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CWA # 1308, 12 May 2024
The World This Week
President Xi’s Visit to Europe: Major Takeaways of China’s Strategic Approach towards France, Hungary and Serbia

  GP Team

The World This Week #264, Vol. 6, No.18
12 May 2024

Padmashree Anandhan, Akhil Ajith and Femy Francis

China and France: President Xi's visit to Paris showcases Beijing's strategic approach 
Padmashree Anandhan

What happened?
On 06 May, French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed China's President Xi Jinping, marking 60 years of diplomatic relations between China and France. On the first day of the visit, both joined the talks, including European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen, who discussed China's "market distortion practises," trade, removing tariffs on Cognac exports and China's efforts to influence Russia on the war in Ukraine. Macron said: "We welcome the Chinese authorities' commitments to refrain from selling any weapons or aid" and to "strictly control." In response, Xi said: "History has repeatedly proven that any conflict can ultimately be resolved only through negotiation." The French and Chinese companies also signed 18 agreements on energy, finance, and transport. Most of them were renewals rather than new commitments. 

During the trilateral meeting on China's practise of dumping underpriced products into the EU, Von der Leyen stressed: "…will not waver from making tough decisions needed to protect its economy and security." 

On 08 May, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "China is ready to work with France and Europe to enhance people-to-people exchanges and deepen economic and trade cooperation." Xi called China-EU relations the driving force with prospects of development, adoption of a "positive China policy," and a high-level China-EU summit to promote partnership on industrial and supply chains.  

What is the background?
First, France is a key bilateral partner for China in Europe. The relationship between the two began in January 1964 when former French President Charles de Gaulle recognized China, saying, "France simply recognizes the world as it is." However, this did not last; the Chinese leader Mao Zedong introduced a cultural revolution, leading to the exit of French students from China and the stalling of relations for the next ten years. The bilateral relations improved only at the end of the 20th century during Jacques Chirac and Jiang Zemin's leadership. During this period, France moved from establishing a comprehensive partnership with China in 1997 to a "global strategic partnership" in 2004. This formed a way for strategic dialogue on global issues, global economic governance, climate change and regional crisis. France's investment in China through companies and subsidiaries has helped create jobs and long-term partnerships. This has led China to consolidate its industrial cooperation in major civil, nuclear energy, aviation and space sectors. Under the "China-France spirit," improving economic cooperation became France's priority, with a lapse in China's human rights. China is the third-largest source of investment and the seventh-largest trading partner. 

Second, Xi's strategic targeting of Europe through France. Xi's visit may seem economic, but it is strategic, considering the choice of three European countries and meeting President Ursula Von Der Leyen. Germany supersedes France in trade with China, but Xi's decision to meet Macron does not imply to commemorate 60 years of relations but to pitch for entry into the EU. For China, breaking through the "systemic rival" tag of the EU and accessing the European single market is strategic. EU's de-risking strategy aims to push back the trade imbalance, especially against the flooding of electronic vehicles and China's unfair trade practices to protect European businesses. Therefore, improving its EU trade would be a major harbinger for China, which has experienced a three-decade low in foreign direct investment (USD 33 billion). France and Germany are crucial to Beijing's success in this. As of 2023, France accounts for USD 78.9 billion in total bilateral trade. The key sectors of collaboration have been electric vehicles, energy transition, third-party market cooperation on infrastructure and environment protection.

Third, China's aim to strategize the divide within Europe. Macron's France has been emphasizing an independent Europe, has a nuanced position within the West, and is different from other trans-Atlantic partners regarding the region's future and on many issues, from Russia to the Ukraine War. Xi's China understands the above divide and wants to build a closer partnership with France. For Macron, the European agenda and French businesses are at the core of his foreign policy; for China, this suits its Europe strategy.

What does this mean?
First, Xi's tactical visit to France. In the backdrop of geopolitical tensions across Europe and South Asia, Xi's visit comes timely to renew its economic equation by showcasing itself as a valuable partner to the EU and as a qualified middleman to influence Russia. Although Macron strived to reduce the trade imbalance and approach China through the EU lens by stressing the "strategic autonomy" component, the meeting resulted in a positive outcome for China, with China winning and diluting the EU's derisking barriers.

