Blinken’s trip is part of US efforts to upgrade diplomatic relations with Vietnam, which has been hesitant to formally upgrade ties over fears of alienating Beijing.
US-Philippines defence cooperation hits turbulence amid domestic opposition
While Marcos continues to push for closer US defence ties, a domestic coalition has risen up in anger at the president’s plans. Members of the Filipino-Chinese business community, former president Rodrigo Duterte and even Marcos’ sister are collectively resisting a fully fledged alignment with the US against China.
7 dead in Philippines blaze, including children, 40 homes destroyed
‘They weren’t able to escape … they were found hugging each other’.
Tsai’s visit underlines the increasingly formal relationship between the US and Taiwan
The US Congress, tasked with governing the US’ unofficial ties with Taipei while Washington maintains a formal diplomatic relationship with Beijing, now plays a more active role in countering China. The growing formalisation of US-Taiwan relations poses a new challenge to cross-strait peace.
South China Sea: Malaysia vows to protect its rights in disputed waters after China voices concern over energy projects
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says China is worried about activity by the state energy firm Petronas in a part of the South China Sea that Malaysia says is its territory, but that it is ‘unequivocally and firmly committed to protecting … sovereignty, rights and interests in its maritime areas’.
Travelling to South Korea just got much easier for 22 countries in Europe, North America and Asia
The K-ETA electronic travel authorisation, compulsory to enter without a visa, is now being waved for tourists from some countries – but only until December 31, 2024.
Will new Philippine sites for US military near Taiwan affect Manila-China ties?
New EDCA sites key to country’s defence in the ‘strategic’ Luzon Strait against possible Chinese aggression in South China Sea, analysts say.
India should wean itself off Russian influence and claim its rightful place in US camp
Amid rising global tensions, India should abandon its stance of perceived neutrality and formally acknowledge its foreign policy tilt towards the US. But first, India and the US must address the kinks in their relationship, in defence, trade and other areas.
Experts provide insight into global tax fraud enforcement
Global tax fraud enforcement is increasingly sophisticated and coordinated as tax authorities embrace cross-border data sharing and use advanced software and analytics to clampdown on tax evasion.
UK cloud market investigation proposed
Ofcom is proposing to refer the UK’s cloud infrastructure services market for an in-depth investigation after identifying “concerns” over the way the market is currently operating.