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The World This Week
The World This Week #313
China-ASEAN-GCC Summit I President Macron's visit to South East Asia I Trump Vs Harvard
The World This Week #313 Vol 7, No 22, 01 June 2025

  GP Team
1 June 2025

 

China-ASEAN-GCC Summit:
A Trilateral Cooperation
Gauri Gupta

What happened?
On 27 & 28 May 2025, the leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China convened for the ASEAN-GCC-China summit, which took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

On 27 May, in the opening of the summit, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim delivered a keynote address titled “The Beginning of a New Chapter in ASEAN’s Journey of Outward-Looking Engagement.” China’s Premier Li Qiang emphasized that China is aiming to collaborate with “ASEAN and the GCC in forging synergies that multiply.” Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al Sabah stated they will deepen cooperation and “improve their ability to face crisis.”

On 27 May, during the summit, the leaders highlighted the importance of finalizing key trade negotiations, including the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0 and the China-GCC Free Trade Agreement. They also emphasized collaboration, energy stability and sustainability, digital innovation, and cultural exchanges. They expressed serious concern over Gaza, condemning attacks on civilians and calling for a lasting ceasefire, safe humanitarian access, respect for international laws, and urging a peaceful two-state solution based on international agreements.

On 28 May, China announced visa-free travel allowances of 30 days to four Gulf countries: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait, for non-commercial purposes, from 9 June 2025.

What is the background?
First, China’s relationship with ASEAN and GCC. In the past two decades, China has become a vital economic and strategic partner of both ASEAN and the GCC member states. Since 2009, China has been ASEAN's largest trading partner, and by 2023, bilateral trade exceeded USD 975 billion. With GCC, China's trade surpassed  USD 240 billion in 2022, predominately driven by imports of energy, adding infrastructure investments, and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Previously, China had signed free trade agreements and comprehensive strategic partnerships with ASEAN & GCC with an aim to further dialogue on policy coordination, digital economy, and green technology transfers. 

Second, ASEAN–GCC relationship. The ASEAN–GCC relationship has historically been limited, however, it has expanded substantially since the early 2000s, particularly in areas of energy cooperation and food security. Their first ministerial meeting took place in 2009, and the first ASEAN-GCC Summit occurred in Riyadh in October 2023, where the leaders expressed commitment to promote connectivity, trade, and investments. In 2022, the trade between member states of ASEAN-GCC stood at USD 110 billion. 

What does it mean?
First, the increase in economic integration between China, ASEAN, and GCC. This trilateral format brings the countries on a single platform, combining GDP of nearly USD 25 trillion and a market of more than 2 billion people. The three-way cooperation further encourages China’s ambition to establish a broader economic and strategic footprint in changing global environments, especially after tariffs imposed under the Trump administration.  ASEAN and the GCC see China as an economic partner, which enables the development of balanced, multilateral cooperation for future sustainable economic growth, regional connectivity, and a lower reliance on Western markets.

Second, the emphasis on institutionalized cooperation. The summit has paved the way for greater connectivity through quality tourism, cultural, youth, and educational exchanges and STEM collaboration, arts, and support for the UN dialogue among civilizations and tourism digitalization practices. 

President Macron’s visit to Vietnam, Indonesia & Singapore:
The focus on Politics, Trade and Defence
Fleur Elizabeth Philip

What happened?
On 26 May, France’s President Emmanuel Macron embarked on a visit to Southeast Asian countries- Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore. He met the Secretary General of Vietnam’s Communist Party, who said that with “France, there is trust, reliability, and friendship.” France and Vietnam signed over a dozen deals worth USD 10 billion in various sectors, including, in defence, the sharing of information on strategic matters, cybersecurity, and anti-terrorism. Vietnam also signed an agreement for the purchase of vaccines from the French pharmaceutical company Sanofi. Airbus signed a separate declaration on the development of Earth-observing satellites. The two countries discussed possible cooperation in the development of new power sources, pumped storage, hydropower, energy storage, and grid operations, and signed two agreements on renewable and nuclear energy. 

On 28 May, he visited Central Java, Indonesia, where he met President Prabowo Subianto. Both leaders signed several deals boosting cooperation. The deals include the order of 42 French military equipment, Rafale jets, and Scorpion submarines. Five radar systems   would be installed in Nusantara. 20 MoUs worth USD 11 billion were signed between French mining company Eramet and the newly established Indonesian sovereign wealth fund Danantara. 

