Data Dive 📊- Decypher
Taiwan Legislative Election 2024
Taiwan’s recent election results have implications beyond its borders, especially in the context of the strained relations between Taiwan and China. Despite the economic and military tensions, the ruling party’s victory, which has friendly ties with the US, shows China’s limited influence over Taiwan’s political landscape. This reveals the challenges that Beijing faces in leveraging opposition disarray. China’s restrained response aligns with its goal of improving US relations while navigating a delicate balance. Additionally, Taiwan’s ambitious plan to develop a quantum computer by 2027 showcases the island’s determination to advance in critical technologies. Amidst global competition, Taiwan’s quantum initiative signals a strategic move to secure a foothold in the evolving landscape of computational power. The intersection of political dynamics and technological ambitions in Taiwan creates a complex geopolitical landscape, where elections and advancements in quantum computing intersect to shape the region’s future.
Asia Headlines: Quick Recap
Constitutional crisis in Ankara
Turkey’s main opposition, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), cancelled a rally, originally scheduled to take place on Sunday in Ankara, intended to show support for the country’s constitutional court. The court is fending off challenges from both another branch of the judiciary and the government. The CHP said its decision was made out of respect for the nine Turkish soldiers killed in a cross-border operation against Kurdish insurgents. (The Economist)
Taiwan election: global leaders draw Beijing’s ire for congratulating new president
Global leaders congratulated President-Elect, Lai Ching-te for winning Taiwan’s presidential election, but China was furious and urged them to stop interfering in its internal affairs. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve that aim. (Guardian)
North Korea’s Foreign Minister in Russia as Arms Ties Build
Amid its Ukraine isolation, Russia welcomed North Korea’s foreign minister for talks on deepening economic, political, and military ties. This sparks Western concerns about their intentions and North Korea’s potential role in the Ukraine war, despite both countries denying arms deals. (Bloomberg)
China’s military and government acquire Nvidia chips despite U.S. ban
Despite restrictions, Chinese military bodies and universities have acquired banned Nvidia chips through unknown suppliers. While the quantities are small, they raise concerns about Chinese military AI advancements and highlight the limitations of US export controls. (Reuters)
China Convinces Nauru to Cut Ties with Taiwan After Key Election
Nauru announced the decision to switch diplomatic ties from Taipei to Beijing, severing relations with Taiwan after Lai Ching-te’s presidential victory, perceived by Beijing as separatist. This move leaves Taiwan with official diplomatic ties with only 12 countries. (Bloomberg)
Turkey Skips Davos Over World Economic Forum’s Hamas War Stance
Turkey will boycott the World Economic Forum in Davos due to President Erdogan’s disapproval of the organizers’ stance on Israel’s Gaza war. The decision came as Treasury Minister Simsek, initially planned to attend, received a reversal order from Erdogan. (Bloomberg)
Maldives: the legacy of Islamic State
By John Kachtik, Published in The Interpreter
From 2014 to 2018, more people departed the Maldives to join with Islamic State than from any other country. In total, this figure is estimated at 250 men and women from a country of only 500,000. Most who went died. The surviving women and children, around 50, are today detained in the Al Hol and Roj camps in northeast Syria.
While Western countries, including Australia, debate what to do about their citizens in these camps, the Maldives is committed to bringing their people home. But underlying this commitment, questions remain. How will reintegration impact society and what can be done to counter future radicalisation? Read more: The Interpreter
Af-Pak De/Cypher
15 Jan, 2024
Monday
5 cops martyred in blast near police van in KP’s Bajaur
Five police officials were killed in a roadside bomb blast during an anti-polio campaign in Bajaur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan claimed responsibility, prompting strong condemnations, with caretaker PM Anwaarul Haq Kakar vowing to continue the anti-polio efforts. Read more: Dawn
Pakistan rejects designation as ‘country of particular concern’ by US
Pakistan firmly rejects the US designation as a “country of particular concern,” citing bias and a lack of connection with actual conditions. Read more: Daily Pakistan
JUI-F chief Fazl in Kabul to discuss regional issues
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman met Afghan Deputy Prime Minister in Kabul to discuss regional issues amid tensions. Read more: The Nation
Pakistan’s cotton export to China crosses $617 million in 2023
Pakistan’s cotton yarn exports to China exceeded $617 million in the first eleven months of 2023, showcasing growth in the sector. Read more: Pakistan Today
Tuesday
Imran, Bushra Bibi indicted in Toshakhana reference
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were indicted in the Toshakhana reference for retaining undervalued gifts. In a separate case, the court reserved the verdict in the £190 million reference, alleging funds and land acquisition from Bahria Town Ltd. Read more: Dawn
Pakistan, KSA and Turkey engage in talks on prospective defense technology collaboration.
