China’s Fengyun Weather Satellite Support to Maritime Surveillance

By: Jenny Lin

Since its inception in 1988, the Fengyun (FY) program has become an international symbol of China’s burgeoning ambitions in space. China’s weather satellite program began with Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai’s 1970 approval of a Central Military Commission (CMC) proposal to initiate research and development (R&D) on weather satellites.With the launch of the first FY-1A in 1988, China became only the third nation to launch its own meteorological satellites. Since then, the PRC has launched four FY-1 weather satellites into polar orbit, five FY-2 geosynchronous weather satellites, and two FY-3 satellites that were boosted into polar orbits on Long March-4 launch vehicles.

The FY series appear to be roughly analogous to those associated with the U.S Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP). The FY-3, equipped with almost a dozen all weather sensors, is China’s most advanced space asset providing meteorological support to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The system also could provide measurement and signature intelligence (MASINT) data to China’s emerging anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) targeting architecture.In addition to five additional FY-3 satellites to be launched between now and 2020, the next generation geosynchronous weather satellite, the FY-4, is expected to enter service in 2014.As a dual use asset, FY-3 requirements appear to have been developed by both the PLA General Staff Department (GSD) and China Meteorological Bureau. Specific PLA users with significant interests in the program include the GSD Second Department and GSD Third Department. Presumably, the GSD Operations Department and Service-level weather bureaus are key PLA users.

The R&D and manufacturing supply chain has stretched across a range of bureaucracies. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) Shanghai Academy of Space Technology (SAST), also known as the Eighth Academy, is the lead systems integrator for the satellites, launch vehicle, and ground system R&D.Overall system designers were SAST’s Sun Jingliang [孙敬良] and Meng Zhizhong [孟执中].Lead satellite sub-system designer was SAST’s Dong Yaohai [董瑶海].Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics appears to have been responsible for the hyperspectral infrared sensor.

GSD Third Department 57 Research Institute, supported by the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) 39th Research Institute (Northwest Institute of Electronic Equipment), developed the ground based receiving antenna system for the FY-3.Ground stations responsible for managing FY-3 satellite data reception, transmission and processing are Urumqi, Guangzhou, and Jiamusi.Other entities supporting the program included SAST’s Shanghai Institute of Electronic and Communications Equipment (804th Research Institute), CASC Fifth Academy’s Beijing Institute of Satellite Information Engineering (503rd Research Institute), and the CMA’s Network Surveillance Division. Other key players included Yang Zhongdong [杨忠东] and Lu Naimon [卢乃锰], both from the National Meterological Satellite Center.FY-3 satellite carries at least 11 on-board sensors.One study noted that the FY-3 includes a prototype package intended to support other sensors, such as over the horizon (OTH) radar systems, to compensate for sea clutter when tracking aircraft carriers and other moving targets at sea. Greater resolution enables more precise targeting.

Comment and Conclusion

Fengyun satellites collect and provide strategic weather reconnaissance data for civilian and military purposes. An accurate assessment of current and future weather conditions, such as cloud cover, atmospheric moisture, winds, temperature, and ocean currents, is critical for a range of military operations. Weather satellites can measure electromagnetic conditions in the ionosphere that could affect over the horizon radar and communication systems. They also can provide militarily useful data associated with complex maritime environments and terrains, including observation of targets under camouflage or perhaps even underground. Interests of GSD Third Department are unknown. Their role in the ground segment implies some linkage between the Fengyun program and signals intelligence.

Jenny Lin is a Researcher at Project 2049 Institute. The author would like to thank Mark Stokes for his input and suggestions.

Under the Radar News 01.23.12

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia.

According to the PRC’s National Bureau of Statistics, 51.3% of China’s total 1.3 billion population is now living in urban areas and the proportion of city dwellers has risen by almost 14% in the past decade. The data reportedly includes a large number of migrant workers. The NBS recommended that the Chinese government develop policies to address the country’s urbanization trend, for example, constructing more infrastructures and providing better social welfare to migrant labors.

Japan’s latest move to name uninhabited islets claimed by both China and Taiwan in the East China Sea could arouse controversy. According to Japan’s top government spokesman, Osamu Fujimura, naming those islands could boost the outer boundaries of Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). On the other hand, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin claimed that those islets have been an inherent territory of China since ancient times.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao urged countries in the world to cooperate and proposed an idea of a global energy market management mechanism within the framework of G20 so as to maintain the stability and safety of resources supply at opening of the 5th World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi. Wen expressed China’s willingness to collaborate with other nations but also emphasized that developed countries should assist developing countries in acquiring new technologies that enhance efficiency while protecting intellectual property rights.

