Data Dive – Decypher
Asia Headlines: Quick Recap
Russia hits commercial SAR constellations with jamming storm
Moscow is waging jamming attacks on synthetic aperture radar satellite constellations with the hopes it disrupts a crucial source of intelligence for the Ukrainian services.
Hong Kongers shun ‘patriots only’ polls as turnout plummets to 27.5%
Hong Kong residents shunned the city’s district council election on Sunday, with voter turnout sharply dropping despite relentless efforts by the government to boost the numbers. With all candidates screened, leaving a lineup of only Beijing loyalists, the turnout ended up at 27.54%, the city’s Electoral Affairs Commission said on Monday.
China launches new programme to expand influence in Indian Ocean countries
China is attempting to buy influence in a number of Indian Ocean countries by funding development programmes. The plan is to use these countries as future bases for spying on India and possibly conducting covert operations in the future.
Japan consumer lenders brace for bad debt on ‘revenge spending’
The Japanese consumer finance industry is experiencing an influx of new customers, raising the risk of bad loans. Simultaneously, lenders are grappling with increased funding costs due to interest rate hikes. Notably, Acom, Aiful, and SMBC Consumer Finance witnessed a 30% year-on-year growth in total provisions for loan losses.
South Korea to hold FTA talks with GCC nations this week
South Korea plans to engage in talks with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states in Saudi Arabia this week, aiming to resolve differences and advance toward a free trade agreement.
Central banks of Korea, Indonesia agree to implement won-rupiah transactions in 2024
The Bank of Korea (BOK) and Bank Indonesia have agreed to facilitate bilateral transactions in their local currencies, promoting Korean won-Indonesian rupiah transactions. The deal aims to enhance trade settlement, reducing exchange rate risks and costs.
Malaysian Government to Own and Control All Personal Data Used in Digital Systems
Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister announces that the government will exclusively control and own all personal data used in digital systems, prioritizing data confidentiality and addressing rising privacy concerns. This commitment is crucial amid the impending launch of the National Digital Identity (MyDigital ID) system.
South Korea plunging deeper into sub export markets
South Korea is expanding its naval capabilities by developing a new type of mid-size submarine with potential asymmetric advantages in underwater warfare, particularly for smaller navies in the Pacific.
Indonesia, ADB, owners agree to shutter first coal-fired power station early
Indonesia, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has agreed to an early closure of the Cirebon-1 coal-fired power plant, almost seven years ahead of schedule. This groundbreaking move marks the first under ADB’s Energy Transition Mechanism program, aiming to cut carbon emissions.
Asian Refiners to Sell 2024 Diesel Term Supply at Lower Premiums Amid Market Changes
Key Asian refiners plan to sell 2024 diesel at lower premiums, adapting to changes in demand, supply dynamics, and environmental regulations. This strategic shift may influence global diesel prices and trade flows, given Asia’s significant role in the fuel market.
‘Sensitive weapons and equipment’ stolen from US in Iraq, Syria
According to US military investigations, sensitive weapons and equipment, such as guided missile launch systems and drones, have been stolen from US outposts in Iraq and Syria. The Intercept alleges the Pentagon may be unaware of the scope of the thefts.
