Beijing’s mediation of the historic rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran is a sign that its much-vaunted Global Security Initiative is working. The bigger challenge is bringing the GSI into action with respect to the war in Ukraine.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Vietnam Media Hailed Ke Huy Quan’s Oscar Win — Until Online Propagandists Pounced
Vietnam’s media celebrated Ke Huy Quan’s Oscar, but online nationalists panned him for taking pride in his odyssey to America and the Oscars stage. Dredging up war memories remains anathema, but the state’s reactions may undermine national reconciliation efforts, especially with the Vietnamese diaspora.
Partnering with ASEAN to Promote Peace in Myanmar
The United States stands ready to work with ASEAN and other partners in the region to bring about the return of stability and prosperity in Myanmar.
You Can’t Put the Genie Back in the Bottle: Marcos Jr.’s Defence Cooperation Policy
The Marcos Jr. administration’s defence cooperation policy that hews closer to the U.S. is facing domestic criticism, even from his sister.
An Ageing Vietnam Struggles for a Reliable Social Insurance System
Vietnam’s beleaguered national social insurance scheme is in dire need of an overhaul before its population ages to a point of no return.
The ‘High Seas Treaty’: Six Things Worth Knowing
The recent conclusion of a ‘high seas treaty’ is significant, since it would put in place a multilateral regime to preserve and protect critical resources in areas outside countries’ exclusive economic zones and continental shelves.
Thai General and Premier Learns the Ropes as a Full-fledged Politician
Thai premier General Prayut Chan-o-cha, a former career military officer, is evolving to become a full-fledged politician who dangles goodies and hustles deals with other people of his ilk.
Can Cambodia’s Future Foreign Policy Diverge from China?
Whether Cambodia can truly forge a foreign policy that stands apart from China will impact the next generation of Cambodian leaders at home and abroad.
Chinese Investment into Thai Private Universities: The Need to Keep Standards Up
The flow of Chinese investment into Thai private universities has sparked concerns about falling educational standards. The authorities need to put measures in place to ensure that standards are maintained.
Anwar’s Uneasy Truce with Malaysia’s Powerful Civil Service
Anwar Ibrahim’s relationship with Malaysia’s powerful civil service is key to his government’s success and survival. He faces serious challenges in maintaining a positive relationship, but developments since 2018 help his chances.