Category Archives: Uncategorized

Philippine Foreign Policy Under President Duterte: Continuity and Change KB Teo SYNOPSIS President Duterte’s foreign policy is characterised by continuity and change.  He continues to vigorously pursue Philippine national interests. The big change is his strong interest in strengthening economic and financial ties with China, especially infrastructure projects. COMMENTARY In 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte hadContinue reading

Thailand’s Foreign Policy 2019: Continuity and Dynamism KB Teo SYNOPSIS Thailand’s Foreign Policy is characterised by continuity and dynamism.  It is expanding relations with fellow ASEAN members. Bangkok is also forging closer ties with China. COMMENTARY For seasoned observers of Thai politics, the sense of déjà vu was undeniable. The election in March 2019 wasContinue reading “Thailand’s Foreign Policy 2019: Continuity and Dynamism”

Japan-South Korea Tensions 2019: Deepening or Reconciliation? KB Teo SYNOPSIS The current Japan-South Korea tensions are related to historical grievances and trade conflicts.  Seoul, wisely, has a keen interest to end the dispute as soon as possible. COMMENTARY THE recent Japan-South Korea tensions arose due to a loss of trust over an October 2018 SouthContinue reading “Japan-South Korea Tensions 2019: Deepening or Reconciliation?”

Brunei’s Foreign Policy 2019: Low-profile But Activist KB Teo SYNOPSIS Brunei is a small but oil-rich state in Southeast Asia.  It is one of the most Islamic states in the world. It is forging closer ties with China. COMMENTARY Brunei Darussalam is an oil-rich country.  Sultan Bolkiah’s net worth is USD 20 billion, making himContinue reading “Brunei’s Foreign Policy 2019: Low-profile But Activist”

Myanmar’s Foreign Policy 2019 KB Teo SYNOPSIS Myanmar’s foreign policy is characterised by a strong nationalism. A multiethnic state, Myanmar is developing close ties with its fellow ASEAN member states, China, and India. COMMENTARY China and India will dominate Myanmar’s foreign policy stage, and their dealings with the rest of ASEAN will grow during 2018.Continue reading “Myanmar’s Foreign Policy 2019”

Indonesian Foreign Policy Under President Jokowi 2020 KB Teo SYNOPSIS Indonesian foreign policy is characterised by a nationalist orientation.  President Jokowi seeks to enhance Indonesia’s international profile and influence, especially within ASEAN.  He is cautiously seeking close ties with China. COMMENTARY Jokowi’s inauguration on 20 October 2019. Jokowi’s focus on domestic issues and his inexperienceContinue reading “Indonesian Foreign Policy: Under President Jokowi 2020”

Myanmar and Rohingyas: Brutal Treatment or Genocide? KB Teo SYNOPSIS Since 2016, the Myanmese military (Tatmadaw) has conducted a violent campaign to force the Muslim Rohingyas to neighbouring Bangladesh.  Myanmar is a Buddhist nation. Ten thousand Rohingyas have already been killed, especially in Rakhine state (northwestern Myanmar). More than 730,000 have fled Myanmar to neighbouringContinue reading “Myanmar and Rohingyas: Brutal Treatment or Genocide?”

Hong Kong Turmoil 2019: A Dismal Future? KB Teo SYNOPSIS There are three main causes.  One, fear over Beijing’s growing control. Two, erosion of its “freedoms”.   Three, the high costs of living. Many Hong Kongers cannot afford decent housing. COMMENTARY Under the 30 June 1997, China-UK Handover Agreement, Beijing promised to maintain Hong Kong’sContinue reading “Hong Kong Turmoil 2019: A Dismal Future?”

Xi-Modi 2019 Summit:  Start of a New Era? KB Teo SYNOPSIS In the 1950s, when China-India ties were close, New Delhi was among the first states to recognise Mao Zedong’s new China. All this changed with the 1962 border war. The recent Xi-Modi summit in India was aimed at ushering in a new prosperous “Chindia”Continue reading “Xi-Modi 2019 Summit: Start of a New Era?”