The PRC’s vice president, Xi Jinping, met with former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger on January 16 and stated that, “the U.S. can view China’s strategic intentions and development path in as sensible and objective way, and be committed to developing a cooperative partnership.” Also, Xi emphasized that the bilateral relations between the two countries should be based on the three joint communiqués agreed and signed by both the PRC and the United States.

With more and more Asian countries strengthening their submarine fleets so as to protect their interests in the South China Sea, the US is facing greater challenges. China has increased its budget for modernizing its fleet and South Korea is selling subs to Indonesia. Also, India will acquire its nuclear-powered submarine from Russia. Even Thailand, Singapore, Taiwan and Bangladesh are planning to get subs. The significance of South China Sea cannot be overstated since most ships traveling between continents go through it and it is abundant in natural resources.

Time to Get Serious About Sanctions on Iran

By David Asher

U.S. Treasury Department sanctions against Iran are having a remarkable impact and much more is soon to come. In recent weeks the Iranian currency has crashed and the Iranian balance of payments, a close proxy measure for its oil revenue seems heading toward a deficit. Moreover, recently enacted legislation -- requiring banks to cease dealing with the Iranian Central Bank for oil imports within 60 days -- will soon be implemented. For Tehran, oil is money. Thus, cutting off oil revenue could soon bring the Iranian economy to its knees.


Iran's recent threats to block the flow of oil via the Strait of Hormuz -- with the goal of sending oil prices skyrocketing -- are a sign that the Iranians are already feeling the pain of sanctions. For Tehran, it can only get worse from here. The problem with sanctions is that the longer they drag on, the more affected countries develop the means to skirt them. Saddam's Iraq came under the weight of a vast sanctions regime for over a decade and the government did not fall from power, let alone change course. Iran is a nation of sophisticated traders and we can expect it to undertake a web of evasive measures to struggle on. Moreover, even if the Iranian economy is brought to a halt, history shows that those in power will be the last to suffer. In fact, Iran's hardline Revolutionary Guards appear to be gaining power as the nation moves onto a quasi-wartime footing.

To enforce sanctions and significantly enhance pressure directed against Iran's leadership (not just its people), the U.S. should consider an Iran-Hezbollah Illicit Activities Initiative similar to the one used against Kim Jong Il's regime, 2001-2006, and akin as well to the strategy applied successfully against Slobodan Milosevic and his cronies in the Balkans in the mid-90s (see the testimony). These previous interagency and international initiatives brought together U.S. and foreign government partners to apply a matrix of pressure strategies to directly affect the hold on power of the North Korean and Serbian regime leaders and coerce them to either give up global defiance or potentially fall from power. Notably, both initiatives incorporated domestic and international law enforcement against the illicit support networks and financial sanctuaries for regime leaders, in addition to the targeted and broader trade sanctions being applied currently against Iran.

Almost every seriously sanctioned regime in history has gotten into illicit activity to offset the cost imposed by sanctions. Iran is no exception to the rule. It appears to have been quietly engaged in state directed illicit activities to benefit the Revolutionary Guard and their antecedents since the onset of the revolution (and accompanying sanctions) -- everything from illegal technology procurement and weapons smuggling to involvement in narcotics trafficking and money laundering. In the coming months, as sanctions bite harder and oil profits disappear, we can expect the scale and importance of these illicit activities for the IRGC (and Hezbollah) to increase dramatically. However, the more Tehran and its affiliates rely on illicit activity, the easier it will be to apply law enforcement and international law strategically to hold their leaders and their finances accountable. Provided a sufficient enforcement dragnet is created, Iran may fall into the same self-created trap as North Korea and Serbia. However, if an enforcement system is not rapidly assembled, we can safely assume that Iran -- particularly with the help of China and Russia -- will embrace the black economy as well as marshal sanctions workarounds that could enhance the power of the IRGC, speed up its nuclear timeline, and heighten the chances of conflict.

The groundwork for an illicit activities initiative already exists, thanks to the excellent work of U.S. law enforcement. In the last year, the findings of Operation Titan -- a massive Drug Enforcement Administration money laundering investigation into Iran's key affiliated terrorist organization, Lebanese Hezbollah -- have emerged in the public eye. As the New York Times details in a recent article, this investigation has documented billions of dollars of cocaine laced funds that have made their way from Hezbollah accounts in Lebanon into the U.S. and European banking system over the last five years. A December 2011 asset forfeiture claim against Hezbollah financial fronts, including the Lebanese Canadian Bank, filed in the Southern District of New York (SDNY) spells out the case that for Hezbollah, Lebanon has become a veritable money laundering machine.

