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CWA # 1612, 11 March 2025
The World This Week
US-China tariff tensions

  GP Team

The World This Week #301 Vol. 7 No. 10, 10 March 2025
 

Femy Francis

US-China tariff tensions 
Femy Francis 

What happened?
On 3 March, US President Trump issued an order to amend duties on China’s “Synthetic Opioid Supply”. It noted China’s failure to “blunt the sustained influx of synthetic opioids” and the “influx of illegal aliens.” The US imposed ad valoreum tariffs 10 on products produced in China, making the total 20 per cent in tariffs. Earlier, in February, Trump imposed tariffs, citing national security threat noting the influx of fentanyl killed two hundred American’s per day revoked the de minimis policy with China.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson warned that: “If the US has other intentions and insists on a tariff war, trade war or any other war, China will fight to the end.”
 
On 6 March, Walmart asked Chinese suppliers to cut costs by 10 per cent to balance the burden of tariffs.

What is the background?
First, Trump's executive order and US-China trade equations. Trump’s order stated that China is a haven for transnational criminal organizations, laundering money by selling opioids. China was the US's fourth-largest trading partner in 2024; the US imported USD 439 billion in 2024 and exported USD 143 billion, marking a trade deficit of USD 295 billion. China exported electronic equipment, machinery, furniture, apparel, and some critical minerals. The US exports were largely agricultural, poultry, and medical devices. over the years, the nature of Chinese exports shifted from low-value products to more capital goods, like advanced technology and rare metals.

Second, China’s retaliation. PRC imposed 15 per cent tariffs on US agricultural imports, poultry, corn, cotton, and wheat. Additional, 10 per cent tariff on US produce like beef, dairy, fruits, vegetable, soy, and pork. Fifteen US firms are now under the Export Control List of China, prohibiting Chinese companies from selling dual-use tech to the US. Ten US firms added to the Unreliable Entity List. It also kickstarted the anti-monopoly and anti-competitive investigation against Google and Apple. China imposed export controls on 25 rare metals vital for electronic and military equipment and 15 per cent duties on US coal and LNG products.

Third, Trump's China policy. Under Trump’s administration, US grew closer to Taiwan and now invited TSMC to open five plants in the US. Under Trump, the Indo-Pacific Command focused on countering China’s presence, and the Department of Justice also launched the China Initiative to hinder covert activities by Beijing. In 2018, Trump imposed 30 per cent tariffs on imported solar panels, 80 per cent came from China. In 2020, US-China signed a Phase One Trade deal agreeing to buy USD 200 billion worth of US goods. In 2025, the US Postal Services briefly halted all parcels arriving from China and Hong Kong.

What does it mean?
First, rising trade tension, but not a trade war. Trump's policies focus around protectionism have overarching repercussions for the US market. But the administration believes that they will bounce back up as they build their domestic market. And find vital to face trade tension as the only solution to decrease dependence.

Second, “America First” policy. Trump’s America First Investment Policy 2025 aims at welcoming foreign investment but not at the cost of national security. The initiative cited China as a foreign adversary, “exploiting United States capital to develop and modernize its military, intelligence, and other security apparatuses,” notes the policy paper.

Third, consumer pays the price. Pressurizing both US and Chinese firms, inadvertently leading to consumers paying the price. Walmart urged Chinese suppliers to balance Trump's tariff and to keep up their competitive edge to sell cheap goods. United States International Trade Commission (USITC) found that: “US importers absorbing the costs of the tariffs through a combination of less favorable margins for sellers and higher prices for consumers.”

TWTW Regional Roundups
News from around the world
Padmashree Anandhan, Rohini Reenum, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, Femy Francis, Abhiruchi Chowdhury, Anu Maria Joseph, Nuha Amina, Ayan Datta, C Shraddha, and Nova Karun K 

CHINA THIS WEEK
China: Thailand repatriates Chinese victims and owners of scam centers
On 6 March, Thailand repatriated hundreds of Chinese nationals who flew home from Myanmar through Thailand. The three countries, China, Myanmar, and Thailand, have been clearing out illegal cyber scams run at the Thai-Myanmar border, mostly operated by Chinese nationals. Two weeks ago, 600 Chinese nationals were sent back. Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura said, “Another group of Chinese nationals,” and that there will be regular Chinese national repatriation every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. 

