Beijing Xiangshan Forum and Meloni-Starmer Meeting

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CWA # 1475, 23 September 2024

The World This Week

Beijing Xiangshan Forum and Meloni-Starmer Meeting

GP Team

The World This Week #278, Vol. 6 No. 32, 22 September 2024

Sayeka Ghosh and Neha Tresa George

The 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum
Sayeka Ghosh

What happened?
During 12-14 September, China hosted the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum was held in Beijing. The forum focussed on “Promoting Peace for a Shared Future,” with more than 1,800 participants from over 100 countries, international organisations, experts, and scholars attending it. The main discussion included mutual respect and sincerity in international relations, shared responsibilities in global security, settlement of international conflicts and disputes, and promotion of a multipolar world order.

China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun delivered a keynote address that emphasised shared interests, an open and inclusive climate, and win-win cooperation. China forged new modes of security relationship with armed forces from other countries and played its part in complementing the security governance of new fields.

What is the background?
First, a brief note on the Beijing Xiangshan Forum. Initiated in 2006, the forum has grown significantly in influence, evolving into a high-level international security and defence dialogue platform. The forum fits well with China’s diplomatic philosophy of coexistence and mutual benefit, which reflects the country’s vision of reshaping global security challenges as well as enhancing international security governance.

Second, the emphasis on Global Security Initiative. The forum has a special emphasis on President Xi Jinping’s initiative of the Global Security Initiative. The GSI is projected to be premised on the principles of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security, which has been supported by over 100 countries and international organizations since its inception. This initiative is very close to the notion of Chinese modernisation, which was further underscored by the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, which concluded before the forum. This gives a new dimension to the interplay between China’s domestic development goals and its international security aspirations.

What does it mean?
First, the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, GSI and Beijing’s objectives. China takes on the position of a responsible major power in leadership positions, shaping the new dynamics on the international landscape while building its soft power and international influence by engaging in global security governance. A key aspect of the forum’s discussions and the GSI is the advocacy for a shift from a unipolar to a multipolar world order. This approach aims to promote China's vision for a more balanced global power structure.

Europe: The Meloni-Starmer Meeting
Neha Tresa George

What happened?
On 16 September, the Prime Ministers of Italy and UK - Giorgia Meloni and Keir Starmer, met in Rome.

Following their discussion, a joint statement was issued, aiming to bolster their strategic partnership in areas of common interest. The statement read: "We agreed on some practical measures to make the strategic relationship stronger than it has ever been, in full accordance with Italy’s membership of the EU and the UK’s relationship with the EU." Starmer was accompanied by Martin Hewitt, the newly appointed UK Border Security Commander, for closely working with Italy on preventing illegal immigration. Under the UK's relationship and Italy's membership with the EU, the countries intend to work for their "security, stability and growth" by upholding the principles of "democracy, justice and rule of law."

What is the background?
First, the focus on illegal immigration and cross-border conflicts. Illegal immigration is an ongoing issue across Europe. In this context, Starmer appreciated Meloni's "upstream" policies which cut down almost 60 per cent of the illegal and irregular arrivals since 2022. The Italian government had signed agreements with various African countries, such as Tunisia, to deter the departure of people, restricted work on the improvement of rescue ships and suppressed human trafficking at the borders.

Second, the focus on economy and trade. With economic growth as the top priority for both Italy and the UK, the leaders vowed to extend their trade and economic relations. Italy is one of the UK’s top 10 trading partners. It is also the sixth largest source of foreign direct investment in the UK.

What does it mean?
The UK and Italy as key allies set out their ambitious goals to tackle the upcoming global challenges. Earlier, they reaffirmed their relationship through various initiatives such as the UK-Italy Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Cooperation and Global Compact Air Programme (GCAP), a joint initiative to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet. Through the joint statement, Starmer and Meloni underline their primary areas of cooperation and collaboration such as defence, security, immigration, trade, economy and cross-border conflicts.