Ironically, the data below, from the Lebanese Central bank website, plainly illustrates the scale of Hezbollah's money laundering activity. It is hiding in plain sight. As the data shows, miraculously, Lebanese banks exploded in growth in the wake of Hezbollah's war with Israel in 2006 - with dollar-denominated deposits making up nearly 2/3 of the Lebanese banking system and over 50% of its growth. Until recently -- when DEA and Treasury began to crack down -- bank dollar and euro deposit growth has kept up a dramatic pace, despite Lebanon having large sovereign currency, economic, political, and security risk. This explosive growth makes no sense, unless Lebanon has become a major financial safe haven for drug trafficking organizations worldwide (and where the risk of moving so much foreign bulk cash and wire transfers is effectively offset by a highly complicit Lebanese government). As the risk of further U.S. actions has become clearer to bank depositors (bad guys included) and the Syria/Iran crisis expands, capital has started to flee Beirut en masse (see the balance of payments slide). Indeed, Lebanon is in the midst of a balance of payments crisis presently as a result.



Bottom line: (undoubtedly with Tehran's consent) the Hezbollah criminal terrorist organization -- as the SDNY Civil action shows convincingly -- established a world class money laundering mechanism out of Beirut at the end of 2006 to help the organization survive amidst the economic fallout of a financially ruinous war with Israel (where Iran didn't seem to want to fill the whole financial void). Through its law enforcement investigations, the U.S. is now well positioned to hold Hezbollah and Iran accountable for using Beirut as an illicit venue. Moreover, cracking down on Hezbollah's illicit finances is one of the only things that can save the Lebanese banking system and economy from unraveling further. The predominant risk to the Lebanese banking system and the Lebanese economy today is born from Hezbollah's domineering illicit activities and their infiltration into the entire Lebanese financial system and economy (real estate is infiltrated at least as much as banking). If the cost of survival for Lebanese banking is punishing Hezbollah, then the Lebanese need to turn on Hezbollah (and curtail Iran's access in the process). Strategic law enforcement against Hezbollah, could serve as a key element to an counter-Iranian illicit activities strategy in the weeks and months to come.

David Asher is a non-resident senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security and member on the Project 2049 Board of Advisors. He served as the architect of the Bush administration's global campaign against the finances of the Kim Jong Il regime and has long served as expert on counter-threat finance programs and issues for the government and the private sector.

Under the Radar News 12.19.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia.

On December 12, Japan launched a new satellite, as part of a larger plan to have an intelligence surveillance system in place by 2013 to monitor Pyongyang. Prime Minister Noda emphasized the importance of this move for Tokyo’s national security. The same rocket that carried the satellite, the H-2A, is set to launch a South Korean satellite through a commercial agreement with Seoul.

Beijing sent its largest and most technologically advanced patrol ship, the Haijian 50, into the East China Sea under the objective of securing its “territorial rights and marine interests.” The next day, the Philippines sends it newest warship, the U.S.-developed Gregario del Pilar, to patrol the South China Sea, another site of Chinese territorial disputes.

The U.S. embassy in Seoul has sent officials to visit the offices of South Korean businesses with investment interests in Iran. The move is directed at companies which have or are aiming to conduct ventures without formally consulting the national government. The U.S. is asking its allies to apply heavier sanctions against Tehran in light of its nuclear development program.

The Seychelles offers the Chinese Navy its first military base abroad in a move to improve defense against piracy. Additionally, Chinese officials are considering setting up “supplies facilities” in the archipelago. India has expressed concern over the military base. Former intelligence chief, Vikram Sood said that the base gives China a strategic advantage in protecting its interest through military interventions in Africa.

The murder of a South Korean officer at the hands of a Chinese fisherman has prompted Seoul to call for an expansion of its coast guard. The government is considering doubling its large patrol boat fleet, increasing emphasis on firearm use for self-defense, and enhancing collaborations between the navy and army.

The Burmese government announced Wednesday that it was allowing locals to mine rubies in the Moegoke for the first time since the junta came into power in 1962. Allowing private companies access to the mine is seen as way to foster economic growth by creating new jobs. Likewise, government officials believe it will help reduce poverty and aid in regional development. The move is the latest in a chain of reforms by the new government.

The upcoming presidential elections in Taiwan have become a popular topic among Chinese netizens. Internet users in China have been wondering when “Taiwan is going to take us back?” reflecting perceptions of the island as a model for Chinese democracy. Related search terms have yet to be blocked by China’s censorship.

Under the Radar News 12.09.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia.

Newly surfaced internal military documents in North Korea suggest that the military’s discipline and loyalty to Kim Jong-Il is in decline.

Kureha Corporation in Japan illegally exported carbon fibers to a Chinese defense company through Taiwan and Hong Kong. The fibers may have been used to manufacture radar and arms for the People’s Liberation Army.

South Korea sells Jakarta three submarines worth $1.2 billion. The sale posits South Korea alongside China as the top arms exporter in Asia.

