Extending the New START nuclear pact will help stabilize US-Russia relations
September 3, 2020, Defense News
Just as arms control negotiations had a stabilizing impact on the geopolitical
rivalry between Washington and Moscow during the Cold War period, strategic
stability talks could help arrest the years-long degradation in this critical,
bilateral relationship.
Mike Pence re-affirms America's commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific
September 1, 2020, Times Now News
Vice President Mike Pence reaffirmed America's commitment to a free and
open Indo-Pacific and said a strong US-India partnership is in their strategic
interests, amid China flexing its muscles in the region.
The Culture Wars Are Back
September 02, 2020,The Wall Street Journal
It seems like only yesterday conservatives were concluding that after a long
battle, the culture wars have been lost, overwhelmed by campuses and
corporations imposing as the new American normal a preoccupation with
identity, race and gender. No one ever put this imposition to a vote, but so
what? Wars are about winning, not your opinion.
With eye on China, U.S. aims to 'formalize' four-nation 'Quad' security
grouping
September 01, 2020, Japan Times
The U.S. State Department’s No. 2 diplomat said Monday that Washington was
aiming to “formalize” growing strategic ties with India, Japan and Australia in
a forum known as “the Quad” —a move experts say is implicitly designed to
counter China in the Indo-Pacific region
U.S. Trade Deficit Swelled to Biggest Since 2008 in July
September 03, 2020, Bloomberg
The U.S. trade deficit swelled to the widest in 12 years in July, with the surplus
on services plunging to the lowest since 2012, pointing to a bumpy economic
recovery ahead.
20Europe & Russia
Europe
Greece, Turkey agree to talks over Eastern Mediterranean, NATO says
September 3, 2020, Reuters
Greece and Turkey have agreed to talks to avoid accidental clashes in the East
Mediterranean, NATO Secretary-General said, part of efforts to diffuse the
worsening dispute over energy resources in the region.
Brexit: 'Significant gaps' in UK's border plans
September 3, 2020, BBC
Members of the logistics industry are warning of "significant gaps" in UK border
plans for the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December.
Google urges EU to be flexible in setting digital rule book
September 4, 2020, CNA
Google urged the European Commission to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach
to the tech industry in its forthcoming Digital Services Act.
Is China losing its pull with Europe?
September 3, 2020, TRT World
Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi ended a week-long European tour with
mixed results, leaving Wang with more questions than answers.
EU Looks Ahead for Space Security
September 1, 2020, SIGNAL
The European Union has established the basis of an organizational structure to
safeguard its important satellite assets, particularly those that provide vital
positioning, navigation and timing data.
Russia
Russia reiterates it won’t supply arms to Pakistan
September 3, 2020, Hindustan Times
Russia reiterated that it would not supply weapons to Pakistan during a
meeting between defence minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart
General Sergei Shoigu in Moscow, people familiar with the developments said.
21India, Russia finalise AK-47 203 rifles deal: Report
September 3, 2020, Hindustan Times
India and Russia have finalised a major deal for manufacturing AK-47 203 rifles
in India during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s ongoing visit here, the official
Russian media reported.
Russia asks Germany for help with Alexei Navalny case
March 8, 2020, Deutsche Welle
Russia's top law enforcement official has requested official assistance from
German authorities. Doctors in Germany have said leading opposition figure
Navalny fell ill last week as a result of contact with poison.
Extending the New START nuclear pact will help stabilize US-Russia relations
September 3, 2020, Defense News
There aren’t many bright spots in U.S.-Russia relations these days. But just as
arms control negotiations had a stabilizing impact on the geopolitical rivalry
between Washington and Moscow during the Cold War period, strategic
stability talks today could help arrest the years long degradation in this critical,
bilateral relationship.
U.S.-Russia Military Tensions Intensify in the Air and on the Ground Worldwide
September 1, 2020, The New York Times
Recent altercations in Europe, the Middle East and off the coast of Alaska have
heightened tensions between the two rival powers.
Putin and the Belarusian Question
September 2, 2020, The Moscow Times
Putin will seek to do as much as possible, but as little as necessary, to suppress
peaceful change in Belarus. On 27 August, the Russian president announced
that he had created, at the request of his Belarusian counterpart Alexander
Lukashenko, a‘ law enforcement reserve’ for use if the situation got ‘out of
control’ because of ‘extremists elements hiding behind political slogans’.
BRICS countries’ Foreign Ministers to discuss new challenges via
videoconference
September 4, 2020, TASS
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will take part in a meeting of foreign
ministers of the BRICS member states (Russia, Brazil, India, China, and South
Africa) via videoconference. The event will be held under the leadership of the
Russian side presiding over the association this year.
