All posts by vd@admin

China: Daily Scan, March 21, 2022

Xi signs order to promulgate rules on regulating military equipment procurement contracts: Xinhuanet
March 19, 2022

Xi Jinping, chairman of the Central Military Commission, has signed an order to promulgate a set of interim rules on regulating military equipment procurement contracts. The regulations stipulate the basic tasks, contentssa and management system for the supervision and management of equipment procurement contracts under new circumstances to advance the quality and efficiency of equipment procurement. Click here to read…

Former senior Beijing political advisor jailed for 9 years for graft: Xinhuanet
March 19, 2022

Li Wei, the former vice chairperson of the Beijing Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), was sentenced to nine years in prison Friday for taking bribes. Click here to read…

Standing Committee of Political Bureau of CPC Central Committee convenes meeting on COVID-19 situation and better and more stringent epidemic prevention and control: Xinhuanet
March 18, 2022

The Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee convened a meeting on March 17 to analyze the new development of COVID-19 and arrange for better and more stringent epidemic control. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting and delivered an important speech. Click here to read…

Xi requires swift containment of latest COVID-19 outbreaks: Xinhuanet
March 17, 2022

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Thursday urged swift containment of the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic. Xi made the remarks while presiding over a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee to analyze the COVID-19 epidemic situation. Click here to read…

Former supreme court official indicted for graft: Xinhuanet
March 17, 2022

Meng Xiang, former chief of the enforcement bureau of the Supreme People’s Court, has been indicted on charges of taking bribes, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) said Thursday. Meng’s case has been filed by the People’s Procuratorate of Zhengzhou, Henan Province, to the city’s intermediate people’s court. Click here to read…

Chinese vice FM calls for cherishing peace, pursuing win-win future for Asia-Pacific: Xinhuanet
March 19, 2022

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng on Saturday called on countries in the Asia-Pacific to cherish peace, work together in unity and pursue a win-win future for the region.

“The Ukraine crisis keeps the world on edge. It also provides a mirror for us to observe the situation in the Asia-Pacific,” Le said at the Fourth International Forum on Security and Strategy. Click here to read…

China ups investment in road, waterway infrastructure: Xinhuanet
March 19, 2022

China increased investment in road and waterway infrastructure in the first two months of the year, according to data from the Ministry of Transport. Fixed-asset investment in road and waterway infrastructure jumped 14.8 percent year on year to 273.1 billion yuan (about 43.1 billion U.S. dollars) from January to February. Click here to read…

New material designed to cool smartphones: Xinhuanet
March 18, 2022

China’s Wuhan University has cooperated with the smartphone manufacturer OPPO to develop a new type of cooling material for the phone case. The heat control mechanism of the material Glacier Mat is similar to the evaporative cooling of spacecraft and the human body dissipating heat through sweat. The material can realize self-circulating evaporative cooling. Click here to read…

China releases guidelines to strengthen governance over ethics in science, technology: Xinhuanet
March 20, 2022

China has released a set of guidelines to strengthen the governance over ethics in science and technology, given the rapid progress of the country’s sci-tech innovation and the growing challenges facing ethics in the field. Click here to read…

New canal project in south China approved: Xinhuanet
March 20, 2022

Development of a new canal project in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region has been approved, local authorities said. The Pinglu Canal, stretching 140 km with an estimated investment of 68 billion yuan (about 10.69 billion U.S. dollars), aims to link Xijiang River, a major waterway in southwest China, with ports in the Beibu Gulf. Click here to read…

Xi has candid, in-depth exchange of views with Biden: Quishi
March 21, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping had a video call with U.S. President Joe Biden at the request of the latter on Friday. The two Presidents had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on China-U.S. relations, the situation in Ukraine, and other issues of mutual interest. Click here to read…

Guideline to boost tourism industry: Quishi
March 18, 2022

A series of measures were included in a recently released guideline to shore up the confidence of China’s tourism market operators and workers who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 epidemic. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism said that although the domestic industry is in recovery thanks to unremitting efforts to contain the epidemic and earlier support measures, the tourism industry has not yet emerged from the predicament. This is because services for tourists who want to leave or enter the mainland remain suspended as sporadic outbreaks continue to have an impact on recovery. Click here to read…

China to strengthen policy support for industrial economy: Quishi
March 18, 2022

China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) Thursday pledged to strengthen policy support to promote stable growth of the industrial economy as challenges remained amid increasing uncertainties. Click here to read…

Legislators call for law to protect Red culture: China Daily
March 21, 2022

Some national lawmakers want legislation introduced to preserve China’s Red cultural resources, which showcase a rich revolutionary spirit and tell profound stories about revolution and construction in the country in the century since the founding of the Communist Party of China. Click here to read…

Civil service hiring focuses on grassroots positions: China Daily
March 19, 2022

The provincial-level civil servant recruitment campaign is focusing on grassroots posts this year, and some provinces have also explored ways to vie for professional talent to optimize the structure of the civil service. Click here to read…

China outlines major tasks on urbanization, urban-rural development: China Daily
March 18, 2022

China’s top economic planner has unveiled major tasks in promoting new urbanization and integrated urban-rural development in 2022, vowing to deepen reform of the household registration system and help migrant workers better integrate into cities. Click here to read…

China’s top procuratorate orders arrest of ex-senior provincial political advisor: China Daily
March 18, 2022

China’s Supreme People’s Procuratorate has ordered the arrest of Xue Heng, a former senior political advisor of Northeast China’s Liaoning province, for suspected bribe-taking. Xue’s case was transferred to procuratorial authorities for review and prosecution following the conclusion of an investigation by the National Supervisory Commission, the SPP said in a statement on Friday. Click here to read…

China’s COVID spike caused by imported cases: China Daily
March 18, 2022

The recent COVID-19 outbreaks in China were the result of imported cases arriving via multiple transmission chains and complex sources, posing a huge challenge to prevention and control work, a health official said. Click here to read…

11 Guangxi officials and personnel punished following investigation on unmarried couple parenting 15 children: Global Times
March 21, 2022

A total of 11 officials and personnel were punished after an investigation into a couple with an age difference of 30 years, from South China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, who gave birth to 15 children in 21 years according to a statement from the local authorities released on Sunday. Click here to read…

China’s new rules on military equipment procurement contracts ‘vital to modernization’: Global Times
March 20, 2022