China: New Zealand’s spy agency warns against China’s growing presence in the Pacific
On 7 March, Reuters reported that New Zealand’s spy agency warned of the security posed by China’s presence and influence in the Pacific Island countries. This was reported by the Security Intelligence Service Director, General Andrew Hampton. He noted that the security issues in the Pacific Island countries have created a vacuum for China to take advantage by signing security deals with Pacific Island countries. In the past few years, China has struck a deal with Pacific Island countries, the most recent being the Cook Island Prime Minister signing agreements on economy, fisheries, and seabed mining, among others. 

China: Walmart urges Chinese suppliers to reduce costs for balancing Trump’s tariffs
On 6 March, Reuters reported that US retail store Walmart asked Chinese suppliers to cut the prices of their goods. The retail giant aims to shift the burden of Trump’s tariffs imposed. The Chinese firms which supply kitchenware and clothing to Walmart were asked to reduce the price by 10 per cent, which is in line with the 10 per cent tariff imposed by the Trump administration. The suppliers' selling costs to Walmart were already low to keep up the competitive edge. A Walmart anonymous spokesperson said: “As we have done in the past, we will continue to work with suppliers to keep prices as low as possible for our customers,” and that “In the meantime, we encourage all parties to work towards finding common ground that will protect consumers from price hikes and continue to grow our economy.”

China: Bangladesh delegation concludes their visit to China
On 6 March, a delegation from Bangladesh ended their visit to China, conducted by the International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee (IDCPC). The delegation included lawmakers, students, scholars, and journalists. The 21-member delegation visited Beijing, Shaanxi, and Yunnan, touring Chinese firms like BYD, LONGi, and iFlytek. During this time Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with the interim Foreign Adviser of Bangladesh Abdul Moyeen Khan, noting that they have a trusted friendship of years. Khan said, “Bangladesh is currently undergoing a national transformation, and many of its development aspirations align closely with the concept of Chinese modernization. He hopes that China will continue to support Bangladesh's development.”

China: Aims for 5 per cent economic growth at the two-session meeting
On 5 March, BBC reported that China set a goal of 5 per cent economic growth at the two-session meeting. This plan was revealed to attendees of the National People’s Congress.. In context, the Chinese economy is facing low consumption, property crisis, and unemployment issues. On top of it, the Trump administration has levied additional tariffs on Chinese goods. In total, 20 per cent tariffs will be levied against China. The suggestion at the two-session meeting targeting 5 per cent growth aims for strong exports but relies more on domestic spending to achieve this growth. 

China: DeepSeek claims to make 545 per cent profit in per day
On 1 March, Chinese AI startup DeepSeek revealed that they were theoretically making 545 per cent profit per day. They revealed this data based on their V3 and R1 model, while they also cautioned that the actual revenue will be significantly lower. DeepSeek revealed such data for the first time which can impact AI stocks of companies outside China.

Taiwan: US House of Representatives pass bill for allowing Taiwan to join IMF
On 05 March, the US House of Representatives Financial Services Committee passed the Taiwan Non-Discrimination Act of 2025. This bill will allow Taiwan to gain membership in the International Monetary Fund (IMF).  Additionally, it will bring IMF employment opportunities, IMF technical training and assistance to Taiwan. The bill was introduced by Representatives Young Kim and Al Green. They said: it “would enhance the IMF’s mission and promote stability.” Kim also said: “We cannot allow the CCP to dictate international financial policy and sideline a key democratic partner.”