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye discussed a potential defense collaboration in a trilateral meeting, aiming for self-sufficiency in defense. Read more: Pakistan Today
Maritime Security Exercise SEA GUARD-24 starts in Karachi
Maritime Security Exercise SEA GUARD-24 began in Karachi, fostering collaboration among maritime stakeholders to address security challenges. Read more: The Nation
Pakistan Startup Fund launched with plans to invest Rs2 billion per year in startups
The Pakistan Startup Fund (PSF) has been introduced, committing to invest Rs2 billion annually in startups, offering equity-free capital to facilitate external funding, and boost the local startup ecosystem, with no government acquisition of shares or board positions assured by Minister Dr. Umar Saif. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Wednesday
EU envoy urges businesses to capitalise on new GSP+
EU Ambassador Raina Kionka encouraged Pakistani businesses to leverage the extended GSP Plus until 2027, stressing the importance of diversifying exports. Read more: The Express Tribune
British high commissioner calls on political leaders
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott engaged with Pakistani political leaders including PTI, PPP, GDA, MQM-P, and PML-N, discussing mutual interests, elections, and economic ties in various cities across the country. Read more: The Nation
Pakistan and Qatar strengthen ties through joint aerial exercise “Zilzal-II”
Pakistan and Qatar strengthened ties with joint aerial exercise “Zilzal-II,” featuring the Pakistan Air Force’s advanced J-10C against Qatar Emiri Air Force’s Eurofighter planes. Read more: Minute Mirror
2 soldiers martyred in gunfight with terrorists in KP’s Lakki Marwat: ISPR
Two Pakistani soldiers, Sepoy Muhammad Afzal and Sepoy Ibrar Hussain, were killed in a clash with terrorists in Lakki Marwat. Simultaneously, three policemen were killed in an attack on a police checkpoint in Kohat, emphasizing the persisting security challenges in the region. Read more: Dawn
Thursday
IMF board approves $700 million disbursement for Pakistan— finance ministry
The IMF approved the first review of Pakistan’s $3 billion financing package, unlocking an additional $700 million. As Pakistan heads into national elections, economic planning becomes crucial for securing future IMF support. Read more: Arab News
Court approves Imran’s 14-day judicial remand in 12 cases linked to May 9 riots
Imran Khan’s 14-day judicial remand has been approved by an anti-terrorism court in 12 cases related to the May 9 riots. The court rejected a 30-day physical remand request by the police in the hearing at Adiala jail. Read more: The Express Tribune
First cybercrime investigation unit established in capital to combat digital offences
Islamabad Police inaugurated the first Cyber Crime Investigation Unit, collaborating with the Federal Investigation Agency, aiming to enhance capabilities in handling and combating digital offenses. Read more: Pakistan Today
Strong earthquake jolts Lahore, Islamabad and parts of Pakistan
A powerful earthquake, with its epicenter in the Hindu Kush region, jolted Lahore, Islamabad, and other parts of Pakistan. Tremors prompted people to evacuate buildings in several cities, with the earthquake originating at a depth of 213km. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Friday
Pakistan supports South Africa’s application against Israeli atrocities in ICJ
Pakistan supported South Africa’s application at the International Court of Justice against Israeli atrocities in Gaza, emphasizing the need for accountability and a just solution to the Palestinian question. Read more: Radio Pakistan
PM for boosting trade, investment ties with Italy in diverse sectors
Caretaker PM Anawaar-ul-Haq Kakar urged increased trade and cooperation with Italy, spanning various sectors. Outgoing Italian Ambassador Andreas Ferrarese praises the Pakistani diaspora’s contributions to Italy’s economic development. Read more: Daily Business News
KP CTD arrests 2 ‘Daesh suicide bombers’ planning to target Fazlur Rehman, Aimal Wali
KP CTD claims to have arrested two ISIS-trained suicide bombers planning an attack on JUI-F Chief Fazlur Rehman and ANP’s Aimal Wali Khan in Peshawar. Read more: Dawn
Two terrorists killed in Waziristan Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO)
Security forces in North Waziristan conducted an operation, killing two terrorists, Abdullah Khadri and Khalid aka Janan, involved in multiple terrorist activities, including target killings. Read more: The Express Tribune
Weekend News
Pakistan’s election regulator asks political parties to ensure 5 percent representation of women candidates
Pakistan’s election regulator, the ECP, reminded political parties to ensure a minimum of 5% representation of women candidates on general seats, in accordance with the Elections Act. Read more: Arab News
Four militants including ‘high value terrorist’ killed in separate KP operations: ISPR
Security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa killed four militants, including a “high-value terrorist” in separate operations in North Waziristan and Dera Ismail Khan. Read more: Dawn
5 soldiers martyred in IED blast in Balochistan’s Kech
Five soldiers were killed in a terrorist attack in Balochistan’s Kech district, responding to an Improvised Explosive Device targeting a security forces’ vehicle. Read more: The Nation
PTI has right to have electoral symbol, rules PHC in written order
Peshawar High Court issued a written ruling affirming Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s right to contest elections with its electoral symbol, declaring the Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision as unconstitutional. Read more: Pakistan Today
Opinion: Expelling Afghan refugees won’t boost Pakistan’s security
By Salman Rafi Sheikh, Published in Nikkei Asia
Last year, Pakistan suffered more terrorist suicide attacks than it had in any year since 2014. Nearly 1,000 civilians and security personnel were killed, according to a tally by the Center for Research and Security Studies in Islamabad. Most attacks took place in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
In November, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar said that the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan was the key reason for the rise in terrorist attacks in Pakistan. This was a stark reversal from the way that then-Prime Minister Imran Khan initially welcomed the Taliban takeover in August 2021. Read more: Nikkei Asia
Fact of the Week!!!