On 29 May, President Macron traveled to Singapore. He attended the 22nd Shangri-La dialogue, which is taking place from 30 May to 01 June. Macron at the Shangri-La dialogue in Singapore stated that the aim of building new coalitions between Europe and Asia is to reset the global order, amidst the growing tensions between China and the US. France also aims to strengthen the commercial ties between the EU and Asia. France and Singapore have signed agreements on nuclear power, clean energy, defence, cyberspace, AI, and intelligence sharing. Both Prime Minister Wong and President Macron emphasized the importance of legitimate international engagement amidst the China-US trade war. Wong said that, with uncertainty everywhere, it is important for “like-minded” countries like France and Singapore to work together. 

What’s the background?
First, France’s ties with Vietnam. In October 2024, France and Vietnam established a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), which, according to Hanoi, is of the highest diplomatic ties. Vietnam, among the Southeast Asian regions, is the 17th largest trading partner of the EU, and the value of trade in goods in the FY 2024 had reached EUR 67 billion. The cultural ties between France and Vietnam go back to the 17th century. It started off with the arrival of the French Catholic Missionaries, followed by French colonization. For 60 years, French influence could be seen in every aspect of Vietnamese lifestyle, including in their architecture, culture, art, and cuisine.

Second, the economic ties between France and Indonesia. The economic relationship between the countries is multifaceted, robust, and developing. Indonesia imports various products from France, like aircraft equipment, computers, machinery, cosmetics, chemicals, perfumes, food, metals, metallurgical products, and pharmaceuticals, whereas France imports electronics, nuclear reactors, rubber, fish, animal fat, vegetable oils, medical apparatus, and many more. 

What does this mean?
First, the visit to Southeast Asia suggests that, amidst the trade war and economic uncertainties around the world, Southeast Asia now has the opportunity to diversify their exports, expanding their presence in European and Middle Eastern markets. 

Second, for France, the trip would likely increase its influence in the region and renew its past relations. By signing deals on defence and energy, France advocated for a balance in the international order and poses as an alternative player in the Indo-Pacific region, in addition to the US and China. With France, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore finding alternative solutions to the tariffs, this visit could lead to cooperation between the EU and ASEAN.

US: Harvard vs Trump Administration
Aashish Ganeshan

What happened?
On 22 May, the Trump administration prohibited Harvard University from accepting new international students as it revoked the university's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Department of Homeland Security (DHS) accused the University of violating federal regulations concerning security screening, foreign influence, and antisemitism. The Trump administration asked Harvard to submit a list of all international students and restrict the number of foreign students to 15 per cent in the same announcement.

In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit in a federal court. On 23 May,to prevent further government action against the university until after additional hearings, a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order against the Trump administration 

On 27 May, following these actions, federal funding totaling USD three billion, including research grants and academic partnerships, was frozen. A national discussion concerning political interference in higher education and the function of prestigious universities like the Ivy Leagues had been picked up fire.
 
What is the background?
First, a brief note on the SEVP program. It is a federal program that permits colleges to accept foreign students on F, M, and J visas. Institutions must use the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) database to comply with US immigration reporting requirements and be SEVP certified to participate. Every year, about 7,000 international students arrive in the US to attend Harvard, mostly from China, India, and Canada. These students, who make up almost 27 per cent of its entire student body, are essential to its reputation around the world and its research output.

Second, tensions between Trump and the US universities. Trump sees prestigious universities, especially Ivy League, as liberal bastions that are antagonistic to traditional American values.. He stands against Universities’ affirmative action, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Trump calls it as "woke indoctrination" on college campuses. Trump contends that these universities that "hate America" act as gatekeepers for an aloof elite class and prioritize globalism over patriotism, alleging that these universities are continually growing towards CCP (Chinese Communist Party) owing to the presence of Chinese students. 

Third, the role of the judiciary. Judiciary has emerged as a major opposition to Trump’s proposed policies. Courts have expressed their unsureness on whether the DHS followed the right procedures and if the federal government is violating constitutional rights like free speech and due process. 

What does it mean?
First, the implications of the Trump’s policies on foreign students. For international students, the situation has created uncertainty over visa security, research continuity, and graduation prospects. Many are at risk of losing their academic advancements and progress, as well as being deported. For research labs, innovation, and academic diversity, universities such as Harvard rely on talent from around the world. Reducing or eliminating foreign students undermines global competitiveness and the quality of education. 

