The World This Week

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CWA # 1658
The World This Week
President Xi’s Southeast Asia Visit: Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia

  GP Team
20 April 2025

The World This Week #307 Vol. 7 No. 16, 21 April 2025
 

Femy Francis

Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia:
President Xi’s Southeast Asia Visit
Femy Francis

What happened? 
On 14 April, China’s President Xi Jinping started his Southeast Asian tour and visited Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. He also published in the respective countries' news media prior to his visit. In Vietnam’s Nhan Dan Newspaper, Xi published “Building on past achievements and making new advances in pursuit of shared goals.” He reminisced about the shared revolutionary history and noted the historical phrase “The friendship between Vietnam and China is so profound because we are both comrades and brothers.” He called to deepen mutual trust, win-win cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, engage in multilateral collaboration, and safeguard regional peace. In a imilar note in Malaysian news media, Sin Chew Daily, “May the Ship of China-Malaysia Friendship Sail Toward an Even Brighter Future” Xi noted their historical friendship since the Silk Road times and called to build strategic communication and follow through with BRI initiatives. Xi noted that China’s work in Malaysia and other ASEAN countries is to fight “counter currents of unilateralism and protectionism, in keeping with the historical trend of peace and development.” Cambodia’s news media, Khmer Times, published “Toward a Stable and Sustainable China-Cambodia Community with a Shared Future in the New Era,” where President Xi noted the historical trading partner and the Chinese support for Cambodia to develop infrastructure. He said: “China-Cambodia ironclad friendship, which has been tempered through trials of time and storms of adversity, will stay true to its original purpose.” 

During his visit, several agreements were signed between China and the three Southeast Asian countries, of which most of the details remain undisclosed. Vietnam signed 45 agreements with China on manufacturing, railway transport, supply chain production of goods, and a cross-border QR code to facilitate payments. Malaysia-China signed 31 agreements on developing AI, R&D technology, green technology intake, visa-free travel, the use of Chinese satellite for agriculture, and building a stable supply chain. With Cambodia, Xi signed 37 agreements on energy, tourism, education, and infrastructure development. Additionally, China affirmed to support for the construction of the canal, the Funan Techo Integrated Water Resources Management Project.

What is the background? 
First, the state of China-Vietnam relations. 2025 marked China-Vietnam’s 75th year of diplomatic cooperation. Among the ASEAN countries, Vietnam is China’s largest trading partner, while China is Vietnam’s largest trading partner. In 2024, China traded USD 204.9 billion with Vietnam, which was a 19.2 per cent rise from 2023. Vietnam faced a trade deficit of USD 82.8 billion in 2024, while imports from China hiked by USD 33.35 billion. Vietnam's key exports to China are iron and steel products, fishery, and agricultural products. Chinese exports include electronics, spare parts, machinery, and computers. In 2017, Vietnam joined the BRI bandwagon. Some of the major China-funded projects in Vietnam are the Cat Lin-Han Dong railway project and the Vin Tan power station. 

Second, the state of China-Malaysia relations. China is Malaysia’s largest trading partner since 2009. In 2024, the bilateral trade was USD 212 billion. Malaysia mainly exports iron ore, refined petroleum, and petroleum gas. China exports electrical control boards, computers, and integrated circuits. Malaysia only exported USD 41 billion to China in 2024, with a trade deficit of USD 171 billion to China. Malaysia signed the BRI agreement in 2013. China has heavily invested in building a deep-sea port in the Strait of Malacca as part of the Melaka Gateway Project. East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) is built under BRI. 

Third, the state of China-Cambodia relations. China has been the largest trading partner of Cambodia for over a decade. In 2024, the bilateral trade reached USD 15.19 billion, a 23.8 per cent hike from 2023, of which Cambodia imported USD 13.44 billion worth, while it exported 1.75 billion to China. This showcases a trade deficit of USD 11.69 billion. Most of Cambodia’s exports consist of furniture, agricultural products, perishable goods like food, and raw materials. While China exports automated machines, electronics, and machinery. Cambodia signed the BRI in 2013, and China was responsible for key projects like the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone. 

Fourth, a brief note on the US tariffs on China and Southeast Asia. The US imposed 46 per cent tariffs on Vietnam. While Malaysia was hit with 24 per cent tariffs from the US, and Cambodia was hit by 49 per cent tariffs, the highest amongst the ASEAN countries. China and the US are going on a tariff war after a series of retaliatory tariffs from both sides. The US has now imposed 245 per cent tariffs on China, while China has imposed a 125 per cent tariff on the US. Additionally, China has put tariffs and even restricted the sale of key rare earths. In terms of trade, the US is China’s largest trading partner, China is only third to the US after Mexico and Canada. 