Second, France as China's Europe anchor. Despite many European leaders, such as Germany, Turkey, and Poland, who have ignored including the EU element during bilateral meetings with Chinese representatives, Macron has always managed to accompany an EU official every time to put forward the French objectives along with the European agenda. Fixing the trade imbalance remains the slogan during the trilateral meeting, but the French authorities view it as an opportunity for an alternative as Europe struggles with a stagnant economy from the war. 

Third, the EU’s helplessness. EU’s China Strategy 2023 aims to create a risk assessment for companies heavily reliant on the Chinese market. Although it is early to evaluate the implementation, the war in Ukraine has aggravated the EU’s need for more defence investment, thereby increasing demand for profitable economic partnerships. Trump’s recent warning to down the US defence share to NATO has also furthered Europe’s need to boost its common defence and develop sovereignty. Xi’s visit presents a better opportunity for France and the EU to surface their economies during the war, helping increase their defence investment. The domestic economies of the EU member states benefit from the economic deal, while the EU’s economic sovereignty from China remains defeated.

President Xi in Hungary: An evolving symbiotic partnership vis-à-vis Europe
Akhil Ajith

What happened?
On 08 May, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived at Budapest as a part of his Europe visit , and held talks with President Tamas Sulyok and Prime Minister Victor Orban. During his visit, the two countries signed a strategic partnership besides 18 other agreements and memoranda of understanding. The two sides agreed to maintain high-level exchanges, strengthen political mutual trust, and deepen cooperation for mutual benefit to keep the bilateral relationship at a high level and bring more benefits to the two peoples.

The joint statement said: “China respects Hungary's independent choice of a development path and domestic and foreign policies suited to its national conditions, and supports the efforts made by the Hungarian side to maintain national stability and promote economic development.”

PM Orban said, “Chinese president’s visit marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties was an honour and noted the last such visit had happened 20 years ago.” 

In a joint statement on the upgrade of their relationship, both China and Hungary said the “two sides are committed to enhancing synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Hungary's “Eastern Opening” policy. It also stated that the two sides will ensure cooperation in emerging fields, including clean energy, artificial intelligence, mobile communication technology, nuclear energy, and technology.

What is the background?
First, China-Hungary bilateral relations. In October 1949, Hungary was the first European country to recognize the People’s Republic of China. However, an agreement in October on “Friendly Partnership of Cooperation,” gave a momentum to bilateral relations. China was one of the pivotal countries, when Hungary launched the “Opening to the East” policy in 2010, seeking comprehensive political, economic, and cultural partnerships with Asia. On 09 May 2024, China and Hungary elevated the above relations to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership.

On trade, according to the China-Hungary Investment and Cooperation Report, the bilateral volume in 2023 reached USD14.52 billion, an increase of 73 per cent compared with the 2013 trade flows. Hungary imported 11.79 billion with of goods which includes electrical and electronic goods, plastics and chemicals. Hungary exported 2.73 billion worth of goods which includes electronic equipment, machinery, organic chemicals, railway products, glassware, etc.  China’s foreign direct investment in Hungary was EU7.6 billion  in 2023, accounting for 58 per cent of Hungary’s total FDI.

Second, Hungary and China’s BRI projects since 2015. Hungary was the largest recipient of Chinese FDI, with USD 571 million in 2021. Today, Hungary hosts USD 1.5 billion battery manufacturing plant by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) in Debrecen, the biggest outside China. Huawei has a presence in Hungary, catering to the EU demands and other international markets. Budapest-Belgrade railway remains a BRI flagship project, announced in 2013 at Euro 2.3billion. China aims to connect the railway line to the Piraeus port in Greece, linking the Mediterranean Sea with the heart of Europe.

Third, the Europe factor in Hungary-China relations. For Beijing, Hungary is an entry point to Europe and the EU. With its growing economic profile in Hungary through its industries, China aims to expand its market and boost its exports by making Hungary an export hub. Besides the above, for China Hungary’s political rights in the EU and its ability to influence any major policy decisions, from the Russia-Ukraine war to Chinese imports, are critical for Beijing to secure its interests.

For Hungary, with Budapest’s frosty ties with the EU on the Russia-Ukraine war and Chinese imports, it aims to partner with China as a leverage. Hungary sees Europe as a challenge to its Hungary-first policy. Hungary sees EU demands as a threat on issues relating to annual funding and financial assistance; China is seen as a leverage vis-à-vis EU.

Hungary is also a part of the Central European ‘16+1’ format, that hosts the heads of governments of China, Albania, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Serbia. The group discusses various areas of cooperation including in the strategic sectors such as EV, green energy, telecommunication, etc.