Brunei will increase its exports of crude oil to China from thirteen to sixteen thousand barrels per day in an effort to strengthen bilateral energy cooperation and investment.

Australia unconditionally grants three patrol boats to Indonesia. The boats will assist Indonesian police with intercepting human trafficking, smuggling activities, and terrorism.

In a speech to the China’s Central Military Commission in Beijing, Hu Jintao urged the Navy to prepare for military combat and advance naval modernization to safeguard national security and world peace.

Malaysia and Qatar set up a joint $2 billion investment fund to increase the volume of bilateral trade and cooperation. The money will go towards investment opportunities in Malaysia, Qatar, and the region.

China’s Charity Case: Reforming the Third Sector

Recent scandals involving charity misspending and embezzlement have tarnished the image of China’s non-profit organizations (NPO). News of these controversies has spread like wildfire across Chinese microblogs and public philanthropy suffered a blow by alienating potential donors. For instance, China saw an immediate decline in blood donations following the Guo Mei Mei incident, in which the supposed general commercial manager of the Red Cross flaunted her lavish lifestyle on Weibo, a Chinese social networking site. The Red Cross in China now reportedly faces a 30-40% shortage. With Chinese people increasingly wary of corruption, monetary contributions to charities have reportedly more than halved from June to August of this year. The consequences of these trends are grave, as Chinese citizens across the board have called for government reform in the country’s nascent third sector—and Beijing is feeling some pressure to respond.

The economic reforms spearheaded by the late Chinese patriarch, Deng Xiaoping, are largely credited with unleashing market forces that spurred China’s rapid growth. The “opening up” policy contributed to a wide scale privatization campaign, leaving in its wake a debilitated social safety net. These trends, coupled with an upsurge of development-induced social problems, have opened space for Chinese NPOs to emerge at the forefront of the country’s public service sector. Under- resourced and overextended, China’s third sector has been a reoccurring topic in legislative debates in recent years—both in the frontlines of grassroots initiatives and among many levels of government officials. The situation presents an interesting contradiction, wherein the Chinese government must face the need to address social problems while at the same time realizing that such a move could detract from its authority.

The landscape of the country’s third sector has changed significantly in recent years. This change is reflected in official government statistics that show the number of registered organizations has shot up over 40% between 2005 and 2010 alone. This increase does not include unregistered organizations, which are blocked from formal proceedings by China’s dual-registration system and strict guidelines. Comparatively, the non-profit landscape was practically barren under Mao’s rule and these types of organizations did not emerge until the 1980’s. This surge coincides with the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) decision to defer social management responsibilities to NPOs as a means to promote Deng’s economic policies and encourage market forces. The initial non-profits were directly under government jurisdiction but as social problems emerged at a faster rate than the Party could manage, the central government began to defer control and reform the system.

Approaches to reform have been multifaceted. The central government, citing the importance of preserving social order, has sought to revise the current bylaws underlining non-profit management. The central government has overseen the establishment of experimental sites in Wenzhou, Shanghai, and Shenzhen to test the prospect of transferring more government functions to non-profit organizations. The National People’s Congress and the CCP Central Committee have dedicated a section of the country’s next Five Year Plan (FYP) to charity management, ostensibly to address rising public discontent towards corruption in NPOs.

In Chapter 39 of the 12th Five Year Plan, the central government called for the development of social organization through a streamlined application process, improved tax incentive laws, and policy support a la legal and regulatory protections. Before final approval in March 2011, the government disclosed the FYP guidelines to the Chinese people through a series of public hearings, seeking e-mail feedback and leaving room open for revision. Consequently, a Charity Law, drafted by the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MoCA), which has been on the table since 2005, has resurfaced for consideration. In July 2011, the government reopened the draft as the “Guideline for the Development of Charity in China” and solicited public input to give direction to charity growth and expedite processes conducive to the 12th FYP. However, the draft has since seen little movement within the legislature.

Meanwhile, frustrated by government inaction, local and provincial governments have apparently taken matters into their hands. Respective authorities in Jiangsu, Ningbo, Hunan, Beijing, and just recently Guangdong have each enacted their own set of regulations, facilitating registration processes and allowing for more accountability in non-profit management. These moves have been commended by officials higher up in the government. In late 2010, a MoCA representative voiced his hopes that these developments will help guide those on a national scale.

The general consensus on the need for reform paints an interesting picture for future developments of the third sector. The timing of the FYP and its related reforms comes at a critical crossroad in China’s development. First, the 12th FYP coincides with a transition of power to its fifth-generation leadership that will take place in 2012. Chinese leaders seek a seamless power change, but they must address the growing challenges posed by increasing social unrest. By adhering to the tenets set by the FYP and by shaping public interests through the charity law, the Party could mitigate discontent among the masses, while at the same time demonstrate responsible leadership. Moreover, promoting China’s international image should provide further incentive for the government to amend its non-profit regulations by legitimizing the new leaders through social progress. It should be noted, however, that certain types of non-profits within the sector, such as those dedicated to religion and human rights, will see little change in their directive.