What does it mean? 
First, China’s efforts on solidifying alliances amid trade tensions. China’s President's visit to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia was planned before the tariffs imposed by the US. Therefore, the visit wasn’t intended to diversify and build an alliance amid tariff tensions, but was rather serendipitous. Since the wave of tariff imposition, Xi Jinping highlighted the need to curb unilateral protectionism and to support the global trading system in all three visits. The visit came at an optimal time to consolidate support in the region. Though, according to the US President Donald Trump, this visit is “screw” the US. 

Second, pledging allegiance. The joint statements released by China and the three host countries, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia, followed a similar theme. All three affirmed to maintain and march towards peace and stability in the South China Sea, and affirmed to One-China principle. China has been engaging in aggressive posturing in both the South China Sea and around the Taiwan Strait. Amongst the Southeast Asian countries, only the Philippines has been engaged in active tensions with China in the South China Sea. Taiwan has been hindering Chinese influence and presence in Taiwan by removing residents with Chinese residency. The visit aims to consolidate the alliance on the sidelines. 

TWTW Regional Roundups

News from around the world
Padmashree Anandhan, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, Femy Francis, Anu Maria Joseph, Nuha Amina, Ayan Datta, C Shraddha, and Nova Karun K 

CHINA THIS WEEK
China: US imposes 245 per cent tariffs
On 17 April, the White House announced that China now faces up to 245 per cent in tariffs. This comes after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to investigate the national security risks associated with the US's reliance on imports of critical minerals. The order to the US Secretary of Commerce was to kickstart an investigation under section 232, as part of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. This act was to be used by the Trump administration to scrutinize imports of copper, lumber, steel, and aluminum. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that the ball is in China’s court and that China needs to make a deal with the US, and that it is not the other way around. This new hike comes after the previous 145 per cent, 104 per cent, 54 per cent, and 20 per cent.

China: Launches six new satellites as part of the Long March series
On 19 April, China launched six new satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, located in Shanxi Province. The six satellites called Shiyan 27 are a modified version of the Long March-6 carrier rockets that reached the preset orbits. They will be used to explore the space environment and other technological tests. This marks the 570th flight mission as part of the Long March carrier rocket series. China’s outer space presence has developed exponentially over the years; in recent years, its private and government rocket launches compete with the world’s international space station in establishing dominance.

China:  GDP surges by 5.4 per cent in the first quarter
On 16 April, Reuters reported that China has surpassed its economic prediction for the first Quarter and its gross domestic product (GDP) rose by 5.4 per cent from January to March. The expectation for China’s growth in the first quarter was 5.1 per cent. This growth momentum is expected to slow down  amid US tariffs. The rise in the GDP is due to the government stimulus that boosted consumption and supported investments. The year-on-year growth for China was revised and is expected to be 4.5 per cent in 2025 as they face US tariffs and duties.

China: India discusses the resumption of direct passenger flights
On 14 April, as per Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam, China and India discussed  on resuming direct passenger services.. No date has been fixed for the the next discussion. This was first agreed in January by both countries to resolve the trading and economic issues. The secretary informed that while one round of meetings has been completed, some issues need to be resolved. After the 2020 China-India clash, direct flights to China were halted, and popular Chinese apps were banned in India. This has changed since China and India signed the disengagement agreement for the Depsang and Demchok flashpoints.

Taiwan: Nvidia to invest in AI infrastructure in the US with Taiwanese firms
On 14 April, Nvidia announced plans to team up with Taiwanese firms to invest USD 500 billion in AI infrastructure in the US over the next four years. Production of its Blackwell AI chips has already begun at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s’s facilities in Phoenix, and the company will produce AI supercomputers entirely in the US by building factories in Texas, partnering with Foxconn in Houston, and Wistron in Dallas. Both sites are expected to begin mass production within 12 to 15 months. Nvidia noted that building the AI chip and supercomputer supply chain in the US will be a complex process requiring cutting-edge manufacturing, packaging, assembly, and testing technologies, partnering with US-based Amkor and Taiwan’s SPIL for operations in Arizona. Co-founder and CEO Jensen Huang said: “The engines of the world’s AI infrastructure are being built in the United States for the first time,” adding that US manufacturing will help meet growing demand, strengthen supply chain resilience, and boost overall resiliency.