Taiwan: Lifts ban on Advanced Jet Trainer Brave Eagle fleet
On 05 March, after thorough inspection by Taiwan’s Air Force and Taichung-based Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation, the flight ban on the Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) Brave Eagle fleet was lifted. The ban was imposed after a crash on 15 February during a training session due to engine failure. The pilot, Air Force Major-in-Training Lin Weisafely, ejected but sustained minor injuries, leading to a two-day hospitalisation. The reason for both engines failing is still being investigated, and the Air Force commissioned a private Contractor to recover the crashed parts.

EAST ASIA THIS WEEK
South Korea: GDP increase by 2 per cent in 2024
On 05 March, the Bank of Korea (BOK) announced that the GDP grew by 2 per cent in 2024 and the country's per capita Gross National Income (GNI) increased by 1.2 per cent from last year. BOK official Kang Chang-goo commented that South Korea’s GNI surpassed that of Japan and Taiwan. South Korea ranked sixth in terms of per capita GNI after the United States, Germany, Britain, France and Italy, among nations with 50 million or more population. Private spending rose by 1.1 per cent, facility investment gained 1.6 per cent, while construction investment dropped by 3 per cent in 2024. 

South Korea: Seven people injured in accidental bombing by KF-16 fighter jets
On 06 March, seven people were injured when two Air Force KF-16 fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs during live-fire drills in Pocheon. The bombs were “abnormally” released outside a training range, injuring seven individuals with minor injuries and two seriously, and caused damage to a church, six buildings, and a cargo vehicle. The Air Force apologized and promised compensation. They launched an investigation led by Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Park Ki-wan. Earlier in the day, South Korea and the United States conducted joint live-fire drills near the inter-Korean border in a show of force against North Korean threats. 

Japan: Judge Yuji Iwasawa elected as new ICJ President
On 04 March, The International Court of Justice (ICJ) elected Judge Yuji Iwasawa as the new president to complete the current president's term. Former ICJ President Nawaf Salam, resigned in January to become Lebanon’s Prime Minister. His term would have come to an end on 5 February 2027. Iwaasa before being a member of the World Court since 2018 was a professor of international law at the University of Tokyo and chairperson of the United Nations Human Rights Committee. 

Japan: Russia prohibits to Japanese foreign minister to enter in the country
On 04 March, the Russian Foreign Ministry banned nine Japanese citizens, including Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwai, the president and representative director of carmaker Isuzu Shinsuke Minami, and Shohei Hara, senior vice president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The ministry announced the decision was made in response to Japan's sanctions against Russia related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Entry bans are a common measure adopted by Russia and similar lists exist for several countries, including the U.S. and Canada and include hundreds of people.
 
Japan: UK and Japan to collaborate for developing next-generation fighter jet
On 06 March, Japan and UK affirmed that they will continue to collaborate on the trilateral project with Italy aimed at developing fighter jets by 2035. This was affirmed by Japan’s Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and UK’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Nakatani expounded that both countries are each other's closest partners in Asia and Europe and that he welcomes the jet development program. Lammy noted that stable bilateral ties are key for global security.  

Marshall Islands: Inks nuclear ban treaty in South Pacific
On 03 March, Marshall Islands signed the Treaty of Rarotonga which is South Pacific's nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament treaty, becoming the 14 Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) member to join it. The PIF said, "By becoming a signatory to the Treaty of Rarotonga, the Marshall Islands has indicated its intention to be bound with a view to future ratification.” The Rarotonga Treaty was opened for signature on 6 August 1985 and entered into force on 11 December 1986. The current member states of the treaty are Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine also acknowledged and honored the importance of the treaty and expressed her commitment to it and the Pacific. 

Samoa: Prime Minister defeats second no-confidence motion
On 06 March, Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa defeated a second no confidence motion against her minority government. 32 votes were against and 19 were in favor of the motion. The motion was initiated by FAST chairman Laauli Leuatea Schmidt and opposed by HRPP leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi. The motion failed as HRPP sided with Fiame this time, a reversal from last week. Parliament will now continue with pending bills and a budget review scheduled for June. 