What does it mean?
First, ties with Hungary as leverage for China to mitigate the negative effects of its increasingly fraught relations with the European Union. For example, the production of EV cars in Hungary could help China avoid possible punitive tariffs and enable it to compete more effectively with European brands. Hungary presiding over the rotating EU presidency from 01 July, will be critical for China to expand its political leverage over the EU.

Second, a strategic partnership with Hungary will help China to improve ties and secure its interests in Central and Eastern Europe. For Beijing, Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) has least engaged with compared to other regions of Europe. The China-CEE, or the 16+1 cooperation, has facilitated China to make the region part of China’s extended neighbourhood. Through BRI, China wants to cement its ties with these countries economically and politically. It wants to use its BRI projects to expand its influence to create a divide within the EU. China sees CEE as Europe’s soft underbelly and aims to use economic and political tools to promote and secure its regional interests, which the US and EU have challenged through de-risking and decoupling strategies.

President Xi in Serbia: Looking at China's Balkans Strategy and beyond 25th year of bombing anniversary
Femy Francis 
 
 What happened?
On 07 May, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Serbia, marking the 25th anniversary of the 1999 NATO bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade. During his visit, Xi Jinping was welcomed by President Aleksandar Vucic and his politburo. Both leaders affirmed their "ironclad friendship" and signed over 28 new agreements to elevate their "comprehensive and strategic partnership further." 

On Serbia, Xi wrote: "The friendship forged in blood between the peoples of China and Serbia has become the common memory of the two peoples and will inspire both sides to move forward together," President Aleksandar Vucic said: "I told him that as the leader of a great power, he will be met with respect all over the world, but the reverence and love he encounters in our Serbia will not be found anywhere else." 
 
Before reaching Serbia, President Xi sent a letter in Politika: "May the Light of Our Ironclad Friendship Shine on the Path of China-Serbia Cooperation." Xi affirmed the affinity between the two countries despite the distance between them. He stated that both countries have always respected and trusted each other and that President Vucic has maintained dialogue through frequent meetings and phone calls, which has aided their relations. Additionally, he highlighted that Serbia is China's first free trade partner in Eastern Europe and its second-largest trading partner. Xi remembered the 1999 NATO bombing and asserted that they would never allow for such tragic history to repeat itself. He called for international cooperation when facing the international arena and stated: "Facing a fluid and turbulent world, we should step up coordination and cooperation in the United Nations and other international organizations, and advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization."

During his visit, China and Serbia signed the following: an agreement on extradition for judicial assistance in commercial and civil matters; an MoU between the Serbian Ministry of Internal and External Trade and the National Commission for Development and Reform of China to set up a mechanism to monitor the mid-term action plan for the joint construction of the Belt and Road initiative; cooperation in the fields of telecommunication and digital economy; ministerial exchanges in the field of geology and mining; MoU between the Siberian flagship newspaper "Politika," and the Chinese media group; and MoU signed in the field of green and sustainable development. 

What is the background? 
First, background to the NATO bombing, on 07 May 1999, the US jets dropped five bombs on the Chinese embassy, which led to the death of three Chinese nationals and injured twenty others. The bombing was caused by the Western alliance, which launched air warfare to push Slobodan Milosevic to end the ethnic violence against Albanian rebels. The US apologized and admitted that the embassy bombing was a mistake that happened because of faulty intelligence. Though the 25th anniversary was highlighted throughout the trip, Xi surprisingly failed to visit the infamous bombing site. This reflects the motivation behind the trip, which was beyond the 1999 NATO bombing and more about establishing economic relations and influence in the region. 
 
Second, Chinese investments in Serbia. China has made significant investments by pouring billions into various mining and infrastructure sectors. China and Serbia signed the Free Trade Agreement in 2016, though some parts did not align with EU membership. From 2012 to 2023, trade and commerce increased exponentially; in 2012, it was at USD 450 million, now reaching USD 4 billion in 2023. Serbian exports to China have increased from USD 400 million in 2020 to USD 1.3 billion in 2023. Serbia is also part of the 16+1 initiative, the Cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European Countries, to promote business and investments. Additionally, Serbia has signed a USD 3 billion package for economic and military support. Chinese tech giant Huawei has installed smart surveillance system cameras in Belgrade, systematically entrenching itself in the Serbian economy and politics.  
 