China put into effect new interim rules to regulate military equipment procurement contracts on Sunday that aim to advance the quality and efficiency of equipment procurement, with analysts saying that the new regulations, together with several others that have taken effect since last year related to military equipment, will serve as vital steps to China’s pursuit of national defense modernization. Click here to read…

Chinese military says U.S. destroyer’s passage through Taiwan Strait ‘provocative’: Reuters
March 19, 2022

The U.S. destroyer Ralph Johnson’s sail-through of the Taiwan Strait on March 17 was a “provocative” act by the United States and sent the wrong signals to pro-Taiwan independence forces, the Chinese military said on Saturday. Click here to read…

China reports 1st COVID-19 deaths since January 2021: Kyodo
March 19, 2022

China on Saturday reported two COVID-19 deaths, the first since January last year, as the number of citizens newly infected with the novel coronavirus has been sharply increasing in the country. The two elderly people, who had serious underlying diseases, were in the northeastern province of Jilin, where about 2,200 citizens were confirmed to be infected with the virus on Friday, the Chinese government said. One person was not vaccinated. Click here to read…

Poorest nations to pay China US$14 billion to service debts in 2022: South China Morning Post
March 21, 2022

The world’s poorest nations will pay China and its lenders almost US$14 billion this year in debt servicing costs, according to new research that urges Beijing to do more to support restructuring for those who need it. In total, 68 such countries will pay US$52.8 billion this year in debt costs, according to a report by the Green Finance & Development Centre at Fudan University in Shanghai. More than a quarter of that will go to China, the report estimates, as Beijing is one of the largest lenders to developing nations.
At the end of 2020, the 68 nations collectively owed about US$110 billion to various Click here to read…

China population: ‘entirely possible’ will peak this year as provinces report more declines: South China Morning Post
March 21, 2022

China’s population is likely to peak this year, a central bank adviser said, with several provinces already reporting declines in the population growth rate. Cai Fang, a member of the People’s Bank of China’s monetary policy committee, said it is “entirely possible” that the world’s largest population will peak in 2022, according to a report in the 21st Century Business Herald. Click here to read…

Evergrande halts trading of its stock and subsidiaries, raising expectations of an overhaul in the world’s most indebted developer: South China Morning Post
March 21, 2022

Trading was halted for the shares of China Evergrande Group and two of its units on the Hong Kong stock exchange on Monday, raising expectations of an impending announcement in the restructuring of the world’s most indebted property developer. Click here to read…

VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: March 17, 2022

Afghanistan
Islamic Emirate in Contact with Many Afghan Embassies: Muttaqi: Tolo News

The acting Minister of Foreign Affairs said that the Islamic Emirate is in contact with many Afghan embassies abroad. He made the remarks in a visit to the Afghan embassy in Ankara. Click here to read…

Officials: Foreign Institutions Deceive with Wrong Figures: Tolo News

The National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) says that some foreign institutions are misleading the people and the world by presenting false statistics about humanitarian aid. Click here to read…

Afghanistan’s Central Bank to auction $12 Million tomorrow: The Khaama Press

In a bid to devalue the US dollar against Afghani (local currency) and/or to stabilize Afghani, Afghanistan’s Central Bank-Da Afghanistan Bank- intends to pump $12 million on Thursday, March 17, 2022. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
18 Bangladeshi fishermen taken away by Myanmar BGP- The Daily Star

18 Bangladeshi fishermen with four fishing boats were taken away by Border Guard Police (BGP) of Myanmar from the Naf River in Teknaf’s Shahparir Dwip of Cox’s Bazar on Tuesday (March 15, 2022). Click here to read…

Harvest rainwater, save rivers: PM- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday stressed the need for rainwater harvesting and river water conservation. Click here to read…

Kushtia dam collapses again- The Daily Star

About 100-metre of Rabindra Kuthibari protection embankment on the Padma river in Kushtia has collapsed. Click here to read…

Bangladesh-India relations had transformative changes over the years: Foreign Secretary- The Daily Star

Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen today said Bangladesh-India Maitri (friendship) is higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the ocean. Click here to read…

India proposes resuming passenger trains to and from Bangladesh from March 26- The Daily Star

India has proposed to resume operations of passengers trains between the country and Bangladesh from March 26. Click here to read…

Saudi Arabia will act to stabilise oil prices in global market: KSA foreign minister- The Daily Star

Saudi Arabia will take all measures possible to stabilise oil prices in the global market, said Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud today following the first political consultation of the kingdom with Bangladesh. Click here to read…

PM asks air force to boost skills to achieve national goals- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today asked the members of Bangladesh Air Force to maintain professional skills, discipline and patriotism to accomplish national goals. Click here to read…

Iraq wants to buy mango, vegetables, potato from Bangladesh- The Daily Star

Middle Eastern country Iraq wants to buy mango, vegetables and potato from Bangladesh. Click here to read…

US to help construct cold storages in Bangladesh- The Daily Star

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide financial and technical support to Bangladesh for constructing cold storages in the country. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Pursue happiness the Bhutanese way- Travel Daily

Internationally renowned for its pursuit of Gross National Happiness, the tiny Himalayan nation of Bhutan will soon reopen the fully-restored Trans Bhutan Trail, just as the world celebrates International Day of Happiness on 20 March 2022. Click here to read…

Social media and us- Kuensel

Social media users spent the weekend watching Tiktok clips of two amateur users exchanging nasty comments against each other for no specific reason. The war of words resulted in racist, indecent and derogatory comments. Click here to read…

Moratorium on mining applications lifted- Kuensel

The government has lifted the moratorium on the operation of mines by private companies, economic affairs minister Loknath Sharma told Kuensel yesterday. Click here to read…

Fuel price hit a new record high- BBS

Fuel prices will hit a new record high tonight. The price of petrol will increase by more than Nu 10 per litre in Thimphu, while diesel will rise by more than Nu 17. The new price will be implemented starting at midnight. Click here to read…

Maldives
US commits additional USD 3.2 million to the Maldives: The Sun

he Unites States committed an additional USD 3.2 million to Maldives on Wednesday, with the signing of the seventh amendment to the Development Objective Grant Agreement (DOAG) between Maldives and the US. Click here to read…

Myanmar
Myanmar eyes using rupee for border trade: The Tribune

Myanmar’s military-led administration on Tuesday agreed to accept Thai baht as an official currency in border trade dealings and plans a similar arrangement for use of India’s rupee, seeking to limit the country’s reliance on the US dollar in trade. Click here to read…