Second, the economic ramifications of Trump’s policies. The US Department of Commerce estimates that in 2023, foreign students made over USD 40 billion in economic contributions to the US. They spend money on housing, groceries, transportation, and services that boost local economies in addition to tuition, especially in college towns like Cambridge. Limiting the number of international students not only jeopardizes academia but also the financial ecosystems closely linked to it. 

Third, Trump’s appeasement towards conservative section of the US society. The altercation serves to further Trump's reputation as a cultural warrior. He is appealing to conservatives who view elite universities as haughty, exclusive, and politically radical by focusing on Harvard. He frames the battle as a component of a broader effort to "reclaim" American institutions from liberal elitism.

Fourth, the impact on US institutions. Trump administration’s move calls into question the independence, standing, and capacity of the educational institutions to operate as an international organization. The issue represents a larger conflict between academic freedom and state control, between nationalism and globalism, and between institutional knowledge and populist rhetoric.

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, Farhaz Rashid Ahmed, Ananya Dinesh, Gauri Gupta, Yamini Jagadish, Merin Treesa Alex, Lekshmi M.K, Kejia Reddy, Santhiya. M, and Rizwana S Banu

CHINA THIS WEEK
China: To launch its Tianwen-2 mission for furthering deep space exploration
On 26 May, China National Space Administration informed that China is set to launch its Tianwen-2 asteroid probe on 29 May from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province. The Long March-3B rocket will soon be fueled for the mission. Ground systems such as the Beijing Aerospace Control Center, Xi’an Monitoring Center, Yuanwang tracking ships, and tracking stations have conducted joint control operations and system checks to ensure mission success. The launch aims to advance China's deep space exploration capabilities.

China: Africa-China ties have entered their strongest era, says Foreign Minister Wang Yi
On 26 May, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi met over 50 African envoys in Beijing to commemorate Africa Day. Wang Yi emphasised that China-Africa ties have entered their strongest era, marked by an “all-weather community with a shared future.” He noted that the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), including six modernisation proposals and 10 partnership actions, provide a solid framework for future cooperation. He called for the upcoming coordinator-level FOCAC meeting to serve as a platform to advance Belt and Road Initiative projects, Global Development Initiative implementation, and shared modernisation goals. He reaffirmed China’s support for Africa’s increased global role. The African envoys praised China's initiatives and pledged to uphold the one-China principle, support China's sovereignty, and jointly defend Global South interests. They expressed strong confidence in continued Africa-China cooperation and alignment with the UN Charter's principles.

China: Hosts 11 Pacific Island countries in Xiamen for deepening regional engagement
On 28 May, China hosted high-level diplomats from 11 Pacific Island nations in Xiamen. This a two-day summit chaired by China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi aiming to deepen regional engagement and foster a “closer community with a shared future” with Pacific Island countries. The gathering includes President Taneti Maamau of Kiribati and senior officials from Niue, Tonga, Nauru, Micronesia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands, Fiji, and Samoa. The discussions focus on enhancing cooperation in trade, infrastructure, poverty alleviation, sustainability, and climate action. It is the third such meeting, but this was the first time that China hosted it. 

China: BYD signs MoU to expand its market to Sri Lanka
On 27 May, at a press conference held in Sri Lanka, representatives of Build Your Dream (BYD) and John Keells signed an MoU to facilitate DENZA's entry into the local market in Sri Lanka. Denza is a Chinese premium electric vehicle (EV) brand that originated as a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz in 2010. Chairperson of the John Keells Group Krishan Balendra said BYD's rapid success in Sri Lanka's New Energy Vehicle (NEV) segment "reflects the strength of our partnership and our shared vision for the future of mobility." Due to Sri Lanka easing import restrictions in early 2025, BYD has swiftly captured consumer interest with a range of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This surged the demand for more BYD vehicles. 

China: Allows four Gulf countries visa-free travel for up to 30 days
On 28 May, SCMP reported that China would allow passport holders from four Gulf countries- Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain for a visa-free stay for up to 30 days for  business, tourism, family visits, or cultural exchange purposes. This decision was announced a day after the landmark summit China convened with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN). 