Af-Pak De/Cypher
11 Dec, 2023
Monday
Six held, KKH traffic slows to a crawl after Chilas bus attack
Six people have been arrested in connection with the attack on a bus in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district that killed nine people and injured 21 others. Read more: Dawn
Imran, Qureshi to be indicted in cipher case on 12th
In the cypher case, a special court under the Official Secrets Act has ordered the indictment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and ex-Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Read more: The Express Tribune
Successful IMF review, stable monetary policy driving PSX: Ministry of Finance
The bullish trend in the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) is attributed by the Ministry of Finance to a successful International Monetary Fund (IMF) review and a stable monetary policy. Read more: Business Recorder
ECP seeks military’s help to ensure ‘law and order’ during Feb 8 polls
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has requested the Pakistan Army’s assistance in maintaining law and order during the general elections on February 8. Read more: The News International
Non-bailable arrest warrants issued for Malik Riaz, Shahzad Akbar
In connection with the Al-Qadir Trust case, an accountability court in Islamabad issued non-bailable arrest warrants for property tycoon Malik Riaz, former special assistants to the prime minister Mirza Shahzad Akbar and Zulfi Bukhari, and three others. Read more: Pakistan Today
Tuesday
Blast in Peshawar’s Warsak Road leaves three children injured
Three children were injured in a blast near a school on Warsak Road in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Gwadar achieves milestone with desalination plant and Pak-China hospital projects
Gwadar marks a watershed moment with the opening of a $12.7 million desalination plant and a $100 million Pak-China Friendship Hospital, both funded by China. Read more: Pakistan Today
Arrest warrants issued for Murad Saeed, 7 other PTI leaders
An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore issued non-bailable arrest warrants for eight Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders, including former federal ministers Murad Saeed and Azam Swati. Read more: ARY News
Power consumers robbed of Rs675b
According to the country’s top energy sector manager, Pakistan’s power consumers are cheated out of Rs675 billion per year because the government only pays Rs327 billion out of Rs900 billion in electricity subsidies, with the rest recovered from consumers. Read more: The Express Tribune
Wednesday
Terrorist killed in DI Khan operation: ISPR
In an intelligence-based operation in Kulachi, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, security forces killed terrorist Habibur Rehman, who was actively involved in various terrorist activities. Read more: The Express Tribune
IHC rejects Imran Khan’s plea seeking withdrawal of appeal against ECP’s Toshakhana verdict
The Islamabad High Court denied Imran Khan’s request to withdraw his appeal against the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) Toshakhana case verdict, emphasising that cases should be heard in the order in which they were initially filed. Read more: The News International
ADB approves $659 million in financing for sustainable development in Pakistan
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved $658.8 million in financing for three sustainable development projects in Pakistan to improve domestic resource mobilisation, rebuild schools damaged by floods in 2022, and boost agricultural productivity for food security. Read more: Daily Pakistan
SC rules husband obligated to pay dower whenever wife demands
The Supreme Court of Pakistan ruled that husbands must pay dower whenever their wives demand it, emphasising Shariah’s recognition of a woman’s right to dower at the time of marriage. Read more: Such TV
PM gives directive for emergency polio eradication plan for high-risk zones
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has directed the development of an emergency polio eradication plan, with a focus on high-risk union councils. Read more: Pakistan Today
Thursday
Hamas leader Haniyeh eyes Pakistan’s support against Israeli assault in Gaza war
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has asked Pakistan for help against Israeli attacks in Gaza. During a virtual address, Haniyeh referred to Pakistan as a “land of Mujahideen”. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Two Balochistan electables to join PPP
Leading Balochistan politicians, including Abdul Quddus Bizenjo and Umar Khan Jamali, are set to join the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) ahead of the upcoming general election. Read more: Pakistan Today
Border authorities resolve Torkham signboard dispute
A dispute over a steel signboard reading “Welcome to Pakistan” at the Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been “amicably resolved” after Afghan authorities had initially objected. Read more: Dawn
Illegal foreigners seriously affecting Pakistan’s security, economy: COAS
During a visit to Peshawar, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir highlighted the impact of illegal foreigners on security and the economy, noting the government’s decision to repatriate them in the national interest. Read more: The Express Tribune