UN accuses Myanmar army of war crimes, torture, killings: AlJazeera

Myanmar’s military has engaged in systematic human rights violations, many amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity, the United Nations said in its first comprehensive human rights report since last year’s coup. Click here to read…

Nepal
Ruling coalition avoiding vote on impeachment motion: CPN-UML

Fuel prices will hit a new record high tonight. The price of petrol will increase by more than Nu 10 per litre in Thimphu, while diesel will rise by more than Nu 17. The new price will be implemented starting at midnight. Click here to read…

Oli instructs party MPs to get involved in election preparations- Republica

Chairman of the main opposition party CPN-UML and leader of the parliamentary party KP Sharma Oli has instructed the party MPs to get involved in the preparations for the local polls. Click here to read…

US delegation to be in Nepal right after Chinese foreign minister’s visit- Kathmandu Post

A team of 25 Congressional members, the biggest ever, is flying into Kathmandu after the MCC compact’s passage, which Washington has hailed and Beijing has noted. Click here to read…

Saudi’s Foreign Minister calls on President Bhandari- Himalaya

Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Fahran Al Saud has paid a courtesy call on President Bidya Devi Bhandari. Click here to read…

National security, defence must be strengthened, says PM Deuba- Himalaya

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has said that national security and defence should be strengthened through timely implementation of the approved action plan of the national security policy. Click here to read…

Ruling coalition avoiding vote on impeachment motion: CPN-UML- Himalaya

The main opposition CPN- UML has said that it would expose the mala fide intention of the ruling coalition behind moving the impeachment motion against Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher JB Rana and avoiding to put the motion to vote. Click here to read…

Pakistan
PM Imran seeks ‘sea of support’ on 27th: Dawn

Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Wednesday that it was the responsibility of the entire nation to come out of their homes and stand with the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) in Islamabad on March 27, against “the three thieves” to tell the world that they are against the “hypocrites and the allies of the United States”. Click here to read…

Pakistan hopes to pass 7th IMF review hands down: The News

The government is confident in getting a positive nod from the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) on 7th review as it addressed in details the fund’s concerns on the Prime Minister’s relief package, finance minister said on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Chinese FM to be ‘special guest’ at OIC moot: The Express Tribune

Pakistan has invited Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to attend the upcoming conference of foreign ministers from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Islamabad as a “guest of hounor”, a rare move to accord this opportunity to a top diplomat from a non-OIC country. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
Modi govt expected to finalise $1 billion line of credit to Sri Lanka: Hindustan Times

PM Modi led govt is expected to finalise a $1-billion line of credit to Sri Lanka. Amid economic crisis at home, Sri Lankan Finance Minister visited New Delhi on a 2-day visit. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka seeks IMF bailout amid shortages, rising public anger: DW

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has called on Sri Lankans to use fuel and electricity sparingly. But citizens blame his government for the country’s worst economic crisis since independence almost 75 years ago. Click here to read…

Delhi must ensure the India-Lanka accord works for Tamils:: The Federal

MA Sumanthiran, MP from Jaffna, speaks about Modi’s upcoming visit to the country, Tamils in Sri Lanka and their demand for self-rule. Click here to read…

China: Daily Scan, March 17, 2022

Former Supreme Court official indicted for graft: Xinhuanet
March 17, 2022

Meng Xiang, former chief of the enforcement bureau of the Supreme People’s Court, has been indicted on charges of taking bribes, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) said Thursday. Meng’s case has been filed by the People’s Procuratorate of Zhengzhou, Henan Province, to the city’s intermediate people’s court. Click here to read…

State Council committee stresses economic, financial stability: Xinhuanet
March 16, 2022

The financial stability and development committee under China’s State Council held a meeting on Wednesday, urging measures to keep the country’s major economic indicators within an appropriate range and maintain stable operation of the capital market. Click here to read…

China will not pilot property tax reform in more cities in 2022: Xinhuanet
March 16, 2022

China’s finance ministry has said there are no suitable conditions this year to expand the country’s list of pilot cities for real estate tax reform. The judgement was made after various aspects were taken into consideration, a Ministry of Finance official told Xinhua when answering questions regarding the real estate tax reform pilot program. Click here to read…

State Council committee stresses economic, financial stability: Xinhuanet
March 16, 2022

The financial stability and development committee under China’s State Council held a meeting on Wednesday, urging measures to keep the country’s major economic indicators within an appropriate range and maintain stable operation of the capital market. Click here to read…

China’s education ministry stresses mental health amid epidemic: Xinhuanet
March 16, 2022

In the face of a resurgence of COVID-19 infections, China’s Ministry of Education has launched a variety of arrangements to maintain the provision of education at various levels while ensuring effective epidemic containment, placing increased emphasis on mental health. Click here to read…

China to offer 1 mln internship posts for job seekers: Xinhuanet
March 16, 2022

China will provide job seekers with no fewer than 1 million internship openings this year to help them find employment as soon as possible, authorities said on Wednesday. The openings will be arranged with concerted efforts from the government and various sectors, and the campaign will strive for the participation of employers, college graduates and unemployed young people, according to a circular released by 10 government organs, including the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security and the Ministry of Education. Click here to read…

China has 570,000 public legal service centers, says ministry: Xinhuanet
March 16, 2022

China has established around 570,000 public legal service centers at all levels, covering legal consulting, legal aid, and mediation, among other services, said the Ministry of Justice.

In 2021, volunteer lawyers with a national volunteer campaign on legal aid handled more than 5,000 legal assistance cases, accepted over 74,800 legal consulting requests, and delivered 1,010 lectures promoting the rule of law. They also helped resolve over 1,400 disputes, data from the ministry showed. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 1,860 new local COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet
March 16, 2022

The Chinese mainland reported 1,860 new locally-transmitted COVID-19 infections over the past day, down from 3,507 on Monday, the National Health Commission said Wednesday. Click here to read…

5.1-magnitude quake hits China’s Gansu, no casualties reported: Xinhuanet
March 17, 2022

A 5.1-magnitude earthquake jolted Zhangye City, northwest China’s Gansu Province, on Thursday morning, with no casualties reported as of 10 a.m., local authorities said. The earthquake took place at 8:26 a.m. Thursday. The epicenter was monitored at 39.02 degrees north latitude and 97.66 degrees east longitude, at a depth of 9 km, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center. Click here to read…