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC THIS WEEK
Japan: To give Shinkansen trains to India for free
On 15 April, the Japan Times reported that Japan plans to provide East Japan Railway E5 and E3 series Shinkansen trains free of charge to India. The trains will act as inspection vehicles for India’s national high-speed railway under construction in the western region of the country. One train set from each series will be delivered in early 2026 after being fitted with the necessary inspection equipment. The Japanese and Indian governments also plan to adopt next-generation E10 series Shinkansen trains in the early 2030s for a roughly 500-kilometer high-speed rail link between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The delivery of these advanced trains is, however, unlikely to be in time for the line’s partial opening scheduled for August 2027. The project is considered strategically significant for Japan as it underlines the importance of its iconic shinkansen technology, with low-interest yen loans expected to cover about 80 per cent of the overall project costs originally valued at roughly USD 12.65 billion.

South Korea: Acting President meets Maryland Governor to discuss US tariffs
On 16 April, Acting President Han Duck-soo announced that South Korea and the US are working to find a win-win solution to address the issue of US reciprocal tariffs on Korean imports. Han, in a meeting with Maryland Governor Wes Moore, explained that ministerial-level discussions are underway to identify mutually beneficial strategies in economic cooperation, including measures to balance trade, support LNG purchases, and enhance bilateral shipbuilding efforts. Moore expressed his hope for smooth negotiations, emphasizing the importance of the longstanding alliance between Korea and the US. Both leaders underscored the need for continued high-level cooperation to ensure the security and prosperity of the partnership.

New Zealand: Looks to deepen trade and strategic ties with Taiwan
On 17 April, President Lai Ching-te hosted a delegation of New Zealand (NZ) parliamentarians in Taipei, underscoring shared interests in “smart agriculture, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy.” Lai noted that both democracies face global headwinds, such as shifting trade patterns after the US levies on Taiwanese exports, and called for market diversification. Member of the New Zealand House of Representatives, Stuart Smith, highlighted security cooperation, recalling last September’s joint New Zealand and Australian naval transit through the Taiwan Strait to uphold freedom of navigation. The visit, part of a six-day trip by members of New Zealand’s All Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan, aims to promote bilateral ties between the two sides.

SOUTHEAST AND SOUTH ASIA THIS WEEK
Indonesia: President Prabowo travels to the Middle East to forge diplomatic relations
On 15 April, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto began his visit to the Middle East to engage in the resolution towards theconflict in Gaza. He would visit the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, and Jordan.. Following his tour to the Middle East, the Indonesian President would meet  Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. . Th President Prabowo said, “Indonesia is open to contributing to the resolution of the Israel-Palestine War, based on its capacity and international role.”

India: Among 62 countries to vote for a global carbon tax on ships
On 11 April, India was among 62 countries that voted in favor of the world’s first global carbon tax on the shipping industry. The countries that opposed it include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Russia, and Venezuela. At the International Maritime Organization, it was decided that from 2028, ships will shift to lower-emission fuels or pay a levy for the pollution. Hence, ships will be charged on the magnitude of their emissions. The amount raised will only be used to decarbonize the maritime sector. While this move is a leap in international climate policy, criticism over its failure to address the climate finance needs of developing states has surfaced.
 
Sri Lanka: Plans to scrap para tariffs on US imports
On 17 April, the Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lankan government had proposed to remove its para tariffs on US imports. With a 44 per cent tariff slapped by the Trump Administration on Sri Lankan exports, the government seeks ways to appease the US. Moreover, the government is seeking to import fuel from US companies to decrease  the bilateral trade gap. While Sri Lanka’s exports to the US are worth USD three billion, its imports are  around USD 300 million.

India: Boeing eyes India as a market for its aircraft deliveries
On 16 April, amid heightened trade tensions between China and the US, the Economic Times reported that India is being considered as a market for Boeing aircraft deliveries after China stopped taking delivery of Boeing aircraft. China’s decision is in retaliation for 245 per cent tariffs imposed by the US on its exports. On the other hand, Indian buyers are anticipating the redirection of air carriers to India meant for China. Indian airlines like Air India Express and Akasa have the same model as Chinese companies have on order, the Boeing 737 MAX jets. This sheds light on the larger possibility of India replacing China for US goods.