22Africa & Latin America
Latin America
Argentina gains room to breathe with crucial debt deal
September 2, 2020, Reuters
Argentina has gained breathing room after restructuring almost the entirety of
$65 billion in foreign bonds, though it now faces a huge challenge to revive
growth and repair government finances before the oxygen runs out.
Argentina's wetlands under assault by worst fires in more than a decade
September 3, 2020, Reuters
The worst fires in more than a decade are cutting through Argentina’s vast
wetlands, exacerbated by low water levels in the Parana River delta region that
have exposed carbon-rich soil ripe for burning.
Mexico Struggles With US Water Debt, Suggests UN Audit
September 4, 2020, News 18
As Mexico struggles to pay a water debt to the United States, President Andrs
Manuel Lpez Obrador said he might personally appeal to President Donald
Trump for clemency, or invite United Nations experts to audit water payments.
Venezuela's Maduro invites UN, EU observers to December elections
September 3,2020, France 24
The Venezuelan government of President Nicolas Maduro said it had invited
the leaders of the United Nations and European Union to send observers to
monitor parliamentary elections in December.
US Confirms Seizure of Iranian Fuel on Venezuela-bound Ships
September 4, 2020, News 18
The US Justice Department confirmed it had seized the fuel cargo aboard four
tankers sent by Iran to crisis-wracked Venezuela, tying the shipments to
Tehran's Revolutionary Guards.
Damaged Venezuelan oil tanker drawing international concern
September 3, 2020, Yahoo News
The sight of a huge oil tanker that has taken on water and is leaning to one side
off a remote stretch of Venezuela's coast has triggered international calls for
action. If not repaired soon it could sink and spell environmental disaster
23Sino-Brazilian currency clearing mechanism being considered
September 4, 2020, MACAUHUB
The financial regulators in Brazil and China are studying the possibility of
setting up a mechanism for direct currency clearing, Xinhua reports, citing
Brazilian Vice-president Hamilton Mourão.
Africa
US official: No results after $3.2bn spent restoring Somalia’s security
September 2, 2020, Middle East Monitor
he Acting Deputy Representative of the United States to the United Nations,
Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet, said her country had spent nearly $3.5
billion to restore Somalia’s security over the past two decades, without
achieving any results.
US suspends aid to Ethiopia over Blue Nile dam dispute
September 2020, Al Jazeera
The United States has suspended a portion of its financial aid to Ethiopia over
the lack of progress in talks with Egypt and Sudan about a massive dam Addis
Ababa is constructing on the Blue Nile River. Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt have
been locked in a bitter dispute over the filling and operation of the Grand
Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which remains unresolved although the
reservoir behind the dam began filling in July.
Sudan Signs Historic Peace Deal with Rebel Groups
August 31, 2020, VOA
Sudan’s transitional government has signed a historic peace agreement
Monday with the Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF), a coalition of rebel groups
from the regions of Darfur, Southern Kordofan, and the Blue Nile. The
ceremony took place in South Sudan's capital, Juba. The agreement made after
a year of talks hosted by South Sudan raises hopes of ending more than 17 years
of war. It offers power sharing, integration into security forces, land rights, and
the return of those displaced from years of conflict.
The Sudanese government cannot afford to be confused on Israel
September 3, 2020, Al Jazeera
On August 18, just a few days after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel
declared their intention to normalise ties, Sudan's foreign ministry spokesman,
Haidar Badawi, announced that his government too is "looking forward to
concluding a peace agreement with Israel." The move by Khartoum was seen
24by many as a major win for the UAE, which is known to be supporting Israel's
normalisation of ties. However, the Gulf state was not necessarily the intended
audience for this unexpected announcement.
Highest Nile waters for a century swamp Sudan
September 4, 2020, Yahoo News
On Sudan's Tuti Island, where the Blue and White Nile meet, the highest river
waters since records began have left people struggling to hold back the rising
floods.
UN says new polio outbreak in Sudan caused by oral vaccine
September 2, 2020, AP
The World Health Organization says a new polio outbreak in Sudan is linked to
an ongoing vaccine-sparked epidemic in Chad — a week after the U.N. health
agency declared the African continent free of the wild polio virus.
UN Deploys Troops to New Base as Violence Surges in South Sudan
September 2, 2020, The Defense Post
The peacekeepers will set up a base at Lobonok, some 110 kilometers (70 miles)
southeast of the capital Juba, in a region witnessing a resurgence in violent
clashes between rebel and government forces.
Would Egypt support Sudan-Israel normalization deal?
September 2, 2020, Al Monitor
No official Sudanese statements have been made on the details of the Aug. 25
meeting between US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Sudan’s Prime
Minister Abdalla Hamdok, along with Chairman of the Sovereignty Council Lt.
Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.
Inside Kenya’s tiff with Somalia and Tanzania
September 3, 2020, The East African
Kenya’s persistent trade tiffs with neighbours may be a result of dynamics
beyond the region, which could require political solutions.
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