TWTW Regional Roundups
News from around the world
Padmashree Anandhan, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, Rohini Reenum, Femy Francis, Anu Maria Joseph, R Preetha, Brighty Ann Sarah, Gauri Gupta, Merin Treesa Alex
CHINA THIS WEEK
China: Lifts Boeing delivery ban amid easing trade tensions with the US
On 13 May, China lifted its ban on receiving Boeing aircraft after a US-China agreement to temporarily reduce mutual tariffs, according to Bloomberg News. This decision allows Chinese airlines to resume taking delivery of planes made in the US, a move not publicly confirmed by China's Civil Aviation Administration or Boeing. Boeing had earlier stated that China refused to accept new aircraft due to high tariffs, forcing the company to reconsider selling dozens of jets. In April, Boeing repatriated at least three aircrafts from its Chinese delivery center back to the US. Although there was no formal ban announced, senior industry sources were unaware of any official directive halting deliveries. China accounts for around 10 percent of Boeing’s commercial backlog, making it a vital aviation market. Boeing had expected to deliver 50 jets to China in 2025, with 41 already built or in production.
China: US ocean cargo bookings jump by 300 percent after tariff rollback
On 15 May, CGTN reported that China-US ocean cargo bookings have increased sharply, after tariff negotiations. China-US container cargo booking surged by 300 percent, reports Vice President of Strategic Business Development, Ben Tracy. Bookings had previously slowed down after the 02 April tariffs by the US President on Chinese imports, but business rebounded after a decision between the two nations to lower tariffs was taken. German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd reported 50 percent week-on-week growth in China-US traffic bookings.
China: PLA to host 100 African military officers from 40 countries
On 10 May, SCMP reported that China will train 100 mid-career African military officers from 40 countries. This is part of PLA’s long-term strategy to deepen its defense ties across the continent, notes SCMP. The delegation will stay till 15 May, learning China's military systems and technology. Stimson Centre, Director of China programme Sun Yun, called the officers the “future pillars of military leadership in African countries.” This programme is the fourth of its kind organized by China’s Ministry of National Defence with the National University of Defense Technology in Changsha, Hunan province.
China: Russia sign a new space deal to build a power plant on the moon
On 14 May, Live Science reported on a deal signed between Russia and China to build a power plant on the Moon. According to the MoU signed between the two countries, a Russian reactor will be used to power the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) jointly led by China by 2036. According to the Director General of the Russian Space Agency Roscosmos, Yury Borisov, the construction will be carried out “without the presence of humans”. Following the signing of the MoU, Roscosmos stated that the space station will carry out tests and research “with the prospects of a human being’s presence on the Moon.”
China: Develops advanced ocean microscope, reports SCMP
On 13 May, SCMP reported on China developing LICOMK++, the world’s most advanced ocean simulation system with a 1 km resolution. This breaks the computational limits for modelling global ocean dynamics and climate patterns with incredible accuracy. The "ocean microscope" is created by the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Atmospheric Physics and Computer Network Information Centre. The microscope will help improve predictions for extreme weather events like typhoons and marine heatwaves. SCMP notes that despite US semiconductor export controls, this system marks a significant advancement in high-performance computing, aiding global climate research and disaster response strategies. The ocean plays a crucial role in regulating energy and carbon in the climate system, absorbing over 90 percent of the additional heat from global warming and more than 30 percent of human-caused carbon dioxide emissions.
EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC THIS WEEK
North Korea: UNGA to hold talks on human rights violations in North Korea
On 12 May, Korea Times reported that the UN General Assembly announced its decision to hold its first high-level meeting on 20 May that would to address human rights abuses and violations by North Korea. This is the first time the UNGA is conducting a high-level meeting on North Korea’s human rights conditions; the last discussion on this subject was in 2014, hosted by the South Korean and US governments with the office of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
South Korea: South Korea- NATO evaluate security in Korean peninsula; to increase defense cooperation
On 12 May, Korea Times reported on the third round of military talks between South Korea and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in Seoul. The meeting mainly focused on strengthening defense cooperation and evaluated the security conditions in the Korean Peninsula. It also reassured the international community of the need for a joint response against military threats by North Korea, especially in light of Pyongyang’s strengthened military alignment with Russia.
South Korea: Holds discussions with Malaysia for a Free Trade Agreement
On 13 May, Korea Times reported that South Korea and Malaysia held their ninth round of negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement in Kuala Lumpur, with over 70 officials discussing key trade areas. The report stated that the countries are planning to make progress in eight areas, such as market access for goods and services and economic cooperation. Negotiations resumed in March 2024 after a five-year hiatus. Korea already has a Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN and aims to strengthen individual trade deals with member states. The report mentioned that an FTA with Malaysia would help Korean companies improve competitiveness and eliminate potential risks prompted by US tariffs.