Bangladesh De/Cypher
15 Jan, 2024
Monday
Russian Election Commission invites Bangladesh EC officials to observe presidential polls
Russian Election Commission has invited Bangladesh EC officials, including Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal, to observe the three-day presidential elections in Russia on March 17, 2024. The invitation was warmly accepted during a meeting with the Russian delegation, who praised the peaceful atmosphere of Bangladesh’s recent elections. Read more: Daily Sun
Canada didn’t send any polls monitor, says High Commission
Canada did not deploy election observers for Bangladesh’s 12th parliamentary election, as confirmed by the High Commission of Canada. Two mentioned Canadian citizens acted independently, and their views are not endorsed by the government. Read more: Prothom Alo
61 punished for electoral misconduct in Sunday’s general election
In the aftermath of Bangladesh’s January 7 general election, mobile courts conducted summary trials, leading to 61 individuals being sentenced for electoral misconduct. Read more: Daily Sylheter Somoy
UN condemns violence, repression during Bangladesh polls
The UN rights chief condemned violence and repression during Bangladesh’s controversial elections, urging the government to strengthen democracy. Thousands of opposition supporters faced arbitrary detention and intimidation, with reported acts of political violence and arrests. Read more: New Age
Tuesday
Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections ‘were not free or fair’: US
The US declared Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections on Sunday as “not free or fair,” expressing concern over opposition arrests and reports of irregularities. Read more: Andalou Ajnasi
Election stats: Voter turnout over 60% in 21 constituencies, below 30% in 52
Bangladesh’s 12th national parliamentary election had a 41.99% overall turnout, with over 60% in 21 constituencies and below 30% in 52. Gopalganj-3 had the highest turnout at 87.24%, securing a win for Sheikh Hasina, while Dhaka-15 recorded the lowest at 13.04%. Read more: Dhaka Tribune
China ready to work with new Bangladesh govt
China expressed readiness to collaborate with the new Bangladesh government and promote “high-quality” Belt and Road cooperation, while congratulating Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on her election victory. Read more: The Daily Star
Idle power plants raise expenses by 29pc
Bangladesh’s idle power plants led to a 29% increase in power sector expenses, with Tk 17,621 crore spent on capacity charge in 2022-23. Foreign companies, including those from China, India, and the USA, received 48% of the total payments to idle power plants. Read more: New Age
Wednesday
British Council, DYD join hands to empower youths in Bangladesh
The British Council and Bangladesh’s Department of Youth Development (DYD) have signed a Letter of Intent, pledging to empower youth by providing essential skills for global success. The collaboration aims to support sustainable change and aligns with the vision for Smart Bangladesh. Read more: New Age
Polls irregularities: EU calls for ensuring timely probe
The European Union calls for a timely and transparent investigation into reported election irregularities in Bangladesh, emphasizing democratic values and condemning electoral violence. Read more: The Daily Star
PM pays tribute to Bangabandhu on his Homecoming Day, releases commemorative stamp
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina honored Bangabandhu on his Homecoming Day, laying a wreath and observing a solemn moment at the memorial museum. She also releases a commemorative stamp, first-day cover, and data card at Ganobhaban, with arrangements for nationwide availability. Read more: The Business Standard
Canada disappointed that Bangladesh’s electoral process has ‘fallen short of’ democratic principles
Canada voiced disappointment in Bangladesh’s electoral process, citing a shortfall in democratic principles, and calls for transparent collaboration with all parties to uphold democracy, human rights, and freedom. Read more: Bangla Outlook
Thursday
Xi congratulates Sheikh Hasina on re-election as Bangladeshi PM
Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulates Sheikh Hasina on her re-election as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, emphasizing the longstanding friendship and mutual support between China and Bangladesh. Read more: Xinhua
WEF invites PM to attend its annual meeting
World Economic Forum’s Klaus Schwab congratulated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, expressing confidence in Bangladesh’s economic potential under her leadership, and invited her to the 54th annual meeting in Davos, focusing on ‘Rebuilding Trust.’ Read more: New Age
25 ministers, 11 state ministers take oath
25 ministers and 11 state ministers took oath in the new Cabinet at Bangabhaban Durbar Hall. The President administered the oaths, appointing officials including AKM Mozammel Haque, Obaidul Quader, and Nasrul Hamid. Read more: Rising BD
US pledges to continue partnership with BD to prevent human trafficking