SOUTHEAST AND SOUTH ASIA
Myanmar: Cut in the US Aid creates huge consequences for Myanmar
On 5 March, US President Donald Trump’s action to cut off US aid to Myanmar created devastating consequences for development agencies, media outlets, and key stakeholders. It severely impacted the civil society organizations, working across borders. Many have stopped paying office rent and salaries, leaving employees to struggle with basic needs such as food, clothing, etc. As salaries disappear, firms are losing skilled labourers. The workforce has been reduced in various places such as Chiang Mai and Mae Sot. Clinics and refugee camps that relied on the aid have halted medical treatment and food distribution leaving displaced people in worse conditions. The US Aid has exposed various vulnerabilities within the aid-dependent ecosystems of human rights works. 

Thailand: Criminal court denies Former PM Thaksin to travel to Indonesia for ASEAN meeting 
On 6 March, Thailand's criminal court denied former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s request to leave the country to attend the ASEAN meeting, following an invitation by the Indonesian President. Thaksin is currently facing charges under Article 112 of the Criminal Code of the Lesemajeste Law and submitted his request at the Criminal court on Ratchadaphisek Road. Following the hearing, the court ruled that there were insufficient grounds to allow Thaksin to leave the country. In January, the court permitted him to travel to Malaysia for a meeting, which required a bail of THB 5 million and the commitment to come back within 3 days. In February, he was allowed to visit an ASEAN meeting with Brunei but was denied permission to visit Vietnam and Cambodia. Thaksin has been appointed as an informal advisor to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in preparation for Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025. His appointment as an advisor is seen as a strategic move, particularly in addressing complex regional issues such as the ongoing Myanmar crisis, which remains a critical challenge for ASEAN.

Thailand: Panic struck in the Thai government over US trade policies
On 6 March, the Thai Chamber of Commerce urged action from the government over the US trade policies, and their uncertainties and proposed to create a “war room” to counter any tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. US is Thailand’s top export market. US President Donald Trump signed a broad memorandum ordering federal agencies to complete a comprehensive review on the range of issues by April 1, which includes an analysis of the present US Trade deficits. The chamber said that “it would be advisable to have a separate group aside from the war room to address the US trade policy issues.” 

Indonesia: UN cuts off aid supply to the Rohingyas in Indonesia amidst US cuts
On 6 March, the United Nations migration agency warned of cutting the aid to the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, due to the lack of funds. The biggest source of funds was from the United States, and they have cut off their funding. The International Organization for Migration expressed their   inability to provide healthcare and cash assistance to 925 Rohingya refugees sheltering in the western city of Pekanbaru. This is to begin from March 5, due to resource constraints. 

Bhutan: Collaborates with Singapore for carbon trading project
On 3 March, Kuensel online reported on Bhutan's carbon trading project with Singapore. On 28 February, both countries signed Article 6.2 under the Paris Agreement. The provision permits countries to exchange Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs) or carbon credits to meet their Nationally Determined Contributions. This partnership will enable both countries to develop projects with underlying sustainable development benefits and even support the mitigation of environmental issues. Speaking at the signing, Singapore's Minister for Sustainability and Environment expressed commitment to work in collaboration with Bhutan on "on high-integrity carbon markets" to "drive sustainable growth, mobilize climate finance and even reduce global carbon levels."

India: Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar visits Ireland to enhance bilateral ties 
On 7 March, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Irish President Michael D Higgins and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Simon Harris to enhance bilateral ties between India and Ireland. Both sides agreed to establish a Joint Economic Commission to strengthen investment, technology, and trade. The two sides delved into discussions on trade, mobility, Fin Tech, AI, cybersecurity, semiconductors and education. 