These advancements in the third sector may also point to the prospect of more comprehensive reform throughout the country. Grassroots movements empower and educate citizens for involvement in the public sphere, which then calls for a more active and informed society, with its own functions and claims. Larger citizen involvement, enabled by a burgeoning nonprofit sector, could lead to a further decentralization of power. This would be in line with the CCP’s “big society, small government” policy that seeks to create a network of social protections wherein citizens serve as intermediaries between the government and social organizations to sustain and promote a “harmonious society”. In essence, nonprofit reform may equip the citizenry with the capacity to take on the Chinese government’s social functions and become that “big society.” The deciding factor, however, is largely dependent on the direction the central government takes from its current Catch-22: toward third sector reform at the cost of its relative power or the continuation of the status quo at the risk of social instability.

Image Source: AsiaNews.it

Under the Radar News 12.02.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia

Last week, Chinese marines in Liaoning province allegedly started drone patrols in the East China Sea. The unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are deployed from Dalian to observe conditions in the ocean, along the coastline, and on nearby islands to ensure the security of the Chinese coast and prevent unlawful activities in the waters. Scholars warn that the provincial government’s inexperience conducting drone patrols, poses the risk of unintentional flights into foreign territories and may lead to diplomatic disputes. Others are speculating that the purpose of the patrols is to monitor North Korean defectors and curtail Chinese trawlers fishing illegally in South Korean waters.

Chen Bingde, Chief of General Staff of the People’s Liberation Army and Min Aung, Hlaing Commander of the Burmese Armed Forces met on November 28 to discuss military ties. The two agreed to increase trust and cooperation between their respective forces, praising their previous accomplishments in high-level visitations, training, and defense initiatives. Hliang also reaffirmed Naypyidaw’s adherence to the One China Policy.

Kontras, a human rights group, denounces the Indonesian government for allegedly perpetuating the political conflict in Papua. A spokesperson for the group believes Jakarta is seeking material profit and national acclaim as a promoter of the sovereignty of the Indonesian republic against the instability that the province poses for the nation. Papua and West Papua, in Western Indonesia, have been embroiled in the Free Papua separatist movement since 1965.

South Korea signs aid partnership agreements with Brazil and Germany at the International Aid Forum on Aid Effectiveness in Busan. Each agreement will work through a triangular relationship between the signatories and an underdeveloped country to reduce poverty levels in the latter. The Korean International Cooperation Agency has cited the importance of forging innovative partnerships in international development programs.

Steel Authority of India, and six other Indian companies, have cemented a $10.3 billion dollar agreement with Afghanistan, securing rights to three iron ore mines. The contract follows a move last month by New Delhi and Kabul to bolster their strategic partnership in via trade, security, and culture. The deal may increase tensions between India and Pakistan.

Transparency International, a corruption watchdog organization, recently revealed that two-thirds of states in the Asia-Pacific were “more corrupt than clean.” The organization followed with a precautionary warning to Australian businesses to safeguard their investments abroad.

UNESCO experts from Japan, Italy, and the Netherlands, joined by embassy officials from Japan, Portugal, and the United States, are in Thailand this week to oversee restoration projects of World Heritage Sites, which were hard-hit by floods last month. The team will assess the damages and outline recommendations for the Thai government.

Under the Radar News 11.23.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia

During Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao’s recent visit to Brunei--Southeast Asia’s third largest oil exporter--the two sides signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on energy cooperation. The leaders also discussed plans for a joint oil refinery development project worth $6 billion.

The Burmese military-dominated government reportedly reached a breakthrough in ceasefire negotiationswith two major armed ethnic groups, the Karen National Union (KNU) and the Shan State Army-South. The government reportedly offered the ethnic groups industrial zones, rights to freedom of travel for unarmed leaders, and other incentives for a cease-fire. These negotiations are the government’s latest attempt to end Burma’s 50 years of international isolation.

In what human rights organizations called a setback for political reform, Malaysia’s Parliament is set to pass the Peaceful Assembly Bill next month. The new measure will outlaw street protests and require a 30 day advance notification for all demonstrations.

ASEAN member states have set July 2012 as the deadline for a draft of the the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea at the ASEAN-China commemorative summit in Bali last week.

Japan pledged to invest $26 billion for infrastructure construction in Southeast Asia. The official development assistance (ODA) paves the way for the development of a Southern Corridor connecting southern Vietnam with Burma.