High-tech, green development complementary: Quishi
March 17, 2022

China’s greater efforts to promote the integration of the industrial internet, big data, artificial intelligence, 5G and other next-generation information technologies with green manufacturing will bolster the high-quality and low-carbon development of the industrial economy and inject new impetus into economic growth, officials and experts said. Click here to read…

Guarantee of labor rights in Xinjiang improves lives: China Daily
March 17, 2022

The pursuit of social progress, economic prosperity and a higher living standard is the most urgent goal for developing countries, which is in line with people’s demands, said Zheng Liang, a professor at Jinan University’s School of Journalism and Communication, adding that ensuring residents’ labor rights is a significant part of realizing that goal. Click here to read…

Prosperous province tackles low birthrate: China Daily
March 17, 2022

Last year, Jiangsu province recorded a negative natural growth rate for the first time since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. The birthrate stood at 5.65 births per 1,000 people and the mortality rate at 6.77 deaths per 1,000, resulting in a growth rate of-1.12, according to the Jiangsu Bureau of Statistics. Click here to read…

Former NEA head gets 13-year bribery sentence: China Daily
March 16, 2022

Liu Baohua, former deputy head of the National Energy Administration, was sentenced to 13 years in prison for accepting bribes worth more than 70 million yuan ($11.04 million), according to ruling made by Qingdao Intermediate People’s Court in Shandong province on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Chinese official clears monetary policies, platform management: Global Times
March 17, 2022

In what Chinese industry insiders compared to as a “fireside chats,” China’s top financial affairs watchdog pledged to bolster steady economic growth and capital markets in a meeting convened on Wednesday. The meeting had sent a fresh signal that the world’s second-largest economy will not pull punches in shoring up its economy for the year despite the downward pressure. Click here to read…

Chinese envoy debunks Ukraine crisis rumors: Global Times
March 16, 2022

Two days after China’s top diplomat Yang Jiechi met with US national security advisor Jake Sullivan in Rome, Chinese Ambassador to the US Qin Gang reiterated China’s stance on the Ukraine crisis and hit back at recent rumors and disinformation spread by some US politicians, whose conducts have showed the country’s true face of “an empire of lies” by passing the buck to China, despite knowing that the cause of the crisis is the NATO’s eastward expansion. Click here to read…

Chinese cities gather pace in facilitating rural e-commerce: People’s Daily
March 17, 2022

In order to better leverage e-commerce to sell high-quality agricultural products to more consumers and make logistics services more efficient and cost-effective, various cities in China have carried out helpful explorations to enhance brand building and improve logistics system. Click here to read…

Over 40 million under lockdown in China due to coronavirus surge: Kyodo
March 16, 2022

Over 40 million Chinese have come under lockdown due to a surge in coronavirus cases as the government in Beijing continues to pursue a radical zero-tolerance policy amid skepticism about its effectiveness in the face of the highly infectious Omicron variant. Click here to read…

Reeling from China’s crackdown, Alibaba and Tencent readying big job cuts-sources: Reuters
March 16, 2022

Alibaba Group (9988.HK) and Tencent Holdings (0700.HK) are preparing to cut tens of thousands of jobs combined this year in one of their biggest layoff rounds as the internet firms try to cope with China’s sweeping regulatory crackdown, sources said. Click here to read…

Why rich, young Chinese are less likely to spend abroad than older generations: South China Morning Post
March 17, 2022

Guangdong resident Stephen Yao used to take more than 20 overseas trips a year to buy properties for wealthy Chinese clients in popular tourist destinations like Kyoto, Bangkok, Pattaya and Kuala Lumpur. But the coronavirus pandemic brought an abrupt halt to his business, with his last overseas trip in March 2020. Unable to travel abroad due to border closures, the 46 year old and his middle-aged clients left their overseas properties vacant or rented them at rock bottom prices. Click here to read…

VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: March 16, 2022

Afghanistan
Officials: Foreign Institutions Deceive with Wrong Figures: Tolo News

The National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) says that some foreign institutions are misleading the people and the world by presenting false statistics about humanitarian aid. Click here to read…

Turkey’s third humanitarian shipment arrives in Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

Turkey’s “Kindness Train” coordinated by Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) that left Afghanistan in February arrived in Afghanistan on Monday, March 14. Click here to read…

Pashtun Jirga in Bannu Calls for Elections, Jirga in Afghanistan: Tolo News

A jirga gathering of Pashtuns in Bannu city in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan that was held from 11 to 14 of March, called for Loya Jirga and general elections in Afghanistan to elect a representative government. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
How justified is Bangladesh’s position on Ukraine issue?- Porthomalo

The diplomatic front is one of most important fronts in any war. This front fights alongside the actual battleground and economic front. Both the warring sides seek to ensure support of most countries around the globe. Click here to read…

Russia’s Ukraine war impacts Bangladesh’s trade and development programs- The North Lines

The US/EU-led bloc of countries have hit out at Bangladesh viciously, while they still assess their options vis-à-vis its bigger neighbour, India. Click here to read…

US sanctions on RAB: Relations won’t be affected- The Daily Star

Sanctions on Rapid Action Battalion and its top officials do not mean that the US does not want to build on its relationship with Bangladesh, which is based on shared values of human rights, democracy, security and development, said an embassy official. Click here to read…

Insurgents murdered Rohingya leader- The Daily Star

Police admitted for the first time yesterday that an insurgent group ordered last year’s murder of a respected Rohingya leader, saying they were threatened by his growing popularity. Click here to read…

Foreign diplomats applaud Bangladesh’s proactive policy of women empowerment- The Daily Star

Foreign diplomats applauded Bangladesh’s proactive policy of women empowerment, while also calling for continuing efforts that are imperative for sustainable development. Click here to read…

Saudi Foreign Minister arrives in Dhaka on two-day visit- The Daily Star

Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud has arrived in Dhaka on a two-day visit for holding the first ever political dialogue.
Click here to read…

Cooperation between US-Bangladesh on development, security, climate change shows range of partnership’- The Daily Star

Newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter D Haas today said Bangladesh is an important US partner and the bilateral relationship is “broad and dynamic”.Click here to read…

Unbearable today: Dhaka traffic comes to standstill- The Daily Star

Ishtiaq Hossain, a private firm employee, left his home in Khilgaon at 9am for his office in Farmgate. The commute usually takes him 45 minutes, but it took him nearly two and a half hours today. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Government announces more relaxations- Kuensel