India: Minister of External affairs inaugurates new Consulate General in Manchester 
On 8 March, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar inaugurated a new Consulate General in Manchester. In the presence of UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West, Jaishankar expressed the significance of the inauguration. He  stated that this event demonstrated a shift in the UK-India ties and said: “We are clearly anticipating a very big pickup in the relationship in the times to come.” He also highlighted India’s “accelerated” efforts in free trade agreements in light of the current geopolitical shifts influenced by President Donald Trump’s foreign policies. 

This comes as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar condemned the UK for not living up to “their diplomatic obligations" after a man belonging to a group of pro-Khalistani protesters attempted to breach the security perimeter while Jaishankar was leaving London’s Chatham House on 5 March. He deemed it “unacceptable” as it was an attempt to “intimidate, threaten, or disrupt" a public event.

India: Indian Air Force’s Jaguar crashes in Haryana due to system malfunction
On 7 March, the Indian Air Force’s Jaguar fighter aircraft crashed into Haryana after taking off from Ambala airbase for a training sortie. In an X post, the IAF announced that this took place due to a system malfunction. The pilot ejected himself from the aircraft after maneuvering it from inhabited zones, it added. This has followed an inquiry launched by the IAF to investigate what caused the accident. 

Pakistan: HRCP report highlights rise in “mob-led attacks” against minorities
On 5 March, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) revealed in its report titled Under Siege: Freedom of Religion or Belief in 2023-24 that there has been a rise in cases of “mob-led attacks” against minorities, especially their homes and places of worship. The report also highlighted “arbitrary detention” of Ahmadis and “desecration of their graves.” Further, the report pointed out that “Hindu and Christian women” were vulnerable to “forced conversion.” The report revealed that till October 2024, around 750 people had been incarcerated on charges of blasphemy. In most of these cases, legal action was taken following “disinformation on social media.” The report also enumerated four “faith-based killings” out of which in three the target were Ahmadis. Additionally, the report revealed that around “42 attacks on Ahmadis’ places of worship were recorded” and nearly more than half of these happened in the presence of law enforcement agencies. The report also highlighted the role of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) in initiating blasphemy cases against Ahmadis. The report was displayed at a meeting of National Interfaith Working Group which was constituted to advocate for the rights of minorities. The members suggested some procedural and constitutional changes. For instance, they called for “procedural changes to discriminatory laws that affect religious minorities disproportionately.” They also argued for a constitutional amendment providing minorities the right to hold office of the president and the prime minister. 

Pakistan: Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan look towards expanding bilateral cooperation 
On 4 March, Kyrgyzstan’s Ambassador to Pakistan Avazbek Atakhanov called on Power Minister Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari. In their discussion, both sides delved on potential areas for strengthening bilateral ties while underscoring better energy cooperation. The power minister informed the ambassador about the current reforms in the power sector which are aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability that was appreciated by the latter. Sardar also invited Kyrgyz investors to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s energy sector and other projects. In his statement, the Ambassador expressed Kyrgyzstan’s willingness to collaborate in mutually beneficial areas and noted the importance of enhanced cooperation in energy and power infrastructure for economic growth and regional stability. 

Pakistan: MoU on Special Economic Zones signed with UAE
On 5 March, a Memorandum of Understanding was inked between an eight-member delegation of UAE’s International Free Zones Authority (IFZA) and Pakistan’s Board of Investment on the investment in the existing Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Pakistan. Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed investment from the IFZA in several SEZ-related projects. He said: “The government is taking steps on a priority basis to provide a business and investment-friendly environment in the country.” 

Pakistan: Malala Yousafzai visits hometown after 13 years
On 6 March, Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai visited her native Barkana after 13 years, marking her first trip since she gotshot by the Taliban in 2012. In a post on X, she expressed her childhood nostalgia and even reacted to the recent suicide bombing incident that took place outside Bannu’s cantonment. Besides meeting her family, she also paid a visit to approximately 1000 girls belonging to lower economic groups in Shangla district who are recipients of free education to colleges and schools under the Malala Fund. She was briefed about facilities provided by the Shangla Girls School and College under the Zindagi Trust and was also praised by the locals for promoting education for girls in the region. Later, she returned to Islamabad after spending four hours in Barkana. 