Third, Serbia’s interest in China. Belgrade's interest in China is multifold and is not limited to economic opportunities. They reflect how it sees NATO and EU as imposing regional powers and how it wants to maintain its relationship with the now-cornered Russia.  President Vucic of the Serbian Progressive Party affirmed that they refused to destroy Serbia’s relations with Russia overnight and that he would fight to ensure their friendship. Vucic has been sceptical of the West as he called out the Western lecture on Russia respecting the territorial integrity of Ukraine but not of Serbia, hinting at the 1999 attack. In light of this, Serbia has refused to sanction Russia, and in doing so, it has set itself apart from the rest of the EU. Russia’s closeness to China also augments Serbia’s confidence in China.
 
What does it mean? 
First, Serbia as a part of China's gateway to Europe. China is attracted to the Western Balkans and Serbia because of its geostrategic location and relative closeness to the vibrant EU market. Serbia is a vital transport hub to Europe and can act as an entry point into the walled Europe. There are 61 projects by the Chinese reckoned to be valued at around UD 21 billion in the Balkan countries. Through investments in BRI, they have made significant inroads into Western and Eastern Europe and, therefore, was a strategic choice for Xi's visit.  

Second, Serbia balancing the East and West. The Serbian President's approach to the east-west divide has been straightforward, and he does not want to align with either completely. During his Presidential campaign, he often stated that he wanted to maintain their relations with the EU but retain their traditional friendship with Russia and China. Under Vucic, there has been an exponential rise in pro-China sentiments in Serbia, and these relations have sometimes even overshadowed Russia's relations with Serbia. China has become a major external influence in the Balkan and European regions. Serbia will use China and the EU to leverage a better deal. 

Third, China’s Balkan strategy. For Beijing, the Balkan countries are easy investments as most do not adhere to EU standards and regulations, which often slows the investment process. Not having to deal with strenuous regulations makes Chinese interest in the Balkan countries understandable. The same argument can apply to Balkan’s interest in China, where the EU also offers funds and economic support; they are less appealing due to the fatigue that comes with following EU regulations. The appeal is also lessened by China’s well-oiled bureaucracy, which delivers faster results. Balkans are the EU's soft underbelly, often overlooked and overshadowed by the bigger EU country's ambitions. The Balkans are increasingly looking for alternatives to EU investments, and China knows that and wants to tap into the opportunity that is present.

TWTW Regional Round-ups
News from around the World
Rohini Reenum, Padmashree Anandhan, Femy Francis, Dhriti Mukherjee, Shamini Velayutham, Akhil Ajith and Vetriselvi Baskaran.

CHINA THIS WEEK
China: To kickstart mandatory military training for the youth
On 07 May, The Chinese National Defence Education Law drafted a provision to encourage national defence awareness amongst youngsters. The new legislation now would require military training in High Schools and Universities. The draft stated: “theory, knowledge and skills associated with national defence.” The moves come as there is rising tension between China and the US. Some universities in China have already allowed students to train with ammunition and tanks. The education and training would be guided by the People’s Liberation Army and the elementary school children will be given basic knowledge and skills, while high school students will undergo mandatory military training.

China: Signs 18 agreements with France
On 07 May, Global Times reported on 18 cooperation agreements signed between China and France on aviation, agriculture, people-to-people exchanges, green development, and SME cooperation during Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to France. On 06 May, Xi vowed to strengthen the economic and trade dimensions of the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership. He also said China will open its telecommunication and medical services sector for French and other European companies. He also said the two countries must oppose any business relations turning into political, ideological, or security issues. The key highlights of the agreements included collaboration in agriculture, artificial intelligence (AI), and green development. Global Times noted that the China-France cooperation will challenge the US’s decoupling efforts against Beijing.

China: Hungary and China signs strategic partnership agreement
On 10 May, the leaders of China and Hungary signed the strategic cooperation agreement. It comes as the Chinese President Xi Jinping makes Hungary the last stop as part of his six-day trip to Europe. During a press brief, Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban told Xi that the friendship between the two countries is long-lasting and uninterrupted. Beijing invested in the Hungarian economy, which includes the construction of the first European EV production factory of BYD in Hungary. Xi said that China’s BRI is synonymous with Hungary’s eastward policy. He also said that Hungary plays a greater role in facilitating China-EU relations. Both countries signed 18 other agreements and other MoUs.