TWTW Regional Roundups
News from around the world
Rohini Reenum, Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph, Femy Francis, Nuha Amina, Samrudhi Pathak, Sachin Aravind, Sayeka Ghosh, Ayan Datta, Neha Tresa George and Advik S Mohan

CHINA THIS WEEK
China: Wang Yi meets head of the North Korea-China Parliamentarians Union and affirms bilateral friendship
On 18 September, CGTN reported that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met the head of the Republic of Korea (ROK)-China Parliamentarians Union, Kim Tae-nyeon. During the meeting, Wang praised Kim and the association for promoting a cordial relationship between China and the Republic of Korea (ROK). He said: “Regardless of changes in international and regional circumstances or any difficulties and challenges faced by both countries, they should keep pace with the times, remain good neighbours with mutual trust and be good partners with win-win cooperation, injecting new vitality into China-ROK relations.” In a joint statement by Kim and other senior lawmakers, the association was willing to work hand in hand with China to strengthen strategic communication, enhance exchanges, explore cooperation potential, continuously improve mutual understanding and promote friendly relations.

Taiwan: Canadian and German delegations visit Taipei
On 18 September, the Taipei Times reported on the visit by Canadian and German government delegations to Taipei. The Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan Remus Chen welcomed the Canadian delegation and discussed increasing Taiwanese participation in international bodies, improving mutual relations, countermeasures against foreign information manipulation, and national defence reforms in Taiwan. The former National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of Canada, Richard Fadden said that Canada was looking forward to improving bilateral relations with Taiwan. Meanwhile, the two members of the Social Democratic Party and the German Parliament, Michael Muller and Andreas Larem, discussed issues including democratic collaboration and German strategies on China and the Indo-Pacific region. The Taiwanese government expressed its interest in working with like-minded partners in Europe to foster peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Taiwan: China condemned for suspending tariff exemptions on agricultural imports
On 19 September, Business Standard reported that Taiwan denounced the People’s Republic of China for suspending tariff exemptions on agricultural imports from Taiwan. The Ministry of Finance of the People’s Republic of China suspended tariff exemptions on 34 agricultural items from Taiwan, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and aquatic products. The tariffs will be effective from 25 September. The finance ministry stated that Taiwan’s discriminatory measures including a ban on the export of mainland products had impeded cross-Strait economic and trade cooperation. The Mainland Affairs Council of Taiwan responded that the suspensions were yet another act of economic coercion against Taiwan, which would hurt the interests of farmers and fishermen across the Taiwan Strait. It denounced China for suspending tariff exemptions on farm goods.

China: Joint naval and air exercise with Russia
On 09 September, the Chinese Defence Ministry announced that China and Russia would hold joint naval and air exercises in the Sea of Japan and Okhotsk. The “Northern/Interaction-2024” exercises are to deepen their combined response against security threats. The cooperation will be expanded to joint patrols in the Pacific and an exercise named “Ocean-2024.” The announcement follows recent “Joint Sea-2024” drills in the South China Sea. It underlines the deepening military trust between the countries. These exercises come amidst heightened geopolitical tensions, with Japan strengthening its defence ties with the US and other allies. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that Sino-Japanese relations are at a “critical stage.”

China: Foreign Minister Wang Yi urges BRICS countries to aim for peace strategies
On 12 September, CGTN reported that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged members of the BRICS bloc to discuss cooperation and seek sound strategies for peace. Wang made the remarks during the 14th Meeting of BRICS High-Ranking Officials Responsible for Security Matters/ National Security Advisors. Wang informed that it was important for the BRICS countries to discuss ways of cooperation and look for peace strategies amidst security threats, deficits in peace and security, and bullying of developing countries. According to the Foreign Minister, BRICS countries have become a constructive force in maintaining global peace, improving global governance, and promoting common development. Wang stated that the BRICS mechanism set a banner for South-South cooperation over the past 18 years, adhering to the principles of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation. He informed that the recent bloc expansion showed the vitality and appeal of the mechanism. The Foreign Minister urged for a clearer and more consistent BRICS message in the global governance system, through building multilateralism, upholding principles of independence and solidarity, promoting political settlements and defending justice, and acting as implementers of peaceful co-existence. According to Wang, this would contribute towards the maximization of the strategic significance and political effects of the “greater BRICS.” Wang added that the BRICS mechanism needed to be fully utilized for enhancing strategic coordination and safeguarding interests. Wang informed that China would build a consensus and increase strategic communication with Russia in its role as BRICS chair.