Pakistan: Trump likely to enforce a ban on entry to the US from Pakistan and Afghanistan, says The News
On 7 March, The News International reported on the possibility of the US enforcing a prohibition on entering the country from Pakistan and Afghanistan. As per sources of The News, US President Donald Trump is likely to announce a ban on travel to the US from Pakistan and Afghanistan in the coming days. This ban would severely impact the hopes of the Afghan citizens who face the threat of persecution by the Taliban in Afghanistan as they had assisted the US in its “war on terror.” They were allowed for “resettlement in the US.” Trump had earlier instructed the cabinet members to come with a list of countries on which a travel ban should be imposed by 12 March. During his first term of Presidency, Trump had enforced a ban on travel to the US from “seven Muslim majority” countries. However, former US President Joe Biden revoked the ban on travel to the US in 2021. 

MIDDLE EAST THIS WEEK
Lebanon: President Aoun visits Saudi Arabia, reaffirms commitment to Taif Agreement with Crown Prince
On 4 March, Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun undertook a state visit to Saudi Arabia and met the Kingdom’s Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman. In a joint statement, both sides reiterated their commitment to the Taif Agreement, which ended the Lebanese Civil War. Signed in 1989, the Taif Agreement called for the disarmament of all non-state armed groups in Lebanon (except Hezbollah, which was allowed to remain armed as an anti-Israel resistance force) and mutual coexistence between Lebanon’s various sects. However, the two parties also emphasised the need to ensure the Lebanese State’s sovereignty over its entire territory and restrict weapons to the Lebanese State, marking a possible end to Hezbollah’s privileged status in the Taif Agreement. Furthermore, the joint statement called for Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanon. Both leaders agreed to review the obstacles affecting the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and undertake procedures to facilitate Saudi Arabians to travel to Lebanon. Riyadh also reaffirmed its commitment to Lebanon’s economic recovery and implementation of reforms. In response, Aoun expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s role in supporting Lebanon’s safety, institutional functioning, and other forms of assistance provided by the Kingdom. 

Syria: Interim President Al-Sharaa to visit Cairo for attending the Arab League Summit 
On 4 March, Syria’s Interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, left for Cairo to attend Arab League Summit, which will focus on developing a counterproposal to US President Donald Trump’s plan to depopulate Gaza. The summit is set to be chaired by Egypt’s President, Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, and will include participants from major Arab powers such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Importantly, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is also attending the Summit despite his anti-Hamas posture. Meanwhile, leading Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri stated the group’s rejection of attempts to impose outside arrangements on the Palestinian people, stating, “We are keen for the success of the summit, and we hope that there will be a call to reject the displacement and to protect the right of our people in resisting the occupation.”

Israel: Channel12 poll indicates Netanyahu’s declining popularity
On 6 March, The Times of Israel reported on a Channel 12 poll indicating that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s popularity was on the decline. If an election were held today with the parties currently enjoying a presence in the Knesset, the polls showed that Netanyahu’s Likud party-led coalition would only secure 54 out of 120 seats in the Knesset, thereby falling short of the 61-seat majority mark. However, if former Prime Minister Naftali Bennet, who is projecting himself as a future PM, contested, Netanyahu’s coalition would be reduced to 48 seats. Additionally, when respondents were asked to choose between multiple prime ministerial candidates, Bennet outpolled Netanyahu, winning 36 per cent support against Netanyahu’s 34 per cent. Furthermore, 60 per cent of the respondents thought Netanyahu should resign. 

AFRICA THIS WEEK
Gabon: Military leader announces bid for presidency 
On 3 March, the military leader of Gabon, Gen Brice Oligui Nguema, announced his bid to run for the April presidential elections. He commented: "I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.” After coming to power in 2023 through a coup, Nguema’s military government passed a new electoral code and constitution favouring the military leader. The military leader is expected to leave the army ahead of the elections. A Facebook page associated with Nguema, Infos CTRI Official, clarified that he would leave the military if elected and "if he's not elected, he will return to the barracks."