China: Signs convention to establish the “International Organisation for Mediation”
On 30 May, China signed a convention setting up an international organisation for mediation in Hong Kong in hopes that Beijing might be on par with the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration of the United Nations in the Hague. This, in the backdrop of the Trump tariff trade war, is significant amid growing geopolitical tensions. The mediation body aims to “cement Hong Kong's presence as a top centre to resolve disputes between countries,” said the current Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), John Lee Ka-chiu. Countries that attended the signing ceremony were Indonesia, Pakistan, Laos, Cambodia, and Serbia. Chinese Foreign Minister 

China: Defence Minister to not attend Shangri-La Dialogue
On 30 May, SCMP reported on China’s downgrade of its representation at the Shangri-La Dialogue this year. However, China's defence minister Dong Jun's absence is justified in the backdrop of the US tariff war and waning interest in a ‘Western-centric’ forum. The forum, scheduled to take place from 30 May to 01 June, will feature only a “delegation from the National Defence University,” according to a statement from the Ministry of National Defence of the People's Republic of China. Jun’s absence will be particularly striking this year, given his consistent presence at the forum over the past three years. The event will be headlined by notable leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and the European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas.

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC
Japan: China conducted maritime research in Japanese water without permission 
On 27 May, the South China Morning Post reported that Japan accused China engaging in marine research without informing Japan in its exclusive economic zone. This activity took place in the Philippine Sea, between Taiwan and Guam. A Chinese ship was spotted by Japanese coastguard and had ordered it to stop as it did not have the permission to conduct research. China, however, dismissed Japan’s claims. 

SOUTHEAST AND SOUTH ASIA
Myanmar: Signs Mutual protection pact with Russia to combat international prosecution
On 26 May, Myanmar Now reported that Myanmar and Russia have signed a pact pledging mutual protection against international prosecution. This agreement was finalised during the Legal Forum in Saint Petersburg in May 2025, which was led by Myanmar's Attorney General Dr. Thida Oo and her Russian counterparts. Both countries, whose leaders face accusations of war crimes at international courts, have long rejected the authority of bodies like the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This pact focuses on a deepening alliance between the two countries.

Bangladesh: Government enforces Public Service Act amidst to streamline disciplinary action against civil servants
On 26 May, Bangladesh issued Public Service act which allows dismissal of civil servants for administrative disruptions within fourteen days without departmental proceedings. It is an amendment to Public Service Act 2018. The government is making efforts to streamline disciplinary action for civil servants. 

Maldives: Hosts 8th OECD Initiative Meeting on Tax Transparency
On 26 May, PSM News reported that the Maldives hosted the 8th OECD Asia Initiative Meeting on Tax Transparency, marking a significant step in regional cooperation on Tax matters. There were representatives from 17 Asian countries, along with the Asian Development Bank and many other organisations, gathered to discuss enhancing transparency, and they exchanged information on tax systems.  Co-chairperson of the forum, Commissioner General of taxation Hassan Zareer, had highlighted Maldives's rapid advancements in its tax infrastructure. He had pointed out that participating in such initiatives will help the Maldives to exchange information with other countries without the need for individual tax agreements, which promotes a more integrated approach to tax transparency. This forum also focused on emerging challenges like the integration of cryptocurrency into tax systems, which reflects the region's commitment to adapting to evolving financial landscapes.

Pakistan: PM Sharif expresses resolve in prioritizing CASA-1000 “power project”
On 29 May, PM Sharif embarked on a “two-day visit” to Tajikistan. The Tajikistan government had invited PM Sharif to attend “International High-Level Conference on Glaciers Preservation” which is scheduled to take place in Dushanbe from 29 to 31 May. Attaullah Tarar who is the minister for Information and Broadcasting and his special assistant Syed Tariq Fatemi also joined PM Sharif in his visit.  This is the fourth country after Turkiye, Iran and Azerbaijan, that he is visiting after Pakistan went through a brief military confrontation with India.

On the same day, PM Sharif met President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon. The two leaders delved into the existing state of bilateral ties and their cooperation in fields such as “trade, economy, defence, security and regional connectivity.” Both the leaders decided to look for new fields where they could increase bilateral cooperation, particularly emphasizing upon potential areas of investments, increasing “educational” and cultural ties, development in IT and improving “people to people contacts.” Both PM Sharif and President Rahmon reiterated their resolve in prioritizing the Central Asia-South Asia “power project” (CASA-1000).

Pakistan: PM Sharif and President Pezeshkian vow to establish “permanent peace” in the region
On 26 May, PM Sharif embarked on a “two-day visit” to Iran. He held a meeting with President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian. Islamabad and Tehran have reiterated their resolve to establish “permanent peace” in the region. Both Iran and Pakistan highlighted how establishing cordial ties among bordering countries is a crucial part in the “foreign policy” of both the countries. President Pezeshkian and PM Sharif have also expressed their commitment to enhance “bilateral trade and investment.” PM Sharif in Tehran claimed that Pakistan achieved victory in its brief confrontation with India. Further, he claimed that Pakistan remains committed towards solving the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir as per the “UN Security Council resolutions.” He also expressed willingness to have discussions with India over other contentious issues such as “water, trade and counter-terrorism.”