Philippine President Benigno Aquino asked South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak for military assistance during the latter’s visit to Manila on November 20 - 22. President Aquino is seeking aircraft and naval ships to boost the country’s military capabilities amidst rising tensions with China in the South China Sea.

Under the Radar News 11.18.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia

Prime Minister Julia Gillard created tensions within her party, the Australian Labor Party (ALP), this week by pushing for the ALP to reverse its stance on uranium sales to India. The ALP has long adhered to a policy of only exporting uranium to countries that are part of the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT), of which India is not a signatory. Gillard argued for the economic advantages of uranium exports to India, promising that any deals would be made under International Atomic Energy guidelines of peaceful use. China is wary of the move and has called for international dialogue over the possibility of India entering the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

On November 14, India and Pakistan started talks on a trade deal, as part of an effort to improve bilateral relations. The respective commerce secretaries, who attended the meeting, are aiming to double annual trade to $6 billion by 2014. New Delhi and Islamabad have also agreed to normalize trade relations in February 2012 and work together to modernize transportation systems along the Attari-Wagah border.

The United States joined ten other countries in support of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) free trade talks, following the APEC forum in Hawaii. The U.S. move followed Japan, Mexico, and Canadas’ endorsements. China, however, remains wary of the TPP, viewing it as a further means of U.S. encroachment into its regional domain.

The ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting commenced on Tuesday in Indonesia. The meeting focused on developing a code of conduct for South China Sea claims, Myanmar’s (Burma) bid to chair ASEAN in 2014, and the P5 (U.S., China, Great Britain, France, and Russia) to respect Southeast Asia’s nuclear weapon-free zone.

On Tuesday, India successfully tested the Agni-IV missile, as part of its $50 billion plan to upgrade its military. The two-stage missile can carry a one ton warhead and fired from a road mobile launcher. India’s Defense Research and Development Organization stated that the Agni’s range of 2,170 miles can reach China’s eastern borders.

Canberra did not reportedly consult Washington before it made the decision back in 2009 to allow Beijing to use a satellite ground station in Western Australia for its space program. Critics of the program indicate that the program is dual-use and China’s military could potentially use the station to pinpoint U.S. and Australian warships in the region.

Wang Yi, who serves as the director of the Taiwan Work Office of the CCP Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said Thursday that China upholds the “1992 Consensus” as the “essential premise” in conducting negotiations with Taiwan. Wang believes his statement was made at a time critical to future developments in cross-Strait relations, commending current efforts to bolster relations and calling for further moves towards peaceful ties.

Under the Radar New 11.10.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia

China’s State Council passed a plan on Wednesday that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 17% by 2015. The Council also released a statement calling for the establishment of a CO2 calculation system and set emissions guidelines for local officials.

The South Korean legislature is reviewing a law that would allow the government to seize illegal Chinese trawlers fishing in Korea’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The current version of the law simply fines Chinese trawlers, but Korean officials are calling for an amendment because of the economic impact of allowing Chinese fisherman to keep their illegal catches

Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda is expected to announce Japan’s participation in Trans-Pacific Partnership(TPP) talks which will develop a multi-lateral free trade agreement in the Asia-Pacific. He decided to act without the formal approval of his party, the Democratic Party of Japan, which may hinder internal debate on the TPP

South Korea and Vietnam are working to improve bilateral ties, following a summit at Cheong Wa Dae, South Korea from November 8 to 10. The meeting between President Truong Tan Sang and President Lee Myung-Bak comes at a time of rising maritime disputes. Seoul and Hanoi agreed to work on a development project to build nuclear reactors in Vietnam. The joint statement also indicated moves to accelerate bilateral trade, sustainable growth, and collaboration in international and regional forums through the ASEAN-RoK partnernship to promote Vietnam’s socio-economic development

Former Indian president Abdul Kalam commended the safety features at the Kudankulum nuclear plant in coastal Tamil Nadu, emphasizing that the new facility could prevent an accident of Fukushima-proportions. Kalam’s address in New Delhi comes at a vital time, as the country has been swept by widespread public protests against nuclear energy.

The Indonesian Foreign Minister , Marty Natalegawa, suggested this week that countries should reward Burma for its reform progress by loosening trade restrictions and permitting Naypyidaw to host ASEAN. Natalegawa holds that the opportunity with ASEAN would boost Myanmar’s image internationally and give officials further incentive to reform.

The Philippines is seeking a multilateral solution for disputes in the South China Sea. The Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary said that the proposal is an extension of the Zone of Peace, Freedom, Friendship and Cooperation and that any resolution of the conflict must be conducted within ASEAN because of exiting commitments of the Philippines as an ASEAN member state. The proposal will be brought up at next week’s ASEAN summit and is said to include plans that are in line with China’s intention to solve the issue bilaterally.