Japan: Russian drills prompt protests in Japan
On 15 May, Japan Times reported on Russia’s plan to conduct live-fire drills near Shikotan Island, in waters Japan considers its territory. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary stated that the government has protested against the drills, emphasizing that the military buildup contradicts Japan’s stance and is “unacceptable.”
SOUTHEAST AND SOUTH ASIA THIS WEEK
Myanmar: Workers from the Adidas factory stage a sit-in strike for demanding higher wages
On 16 May, 4000 workers from a factory in Yangon, which manufactures shoes for Adidas, have staged a sit-in strike protesting for higher wages. The Tsang Yih Shoe Factory in Hlaing Tharyar is one of the largest producers for Adidas, and has around 6800 employees. Their daily wages come to around USD 1.20 at the market rate. A formal complaint was issued to the labour office and even negotiated, but that did not help them. An official from the Federation of General Workers Myanmar said that many of the factory workers need a pay increase, and over 1200 workers are on strike demanding an increase in wages. In response to the protests, within 24 hours, all of them were laid off.
Pakistan: Imran Khan’s sons urge global pressure over father’s “inhumane” prison condition
On 14 May, Dawn reported that Imran Khan’s sons, Suleman and Qasim, have publicly addressed their father’s imprisonment for the first time in an interview with influencer Mario Nawfal. Khan has been jailed since August 2023 over a 190 million pound corruption case and faces anti-terror charges linked to the 9 May 2023 riots. The brothers informed that the court had allowed weekly phone calls with their father in November 2023, but the calls are irregular, brief, and infrequent. They claimed that Khan is being held in “inhumane conditions” and denied basic rights. Having exhausted legal avenues, they called for international pressure on Pakistan. Speaking publicly, they said, was their only remaining option to advocate for their father’s release from Adiala Jail, where Khan is currently lodged.
Pakistan: Witnesses increase in merchandise exports to North America by 11.24 per cent
On 14 May, Dawn reported on the increase in Pakistan’s merchandise exports to North America by 11.24 per cent to USD 4.837 billion in the first nine months of FY 2024-25. The report suggested that the reason is mainly due to increased exports to the United States by 12.08 per cent, particularly in textile and clothing. The report stated that the US accounts for 94 per cent of exports, with other countries accounting for the rest of the share, mainly Canada, the exports to Canada declined by 0.26 per cent. The report mentioned that imports from North America increased to USD 1.902 billion, which is around 27.39 per cent. The report stated that despite the tariffs imposed by the US on Pakistani textiles, which is 29 per cent, the 90-day pause has delayed the enforcement, which has not affected the export growth. The report further stated that the exports to the US in FY24 were around USD 5.442 billion, which is an 8.26 per cent decrease from FY23. The report also mentioned the export situation in other regions like Latin America and Central America, where the exports rose by 17.82 per cent and the exports declined by 3.47 per cent, respectively. The report suggested that the increase in North American exports is linked to the slowdown of exports from Bangladesh and Vietnam.
Pakistan: UK- Pakistan joint measures to counter serious crimes reports The Express Tribune
On 16 May, The Express Tribune reported on the UK and Pakistan’s agreement to strengthen their cooperation under the UK-Pakistan Serious Crime and Law Enforcement Programme (UPSCALE). The report stated that during a high-level meeting in Islamabad, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi led the discussions, which included Pakistani officials from the Ministry of Interior and FIA, as well as UK and UPSCALE officials. The meeting primarily focused on illegal migration, online child harassment, and other serious crimes. The report highlighted Minister Naqvi’s priority on illegal migration, mentioning that “coordinated efforts” must be undertaken. He acknowledged the UK’s support and stated, “Mutual cooperation is essential to combat illegal immigration. We value British assistance in this regard.” The meeting also provided updates on progress made thus far, including Pakistan establishing its first sex offender registry and the effective outputs resulting from mutual legal assistance between the two countries. The operational status of the UPSCALE delivery unit was also highlighted.
Pakistan: Pakistan continues its rhetoric against India
On 16 May, people of Pakistan paid their respects to the military for allegedly defeating India in the recent military confrontation. The day is being celebrated as “Youm-e Tashakur” or “day of gratitude.” This comes after the military of Pakistan claimed the “success of Operation Banyan Marsoos” against India. President Zardari and PM Sharif have sent out “special messages” to the people of Pakistan, claiming that the “success of Operation Banyan Marsoos.” President Zardari said “this victory is not only of our valiant military but of the entire nation that stood untied like a solid wall.” On 15 May, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar told the Senate that Islamabad is seeking a “composite dialogue” with India to address the issues of concern. The ceasefire which came into force on 10 May between India and Pakistan has now been extended until 18 May.On the same day, Islamabad appealed to the International Atomic Energy Agency to carry out an enquiry in the alleged “nuclear black market” of India. As per the Foreign Office, there have been cases of radioactive materials being stolen in India. Islamabad has also dismissed the demands put forward by the Defence Minister of India for having a “nuclear watchdog” to keep a close eye on Pakistan’s “nuclear programme.” On the same day, Foreign Minister of India S. Jaishankar confirmed that India would not adhere to Indus Water Treaty until and unless Pakistan puts an end to “cross-border terrorism” against India. FM Dar cautioned that any disruption caused by India in the flow of water to Pakistan would be seen as “act of war.”