Iran: Makes arrangements for facilitating the movement of Pakistani pilgrims traveling for Muharram and Arabeen
On 28 May, the Interior Ministry informed that during Muharram and Arabeen, Iran-Pakistan border would remain open for the entire time for facilitating the movement of the pilgrims. This was decided when Pakistan’s interior minister Mohsin Naqvi held a discussion with Iran’s Minister for Interior, Eskandar Momeni in Tehran. Iran’s interior minister informed that the government would make arrangements for around 5000 devotees from Pakistan to stay in Mashad. Further, the government would also assist the Pakistani devotees for travelling to Iraq. Tehran and Islamabad have also decided to formulate a “hotline” for quick resolution of problems incurred by the devotees. In addition to that, “trilateral conference” which saw the participation of interior ministers from Iraq, Pakistan and Iran would be held in Mashad for deliberating on issues concerning devotees from Pakistan. Tehran also voiced concerns regarding the arrest of fisherman from Iran who unknowingly trespassed the water boundary. On this issue, Naqvi affirmed “full cooperation” from Pakistan.   

MIDDLE EAST THIS WEEK
Syria: Qatar signs seven billion USD deal    for building gas power and solar plan in Syria
On 29 May, Syria had signed a seven billion USD deal with a consortium led by Qatar’s UCC Holding to build four gas power plants and one solar plant, aiming to restore its electricity sector. The project shall add 5,000 MW of capacity and is expected to meet over 50 per cent of Syria’s power needs. The construction will begin after final agreements and it is set to complete within three years. The move signals a shift to private-sector-led reconstruction, with funding from international banks and investors. The projects are also expected to create around 300,000 jobs. 

Kuwait: Kuwait aims new projects for energy with Qatar’s UCC holding
On 29 May, Reuters reported that Kuwait aimed to address its worsening power crisis through new energy projects mainly including the public-private partnerships. The key projects include the Khairan power plant, Al-Zour North and the Dabdaba-Shagaya renewable energy initiative. The Al-Zour project aims to add 2.7 GW of power and 120 million gallons of water daily within three years. The Dabdaba-Shagaya project also aims to generate 4.5 GW by 2030. The power crisis is driven by rapid population growth, expanding urbanization and rising temperatures 

AFRICA THIS WEEK
Democratic Republic of Congo: Joseph Kabila, former president of the DRC, returns after political exile
On 26 May, former president of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Joseph Kabila, arrived in Goma after the end of his political exile. The M23 rebels who control northern Kivu confirmed his arrival. DRC president Felix Tshisekedi accused him of supporting the M23 and the Congo River Alliance. After he returned, Kabila delivered a 45-minute speech and criticized the current government.
 
Mauritania: Mauritanian economist elected as the president of the African Development Bank
On 30 May, former Mauritania’s finance minister Sidi Ould Tah was elected as AfDB’s president at the bank’s annual meeting in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. He replaces Akinwumi Adesina, a Nigerian economist who is going to step down in September. Tah’s tenure will commence on 1st September for a five-year term. The new president of AfDB is expected to persuade the US to resume the aid that it had cut and seek additional funds from the non-regional members of the AfDB, like China, Saudi Arabia and UAE. 

Namibia: Commemorates the first Genocide Remembrance Day after independence
On 28 May, Namibia observed the first official Genocide Remembrance Day, honoring the victims of the colonial genocide. The day commemorates the victims of German-run concentration camps between 1904 and 1908, which devastated the Herero and Nama communities. The genocide resulted in the murders of tens of thousands of people from both communities because of execution, forced displacement, and starvation. Germany had acknowledged its role in the genocide and pledged EUR 1.1 billion worth of development aid over 30 years. 

EUROPE THIS WEEK
Ukraine: President Zelenskyy announces return of 390 Ukrainian prisoners from Russia
During 23 and 25 May, Politico reported on the prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine.. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said: “Among those who returned today are soldiers from our army, the State Border Service, and the National Guard of Ukraine.” In the initial phase of a major prisoner exchange agreement known as "1000-for-1000," Zelenskyy announced the return of 390 prisoners of war to Russia, with both sides reportedly releasing 270 soldiers and 120 civilians each. This marks the first significant swap since the start of the war, which has now lasted over three years and left thousands of prisoners on both sides—Russia is estimated to be holding between 8,000 and 10,000 Ukrainians. 