China: Brazil agrees to improve mutual political trust and strategic cooperation
On 12 September, CGTN reported that the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, promised to work with the Government of the Federative Republic of Brazil towards strengthening mutual political trust and strategic cooperation. Wang held a meeting with the Special Advisor to the President of Brazil, Celso Amorim, on the sidelines of the Meeting of BRICS High-Ranking Officials Responsible for Security Matters. Wang stated that China was prepared to improve strategic collaboration and mutual political trust with Brazil. He informed that China was ready to broaden mutually beneficial cooperation and elevate bilateral ties to new heights. Wang stated that China and Brazil were stabilizing forces and major developing countries, who would continue to contribute towards global peace, stability, and development. Amorim informed that the Brazilian government was ready to work with China to promote bilateral ties and prepare for the next stage of important high-level interactions between them. The two sides expressed their willingness to achieve greater outcomes from BRICS cooperation.

China: 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum on “Promoting Peace for Shared Future”
On 12 September, the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, China’s version of the Shangri-La Dialogue, kicked off with over 100 countries and international organisations participating. With the theme “Promoting Peace for a Shared Future,” over 500 representatives, including 30 defence ministers and military chiefs, have attended the event. Topics to be discussed in the forum include the Global Security Initiative, China-US relations, and regional security issues. A former official with the US State Department John Richard Waters III said: “It is extremely rare to have this kind of different perspective.” Attila Demkó from Hungary emphasised China’s importance to global security. Lieutenant General He Lei reiterated China’s position on Taiwan and the tensions in the South China Sea. This is a platform for South-South and South-North cooperation on pressing international security challenges.

Taiwan: German warships to transit in Taiwan Straits
On 08 September, Global Times reported that two German warships were scheduled to transit in the Taiwan Straits in mid-September. The German magazine Der Spiegel informed that these would be the first German naval vessels to pass through the Taiwan Straits in 22 years, and China would not be formally notified about the trip. An anonymous research fellow from China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations stated that the possible transit of German ships aligned with the policy of the Federal Government of Germany to increase its engagement in the Asia-Pacific region. The research fellow informed that it could be a strategic gesture to secure greater support for the US towards European security, amidst attempts by the US to counter Chinese influence in trade. According to the research fellow, Beijing would view German warships travelling through the Taiwan Straits as “flexing muscles” and an unfriendly move that could impact China-Germany bilateral ties. When asked to comment on the German ships travelling, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China stated that the Taiwan issue was an internal matter for China.

Taiwan: US backs full participation in WHO
On 13 September, Taiwan News reported the US House of Representatives passed a bill supporting the full participation of Taiwan in the World Health Organization (WHO). US House Representative Andy Ogles introduced an amendment supporting Taiwanese participation as a part of the “No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act.” Ogles stated that the US allowed China to set the agenda and membership of major international organizations, which had left Taiwan with 12 diplomatic allies. Ogles stated that the WHO ignored claims of human-to-human coronavirus transmission raised by Taiwanese experts, before the pandemic. According to Ogles, this showed the external pressure exercised by the Chinese government on the WHO, and its insistence that Taiwan could not receive a WHO seat. Ogles stated the failure of the WHO to listen to Taiwan’s warning cost “thousands of American lives,” and called for an end to US foreign policy “appeasing” China. The act stipulates that any WHO pandemic-related agreements or conventions must be considered treaties for the US Senate to approve. The House Representative who introduced the bill, Tom Tiffany, stated the bill aimed to ensure the safety of people and not a “corrupt international organization.”