Friday
One killed, three injured in bomb blast in Balochistan’s Sohbatpur
A bomb blast in Balochistan’s Sohbatpur district killed one person and injured three others, including two police officers, near a construction company’s labourer camp. Read more: Dawn
Pakistan welcomes UN chief’s move on Gaza
Pakistan endorses UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ use of Article 99 to alert the UN Security Council to the dire situation in Gaza, emphasising the region’s impending collapse due to Israeli bombardment. Read more: The Express Tribune
Chinese firm initiates full-scale construction of 765KV Mansehra Substation
POWERCHINA has begun full-scale construction of Pakistan’s first 765kV substation EPC project, the Mansehra 765/220KV substation, which will facilitate power transmission between Dasu Hydropower Station and the Islamabad Power Grid. Read more: Pakistan Today
ECP likely to announce election schedule on December 14
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is expected to announce the schedule for the upcoming general election on December 14, amid increased political activity. Read more: The Current
Saturday
Remittances fall by 10pc in July-November
Remittances from Pakistani workers fell by 10.3% in July-November FY24, totaling $11.045 billion compared to $12.317 billion the previous year. Read more: Dawn
NAB summons Bushra Bibi on December 11 in Toshakhana case
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has summoned Bushra Bibi, wife of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, on December 11 in the Toshakhana case. The anti-graft body alleges that during Imran Khan’s tenure, she received and retained gifts from foreign dignitaries worth millions of rupees. Read more: Business Recorder
Five terrorists gunned down in KP’s Tank district: ISPR
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Tank district killed five terrorists in an intelligence-led operation. Read more: The News International
‘Vision Pakistan $100b’: Commerce minister leaves for China along with high-profile trade delegation
Dr. Gohar Ejaz, caretaker Federal Minister for Commerce and Industry, is leading a high-profile trade delegation to China. The delegation, which is part of the ‘Vision Pakistan USD 100 billion,’ will look into trade and investment opportunities in various industries. Read more: Pakistan Today
Imran challenges ECP’s jail trial move
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has filed an appeal against the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision to hold his contempt trial inside Adiala Jail. Read more: The Express Tribune
Sunday
IED blast martyrs policeman, injures two others in Balochistan’s Khuzdar
A magnetic improvised explosive device (IED) explosion in Balochistan’s Khuzdar district killed Counter Terrorism Department Station House Officer Mohammad Murad and injured two others. Read more: The News International
Pakistan’s army chief leaves for first official visit to US
General Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Army Chief, is on his first official visit to the United States, where he will meet with senior American military and government officials. Read more: Arab News
Pakistan’s energy sector inefficiencies drive inflation surge
Rising inefficiencies in Pakistan’s energy sector have been identified as a major contributor to a significant increase in inflation, which reached 28.2% in the July-April period of FY 2023-24, compared to 11% in the same period last year. Read more: Pakistan Today
4th BRI Chinese Training Course for Pakistani Police Inaugurated
The fourth “Belt and Road” Chinese Training Course for Pakistani police officers has begun, with the aim of improving language and cross-cultural communication skills. Read more: Pakistan Today
Decypher Opinion
Why the Taliban Should Be Brought in from the Cold for Climate Talks
Read full article here: International Crisis Group
The upcoming COP28 summit in the United Arab Emirates has sparked a complex debate over whether to include the Taliban-led Afghan government in climate change discussions. Despite the Taliban’s pariah status and lack of international recognition, Afghanistan is one of the countries hardest hit by climate change.
The Taliban, aware of their environmental challenges, made a case for inclusion, emphasising that Afghanistan has historically contributed little to greenhouse gas emissions but is suffering extreme climate effects. The country’s vulnerability to climate change is exacerbated by uncertainty about water sources, underground aquifer depletion, and the impact on transboundary rivers, leading to tensions with neighbouring countries.
The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is dire, with 70% of the population living in rural areas reliant on agriculture and 40% experiencing high or acute food insecurity. Some signs of a shift in international engagement have emerged, with Western donors expressing a need for creative, sustainable solutions to Afghanistan’s environmental challenges. A UN study on climate change, peace, and security in Afghanistan, expected in December, may offer additional options for addressing climate risks and facilitating climate financing.
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Fact of the Week!!!