China: Serbia signs agreement on a “shared future”
On 08 May, China and Serbia signed an agreement to build on a “shared future.” Serbia is the first Balkan country to have signed such a deal with China. The agreement was signed after Chinese President Xi Jinping met with the Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Xi during a press conference said: “Eight years ago, Serbia became China’s first comprehensive strategic partner in the Central and Eastern European region, and today Serbia is the first European country to build a community of destiny with China, fully reflecting the strategic, special and high level of China-Serbia relations,” Vucic also backed Xi and said: “are moving from strategic relations, through which we had managed to raise our bilateral ties, to the joint future of our two countries.”

China: Nicaragua cancels canal building plans with China after 10 years
On 08 May, The Guardian reported that Nicaragua cancelled its plans to build the canal with China after 10 years of back and forth. The controversial canal was set to link the Atlantic and the Pacific and for that, it would have to destroy large tracts of environment and farms affecting the rural communities. In 2024 they performed the symbolic “ground breaking” but after 10 years no work has been done. Thousands of farmers protested the land seizures that were meant for the canal route. The canal was worth USD 50 billion and would have crossed Central America. If successful the canal would have dissected Lake Nicaragua which is one of the largest Central American lakes and would have displaced 120,000 people.

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC THIS WEEK
South Korea: PM invites foreign doctors as the doctor's strike continues
On 10 May, South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo announced that they would allow foreign doctors to work in South Korean hospitals as the doctor's strikes dragged on. The provision came after months of negotiations led to no resolution by the junior doctors. The Korean Herald reported that the scheme will not be followed soon as it faces strong rejection by the Korean doctors. Korean Herald also informed that there are no immediate plans to bring foreign licensed doctors and fill the shortage. After the scheme was announced the head of the Korean Medical Association Lim Hyun-taek posted on social media with a picture of a newly graduated Somali doctor with the caption “coming soon,” this move was criticized as clearly racist. The South Korean government and the junior are now in a protracted stand-off as they reach no conclusive resolution.

South Korea: President Yoon vows to ensure better governance to the people
On 10 May, The Straits Times reported on a press conference in which South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol expressed his concerns on criticism and vowed to work for better governance for the people. He apologized for his wife’s behaviour in accepting a Dior bag from a pastor and promised a fair investigation. His remarks come as his ruling People Power Party (PPP) faces lower ratings ahead of the 11 April legislative elections. The PPP slipped six seats to secure 108 in the 300-seat National Assembly, while the opposition Democratic Party strengthened its dominance by winning 175 seats, up from 156. He pledged to work harder with his administration to communicate better for people’s livelihood and address the declining birth rate.

Japan: Japanese company MinebeaMitsumi plans to invest in Cambodia and Thailand
On 10 May, Nikkei Asia reported that Japanese company MinebeaMitsumi plans to invest around JPY 50 billion to build a factory in Cambodia and expand Thailand's solar output. The construction of the Cambodian factory is set to begin in 2024 and will be finished by 2026. The investments are set to be around JPY32 billion, and the plant will produce automobile and machinery parts and bearings. In Thailand, MinebeaMitsumi will invest JPY 17 billion to expand the existing solar capacity from 16.6 MW to 170 MW by 2025. The company aims to reduce its carbon footprint in the next few years. 

South Korea: The President proposes a separate ministry addressing the low birth rate issue
On 09 May, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol addressing the nation on live television announced his plans to create a separate ministry to tackle the low birth rate problem in South Korea. Yoon said: “I asked Parliament’s cooperation to revise the government organization to set up the Ministry of Low Birth Rate Counter Planning.” In 2023, the birth rate in South Korea saw a record fall and the data stated that this has been the case despite the government pouring billions to encourage women with incentives to have more children. South Korea has one of the world's lowest birth rates with the highest life expectancy, this creates a unique demographic challenge. In 202, the fertility rate of the number of children a South Korean woman had dropped to 0.72 per cent, reports Statistics Korea. South Korea has the lowest birth amongst the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries.

Australia: Canberra’s funding to Tuvalu quadrupled to USD 97.9 million
On 08 May, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong committed USD 97.9 million in their national budget for Tuvalu. This commitment has now quadrupled the Australian funding for the Island nation. For undersea cable, AUD 50 million will be allocated to connect the islands' global telecommunications services, and AUD 19 million will be used for the land reclamation project to fortify Tuvalu’s coastlines. AUD 15 million is also allocated for national security coordination and AUD 10 million for direct budget support. This hike in funding can be reckoned as a counter to what China has been offering the Pacific countries and Australia, reinstating its support and influence in the region.