EAST ASIA THIS WEEK
South Korea: Yoon to visit Czech Republic to finalise the nuclear bid
On 19 September, The Korea Herald reported on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s visit to the Czech Republic to attend summits with Czech leaders and finalise a nuclear export deal worth USD 18 billion. Yoon said: “The Czech project holds paramount importance and this was partly meant to solidify Prague's commitment to the signing of the deal planned for March 2025.” The visit is planned amidst the uncertainties on the nuclear energy bid, while the US energy firm Westinghouse and French company EDF appealed to Czech authorities' selection of the South Korean association. Yoon’s office added: “Seoul was looking for a political solution with the US to settle the legal conflict between the two companies and Seoul's efforts with Washington were to create an amicable atmosphere among businesses in the nuclear energy sector which would help facilitate a smooth resolution to any dispute that might arise between the two sides.” Additionally, both countries will sign the Trade and Investment Promotion Framework which aims for post-war reconstruction in Ukraine and cooperate in progressing cutting-edge technologies.

SOUTH AND SOUTHEAST ASIA THIS WEEK
Malaysia: Sultan Ibrahim Iskander plans on Chinese investments for a rail project
On 20 September, The Straits Times reported that Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, plans to collaborate with Chinese investors for a multibillion-dollar, high-speed rail project between Malaysia and Singapore. According to anonymous sources, Iskandar was searching for a Chinese state-owned company for funds. This came amidst his four-day visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. He was accompanied by representatives of YTL, the company shortlisted for the rail project. However, Malaysia’s national palace, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the YTL group haven’t responded to any of these claims.

Maldives: Plans a Free Trade Agreement with China
On 18 September, Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed said that the Free Trade Agreement between China and Maldives is set to be implemented on 1 January 2025. The minister stated that trade between the countries currently stands at USD 700 million annually, and is set to increase to USD one billion once the agreement is enforced. While speaking with reporters, he responded to concerns raised over the disadvantages posed by the agreement. He claimed that the benefits received from the agreement will supersede any probable disadvantages.

Maldives: Ruling party delegation visits China
On 18 September, a Maldives People’s National Congress delegation began an eight-day tour of China to strengthen relations. The team, led by Minister of Transport Mohamed Ameen, is expected to study China’s economic development strategies and strengthen bilateral ties. He will meet the Minister of the International Department, Liu Jianchao, and then travel to five Chinese cities. The trip follows a visit to China by President Mohammad Muizzu. People’s National Congress party’s Secretary General Zeenaz Adnan said that the trip is to “seek the strategies used by China to achieve the current economic development,” citing the interest of the Maldives in replicating China’s economic model.

Sri Lanka: President Wickremesinghe emphasises economic reforms
On 18 September, according to an article in Daily Mirror, the incumbent President and independent candidate, Ranil Wickremesinghe, stated that Sri Lanka’s economy would take a downturn from its already deteriorated situation if it did not follow the current economic reforms. He emphasised how economic stability has to be the government’s top priority while constitutional amendments can be put on hold. He said: “Is there an alternative to our programme? There is no other way. The ethnic issue or abolishing of the Executive presidency are not important now. The only issue in this election is the economy. We have managed to maintain some kind of stability. Sustaining it is the only important factor.”

Bangladesh: Nepali ambassador visits interim head to discuss bilateral relations
On 17 September, the Nepali Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari visited the Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka. He presented Yunus with a congratulatory letter from Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. In his speech, Bhandari expressed Nepal’s solidarity and commitment to support Bangladesh. They discussed subjects, such as improving Nepal-Bangladesh ties via economic links, improving trade, connectivity, transit and energy cooperation to advance shared interests. He suggested exporting 40 MW of hydroelectricity from Nepal to Bangladesh through Indian lines. Yunus spoke on how important it was to harness hydropower to attain net zero emissions and urged immediate collaboration.

Pakistan: Islamabad to renew ties with Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s ouster
On 15 September, The Express Tribune quoted sources which revealed Pakistan’s attempt to mend ties with Bangladesh after the ouster of the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh's interim government Muhammad Younus held telephone conversations. Additionally, several meetings were held between the interim government and Pakistani diplomats. Shehbaz and Younus are set to meet on the sidelines of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in New York in September. Recently, the Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof proposed the restoration of the Joint Economic Commission, a forum for economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

Pakistan: The US expresses interest in developing closer ties in economy and defence
On 17 September, the US acting Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, John Bass, engaged in dialogue with Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Bass congratulated Pakistan for being appointed as the non-permanent member of the UNSC for the 2025-26 term. He expressed the US’ interest in developing closer relations with Pakistan during its term. Separately, after talks between Bass and Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, the Foreign Office stated: “Pakistan noted the importance attached to its relations with the United States, and underlined the need to upgrade the bilateral mechanisms, especially in the economic and defence fields, and working towards building a broad based and meaningful bilateral relationship.” It highlighted the US’ interest in assisting Pakistan’s efforts towards strengthening and stabilising the economy. This statement comes as there has been no high-level engagement between the countries since the Shehbaz administration came to power.

