Malaysia and the South China Sea: Will KL Abandon its Hedging Policy?
Synopsis
While Malaysia remains fully committed to a “common ASEAN position” in terms of engaging China on the South China Sea disputes, it does not want this to affect its good bilateral relations with Beijing – as do several other ASEAN states. It is unlikely that KL will change its hedging policy.
Modi’s Foreign Policy: Nuanced Non-Alignment?
Synopsis
India signed a nuclear and defence deal with Russia during the President Putin’s recent visit to New Delhi. India also concluded agreements with Japan, the US and China in an important display of its traditional diplomacy undergoing nuanced change under Prime Minister Modi.
Falling Oil Price: An Opportunity for Asia?
Synopsis
In the past three months, the price of crude oil has fallen dramatically, from higher than US$100 per barrel to below US$60 per barrel. The plunge in oil prices has significant influence on our daily lives, but how will the low price affect Asian countries?
China’s Peaceful Rise: Till When?
Synopsis
China begins the New Year as the world’s largest economic power. Has China risen? Amidst never-ending talks and discussion about a rising China, what are the indicators of a risen China?
Global Threat Forecast 2015
Synopsis
The al Qaeda-centric threat landscape has been eclipsed by an Islamic State (IS) insurgency. Today, an al Qaeda-IS hybrid influences and shapes the global threat landscape of political violence. IS will expand its international footprint in 2015.
ASEAN-Korea Commemorative Summit 2014: Towards an “Asian Community”?
Synopsis
ASEAN and South Korea recently held a summit to mark 25 years of partnership. President Park Geun-hye spoke confidently of ASEAN and South Korea working together to build a multilateral “Asian Community”.
Between Two Elections: Whither US-Myanmar Relations?
Synopsis
US-Myanmar bilateral relations are being influenced by upcoming major elections in the two countries. Short-term gains by either side risk undermining rapprochement and the US’ role in Myanmar.
Singapore’s Struggle Against CPM: What if the Barisan Sosialis Had Won?
Synopsis
On the 25th anniversary of the end of the long struggle against the Communist Party of Malaya, it is critical that the conflict be remembered and evaluated accurately. Due regard should be given especially to the sacrifices of those Singaporeans who suffered or perished as a result of Communist violence. To do any less would be a travesty.
From Syria and Iraq to Iran: Kurdish Minorities Push For Autonomy
Synopsis
While Syrian and Iraqi Kurds battle against the Islamic State organisation, Sunni Muslim Iranian Kurds are campaigning for greater rights within the mainly Shiite Islamic republic. President Rouhani’s approach appears to be producing results.
WTO Breakthrough on Stockpiles: Sustaining Food Security
Synopsis
The recent WTO agreement, finally concluded after the resolution of an impasse on food stockholding, has been hailed as a landmark for international trade. The deal however also holds great significance for global food security. However, some important concerns remain.