Under the Radar News 11.04.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia

The Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) restart peace talks amidst recent violence in Al Barka that claimed 19 lives. In the final peace deal, the government is likely to offer MILF enhanced autonomy in the southern Philippine region of Mindanao.

During the Kazakhstani president’s visit to Vietnam from October 31 - November 2, the two leaders decided to boost cooperation in oil and gas exploration and agree to consider the feasibility of a joint free trade agreement.

In response to PLA buildup, the Indian army proposes an addition of 100,000 troops to enhance border security. The expansion plan also includes setting up new airstrips and helipads along the India-China border.

China and Nepal strengthen military relations while Nepal pledges to adhere to a one-China policy and to never allow anti-China activities on Nepalese territory.

Japan and Vietnam strengthen energy and resource cooperation through sharing of nuclear technology and agreeing to jointly develop rare earth elements (REEs).

South Korea plans a unification fund to start raising billions of dollars for reunification with North Korea. The estimated amount needed to ease a peaceful transition within the next twenty years is $50 billion.

Indonesia announces plans to launch cultural centers abroad as part of its international cultural diplomacy initiative.

Japan claims 49 islets as exclusive economic zones (EEZs) amidst bids by other Asian countries to expand influence over maritime affairs.

The U.S. and South Korea announce plans to conduct a joint simulation exercise against a possible nuclear attack from North Korea.

Under the Radar News 10.28.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia

Japan’s government agencies continue to be plagued by cyber attacks. On Thursday, viruses were discovered on over two-thousand computers in both houses of the national Diet. Japanese missions abroad have also been targeted; computers at nine diplomatic offices were reportedly infected. Meanwhile, further investigation into the Mitsubishi Heavy Industry hacking earlier this month revealed that confidential information on fighter jet and nuclear power plant designs may have been compromised.

U.S. and Philippine marines conducted an amphibious assault drill this past Sunday on Scarborough Shoal, an island disputed between China and the Philippines. Originally, a Filipino-controlled Spratley island was suggested as the practice site, but was rejected so as to not antagonize other claimants. Officials would not comment on whether the exercises were related to growing tensions in the South China Sea.

South Korean President Lee Myung-bak will meet Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on November 2nd to increase efforts toward strategic cooperation and economic modernization in Russia. The two will also discuss the 2007 proposal to construct a natural gas pipeline from Russia to South Korea through North Korea.

China raises its minimum wage by 21.7 percent to increase countrywide consumption and spending power, in a move to counteract rising costs. If the current trend were to continue, Indonesia and Bangladesh could edge out China in low cost manufacturing.

China and Pakistan plan to conduct a joint military exercise next month. The two-week long drill focuses on strategies in Pakistani areas of “Low Intensity Conflict Operations.” This will be the fourth collaborative effort between the two forces, with one previously held in Pakistan and two in China.

India’s plans to expand its nuclear sector face challenges from both local governments and the general populace. State-level officials have blocked government initiatives to construct facilities and citizens across the country are protesting the use of nuclear energy in light of the Fukushima disaster. The national government has also been charged with a Public Interest Litigation, to be deliberated at the Supreme Court.

On Monday, the Philippines bombed rebel bases on Mindanao island in an airstrike against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The attacks were in response to ongoing violence in the south. The MILF seeks to establish an independent Muslim state in the region and has been in peace negotiations with the national government since 2003, though their campaign for sovereignty has endured for over 30 years.

Under the Radar News 10.21.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia

The Japanese delegation to the upcoming U.N. Climate Talks will propose a new international framework to guide greenhouse gas reductions after the Kyoto Protocol expires at the end of 2012. The new plan will include a transition period from 2013 to 2015 (the suggested year of adoption) that allows signatory countries to gradually work toward the voluntary targets set under the Cancun Agreement.

Nigeria has invested over two billion dollars in the development of three oil refineries in Indonesia. Indonesian state-owned oil company, PT Pertamina, will import crude oil from Nigeria and process it at these refineries, which are each expected to generate 300 barrels per day.

President Ma Ying-jeou raised the idea of reaching a peace agreement with China within the next ten years. Ma emphasized that such an accord would only be considered if backed by the popular support of the Taiwanese people and with the consensus of Taiwan’s legislature. Another precondition, according to Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council, is the removal of the 1,600 missiles aimed at Taiwan.

China rebuffed Norway’s attempts to normalize political ties between the two countries. High-level contacts were severed by Beijing last year following the announcement that political activist Liu Xiaobo was selected as a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. Chinese officials hold that Norway should demonstrate more “tangible efforts” at reconciling differences before any further reconsideration of normalizing relations.

