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The evolution of Asia to Indo-Pacific, an opinion in the East Asia Forum

China Reader Daily Wire | 29 July 2024, Monday | Vol.1 No. 134
The evolution of Asia to Indo-Pacific, an opinion in the East Asia Forum
On 13 June, an opinion in the East Asia Forum stated that the concept of “Asia” has undergone significant transformations, shaped by various historical, economic, and strategic factors. The author said: “Asia was built by nationalists, the ‘Asia Pacific’ by economists, ‘East Asia’ by culturalists, and the ‘Indo-Pacific’ by strategists.” Pan-Asianism, promoted by leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sun Yat-sen, initially served as an anti-imperialist construct. The Asia Pacific concept gained traction through economic forums like APEC, while East Asian regionalism emerged post-1997 Asian financial crisis, emphasising cultural identity. The Indo-Pacific idea, popularised in the 21st century, represents a broader geopolitical construct. However, it faces challenges due to its diverse composition and lack of strong multilateral institutions. The author observes: “The Indo-Pacific suffers from an aspirational gap” between competing visions. For the Indo-Pacific concept to endure, it must evolve towards a more “inclusive, multilateral, and non-hegemonic” framework. This approach echoes the historical Indian Ocean region, which thrived without domination by a single power. (Amitav Acharya, “Turning the idea of the Indo-Pacific into reality,” East Asia Forum, 13 June 2024)

China Reader Daily Wire | 27 July 2024, Saturday | Vol.1 No. 133
Lack of fuel delays police deployment in PNG massacre, reports RNZ
On 27 July, RNZ Pacific reported that during a recent massacre in Papua New Guinea (PNG), the deployment of police in the area of the attack was delayed due to “a lack of fuel”, said East Sepik Governor Allan Bird. 26 were reported dead in three villages near the town of Angoram and approximately 400 were displaced. Bird said, “The PNG police are supposed to be funded by the national government” and “the East Sepik provincial government has had to help with funds.” But now the police have “moved in” and there may be a “clearer picture” in the “next couple of days”, he informed. (Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai, “No money to fuel up police vehicles delays response to deadly violence in PNG province”, RNZ Pacific, 27 July 2024)

China Reader Daily Wire | 25 July 2024,  Thursday | Vol.1 No. 131
Papua New Guinea village attacks claim at least 26 lives
On 24 July, a gang of armed men attacked three villages in the Angoram district of East Sipek in Papua New Guinea reported Angoram police. Such news comes only after a week of similar attacks on other villages in the region. Since the region is difficult to access through roads, the police take some time to arrive at the affected location. In February this year, the UN High Commissioner of Human Rights Volker Türk even expressed his concern regarding the eruption of such deadly violence due to disputes on land ownership and user rights. He had urged the Government to work with the local communities and resolve these issues. These incidents also raise questions about the Government’s awareness, involvement, and ability to address the root cause of tribal disputes in the country. (“At least 26 killed in Papua New Guinea village attacks, including 16 children,” The Guardian, 24 July 2024.)

China Reader Daily Wire | 23 July 2024,  Tuesday | Vol.1 No. 130
New Zealand’s rising drug use, a study by the National Drug Intelligence Bureau
On 23 July, a study by the National Drug Intelligence Bureau stated that New Zealand is facing an alarming increase in drug consumption, particularly methamphetamine and cocaine. National Drug Intelligence Bureau Detective Inspector Tim Chao reported that Kiwis are using approximately 17.5 kilograms of meth and 03.3 kilograms of cocaine weekly. This surge in drug use is having a significant economic impact, with meth alone costing the country an estimated USD 19.4 million per week in social harm. Chao noted that regional towns are experiencing the highest per capita meth consumption, often correlating with areas of higher deprivation. The rise in drug use is attributed to increased global availability, with most illicit substances being imported. Cocaine use is also on the upswing, though the reasons are less clear. Chao emphasized the importance of harm reduction stating: “No use is the best use,” and encouraged users to utilize drug testing services if they do choose to consume. (“Drug use costs country millions a week - study,” RNZ News, 23 July 2024)
 
China Reader Daily Wire | 22 July 2024,  Monday | Vol.1 No. 129
The Pacific Islands Forum to send a delegation to New Caledonia, reports RNZ
On 20 July 2024, Radio New Zealand reported, the existing political turmoil in the French territory aiming to send top delegations to Caledonia for investigations. The news was confirmed in Tokyo after the PALM10 meeting. The Prime Minister of Cook Islands Mark Brown confirmed the request for a top Pacific delegation by the government of Caledonia. RNZ reported Brown’s opinion of French Support for the delegation and the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) disapproval of France’s political handling of the ongoing situation. He further emphasized the rejection of the third referendum. The RNZ covered, New Caledonia’s Adviser Charles Wea, announcement at PALM 10 in Japan that the high-level delegation will consist of leaders from Fiji, Cook Islands, Tonga, and Solomon Islands. (“PIF hopes to send a delegation to New Caledonia according to Forum Chair,” RNZ 22 July 2024)

China Reader Daily Wire | 13 July 2024,  Saturday | Vol.1 No. 127
The French High Commission sends aid to civil authorities in New Caledonia
On 13 July, the French High Commission announced that more armored vehicles and fire trucks had been delivered for New Caledonia's security forces, including police and firemen. The shipment arrived aboard a " Calao " cargo vessel on 11 July. It contained around 10 armored vehicles for the security forces, and 15 cars are said to benefit local firefighters. 15 fire-fighting trucks will also be delivered to the local Civil Security department. French High Commissioner in New Caledonia Louis Le Franc, during a media briefing informed that “This is to pursue efforts to secure New Caledonia. It will be used to renew or replace equipment that has been damaged, including trucks and armored vehicles.” (“New shipment arrives for police, firemen in New Caledonia,” RNZ, 13 July 2024)