Pakistan: Signs an MoU with Russia on trade, energy and defence
On 19 September, Pakistan and Russia formally expanded existing bilateral ties by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) across various sectors. This followed a two-day visit by the Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk to Islamabad. First day of the visit, Overchuk met his counterpart, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and supported Pakistan’s bid for membership in the BRICS. Separately, he met the Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir. Both parties reiterated their commitment to enhancing defence and security cooperation. On the second day, he met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif following which the MoU was signed. The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in the areas of trade, energy, connectivity and defence. Speaking with a Russian delegation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asserted Pakistan’s intention to strengthen relations with Russia by making it the country’s top priority. The MoU appears to be an outcome of discussions between the two countries around existing sanctions on Russia which could impede logistics and strengthen trade.

MIDDLE-EAST THIS WEEK
Jordan: King Abdullah II appoints new government
On 18 September, Reuters reported that Jordan’s King, Abdullah II, appointed a new government with Jafar Hassan as Prime Minister with a 32-member cabinet. A lifelong technocrat, Hassan formerly served as the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning. The new government included Ayman Safadi as Minister of Foreign Affairs, economist Abdul Hakim al-Shibli as Minister of Finance, tribal politicians and technocrats. The formation of the new government followed the country’s parliamentary elections held earlier this month, in which the Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated Islamic Action Front became the largest party, securing 31 out of 138 seats.

Qatar: Amir meets Trudeau marking 50 years of bilateral ties
On 19 September, Qatar News Agency reported that the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani concluded his visit to Canada and met Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The visit commemorated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The Qatari delegation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Canada on development cooperation and youth empowerment. The Canadian side promised to cooperate with Qatar’s initiative of evacuating 1,500 Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.

Iraq: Minister of Defence announces phased withdrawal of US troops
On 8 September, according to Arab News, Iraq’s Minister of Defence, Thabet Al-Abbassi, stated that the USA agreed to withdraw its troops from Iraq in a phased manner. The US currently has 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq with an international coalition against the armed group Daesh. The pullout of these troops will be two-phased, with US troops stationed in Iraqi bases withdrawing by September 2025 and soldiers in Iraq’s northern Kurdistan region by September 2026.

Lebanon: Minister of Foreign Affairs discusses return of Syrian refugees with WFP chief
On 9 September, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency, the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, Abdallah Bou Habib, met World Food Programme (WFP) Executive Director Cindy McCain and WFP’s Lebanon Director, Matthew Hollingworth, to discuss future efforts for returning Syrian refugees to their country of origin. Lebanon hosts over 1.5 million Syrian refugees, most of whom fled Syria because of domestic instability and civil war. McCain and Hollingworth stressed the need to provide aid to Syrian refugees “within Syria, rather than in Lebanon, to encourage their return.”

Syria: Minister for Higher Education discusses scientific cooperation with Iran
On 9 September, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported that the country’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Bassam Ibrahim, discussed cooperation in scientific research, exchange programmes and scholarships with Iran’s Ambassador in Damascus, Hussein Akbari. The two sides agreed to rapidly implement the executive programme for scientific cooperation signed between the two parties earlier this year.

Syria: Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Damascus reopens after 13 years
On 9 September, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported that Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Damascus would resume operations. Saudi Arabia closed its embassy in 2012 over differences in civil war in Syria. Syria’s Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Deputy Minister, Ayman Raad, and Saudi Arabia’s Chargé d’Affaires Abdullah al-Harees stressed the need to renew cooperation and “enhance joint Arab action in a way that would serve the interests of peoples of the region.”