EUROPE THIS WEEK
Albania: Socialist Party in the lead; Edi Rama to become the Prime Minister for the fourth term
On 13 May, results from the preliminary elections showed that the ruling Socialist Party, is in the lead, with Prime Minister Edi Rama looking forward to his fourth term in office. Of the total 96 per cent of votes polled and in the 140-seat parliament, Edi Rama secured 52.09 per cent, which comes to 82 seats, and the opposition Democratic Party, led by Sali Berisha, got only 34.44 per cent and 52 seats. The remaining parties will take up the last six seats. The Socialist Party drew voters in favour of them because they have pledged to secure EU membership in the coming five years. The final results are to be released 48 hours from voting, but there is a delay in the release, as the opposition requested that the ballots from the diaspora in Greece, which is approximately 53,000, not be counted, claiming that they could be manipulated. This is the first election where diaspora voters could participate by sending their votes by mail. Around 195,000 people sent in their votes by mail.
Turkey: Kurdish militant group PKK announces its disbandment
On 12 May, according to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), the Kurdish militant group plans to cease operations as soon as possible and has called for the closure of the organization. This comes after 40 years of the deadly armed conflicts with the Turkey's government, over the autonomy of ethnic Kurds in the country. The purpose of their disbandment, as per the statement: “The 12th PKK Congress has decided to dissolve the PKK's organizational structure and end its method of armed struggle…the recent summit has brought the Kurdish issue to the point of resolution through democratic politics, thus completing its historical mission.” The group also responded to the call made by PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan, to lay down their arms. Ocalan has been behind bars since 1999 near an island in Istanbul. Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke on the decision made by the PKK and said that they are taking calculated steps to have a terror-free Turkey. The Kurds are an ethnic group of 30 million people, and are present in Turkey, Iraq, Iran and Syria, after the West redrew the borders in WWI. The PKK was founded in 1978, aiming to create an independent Kurdish state, but in 1990.
The UK: Prime Minister Starmer to impose strict immigration rules to reduce net migration
On 12 May, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his intentions to set stricter immigration rules, as it has been revealed by the parliament that there have been several policies that aim to reduce the number of people coming into Britain, but there has been no change. This comes after the victory secured by the Reform Party in the mayoral elections, where they have gained 10 of 23 councils, and won 677 of 1600 seats. In Downing Street, the Prime Minister issued a statement in which he vowed to take back control of the borders. PM Starmer looks to reduce the migration numbers by the end of his term and emphasizes that the new rules are a necessity, otherwise the region will be filled with strangers. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the net migration dropped in June 2024, and according to Starmer, during the leadership of the Conservative Party, the migration numbers were high, reaching a million. During the COVID-19 phase, the net migration was estimated to be around 111,000 in June 2020.
SOUTH AMERICA THIS WEEK
South America: China offers visa free entry to five Latin American nationals
On 15 May, China has announced visa free entries to nationals of five Latin American countries in lieu of the China-CELAC forum. Citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay can enter China without a visa for 30 days starting 1 June.
Mexico: Denounces US plan to impose taxes on remittance
On 15 May, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum firmly rejected the provision in a US tax bill that would impose a five per cent excise tax on remittances by non-citizens. The provision includes visa-holders and permanent residents as well. The President strongly condemned the US move and called the proposal “a measure that is unacceptable”, and highlighted that the provision will lead to double taxation.
Brazil: China and Brazil vouch for free trade and multilateralism amid President Silva’s visit
On 14 May, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva ended his visit to China and announced that the two countries inked "20 agreements and adopted 17 other documents to strengthen cooperation in various fields over the next 50 years." The main objective of the trip was to expand the strategic partnership between China and Brazil and to encourage private investment. On 12 May, Brazil had announced two new Chinese partnerships, notably a USD one billion investment by China's Envision Energy for the production of sustainable aviation fuel. During the visit the countries had pledged to defend free trade and multilateralism.
About the Authors
Gauri Gupta and Aashish Ganeshan are post graduate students at Stella Maris College and Madras Christian College respectively; currently, both are Research Interns at National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) . Padmashree Anandhan is a Project Associate at NIAS. Rohini Reenum is a Doctoral Student at NIAS. Femy Francis and Anu Maria Joseph are Project Associates at NIAS. Fleur Elizabeth Philip is a Research Assistant at NIAS. R Preetha, Brighty Ann Sarah and Merin Treesa Alex are post graduate students at Stella Maris College at Chennai; currently they are Research Interns at NIAS.