Shopkeepers in Thimphu can cross over to other mega zones to operate businesses after obtaining a one-time e-pass beginning today. The e-pass can be used to move between home and their shops every day. Click here to read…

US & China once agreed Ukraine & Belarus are akin to Bhutan & Sikkim- Economic Times

The transcript of a conversation between the then US national security adviser Henry Kissinger and Chinese Prime Minister Chou en Lai in Beijing on February 18, 1973, released by the US State Department, reveals that China had backed the US on the Ukraine issue at the time and compared the position of Ukraine, which was then part of the USSR, with that of Bhutan, often considered India’s closest neighbour. Click here to read…

A Day trip from Thimphu without a test is unscientific and discriminatory- Kuensel

This week, despite an alarming rate of community cases in the capital, the National Covid-19 Task Force permitted a day trip from Thimphu to nearby Dzongkhags without any test or quarantine. But if residents from Paro or Wangdue must travel, they require a test mandatorily. Click here to read…

Million Fruit Trees Plantation Initiative launched- BBS

To bring youth closer to rural Bhutan, foster food security and support farmers, a million fruit trees will be planted across the country in two and a half months. The project, an initiative of the DeSuung National Service in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry was inaugurated today. It will engage around 2,000 DeSuups. Click here to read…

Maldives
Maldives President Solih thanks India for ‘generous’ COVID, financial aid in last 2 years: Te Sun

Highlighting the positive role played by India in the last two years, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in his national address has especially thanked the Indian Government’s role in helping his country cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, including gifting vaccines. Click here to read…

Myanmar
Myanmar: ‘Appalling’ violations demand ‘unified and resolute international response’ – UN News

In a new report warning that serious rights abuses uncovered in Myanmar may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, appealed to the international community to take “concerted, immediate measures to stem the spiral of violence” there. Click here to read…

Myanmar eyes using rupee for border trade – Tribune India

Myanmar’s military-led administration on Tuesday agreed to accept Thai baht as an official currency in border trade dealings and plans a similar arrangement for use of India’s rupee, seeking to limit the country’s reliance on the US dollar in trade. Click here to read…

Myanmar eases Covid-19 restrictions to allow public gatherings of up to 400 people – The Star

Myanmar’s Ministry of Health on Tuesday (March 15) issued an order to increase the maximum size of public gatherings from 200 people to 400. The ministry said the maximum ceiling of 400 people is to be allowed at public gatherings starting from March 16 excluding unpermitted ones as Covid-19 cases and death toll has significantly declined in the country. Click here to read…

Japanese Special Envoy Meets Ethnic Armed Groups In Chiang Mai – BNI Online

The Special Envoy of Government of Japan for National Reconciliation in Myanmar met separately with several ethnic armed groups fighting the military in the Southeast Asian country for the first time since the coup a year ago. Yōhei Sasakawa held talks in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai on 10 March with Karenni National Progressive Party leader Khu Oo Reh, the party’s second secretary Aung San Myint and Ko Nelneh Plo, head of the Karenni Emergency Rescue Team, mainly on humanitarian aid. Click here to read…

Nepal
We will crush ruling parties in the upcoming election: Oli- Republica

Chairman of the main opposition party CPN-UML KP Sharma Oli has said that his party will defeat the ruling coalition alone in the upcoming election. Click here to read…

Parliament prorogued- Himalayan Times

President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, on recommendation of the government, prorogued the current session of the Paraliament from midnight today. Click here to read…

Poll expenditure cap ‘unrealistic’- Himalayan

The Election Commission’s decision to put a ceiling on poll expenditure for candidates vying for top posts in municipalities and rural municipalities has drawn flak from civil society members. Click here to read…

High prices of imported electricity could affect power utility’s finances- Kathmandu Post

Nepal has been importing around 1,000MW of electricity from India a day as peak hour demand is around 1,600MW. Click here to read…

Cholendra Shamsher Rana is unlikely to be impeached. He won’t return to the office either- Online Khabar

The government on Tuesday prorogued the ongoing session of both houses of the federal parliament. With this, the impeachment motion filed against Chief Justice Cholendra Shamsher Rana has been pushed into limbo. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
Protests hit Sri Lanka’s capital amid severe economic crisis: Hindustan Times

Tens of thousands of people gathered outside of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s office in Colombo, led by supporters of the opposition party of the United People’s Force. Click here to read…

US TAMIL DIASPORA GROUPS URGE IMF TO CONDITION AID TO SRI LANKA WITH TAKING STEPS ON ACCOUNTABILITY FOR ATROCITY CRIMES: News Wires

In a united initiative by key Tamil Diaspora organizations in the US today, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is being called upon to promote accountability and protect human rights by imposing conditions to any aid to Sri Lanka. Click here to read…

Vaiko demands solution to ‘frequent’ attacks by Lankan navy on TN fishermen: Business Standard

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour in the Upper House, Vaiko said for the past 38 years, fishermen from Tamil Nadu have been targeted repeatedly by the Sri Lankan Navy and their boats destroyed. Click here to read…

Pakistan
PML-Q calls for ‘ceasefire’ in national interest: Dawn

Amid rising political temperatures in the country, Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) president Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain has ‘appealed’ to the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the opposition parties to show restraint and urged them to cancel their planned public meetings at D-Chowk in the larger national interest. Click here to read…

Qureshi discusses Ukraine crisis with Belarusian counterpart: The Express Tribune

The two ministers discussed bilateral relations and cooperation in diverse areas including the situation in Ukraine, the foreign office said in a statement. Click here to read…

Editorial: Unwise positions: Dawn

APPREHENSIONS of a violent conflict between the ruling PTI and the opposition political parties are growing after the PDM’s call for a ‘long march’ on the federal capital on Pakistan Day. Click here to read…

China: Daily Scan, March 16, 2022

Xi’s speech on Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference to be published: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

A speech by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, at a central conference on the work of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) marking the 70th anniversary of the organization will be published. Click here to read…

Int’l flights to Shanghai rescheduled amid COVID-19 resurgence: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

China’s aviation regulator said Tuesday that to alleviate the pressure on epidemic prevention and control in Shanghai, 106 international flights of 22 air routes scheduled to arrive in the city will be diverted elsewhere from March 21 to May 1. Click here to read…

China urges U.S. to take concrete actions to ease situation in Ukraine: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Tuesday urged the United States to make tangible efforts to ease the situation in Ukraine. Spokesperson Zhao Lijian made the remarks at a daily press briefing in response to a question on recent allegations reportedly made by an unnamed U.S. official on relations between Russia and China with regard to the Ukraine crisis. Click here to read…