Israel: Channel 12 poll shows opposition would win if polls held today
On 10 September, according to The Times of Israel, an opinion poll conducted by Channel 10 found that Netanyahu’s opposition parties would win a majority (66 seats) in Israel’s Knesset if early elections were to be held. Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich’s far-right Religious Zionist party, on the contrary, would fail to secure the minimum threshold of three per cent. The poll also showed that former Prime Minister Naftali Bennet, with a 39 per cent approval rating, was the most-favoured candidate for Prime Ministership, beating Netanyahu, who secured 32 per cent. Although Israel’s general elections are scheduled for October 2026, opposition parties have called for early elections, criticising Netanyahu’s management of the war in Gaza.

AFRICA THIS WEEK
West Africa: AES announces new passport
On 15 September, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) announced the launch of a new passport for the bloc. Malian President and current President of AES, Colonel Assimi Goïta, said that the new passport was aimed at harmonising travel documents within the federation. He added that AES is open to all regional partnerships which support the principle of non-interference and sovereignty.

South Africa: New visa scheme to attract Chinese and Indian visitors
On 16 September, South Africa announced the launch of the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) in January 2025. TTOS is a new visa scheme aimed at attracting more vetted and approved tour operators from India and China. South African Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, stated: "At the moment, we are really under-performing and from the research that we've conducted and that we know from the tourism side as well, a lot of the blockage has to do with the red tape that is actually put in place of Chinese tourists and visitors to South Africa.” Currently, Indian tourists account for 3.9 per cent and Chinese 1.8 per cent.

Senegal: National Assembly dissolved amidst tensions
On 15 September, Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye dissolved the National Assembly after weeks of tension between the executive and the opposition. Africanews quoted many supporters of the decision that the Assembly no longer aligned with the ambitions of the President. It quoted the opposers that the action is a political manoeuvre. They questioned the legality of bypassing the controversial sponsorship law to organise legislative elections in 60 days.

Guinea-Bissau: President declines second term in office
On 11 September, Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo announced that he would not seek a second term in office. This comes after two attempted coups and political uncertainty prevailing in the country since Embalo took office in 2020. Although the President did not provide any reason behind the decision, he has been struggling to gain the majority in the parliament for any major reforms. Emablo had dissolved the parliament twice during his tenure.

Africa: WHO approves use of mpox vaccine on adults
On 13 September, the World Health Organization (WHO) granted the first authorisation of mpox vaccine to adults. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated: “This first (authorization) of a vaccine against mpox is an important step in our fight against the disease, both in the context of the current outbreaks in Africa and in future.” WHO added that it was creating an “access and allocation mechanism” for fair distribution of vaccines, tests and treatment to the vulnerable countries. According to WHO, 103,000 cases of mpox have been confirmed across 120 countries. The WHO-approved vaccine is produced by the Bavarian Nordic A/S.

Africa: The US supports Africa’s permanent membership in the UNSC
On 13 September, the US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas Greenfield announced that the US will support two new permanent seats for Africa at the UN Security Council. She stated that although African countries have three non-permanent memberships at the UNSC, it does not allow them to “deliver the full benefit of their knowledge and voices.” She stated: “That is why, in addition to non-permanent membership for African countries, the United States supports creating two permanent seats for Africa on the council. It’s what our African partners seek, and it’s what we believe is just.”

THE EUROPE THIS WEEK
The EU: Ursula von der Leyen announces new Council
On 17 September, the President of the European Parliament, Ursula von der Leyen, announced nominees for the new European Council. The Council, also known as the College, has 27 members. Every EU member country appoints an EU Commissioner who is a part of the Council. In the proposed Council, there are 11 women. Amongst the members, the EU parliamentarian from Slovakia, Maroš ŠefÄoviÄ, has been elected to the EU for the fifth time. The European Commissioner of Estonia Kaja Kallas, will be handling the Foreign Policy office while the EU Commissioner of Lithuania, Andrius Kubilius, will be given the defence department, a newly created portfolio. Kubilius will be reporting to Finland’s EU Commissioner, Henna Virkkunen, who is the Vice-President of Technology, Sovereignty, Democracy and Security. The EU Commissioner of Slovenia, Marta Kos, will be in charge of the EU enlargement. Kos’ responsibilities will also include focussing on Europe’s interests in the Mediterranean region i.e., curbing migration.