Bangladesh De/Cypher
11 Dec, 2023
Monday
PM for saving rivers to protect country
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stated that saving rivers is critical for Bangladesh’s well-being. She proposed establishing small treatment plants in Dhaka. Read more: Ittefaq
Bangladesh to apprise US, EU of labour rights progress
The Bangladesh commerce ministry intends to inform the United States and the European Union about the country’s progress in labour rights, citing improved conditions as a result of legal amendments and the enactment of new labour laws. Read more: The Business Standard
45 BNP leaders to stand trial, Rizvi faces arrest warrant on sabotage charges
A Dhaka court has charged 45 BNP leaders, including Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, with sabotage in connection with a 2015 incident in which a petrol bomb was thrown at a bus during violent protests. Read more: Daily Manab Zamin
Saudi company to operate Patenga Container Terminal
The Saudi company Red Sea Gateway Terminal International (RSGT) is set to sign a concession agreement with the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) on Wednesday to manage and operate Bangladesh’s Patenga Container Terminal. Read more: Dhaka Tribune
US portfolio investment dips steadily in Bangladesh
Over the last three fiscal years, US portfolio investment in Bangladesh’s stock market has steadily declined, with American investors withdrawing funds. The investment stood at $629.71 million at the end of FY23, a 21.20% decrease from FY22. Read more: The Business Post
A dozen lenders join IMF to help Bangladesh
A group of a dozen multilateral and bilateral lenders, including the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank, have joined the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to help Bangladesh adapt to climate change as part of the $1.4 billion Resilience and Sustainability Facility agreement. Read more: New Age
Tuesday
Alliance partners await seat sharing with Awami League
The ruling Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, is negotiating seat allocation with its 14-party alliance partners ahead of the 12th National Parliament Elections in Bangladesh. Read more: Prothom Alo
Awami League denied permission for December 10 rally
The Election Commission has denied the ruling Awami League permission to hold a Human Rights Day rally on December 10, citing concerns about power displays. Read more: Dhaka Tribune
Pvt sector repays $26.4b short-term foreign loan in Jan-Oct
Between January and October, the private sector in Bangladesh repaid $26.4 billion in short-term foreign loans, exceeding the $21.61 billion received. Read more: The Business Post
Election Commission Scraps nomination of 731 aspirants
The Bangladesh Election Commission has cancelled the nominations of 731 aspirants out of a total of 2,716 for a variety of reasons, including defaulted loans, taxes, and failure to submit voter signatures. Read more: The Daily Inqilab
Wednesday
Sheikh Hasina ranked 46th in Forbes’ most powerful women list
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is ranked 46th in Forbes’ 2023 list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, down from 42nd the previous year. Read more: Naya Diganta
Four Rohingyas killed in Cox’s Bazar camp
Four Rohingyas were killed in Cox’s Bazar in six hours in alleged Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army attacks on former members or sympathisers of the Rohingya Solidarity Organisation. Read more: New Age
Govt to establish of two solar power plants in Tangail, Cox’s Bazar
The Bangladesh government approved the procurement of 33.60 lakh MMBtu LNG and 2.40 lakh tonnes of fertiliser at the 41st meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase. Read more: The Business Standard
PCT agreement to boost Saudi investment in Bangladesh: PM
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced that the concession agreement between Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) and Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT) for the Patenga Container Terminal (PCT) will increase Saudi investment in Bangladesh. Read more: The Business Post
Thursday
AL’s apparent rivals seek compromise over seat sharing, use of ‘Boat’ symbol
The Awami League has successfully united with moderate, small, and Islamic parties, including the Jatiya Party, for the 12th parliamentary elections. Read more: Prothom Alo
UN rights chief: No prospect of safe, sustainable return of Rohingyas
Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has declared the Rohingya crisis to be protracted, with no safe return prospects. Read more: Dhaka Tribune