China-Bangladesh trade to resume growth: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

Bilateral trade between China and Bangladesh will resume growth with the implementation of Bangladesh’s 2021-2024 export policy and duty-free access to China for 98 percent of Bangladeshi products, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Li Jiming has said. Click here to read…

China’s Jilin Province reports 1,456 new local COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet
March 16, 2022

Northeast China’s Jilin Province, hit hard by the COVID-19 resurgence, registered 1,456 confirmed locally transmitted COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, the local health authority said Wednesday. On Tuesday, the province also reported 397 local asymptomatic carriers, according to the provincial health commission. Click here to read…

Consumer protection platform in China’s Tibet recovers huge losses: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

Southwest China’s Tibet Autonomous Region retrieved total economic losses of 11.4 million yuan (about 1.8 million U.S. dollars) for the region’s consumers via its consumer protection platform in 2021, local authorities said Tuesday. Click here to read…

China to tighten regulation on e-cigarettes: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

China’s State Tobacco Monopoly Administration has issued a regulation that aims to strengthen supervision on electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). The country will implement license management for e-cigarette production, wholesale and retail entities starting from May 1, according to the regulation. Click here to read…

China fines actor Deng Lun for tax evasion: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

Chinese actor Deng Lun has been fined for tax evasion, the Shanghai municipal tax service said Tuesday in a statement. Shanghai’s tax authorities found that the actor evaded individual income tax between 2019 and 2020 by using fictitious business deals to convert the nature of the incomes. Click here to read…

BRI to foster faith in economic cooperation: Quishi
March 15, 2022

China’s unwavering efforts to promote joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative will convey more confidence and strength to the international community on global economic cooperation despite rising external uncertainties and challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts, analysts and experts said.

The BRI, the world’s largest international cooperation platform with an increasing number of members, is expected to make more contributions to global economic recovery, they said. Click here to read…

China to give more rural residents access to tap water: China Daily
March 15, 2022

China aims to increase the proportion of rural residents that have access to tap water to 85 percent by the end of this year, the Ministry of Water Resources said. The ministry will make accelerated efforts to promote the construction of water supply projects in rural China, according to a document outlining the ministry’s key tasks for this year that was unveiled on Monday. Click here to read…

China releases post-disaster reconstruction plan for flood-hit Henan: China Daily
March 15, 2022

China’s State Council has approved an overall plan for recovery and reconstruction work in flood-hit regions in Central China’s Henan province after torrential rains in July last year caused heavy casualties and property losses. Click here to read…

Shanghai adds 202 new COVID-19 infections: China Daily
March 16, 2022

Shanghai reported 202 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections on Tuesday, 197 of whom were asymptomatic. Health authorities announced on Wednesday that 139 individuals tested positive during quarantine while the rest were identified during testing of people with potential exposure. Click here to read…

China’s Jilin province reports 1,456 new local COVID-19 cases: China Daily
March 16, 2022

Northeast China’s Jilin province, hit hard by the COVID-19 resurgence, registered 1,456 confirmed locally transmitted COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, the local health authority said Wednesday. On Tuesday, the province also reported 397 local asymptomatic carriers, according to the provincial health commission. Click here to read…

Chinese FM supports Indonesia to keep Ukraine crisis off G20 agenda: Global Times
March 15, 2022

The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said that although the Group of 20 (G20) is a major forum for international economic cooperation, it is not an appropriate forum to discuss the Ukraine crisis. Click here to read…

Pharmacies, online shops to offer antigen self-test kits nationwide amid soaring COVID-19 infections: Global times
March 15, 2022

After China approved COVID-19 antigen self-test kits for public use and approved 11 such products from local companies, a number of online service platforms including Alipay, Meituan and JD.com as well as local pharmacies rolled out pre-order services nationwide on Tuesday. The recent Omicron-fueled surge has led to cases soaring to more than 15,000 in just half a month in 28 provinces around the country. Click here to read…

India’s new envoy to China assumes office amid welcoming voices, expectations to improve ties: Global Times
March 14, 2022

India’s new ambassador to China Pradeep Kumar Rawat assumed office on Monday amid welcoming voices and expectations from many Chinese following signs of positive momentum from the recently-concluded military talks to resolve border issues between the two countries. Click here to read…

China’s consumer rights gala exposes problems of internet security and food safety: Global Times
March 16, 2022

China’s consumer rights gala held on Tuesday to mark the World Consumer Rights Day exposed cases of violations of consumer rights in various sectors, including internet security, food safety, livestreaming, blind boxes and beauty clinic training among others. Click here to read…

Evergrande’s electric vehicles approved for sale: Global Times
March 15, 2022

China’s industry regulator has given China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group approval to begin sales of its first electric car model, according to an official document . Vehicle sales and delivery are expected to be completed within the year, though it still faces fierce competition from rival automakers, experts claimed. Click here to read…

China’s soaring COVID infections fuel concern about cost of containment: Reuters
March 15, 2022

China posted a steep jump in daily COVID-19 infections on Tuesday, with new cases more than doubling from a day earlier to hit a two-year high, raising concerns about the rising economic costs of its tough measures to contain the disease. Click here to read…

Chinese EV maker BYD raises prices citing jump in raw materials costs: Reuters
March 16, 2022

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker BYD Co Ltd (002594.SZ) late on Tuesday said it would raise prices on its cars by 3,000-6,000 yuan ($471-942), citing the rising cost of raw materialsClick here to read…

China reports another 3,000 Covid-19 cases as latest surge continues: South China Morning Post
March 16, 2022

China reported more than 3,000 new domestic Covid-19 cases on Wednesday, a drop from the previous day’s 5,100 infections, which had been the biggest rise in the country’s daily tally since the pandemic’s early stages in 2020. The National Health Commission (NHC) reported 3,054 new local cases on Wednesday – 1,860 people with symptoms and 1,194 without. Click here to read…

US-China tech war: Silicon Valley faces ‘difficult battle’ as Beijing ramps up tech spending: South China Morning Post
March 15, 2022

Growing state financial support for hi-tech industries, backed by long-term development targets and a huge pool of engineers, could give China an edge over Silicon Valley within the decade, analysts say. Beijing has its sights set on establishing a world-leading tech industry to boost economic self-reliance and make the country more resilient to external pressure amid heightened rivalry with the United States. Click here to read…

Myanmar Round Up – February 2022

01 February 2022 marks the first anniversary of the military coup. Last year on this day the Myanmar military took over the power in the country and arrested Aung San Suu Kyi and the elected leaders of the National League of Democracy. In the past year following the coup, the military has faced widespread protests and discontent because of its actions. The military has used force and various other tactics to curb the resistance. However, the opposition and resistance continue. Internationally, as the military coup and atrocities continue, countries like the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom have imposed further sanctions. The Russian actions against Ukraine received mixed responses in Myanmar, which are discussed in the latter part of the article.