Turkey: Diversifying its options after halted EU membership
On 19 September, the Foreign Minister of Turkey, Hakan Fidan, said: “Turkey acted on good intentions with regards to its ambitions for full EU membership.” Turkey applied for EU membership in 1987 and the negotiations have been stalled. It signed the Ankara Agreement with the European Economic Community in 1963, showing interest in being associated with it. Turkey’s membership procedure for the EU was halted due to concerns over human rights, democratic governance and the unresolved dispute with Cyprus. In his speech, Fidan defended Turkey’s move to join Russian-led BRICS, which was seen with cynicism in the West. He said that every country needs political and economic alliances. Further, he said that Turkey is interested in strengthening ties with ASEAN.

Georgia: Parliament passes anti-LGBTQ+ law
On 19 September, the Georgian parliament passed a draft law on "Family Values and Protection of Minors" that explicitly discriminates against LGBTQ+ people. Chairman of the ruling Georgian Dream party, Mamuka Mdinaradze, said that the law was required to counter the LGBTQ+ propaganda. The draft bill covers issues around marriages, adoption and medical procedures. The Georgian government has designated 17 May as the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia and as the day of "Purity of the Family and Respect for Parents."

The UK: Starmer demands National Health Services reforms
On 11 September, Prime Minister of the UK, Keir Starmer, said that people have every right to be angry over the increasing waiting time in the National Health Services (NHS) for treatments. Starmer said: “Raise taxes on working people or reform to secure its future. We know working people can’t afford to pay more, so it is reform or die.” The Health Secretary of the UK, Wes Streeting, promised to reform the NHS. The statements came after a report published by the UK following a nine-week review of the NHS. Starmer has proposed three key areas that require reform. First, the transition to a digital NHS. Second, care from hospitals to communities and third, efforts on sickness prevention. According to the report, the NHS is still struggling with the aftershocks of the pandemic. It is behind the private sector in terms of digital innovations. The staff-to-patient ratio is limited. The waiting list in British hospitals currently stands at 7.6 million. With 2.8 million people unable to work due to poor health, the NHS has a significant impact on the economic productivity of the country. Matthew Taylor, the head of the NHS Confederation, said that the report is deeply troubling.

Turkey: Erdogan criticises military officers who swore secularist oath
On 8 September, according to Arab News, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan criticised officer graduates of Ankara’s Turkish Military Academy for swearing an oath to the country’s secularist founder, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Erdogan stated: “Whoever they are, it is not possible for them to be part of our military.” Although Erdogan attended the Academy’s graduation ceremony on 30 August, Valedictorian Ebru Eroglu and 960 other graduates allegedly gathered after he left and swore an oath to defend “secular, democratic Turkiye,” which the academy had discontinued in 2022. Arab News commented that Erdogan interpreted the oath as a challenge to his Islamisation policies and exacerbated his scepticism of the military, which views itself as the guardian of Turkey’s secularism and attempted a coup against him in 2016.

France: Finance Minister steps down warning the government’s choice of fiscal stability over taxes
On 12 September, France’s Minister of Finance, Bruno Le Maire, announced his resignation. He held the position for seven years and the resignation is concerning as France struggles through its budget deficit. In 2023, when France’s public sector broadened beyond the government’s plan, the fiscal fell short of 5.5 per cent of economic output. This was 4.9 per cent above the government’s target due to low growth and less tax revenue. In early 2024, Le Maire said: “State finances must be readjusted ... that will require a great deal of determination, strategy, and composure.” By May, the credit rating agency downgraded France’s rate due to an increased deficit, making the financial bonds a high risk. Le Marie’s efforts to push back the state finance did not materialise due to the legislative elections. The failure to secure an absolute majority made France’s political landscape uncertain. Le Maire in his farewell address said: “Against the waltz of taxes, we have chosen fiscal stability, against the downgrading of the middle classes, we have revalued work, against mass offshoring, we have initiated the reindustrialisation of our regions, against criticism of France, we have made France the most attractive nation in Europe.”