Early next year, Japan and the United States will jointly undertake an energy experiment near the shores of Alaska. Oil and gas companies from both sides will cooperate in technology-sharing, as they work to extract methane hydrate, an alternative energy source, from deep under the seabed. Japan will conduct an independent venture later this year near Tokai. Previous research has indicated that the Earth’s methane hydrate supply may store between 350 to 3500 years of energy.

Experts believe that North Korea has substantially more uranium reserves than originally assessed. This information follows a report from a U.S. scientist, who was invited to visit North Korea’s uranium enrichment facility last year. The complex was completed in a year and half from essentially the ground-up, indicating to observers that the North Koreans may have long been investing in a uranium-based nuclear program and that there may be other unknown facilities.

India has extended a $500 million loan for infrastructure development projects in Burma, following the suspension of the Myitsone dam project. The move is seen as a sign that India is reinvigorating its “Look East” strategy and working to counteract China’s dominant presence in resource-rich Southeast Asia. India has also accepted visits from high-level officials from Vietnam to discuss improved bilateral relations and strategic ties.

Under the Radar News 10.14.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda announced that his administration will ease the long-standing arms export ban. The lifting of these restrictions will allow Japan to export weapons and technologies to countries that have agreed to international arms exports regulations, and thereby boost Japan’s defense industry.

A cargo ship off of New Zealand’s coast reportedly spilled 200-350 tons of oil in what is considered the country’s worst environmental disaster ‘in decades’.

Burma announced plans to release over 6,300 prisoners including journalists, pro-democracy activists, and political dissidents. Human Rights groups question whether the amnesty plan reflects genuine reform or government efforts to stave off international economic sanctions.

Beijing is building its first megawatt solar plant. When completed at the end of this year, the plant will generate 3,600 kilowatt-hours of electricity daily—the capacity needed to power 1,150 homes.

Japan’s Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba establishes new maritime security partnerships with Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia in an effort to deepen regional cooperation amidst growing tensions and territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin are reportedly close to finalizing a gas deal that will bring China 70 billion cubic meter of gas to China annually for the next 30 years.

Vietnam and India’s leaders join hands to strengthen ties and defend the right of an Indian state-owned oil and gas company to begin exploration in waters claimed by both Beijing and Hanoi.

Indonesian citizens urge their government to back the United Nations Human Rights Council’s new mandate on accountability for serious crimes and human rights violations.

Australia’s House of Representatives and Senate pass the Carbon Tax proposal into law. The law is unpopular with the Australian public because it imposes extra costs on households and businesses for clean energy.

China unveils plan to invest $600 billion in comprehensive water-security projects to overcome water shortages that threaten the country’s economic growth.

Vietnam and China ink deals to address their maritime border dispute. The new plan establishes a defense hotline and the mechanism for a high-level biannual meeting to discuss long-term solutions to conflicting territory claims in the South China Sea, the islands, and resource reserves.

Taipei and Beijing are negotiating plans to swap imprisoned spies. Earlier this year spy agents for Taiwan and Beijing were caught and handed life sentences.

Under the Radar News 10.07.11

A weekly compilation of underreported events in Asia.

China influence continues to expand in Latin America. Governments across the region vowed to strengthen economic and bilateral ties with Beijing in commemoration of the PRC’s National Day celebrations.

The immediate effects of the Myitsome Dam suspension by the Burmese government are starting to come to light. China, a major investor of the project, sought consultation talks with Naypyidaw following the announcement, citing the need to protect the interests of its companies. The termination of the project also encouraged the Karenni minority to protest dam construction in the northern part of Burma.

The South Korean government indicated this week that it will not permit the United States navy to use the proposed Jeju naval base as a permanent station. The complex will also not support a U.S. missile defense system, as had been rumored. Officials further asserted that the purpose of the base is to deter North Korean attacks rather than to counteract China’s growing maritime presence.

Doctors Without Borders ceased its operations in Thailand. The decision was spurred by the organization’s inability to overcome administrative barriers posed by the Thai government, which blocked access to vulnerable groups. Their departure leaves over 55,000 undocumented migrant workers from Burma, Laos and Cambodia without healthcare.

Japan plans to introduce a proposal to enhance regional maritime security at the ASEAN East Asia Summit next month. The initiative will bring top government officials together at working-level meetings, helping to establish a framework that will guide future dialogue on dispute resolution in the South China Sea and beyond.

Military exchanges between China and Japan will resume on October 19th, after a yearlong suspension following a dispute near the Senkaku Islands. An agreement between the chairman of the Sasakawa Japan-China Friendship Fund and General Ma Xiaotian has set to maintain the exchanges for another five years.

Taiwanese aborigines plan on protesting the centennial celebrations of the Republic of China to reflect their discontent. Their grievances include having their lands taken away and having their land serve as a nuclear waste disposal sites.