The US pledged to continue collaborating with Bangladesh to combat human trafficking, supporting prosecution efforts and aiding survivors. Ambassador Haas emphasized the commitment to working together to eliminate the scourge of human trafficking. Read more: The Financial Express
Friday
Russian leader Putin congratulates Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on her re-nomination, expressing hope for strengthened bilateral cooperation and friendship between Russia and Bangladesh for the benefit of both nations. Read more: New Age
254 MPs each own liquid assets worth Tk 1cr or more
At least 254 members of the 12th parliament, constituting 85% of all members, possess movable or liquid assets worth Tk 1 crore or more, according to Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB). The total value of their movable assets exceeds Tk 22,700 crore, with 15 lawmakers having assets over Tk 100 crore. Read more: The Daily Star
Bangladesh wants ASEAN to do more to facilitate Rohingya repatriation
Bangladesh Ambassador to Myanmar, Md Monwar Hossain, expressed hope for increased ASEAN involvement in facilitating Rohingya repatriation. Special Envoy Alounkeo Kittikhoun, appointed under Lao PDR’s ASEAN chairmanship, discussed cooperation and shared the chairman’s views on implementing the five-point consensus and addressing Rohingya repatriation with Ambassador Hossain. Read more: Daily Sun
FBCCI, CHCC join hands to strengthen bilateral trade
The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) has partnered with Canadian Hindu Chamber to enhance bilateral trade, offering support to Canadian investors. President Mahbubul Alam invited Canadian entrepreneurs to invest in various sectors, highlighting Bangladesh’s favorable investment policies and economic progress under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Read more: The Business Post
Weekend News
There were attempts to influence Bangladesh’s election results: Russia
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova acknowledged external attempts to influence Bangladesh’s election, but commended the leadership for creating favorable conditions. Read more: The Daily Observer
Women’s participation in workforce rising: ILO
Amid the pandemic, Bangladesh witnessed a rise in women’s labor market participation from 29.2% to 42.8%, according to the International Labour Organization. While overall growth created opportunities, addressing challenges like the gender gap remains crucial. Read more: New Age
Bangladesh lost 7,902 lives to road accidents in 2023: study
Bangladesh witnessed 7,902 deaths and 10,372 injuries in 6,261 road accidents in 2023, with motorcycles contributing significantly, according to the Bangladesh Passenger Welfare Association. Read more: BD News 24
Bangladesh backs South Africa’s ICJ move against Israel
Bangladesh has supported South Africa’s effort to bring Israel before the International Court of Justice for alleged violations of the Genocide Convention in Gaza. Read more: The Dhaka Tribune
Red Sea crisis hits Bangladesh’s RMG sector
Bangladesh’s apparel sector faces export order losses and rising production costs due to the Red Sea crisis, making shipping routes more dangerous. Major shipping lines reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, leading to delays, container shortages, and increased costs for the garment industry. Read more: Business Post
Opinion: What Happens When a Development Darling Falls from Grace?
By Catherine Davison and Decypher research
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh has been celebrated as a beacon of economic development, achieving impressive growth rates and significant reductions in poverty. Yet, alongside these achievements, there has been growing international concern regarding the country’s democratic backsliding. This juxtaposition presents a paradox for international donors and poses a critical question: What happens when a development darling falls from grace?
The Economic Relations Division has provided data showing a drop in foreign aid. In the fiscal year 2023, foreign aid went down by $0.74 billion, which is a 7.39% decrease, amounting to $9.27 billion. This is lower than the $10.01 billion received in 2022. Japan gave the most loans in 2023, about $2.04 billion, followed by the World Bank with $1.93 billion and the Asian Development Bank with $1.56 billion. This trend of decreasing aid is a change from the past when Bangladesh got $7.97 billion in 2021, $7.38 billion in 2020, and $6.54 billion in 2019. This retrenchment is attributed to the sluggish advancement of ongoing development projects. Yet, it is not merely the pace but the quality of governance that may be giving pause to international donors.
This decline in aid is significant for Bangladesh’s economy, especially considering the looming pressure of heightened foreign debt repayments. The Economic Relations Division forecasts an increase in foreign debt repayment up to $4.72 billion by FY26. This financial tightening could potentially restrict public spending and slow development efforts, affecting the nation’s ambitious growth targets. Read more: Devex
Fact of the Week!!!
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