Germany: Strictens border controls
On 10 September, BBC reported that the Federal Government of Germany was expanding border controls after the Solingen stabbing attack. The German government announced controls including spot checks on roads and railways at its border points from 16 September. The measures will last for an initial period of six months. Federal Minister of the Interior and Community, Nancy Faeser, stated that the checks would reduce Islamist extremism and cross-border crime. The Solingen attack by a Syrian immigrant and the victory of the anti-immigration AfD party in regional elections have compelled the German government to adopt a harder stance towards immigration. The government has resumed deportations of convicted Afghan criminals to their home country and allowed asylum seekers at risk of deportation to lose benefits. Meanwhile, the opposition Christian Democratic Union has proposed returning all asylum seekers at the border. Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk criticised the new controls. Tusk stated that Germany’s actions amounted to the suspension of the Schengen Agreement, which allowed unrestricted travel to Germany’s neighbours.

Ukraine: US Secretary of State and UK Foreign Secretary assure support for war till it ends
On 11 September, Al Arabiya News reported on David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the UK, and Anthony Blinken, US Secretary of State joint trip to Ukraine. Blinken and Lammy promised support for Ukraine until the war ended. The trip comes amid Ukraine facing the threat of Russian advances towards the key logistical hub of Pokrovsk. While the US has shown support for Ukraine, there are apprehensions in Washington that sending long-range missiles to Ukraine would start a large-scale war. However, Blinken informed the US was committed to providing Ukraine with what it required to deal with Russian aggression. On the same day, Blinken and Lammy met Denis Shmyhal, the Prime Minister of Ukraine. Shmyhal informed that he hoped Ukraine would receive long-range weapons. The Prime Minister stated that the country needed to respond to “terrorism” by striking military targets on Russian territory. Russia warned that the usage of US missiles to carry out strikes would be met with an “appropriate response.”

International: NATO chief to head Munich Security Conference
On 12 September, Politico reported that Jens Stoltenberg, the Secretary-General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO,) would become the Munich Security Conference (MSC) chairman. Stoltenberg replaced Christoph Heusgen, a German diplomat in charge of the MSC for the past two terms. Wolfgang Ischinger, a former Chairman of the MSC, will remain President of the Foundation Council of the MSC Foundation. The MSC is renowned for providing a space for international security policy debates. Several key global politicians such as Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the President of Ukraine, and Kamala Harris, the Vice-President of the US have used the MSC platform to state their views and objectives. For instance, Zelenskyy used the MSC forum to request faster arms supplies to Ukraine, while Putin used the platform to inform others regarding his anti-NATO security doctrine. Stoltenberg will have the task of effectively navigating the MSC at a time of tension over the Ukraine war and the future of NATO.

THE AMERICAS THIS WEEK
The US: Bill passed to deter Chinese invasion of Taiwan
On 9 September, Taiwan News reported that the US House of Representatives passed the Taiwan Conflict Deterrence Act. The bill targets the assets of top Chinese leaders and cuts them off from the US financial system to prevent them from invasion of Taiwan. The act was co-sponsored by Representatives of the House, French Hill and Brad Sherman, and passed without objection. Hill informed that the US Department of Treasury would disclose the illicit assets of top Chinese leaders if they decide to attack Taiwan. Hill stated that the US recognised the Government of the People’s Republic of China in 1979 on the condition that decisions over Taiwan’s future would be peaceful. According to Sherman, the bill intends to undermine support for the Communist Party of China through publishing the corrupt gains of its high-ranking officials. Sherman stated that the Chinese leadership needs to stop intimidating Taiwan. He informed that Beijing shall realise that the US would launch military and economic responses alongside “very personal economic disclosures.”

About the Authors
Rohini Reenum is a PhD scholar at NIAS. Anu Maria Joseph and Padmashree Anandhan are Research Associates at NIAS. Femy Francis, Samruddi Pathak, Neha Tresa George, Sayeka Ghosh and Nuha Aamina are Research Assistants at NIAS. Advik S Mohan and Sachin Aravindan are Research Interns at NIAS. Ayan Datta is a postgraduate student at the University of Hyderabad.