FAO, ERD ink deal to improve food, nutrition security in Bangladesh
Four agreements are signed by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and Bangladesh’s Economic Relations Division (ERD) to improve food and nutrition security. Read more: Bangladesh Post
Some western countries interfering in Bangladesh’s internal affairs: Russian envoy
Russian Ambassador Aleksandr Mantytsky accuses some Western countries of interfering in Bangladesh’s internal affairs. Mantysky emphasised Russia’s disregard for Western sanctions, stating that they only recognise sanctions imposed by the UN Security Council. Read more: Bangla News 24
Musk’s Starlink to make entry to Bangladesh
The government has decided to grant a licence to Starlink, which is operated by SpaceX, the brainchild of billionaire Elon Musk, in a move that could increase competition in the Bangladesh internet market. Read more: The Daily Star
Friday
ADB lends $400m to aid climate priorities in Bangladesh
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $400 million policy-based loan to help Bangladesh meet its commitments under the Paris Agreement. Read more: The Business Post
Thousands of children including from Bangladesh likely illegally adopted abroad: Switzerland
Switzerland admits to possible illegal adoptions of thousands of children between 1970 and 1990, commissioning a study that includes Bangladesh. Zurich University of Applied Sciences’ report reveals irregularities, child trafficking, and falsified documents. Read more: Prothom Alo
Foreign Minister’s letter to UN alleging ‘unreasonable pressure’
Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, AK Abdul Momen, wrote to the UN Secretary-General, alleging unjust and self-interested political pressure ahead of the National Assembly elections. Read more: Daily Ittefaq
267 arson attacks reported during blockades, hartals since Oct 28: Fire Service
According to the Fire Service, 267 arson attacks have occurred during blockades and hartals organised by the BNP, Jamaat, and other opposition groups since late October. Read more: The Daily Observer
Saturday
Dengue: 2 die, 362 hospitalised in a day
Two more deaths and 362 hospitalisations have been reported in the country’s severe dengue outbreak. Read more: The Daily Star
AB Party meets EU election expert mission
The Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party) participated in the ‘European Union election expert mission to Bangladesh 2023,’ where they discussed the party’s goals and challenges. Read more: Daily Ittefaq
RMG brands urged not to complicate trade
Faruque Hasan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), refuted baseless rumours of sanctions against Bangladesh based on a Letter of Credit (LC) clause. Read more: The Business Post
Power overcapacity tops 100pc in Nov
Bangladesh has a power overcapacity of more than 100%, with idle plants outnumbering operational ones in November. Winter’s lower electricity demand, combined with political uncertainty, contribute to plant idleness. Read more: New Age
Sunday
India, OIC, Arab Parliament, Palestine confirm observation missions for general polls on Jan 7
India, the OIC, the Arab Parliament, and Palestine have confirmed observation missions for Bangladesh’s general elections on January 7. Read more: The Daily Observer
EU delegation holds meeting with JSD
The EU Election Expert Mission met with Hasanul Haq Inu, president of the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal, to discuss the upcoming 12th parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. Read more: New Age
Abir Hassan, first Bangladeshi to graduate from Indian Military Academy
Mohammed Abir Hassan, 23, became the Indian Military Academy’s first Bangladeshi graduate. Read more: The Business Standard
AL joint meeting on Monday
A joint meeting of the Bangladesh Awami League (AL) Dhaka city south and north units, as well as leaders of associate bodies, is planned for Monday at the party’s central office. Read more: Jago News 24
Decypher Opinion
How Can Bangladesh Boost Its Innovation Capabilities? Analysis from the Global Innovation Index 2023
The Global Innovation Index 2023 presents an intricate trend for Bangladesh’s innovation performance. In 2022, the country observed an upward trajectory in the ranking, displaying commendable advancements in innovation. However, there was a shift in the 2023 as Bangladesh slipped three positions indicating areas that require urgent attention.
Read the Full Article here
Fact of the Week!!!
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