For many states, partnership with China makes more sense than rivalry
This month, a telling scene unfolded in Addis Ababa. The African Union and China held their ninth strategic dialogue in the Ethiopian capital and...
China fines e-commerce firm PDD for tax violations amid probe
Shanghai’s tax authority fined an operating entity of PDD Holdings, the US-listed e-commerce company that runs platforms including Pinduoduo and Temu, citing its failure...
India may have finally settled its aerial refueller requirement
On 29 December 2025, India’s Defence Acquisition Council approved the US$1.08 billion purchase of six refuelling aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Israel...
Malaysia’s primary school early entry option spurs fears of ‘herd effect’ competition
A sweeping shake-up on when Malaysian children can start school and how they are assessed has sparked fresh anxiety among parents, many of whom...
Why South Korea’s flight attendants are forced to brave bitter cold in thin uniforms
At first glance, South Korea’s Incheon International Airport appears every bit the image of global glamour. Trains to the airport, which serves more than...
Australia mulls how to achieve low-cost mass fires on distant targets
The Australian Army is exploring how to provide indirect fire support for amphibious-capable combined arms forces. It wants ground-launched and low-cost systems, according to...
Malaysia media groups urge action after reporter allegedly assaulted over question
Media groups have urged Malaysia’s government to clamp down on acts of intimidation and violence by its officials, after a journalist was allegedly assaulted...
Why Japan PM’s election bet will not repair damaged bilateral ties with China
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is betting that her strong public approval ratings will translate into a decisive majority in next month’s elections, but...
Are Vietnamese Values Compatible with Universal Human Rights?
In debates regarding human rights, the Vietnamese government has historically aligned itself with cultural relativism rather than universalism. [1] While universalism asserts that democratic...