SOUTH ASIA THIS WEEK
Pakistan: Promises “complete support” for Saudi investment
On 06 May, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured Saudi investors that they would be “given complete support for joint investment” and ease of doing business under the Special Investment and Facilitation Council (SIFC). He made this statement during a reception for the visiting Saudi delegation led by the Saudi Assistant Minister for Investment, Ibrahim Al Mubarak. Sharif described the SIFC as a “model acceptable to the Saudi delegation,” confirming that “they are satisfied over existing opportunities.” Affirming that “time is not far off” when both countries “will ink agreements worth billions of dollars,” he stressed that both sides should “start the spadework for executing joint projects as the Saudi leadership and major investors are really keen to help Pakistan.” Sharif highlighted that while it is not the government’s job to do business, it has to offer a policy framework and remove all hurdles, which is why the Pakistani government remains committed to removing red tape. During the same reception, Al Mubarak appreciated Pakistan’s private sector’s response to proposals for investment, expressing confidence that the strong relationship between both countries would allow them to “achieve ambitious targets” for investment. He also appreciated Pakistanis working in Saudi Arabia, describing them as a “key plank in attaining the Saudi Vision 2030 which envisages a transformed Saudi Arabia.”

Pakistan: Army demands Imran Khan’s sincere and public apology
On 07 May, the Pakistan army asked Imran Khan to make a public and sincere apology and directed him to abandon his “politics of anarchy and hate.” It also dismissed the probability of making a “deal” with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as there should be no talks with “anarchists.” In a press conference, the DG Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Ahmed Sharif alleged that the PTI was behind the incident. He said that the army has no objection to the constitution of a judicial commission to probe the 9 May riots, but if one is formed, it must investigate the objectives of the 2014 sit-in, the attack on parliament, and the storming of Islamabad by utilizing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's resources. He further dismissed the portrayal of 9 May riots as a “false flag operation.”

Pakistan: Federal government approves PECA bill to ensure digital rights
On 09 May, Dawn reported that the federal government has approved a draft for amending the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, proposing the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority to regulate social media in the country. The bill, which will be presented in the parliament, will fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Information Technology. The authority will oversee responsible internet usage, enforce legislation, and advise the government on issues pertaining to digital rights. It will work with social media companies to uphold the integrity of the digital ecosystem, control information on the internet, look into PECA law infractions, and prosecute offenders. In addition to establishing guidelines for police laws pertaining to digital rights, the proposed authority would require information from witnesses and parties involved. 

Pakistan: Lunar satellite, ICUBE-Q enters its orbit 
On 09 May, the Institute of Space Technology (IST) confirmed that Pakistan's lunar satellite, ICUBE-Q, was successfully deployed in the moon's orbit on 08 May, marking a significant milestone for the country. It stated: “Satellite after deployment is performing as per design specifications. All sub-systems’ health data is excellent. The imaging payload is fully functional.” IST detailed that the next two days will be spent in carrying out a thorough in-orbit testing. The satellite, launched on the Chinese Chang'e 6 lunar probe, will play a critical role in deep space missions. The satellite, which can operate in extreme temperatures, as low as minus 100 degrees Celsius, features a 7-kilo gram one-megapixel camera for power constraints. As the Chinese Lander collects rock and soil samples, ICUBE-Q will spend three to six months orbiting the moon, capturing and transmitting images back to Earth. By May 15, Pakistan expects to share captured images.

Pakistan: SC directs government to establish an authority and fund to address climate change
On 11 May, Dawn reported that the three-bench Supreme Court has ordered the federal government to establish an authority and a fund under the Pakistan Climate Change Act, 2017 within two weeks to address the risks associated with climate change. It stated: “Considering that failure to establish the authority has serious implications on the fundamental rights of the people of Pakistan, we direct the federal government to establish the authority within a fortnight and thereafter complete the establishment of the fund.” The Public Interest Law Association of Pakistan, represented by Attorney Syed Faisal Hussain Naqvi had filed a petition with the court highlighting the existential threat that climate change poses to Pakistan. The court gave the federal government assurances that a council meeting under the act will take place in less than a month to discuss issues related to the authority and fund's formation. The authority hasn't been established yet. The hearing was put back on 3 June by the court. After the devastating floods of 2022, Justice Shah had requested that the federal government prepare a report outlining the steps that Pakistan has undertaken to address the difficulties posed by climate change. The court emphasized the need to address climate change and mitigate its effect on people and their livelihoods, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and confronting its fallout for combating the high risks posed it.

MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA THIS WEEK
Iraq: Turkey kills 16 members of PKK
On 06 May, according to Reuters, Turkey had hit northern Iraq with airstrikes and killed 16 members of the banned Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) residing in the region. The Ministry of National Defence of Turkey in a statement stated, “PKK militants had been "neutralised" in the Hakurk, Metina, and Gara regions of northern Iraq.” PKK, an insurgent group involved in confrontation against the Turkish forces since 1984 is designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the EU.

Syria: IS group attack on government posts kills 13
On 03 May, according to an opposition war monitor and pro-government media, alleged members of the Islamic State (IS) group targeted three posts of the government near the central town of Sukhn and killed 13 people. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights stated that the injured were taken to hospitals in the central province of Homs and blamed IS for the attack. However, the IS has not claimed responsibility for the attack.

Kenya: Air and Aqua rescue operation conducted
On 06 May, Kenya started executing its air and aqua operations to rescue its citizens from the western Nyando area as the river Nyando’s flash flood. Following this, a joint team of the Kenya Red Cross, Kenya Coast Guard Services, and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) started using boats and helicopters. Apart from this, an owned chopper was used for the rescue operation. President William Ruto announced a provision of USD 70 to look for temporary accommodation for three months. So far, since March, 228 people have died with 72 still missing.

Chad: Held its Presidential election
On 07 May, Chad held its Presidential voting after three years of military rule. Thereby, it became the first of Africa’s junta led country to shift to a democratic ruling. President Déby cast his vote in N’Djamena and stated: “elections that will signal a return to constitutional order.” Prime Minister Succès Masra urged "all those who have shown they want massive change must go and vote in massive numbers, peacefully." According to AFP news agency, the polling ended peacefully expect the killing of one 65-year-old man in the southern city of Moundou by unknown gunmen after barred from casting his vote as he did not have an identity.

Ghana: SC hears anti-LGBTQ+ bill challenges
On 08 May, Ghana’s Supreme Court began hearing the challenges by lawyer and journalist Richard Dela Sky to the anti-LGBTQ+ bill which dictated a three-year jail term for persons identified as homosexual and a period of five to ten years for their advocates. Challenging this, a prosecution was filed by an academic researcher Dr Amanda Odoi filed a case against the bill and demanded that President Nana Akufo Addo not sign the bill into law.. However, the first hearing was intense. Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo expressed concern about the strong language used in some of the sworn statements. In the meanwhile, President Akufo Addo stated he will be waiting for the Supreme Court’s verdict before signing the bill into law.

EUROPE THIS WEEK
Malta: Deputy Prime Minister resigns over hospital scandal
On 10 May, Chris Fearne, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister, announced his resignation and ended his candidacy for European Commissioner. The move comes after a judicial document ruled Fearne to face criminal charges over a hospital scandal. Fearne said: “My solitary and humble hope is that the judicial process to clear my name is expeditious. If, upon its conclusion, the country calls on me to serve again, it shall find me ready.” In response, Robert Abela, Malta’s Prime Minister, called for reconsideration of the decision, expressing confidence in Fearne. He is the leading candidate for the EU elections and is known for his experience in domestic and international health policy. Of his involvement in the scandal, several MEPs in the European Parliament and Health Committee called for his resignation and denied supporting his nomination as Commissioner.

Europe: EU adopts the first law to combat violence against women
On 07 May, in a press release by the Council of the EU, the first EU law to combat violence against women and domestic violence was officially adopted by the member states. The EU member states are expected to frame a national law on the matter in the next three years. According to the report, the law criminalized female genital mutilation, forced marriage, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, cyberstalking, cyber harassment, and cyber incitement to hatred or violence, with prison sentences ranging from at least one to five years.  By setting standards for the protection of victims of these crimes, fundamental rights of equality between women and men are ensured. The EU countries are to ensure that professionals assist children and safeguard them when they report a crime. Additionally, steps to protect a victim’s privacy and prevent repeat victimisation are to be taken during criminal proceedings. However, there were negotiations that a common definition of rape was not mentioned in the law.