EUROPE THIS WEEK
France: To withdraw its troops from Senegal
On 08 March, France announced its formal withdrawal from Senegal. The government announced giving back control of two military facilities to the West African country. The handover is followed by Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, ordering all foreign troops to leave the country. France has set up a joint commission with Dakar in February to organize its withdrawal. The French Army announced that it had dismissed 162 Senegalese who worked on their military bases. The new Senegal government had taken a hardline approach on the presence of the French troops. France has faced opposition from some African leaders over what they have labelled as a demanding and heavy-handed approach to the continent.  Paris has suffered multiple setbacks in recent years in its military presence on the continent, particularly from the west including countries like Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

France: To continue its support to Ukraine despite US aid suspension
On 06 March, France's Defence Minister, Sebastian Lecornu, issued a statement as per which they will provide Ukraine with military intelligence despite the pause in US military aid, which was shared between the US and Ukraine. Lecornu said: “We have intelligence that will allow Ukraine to benefit from.” Washington said that it had suspended the sharing of intelligence with Ukraine, cutting off the flow of vital information that helped the country target the Russian forces. However senior officials have stressed that the suspension is temporary and the CIA Director John Ratcliff expressed his optimism that things would go well if Zelenskyy engaged positively with the US in peace talks. 

Germany: Two people killed, 11 wounded in car ramming incident in Mannheim
On 3 March, two people lost their lives and 11 others were wounded when a car rammed into a crowd in Mannheim. The concerned authorities are trying to find out the motivation of the accused. This is not an isolated incident. From December 2024, eight people have lost their lives in car ramming attacks. The accused of the two attacks in December hailed from Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan. Mannheim also witnessed knife attacks in anti-Islam demonstrations in May 2024. Security featured as an issue in the recent elections. On X, CDU leader and prospective Chancellor Friedrich Merz said "Germany must become a free country again. We will work towards it with the utmost determination."

UK: Liverpool hosts the first annual UK-Ireland summit 
On 6 March, Liverpool, UK hosted the first annual UK-Ireland summit. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer termed the development as the beginning of “new era” in UK-Ireland ties. Relations between the two countries soured after UK’s decision to leave the EU.  Both UK and Ireland would work together for “new programme of cooperation” termed as “UK-Ireland 2030. The discussion between the two sides delved on issues like “trade, energy, education and home affairs.” Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Michael Martin appreciated his counterpart’s efforts in bringing normalcy back to Ukraine. He also assured PM Starmer of Ireland’s commitment to assist UK in rebuilding its relationship with the EU. 

Ireland: Tik Tok to terminate close to 300 employees 
On 6 March, RTE reported that Tik Tok has sent a notice to Department of Enterprise, Ireland about the possibility that close to 300 people might be fired who are working in Tik Tok's Ireland office. Close to 3000 people work at Tik Tok’s Ireland operation. The layoffs are expected to take place from Tik Tok’s trust and safety unit which looks into content moderation. Tik Tok's base in Ireland plays a crucial part as it signifies to the European regulators that user data is protected. Tik Tok has refused to shed further light on the issue. Suspicion hovers around China’s ability to access user data in Tik Tok.  

About the Authors
Femy Francis is a Research assistant at National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS). Padmashree Anandhan and Anu Maria Joseph are Project Associates at NIAS. Rohini Reenum is a Doctoral Student at NIAS. Abhiruchi Chowdhury and Nuha Aamina are Research Assistants at NIAS. Nova Karun K is a postgraduate student at Pondicherry University. Ayan Datta is a postgraduate student at the University of Hyderabad. Fleur Elizabeth Philip and C Shraddha are Research interns at NIAS.

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India
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 68

Sourina Bej | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS

Bangladesh
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 67

Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS

Afghanistan