Domestic and Political Situation

On the eve of the first anniversary of the military coup, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing proposed to extend the military rule for another six months, which Myint Swe, the military-appointed president, approved. On 01 February, the country witnessed large scale protests and rallies. A nationwide strike marked the first anniversary of the military seizure of power. The photos and videos of ‘silent strike’ were all over the social media. The streets were emptied and businesses were shut in a show of opposition to the military rule. The people also raised the three fingers resistance salute. At places, bombings were carried out targeting a police station and homes of military officers and other sites. Opposition militants carry out daily hit-and-run guerrilla attacks, while the military generally engages in larger-scale assaults that are blamed for many civilian casualties. [1]

To counter these protests and rallies, the military regime organised more than 170 pro-military rallies a week preceding the coup anniversary in 140 towns across Myanmar. The regime also organised sports events, forced shops to open and required people to receive COVID-19 jabs. The regime had earlier warned that anyone who closed their business or shop on the day could face charges carrying sentences of up to life imprisonment, including confiscation of their properties. The military also arrested a few shop owners who notified customers that they would close their businesses on 01 February.[2]

On the anniversary of the coup, Min Aung Hlaing justified the coup for the protection and promotion of Buddhism. He argued that Buddhism declined under the NLD government and criticised the NLD for banning the Association for the Protection of Race and Religion.[3] The group is under attack internationally for its hate speech and was banned by the NLD in 2017. They are known internationally for its hate speech against non-Buddhists. Recently, Min Aung Hlaing visited former chair, Ashin Tilawkar Biwonsa and even conferred a religious title on him. He also criticised the NLD government for prohibiting visits to pagodas and religious buildings, which he re-opened recently. The buildings were closed due to COVID-19 restrictions to prevent crowds.

The following day, Min Aung Hlaing held the first cabinet meeting of the year and highlighted the three sectors that would be prioritised in 2022. These are – to improve the economy; set up a genuine, disciplined multi-party democracy through the general election scheduled for 2023; and form an all-inclusive defence system.[4]

There was also news to dismantle six departments under Myanmar’s police and incorporate the officers into the military to strengthen its fight against the anti-coup resistance movement. These police departments are under the “special departments” of maritime, aviation, tourist, oil field, forestry and highway police forces. The police battalions are combat-trained, and since last year’s coup, they have been involved in crackdowns on protests and clashes with the armed resistance movement. As an institution, Myanmar’s police is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs and under military control as per the 2008 Constitution.

On 08 February, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs, U Wunna Maung Lwin, gave a diplomatic briefing on the recent developments in Myanmar. The Union Minister briefed regarding the formation of the State Administration Council (SAC), transferring three branches of state to the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services and scrutinizing the 2020 electoral process and the SAC’s endeavours to implement a five-point roadmap. He also emphasised establishing friendly relations with foreign nations, Myanmar’s cooperation with the ASEAN countries and Myanmar’s cooperation with the United Nations.

In addition to these, issues regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidents of killings and damages of public buildings and infrastructure by PDF, the seizures of arms and ammunition and notifying of NUG and PDF as terrorist groups to UNCTED, ACCT, ASEANAPOL and INTERPOL, positive cooperation in the fight against terrorism, and implementation of democracy and federalism in the country were discussed. Similar issues were discussed by U Khin Maung Oo, member of the Union Election Commission (UEC), Dr Yin Yin Nwe, Member of Advisory Board of the Chairman of the SAC, Dr Salai Ngun Cung Lian, and Police Brig. Gen. Aung Htay Myint of Myanmar Police Force, Ministry of Home Affairs.[5]

During the month, attacks and conflicts were noted across the country. For instance, hundreds of houses were burned down by the military in the northwestern Sagaing region. However, the state-run Myanmar Alinn Daily newspaper claimed that houses were burned by members of the opposite resistance defence force. [6] The allied KIA and Putao PDF seized a base belonging to a military-aligned militia in Putao, and in response, the military opened fire on the area with helicopters. [7] The informal ceasefire between Arakan Army and the military also came under attack as a clash broke out in Arakan State’s Maungdaw Township on 04 February.[8]

According to a United Nations Spokesperson, around 114 children have been killed by the Myanmar military since the 2021 coup. Recently, the military took a group of civilians, including at least 80 children, in the Sagaing region, hostage for two days. The National Unity Government (NUG) accused the army of a “grave violation” of international law. [9] Following the participation of children against the military forces, several parents have posted notices cutting ties with their children. The military has claimed that it would take over the properties of its opponents and arrest people giving shelter to protesters.[10]

In order to help the local economy, the military is planning to release a digital currency. According to a report from Bloomberg, Major General Zaw Min Tun said rolling out a digital currency would “help improve financial activities in Myanmar”. The digital currency is aimed at supporting payments within Myanmar as well as improving the economy. The country’s shadow government announced in December 2021 that it would recognise Tether (USDT) as an official currency.[11]

International Responses

The United States imposed new sanctions on Myanmar officials. The measures freeze any assets the listed officials may have in US jurisdictions and bar Americans from doing business with them. Britain and Canada announced similar measures. At the anniversary of the military coup, several Church leaders have renewed their calls on the UK Government to use diplomacy to ensure that democracy is restored in Myanmar.[12] Further, Myanmar’s shadow government, NUG, stated that it accepted the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to hear allegations that the country committed genocide against Rohingya. However, it urged the ICJ to deal with Myanmar’s permanent representative to the UN, Kyaw Moe Tun. [13]

In a move to take down the makeshift tents, Thailand deported the refugees back to the Myanmar side. As a result, more than 3,000 Myanmar refugees are now stranded on the Myanmar side of the Thaung Yin River and are residing in temporary huts. Though many have returned home, some of the 20,000 refugees remain on the Thai side and have received support from residents.[14]