Spain: Thousands protest against privatising healthcare in Madrid
On 25 May, Euronews reported that 30,000 people rallied in Madrid to protest against the regional government's healthcare policies, which they argue are leading to the privatisation and dismantling of the public health system. Organised under the slogan "Let’s Save Our Public Health," the demonstration highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with long waiting times, staff shortages, and the growing privatisation of health services. Protesters, led by the platform ‘Vecinas y vecinos de los barrios y pueblos de la Comunidad de Madrid,’ demanded more funding for primary care and criticized the long waiting lists affecting millions of residents. Left-wing parties and trade unions lent their support to the rally, with some accusing the regional government of cronyism.

France: Signs USD 10 billion trade deal with Vietnam in aviation, defense, energy, transport and pharma
On 26 May, during a high-profile visit to Hanoi, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the signing of deals worth over USD 10 billion between France and Vietnam, spanning sectors such as aviation, defense, energy, transport, and pharmaceuticals. The visit comes amid US escalating trade tensions with Vietnam and the EU.  Among the agreements were the sale of 20 Airbus A330neo aircraft to VietJet, cooperation on defense and nuclear energy, satellite technology, and vaccine development with Sanofi. The visit is part of Macron’s broader Southeast Asian tour, which will also include stops in Indonesia and Singapore.

Europe: EU on track towards 2030 climate goals, says Reuters
On 28 May, the EU was closing in near to its 2030 climate goals. As their current policies are projected to cut emissions by 54 per cent, just short of its 55 per cent goal. In 2023, emissions had dropped 37 per cent from 1990 levels. The economy grew nearly 70 per cent, showing that climate action and growth were advancing together. The energy sector was led the progress whereas progress in agriculture and transport were not up to the mark. The farmer protests had led to weakening of environmental rules.

NORTH AMERICA THIS WEEK
The US: US federal appeals court restores Trump’s tariffs overturning the Court of International Trade’s ruling
On 28 May, the US Court of International Trade blocked the Trump administration’s tariffs on countries, ruling that Congress’ exclusive authority to regulate the subject cannot be overridden by President’s emergency powers. The court held that Trump overstepped his powers by invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act which is meant for addressing national emergency threats. However, on 29 May, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, Washington, temporarily restored the tariffs as it overturned the lower court’s decision. 

The US: US State department halts all student and exchange visitor visa appointments 
On 27 May, the US State Department ordered all its consular sections worldwide to stop scheduling new student and exchange visitor visa appointments until further notice. The official memo, signed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stated that the department is reviewing its current vetting procedures for F, M, and J visa applicants and preparing to implement expanded social media screening. This comes amid the Trump administration’s broader crackdown on international students in its elite universities. On 22 May, the Department of Homeland Security revoked Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification, a federal judge temporarily halted the revocation a day after.

POLAR AND OCEANS THIS WEEK
ARCTIC: The Arctic had been warming three times faster than the global average, warns WMO  
On 28 May, Reuters reported on the findings of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which had stated that the Arctic had been warming at a rate three times higher than the global average. According to the WMO report, Arctic temperatures are expected to be 2.4°C above the 30-year average during the five upcoming winters. Between 2025 and 2029, global near-surface temperatures had been forecasted to rise between 1.2°C and 1.9°C above pre-industrial levels (1850–1900). This trend of rapid warming had been predicted to trigger more frequent and intense extreme weather events. The world is likely to experience heatwaves, heavy rainfall, prolonged droughts, faster melting of ice sheets and glaciers, ocean warming, and rising sea levels. 

UK: UK employs AI to detect hostile state activity in the Arctic 
On 27 May, Gov.UK announced its use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Arctic to detect hostile state activity. This effort aimed to enhance national security by monitoring and identifying potential threats in the increasingly contested Arctic region. The initiative underscored the UK's commitment to safeguarding its interests in the Arctic amid the geopolitical dynamics. The UK was trying to improve its capabilities by employing AI. 
About the Authors
Gauri Gupta is a postgraduate student at Stella Marris College, Chennai. Aashish Ganeshan is enrolled at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College. They are Research Interns at National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS). Fleur Elizabeth Philip is a Research Assistant at 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. Farhaz Rashid Ahmed, Ananya Dinesh, R Preetha, Brighty Ann Sarah, Merin Treesa, Aparna A Nair Alex, Santhiya. M, Lekshmi M.K, Rizwana S Banu, Yamini Jagadish and Kejia Reddy are Research interns at NIAS. 

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