AFRICA THIS WEEK
Sudan: RSF announces parallel government
On 15 April, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced the formation of a rival government in areas under its control. On the day marking two years of the war, the RSF leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, declared the establishment of the “Government of Peace and Unity” in the areas under its control. Dagalo stated: “On this anniversary, we proudly declare the establishment of the Government of Peace and Unity, a broad coalition that reflects the true face of Sudan.”
 
EUROPE THIS WEEK
Europe: NATO Secretary General assures “unwavering support” to Ukraine
On 15 April, during his visit to Odesa, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte along with Zelenskyy released a joint statement. Rutte affirmed NATO’s “strong and unwavering support” for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s ongoing attacks. He called out the current violence in Ukraine, including the drone strikes Odesa, and ballistic missile attack in Sumy. Rutte criticised Russia’s repeated targeting of civilians, including hundreds of medical facilities and workers, calling it an "outrageous" pattern of behaviour. He reassured the people of Ukraine that NATO’s support remains “rock-solid” and that NATO’s commitment to Ukraine’s security would be both political and practical. He pointed out that NATO Allies have already pledged over EUR 20 billion in security assistance for 2025. Rutte emphasized that NATO’s goal is to help Ukraine remain strong and sovereign, capable of defending itself and deterring future aggression. He also addressed ongoing peace efforts, between the US and Russia, and how France and the UK, are prepared to play their part in securing peace at right time. Rutte concluded by reaffirming NATO’s unwavering solidarity with Ukraine, looking forward to a future where the Ukrainian people can live in peace, free from fear.

Europe: EU and UK approve more than EUR 650 million aid to address Sudan’s humanitarian crisis
On 15 April, leaders from the EU, the UK, and France met in London, marking the second anniversary of Sudan's civil war. The EU and the UK pledged significant financial aid to address the country's ongoing humanitarian crisis. The EU committed EUR 522 million  for 2025, while the UK announced GBP 120 million (EUR 141 million) to support food distribution for 650,000 people. However, Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized that humanitarian aid alone won't end the conflict, with Lammy noting the lack of political will as a major barrier to peace. Meanwhile, Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) declared the formation of a rival government, further complicating the situation. The civil war, fuelled by a power struggle between Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has led to widespread suffering, with millions displaced, tens of thousands dead, and millions facing famine. Despite international aid efforts, the war has escalated into what many consider the worst humanitarian crisis in the world, with little progress toward a ceasefire or peace

France: Algerian government orders 12 French embassy officials to leave the country
On 14 April, Algeria ordered 12 French embassy officials to leave the country, amid the rise in tensions between France and Algeria. According to France's Foreign Minister, Jean-Noel Barrot: “The departure from Algeria is linked to the arrest of the three Algerian nationals in France.” Barrot added: “I am asking Algerian authorities to abandon these expulsion measures and if the decision to send back the officials is maintained, we will have no other choice but to respond immediately.” In early April, Barrot metAlgeria’s President Abedelmadjid Tebboune to mend the broken relationship between the two, and to build a partnership of equals. However, recently, , the French prosecutors indicted  three Algerians, including a consular official, on suspecting their involvement in the abduction of an opponent of the Algerian regime, Amir Boukhors in 2024.

Sweden and Norway: Glaciologists warn over rapid melting of Glaciers
On 16 April, a report in Euronews recorded that the glaciers in Sweden and Norway have been melting at a rapid pace, raising concerns. EU’s Copernicus recorded that Europe was at its warmest in 2024 compared to the rest of the years, and the glaciers in the Nordic region have experienced an average melt of approximately 1.8 meters. Glaciologists and other scientists have raised concerns over the loss of glacial ice, and if the trend continues, it could lead to the disappearance of glaciers. According to Erik Huss, a glaciologist in Sweden: “We need to take care of these small ice caps. They are incredibly important to us humans for energy, architecture, water supply, and many other things. The whole ecology of the mountains and the Alps depends on the incoming and outgoing flow of water.” Glacier melting is a part of Earth’s climate cycle, but at an unprecedented rate, it is difficult for the ecosystems to adapt. According to the World Meteorological Organisation, 70 per cent of the freshwater comes from the glaciers, supporting agriculture, energy production, industries, drinking water supplies, and many more. Besides their role in water cycles, glaciers act as time capsules in the planet's history. The ice records past climates, environmental changes, and human activity.

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

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