Russia: Putin delivers Victory Day Speech
On 07 May, Vladimir Putin, Russia’s President, began his fifth term after the inauguration ceremony. He took the oath to serve Russia and its people with a revised constitution, including the annexed regions in Ukraine. This comes as Putin won the presidential elections with 87.28 per cent votes. In his ceremony speech, Putin called for “fair dialogue” with a focus on security and strategic stability and value to the party’s interest. In his listed priorities, he called for a “self-sufficient” Russia, united by the Russian language and preservation of values and traditions. On Russia’s foreign policy, Putin mentioned Russia’s aim to strengthen its relations across globe to showcase how reliable it can be. He criticized the West for continuing to be a barrier to the development of Russia and for opting for a “policy of aggression.” He stressed working with the European integration process and vowed to establish a multipolar world.

THE AMERICAS THIS WEEK
Panama: Jose Raul Mulino wins presidential election
On 05 May, Panama’s former Security Minister, Jose Raul Mulino, won the country’s presidential elections after three of his closest competitors conceded defeat, securing more than a third of the votes cast. He entered the race late as a stand-in for former President Ricardo Martinelli, who was removed from power after being convicted of corruption. Following his victory, he stated: “Mission accomplished. This is perhaps the most important date of my life, and the greatest responsibility of a Panamanian falls on my shoulders and my family to lead the destiny of the nation.” He will now be tasked with government corruption, a severe drought, and US-bound migrants who pass through Panama’s jungles. In the poll run-up, Mulino used his connections to Martinelli to secure votes and popularity. Martinelli himself was set to run but was barred due to a money laundering conviction. He campaigned for Mulino from the Nicaraguan embassy, where he has taken refuge since 8 February. While Mulino’s campaign had been challenged since he had not won a primary vote or picked a running partner, which is mandated by the country’s laws, the Supreme Court dismissed the complaint.

Argentina: Central bank to issue ARS 10,000 notes amid inflation
On 07 May, Argentina’s central bank said that it would lighten the load for Argentines who have been forced to carry bags or suitcases filled with cash for simple transactions due to the soaring inflation by multiplying the size of its biggest banknote by five to ARS 10,000. In March, inflation reached 287 per cent, among the highest globally. The new note will be issued in June to “facilitate transactions between users,” as per the central bank. In 2017, the ARS 1,000 note was equal to USD 58 on the black market; currently, it is worth USD one.

Argentina: Unions organise 24-hour strike to protest spending cuts
On 09 May, train and metro services remained shut amid a 24-hour general strike against public spending cuts. One of the main union leaders, Hector Daher, explained that the strike was a wake-up call to Argentina’s President Javier Milei to get him to review some of the cuts made to subsidies and social programmes. Milei, who has been implementing austerity measures since he assumed office, has claimed that the measures are required to reduce the country’s public deficit and soaring inflation. He criticised the strike and pointed out that his government had already made many concessions to the unions. A spokesperson for his government said the “purely political” strike “damages and complicates the lives of many people.” On the other hand, the unions have accused Milei’s cuts of doing the same thing. Daher stated: “Far from being sustainable, [the cuts are] taking sectors of citizens to extremes that they will hardly be able to recover from if this continues.”

The US: House votes against “motion to vacate” Mike Johnson as speaker
On 08 May, Democrats joined Republicans in the House of Representatives in a 359-43 vote to defeat an effort by Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene to remove fellow Republican Speaker Mike Johnson from his leadership role. In response to the vote, Johnson appreciated the “show of confidence” from his colleagues to “defeat this misguided effort,” and expressed hope that “this is the end of the character assassination that has characterised the current Congress.” Greene attempted for weeks to kick out Johnson after he made a string of compromises with the Democrats over a USD 95 billion bill for security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. She has been a major voice in opposing help to Ukraine and described Johnson’s leadership as “pathetic, weak, and unacceptable.” Representative Hakeem Jeffries led the Democrats in the vote and explained: “Our decision to stop Marjorie Taylor Greene from plunging the country into further chaos is rooted in our commitment to solve problems.

About the Authors
Rohini Reenum is a PhD scholar at NIAS. Padmashree Anandhan is a Project Associate at NIAS, Femy Francis, Dhriti Mukherjee, Shamini Velayutham, Akhil Ajith and Vetriselvi Baskaran are Research Assistants at NIAS. 

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