China and Vietnam tighten ties in a ‘3+3’ strategic pivot
The dialogue, which focuses on diplomacy, defence and public security, comes at a time when Southeast Asia is increasingly being seen as a geopolitical chessboard for superpower rivalry.
Maria Siow in asian news
How Japan plans to stop China from ‘stealing the limelight’ at Trump’s inauguration
It is a shrewd move, analysts say, aimed at safeguarding the bedrock of Tokyo’s foreign policy: its alliance with Washington. But there is another unspoken motive driving Tokyo’s bold diplomacy – ensuring China does not steal the show.
China’s Himalayan mega dam deepens India’s water worries
For centuries, this river has been a lifeline for the millions living downstream. But now, a US$137 billion hydropower project – the largest of its kind ever attempted – threatens to turn its waters into a new front in the rivalry between China and India.
India’s growing rift with Bangladesh echoes its Pakistan tensions
As India shelters ousted Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina and raises concerns about Hindu rights in its neighbour, analysts accuse New Delhi of overstepping its bounds and meddling in Dhaka’s internal affairs.
Japan’s investments in US set to go on despite Nippon Steel’s takeover setback
On January 3, Biden blocked Nippon Steel Corp’s US$14.9 billion bid for US Steel Corp, citing national security concerns, slightly over a year after Nippon made its offer in December 2023.
With eyes on China and India, Sri Lanka lifts ban on foreign research vessels
Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed late last month that a committee was working on new standard operating procedures for granting clearance to foreign research vessels and aircraft. The guidelines would consider international best practices and national security concerns alongside the country’s national interests, Herath said.
Vietnam’s BrahMos plans spotlight India’s rising security role in Southeast Asia
Developed by BrahMos Aerospace – a joint Indo-Russian venture – the supersonic cruise missile can reach speeds of Mach 2.8, or nearly three times the speed of sound, and cover distances of up to 900km (560 miles).
North Korea strengthens ties with Russia over China in New Year’s diplomatic shift
In the message, Kim extended New Year greetings to Putin and all Russians, including their troops and expressed his willingness to further strengthen bilateral ties, which he said the two leaders elevated to new levels this year, KCNA added.
Is Australia taking myopic approach in wooing Pacific nations to counter China?
Albanese and his Solomons counterpart Jeremiah Manele said in a joint statement the package would help the South Pacific nation to build “enduring” security capabilities, “thereby reducing its reliance on external partners over time”.