China's Ping An eyes up to $5 billion convertible bond sale, Reuters reports
China's Ping An Insurance is considering convertible bond sale worth up to $5 billion, according to two sources with direct knowledge of the matter.
Asian news from China
Thailand expands visa-free scheme to 93 countries to boost tourism
People from qualified nations will be welcome as tourists or for short-term business purposes, ministry spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul said in a statement. Also, the number of territories eligible for a visa on arrival will increase to 31, from 19, she said, noting that the rules must be published in the Royal Gazette before they go into effect.
South China Sea: Philippine navy official dismisses Beijing’s charges, asserts Sabina Shoal rights
A top Philippine official has dismissed a Chinese report over its actions in the Sabina Shoal in the disputed South China Sea, insisting Manila has the right to “do anything that we wish” in its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Nepal’s prime minister loses a confidence vote forcing him to step down
KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) —
South China Sea: despite clashes, Beijing and Manila must keep talking
To arrest further deterioration of the situation, Philippine foreign affairs undersecretary Maria Theresa Lazaro and Chinese foreign vice-minister Chen Xiaodong met in Manila on July 2. They discussed improving maritime communication mechanisms and promoting dialogue between their coastguards, including possibly resuming a joint coastguard committee set up during the Duterte administration.
Japan wants answers over Chinese buoy found in remote contested waters
The buoy was discovered last week near Okinotorishima, a tiny remote atoll 1,730km south of Tokyo and the southernmost feature claimed by Japan. Though China and other have argued that the coral reef does not qualify as an island under UN definitions, Japan insists it can use the outpost to extend its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Indian Prime Minister Modi makes first visit to ally Russia since the start of its war on Ukraine
India’s prime minister begins a two-day visit to Russia on Monday, his first since Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine, a war that has complicated the relationship between the longtime allies and pushed Russia closer to India’s rival China.
Japan military hammered and war hadn’t even started
Japan can buy all the F35s and long-range and hypersonic missiles it wants. It can even boast of having cobbled together a couple “aircraft carriers.” But so what?