Australia’s Foreign Minister called for the “immediate release” of economics Professor Sean Turnell, who was detained by Myanmar’s military in February 2021. He was working as an adviser to civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. The Australian economist has been charged with violating Myanmar’s official secrets law and faces a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison if found guilty. [15]

During the month, Human Rights Watch (HRW) called upon the Japan-based Yokogawa Bridge Corporation to end its partnership with Myanmar military-owned conglomerate, Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC). In March 2014, Yokogawa Bridge Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Japanese Yokogawa Bridge Holdings Corp., signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MEC. MEC is owned by Myanmar’s Defence Ministry and is a “direct source of revenue” for Myanmar’s military. However, in April 2021, Yokogawa Bridge Holdings Corp. stated that construction of the bridge had been halted due to the “situation on the ground” and that it would “conduct business that respects human rights.” But the documents for the same have not been revealed.[16]

Russian actions against Ukraine received mixed responses in the country. The military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, praised Russia for its actions in a “desire to consolidate Russian sovereignty” and depicted Russia as a force to ensure the balance of power. He also expressed support for Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, the pro-democracy protestors in Myanmar raised slogans against the Russian actions. In Yangon, activists staged a flash mob protest, shouting anti-regime slogans and waving placards with slogans like “In Solidarity with Ukraine.” In Kachin State, a rally to show their support for Ukraine was held. Further, the NUG said that it condemned the Russian war against Ukraine and its people, adding “Myanmar stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”[17]

Conclusion

Over the past year, there have been mass protests and armed resistance in the country. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners verified that the military has killed around 1500 people. In addition, the United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that 320,000 people have been internally displaced because of the continued conflict over the last year. The solution to the current crises is bringing all the stakeholders together and holding the military accountable first for its actions.

Endnotes :

[1]https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/myanmar-takeover-anniversary-marked-strike-intl-concern-82594623
[2]https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/guest-column/myanmar-junta-fails-the-sovereignty-test.html
[3]The group, known as Ma Ba Tha, was formed in 2012 out of the 969 movement, a nationalist campaign that called for a boycott of Muslim-owned businesses, and was rebranded as Ma Ba Tha the following year.
[4] https://www.mizzima.com/article/myanmar-military-junta-discusses-economy-voting-system-and-controversial-conscription
[5]https://elevenmyanmar.com/news/union-minister-for-foreign-affairs-briefs-diplomats-and-un-resident-representatives-in-yangon
[6] https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/myanmar-villagers-army-troops-burned-400-houses-82650389
[7]https://www.myanmar-now.org/en/news/thousands-of-civilians-displaced-by-military-air-offensive-in-ye-u
[8] https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/casualties-reported-junta-troops-clash-arakan-army-maungdaw-twsp
[9] https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-troops-accused-holding-children-hostage-during-clashes-2022-02-28/
[10] https://thewire.in/world/myanmar-fearing-the-ruling-military-junta-hundreds-of-parents-disown-dissident-children
[11]https://cointelegraph.com/news/myanmar-s-military-government-considers-launching-digital-currency-report
[12] https://churchofscotland.org.uk/news-and-events/news/2022/articles/first-anniversary-of-myanmar-military-coup-fresh-calls-for-diplomatic-solution
[13]https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-shadow-government-drops-objections-icjs-rohingya-genocide-case-2022-02-02/
[14] https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/thailand-02012022092914.html
[15] https://elevenmyanmar.com/news/australia-urges-myanmar-to-free-detained-economist
[16] https://www.mizzima.com/article/japan-construction-giant-should-end-myanmar-military-partnership-says-ngo
[17] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-democracy-activists-hold-rallies-in-support-of-ukraine.html

China: Daily Scan, March 15, 2022

Report on Work of NPC Standing Committee: Xinhuanet
March 14, 2022

Following is the full text of the Report on the Work of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC). Delivered by chairman of the NPC Standing Committee Li Zhanshu on March 8, the report was approved at the closing meeting of the fifth session of the 13th NPC on March 11. Click here to read…

Chinese premier stresses stable economic growth: Xinhuanet
March 14, 2022

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Monday stressed efforts to tide over difficulties to ensure stable economic growth of the country. Li made the remarks while presiding over an executive meeting of the State Council. Click here to read…

State Council decides on division of responsibilities on key tasks in government work report to facilitate stable economic performance: Xinhuanet
March 14, 2022

All key tasks laid out in the government work report must be effectively implemented with clear division of responsibilities and solid steps to facilitate stable economic performance while overcoming difficulties, according to a decision made at the State Council’s executive meeting chaired by Premier Li Keqiang on Monday. Click here to read…

Chinese envoy to UN says sanctions won’t help solve Ukraine issue: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

China’s permanent representative to the United Nations Zhang Jun said Monday that “the wanton use of sanctions” will not help solve the conflict in Ukraine but only create new problems. Click here to read…

Senior Chinese official elaborates on China’s position on Ukraine situation: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

Yang Jiechi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Monday elaborated on China’s position on the situation in Ukraine during his meeting with U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Rome. Click here to read…

China urges U.S. to fully clarify biological military activities: Xinhuanet
March 15, 2022

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Monday urged the United States to act responsibly and provide a thorough clarification regarding its biological military activities. Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said at a daily press briefing that the United States should also stop standing alone in obstructing the establishment of a Biological Weapons Convention verification regime. Click here to read…

Former deputy commander of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps indicted for graft: Xinhuanet
March 14, 2022

Yang Fulin, former deputy commander of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, has been indicted for taking bribes, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) said Monday. Click here to read…

China maintains world’s largest manufacturing hub for 12 consecutive years: Quishi
March 15, 2022

China has maintained the world’s largest manufacturing hub for 12 straight years, said the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The country’s value-added output of the manufacturing sector in 2021 reached 31.4 trillion yuan (about $4.97 trillion), accounting for 27.4 percent of its GDP. Click here to read…

Chinese military to recruit 3,600-odd fresh college graduates as officers: China Military
March 14, 2022

The Political Work Department of China’s Central Military Commission (CMC) recently launched the work of direct recruitment of fresh college graduates in 2022. This year, the Chinese military plans to publicly recruit more than 3,600 officers from the fresh college graduatesClick here to read…

Action urged to stop domestic violence: China Daily
March 15, 2022

Experts have called for mandatory intervention and counseling sessions for perpetrators of domestic violence after video footage of a man beating his wife in front of their child went viral, renewing debate on how to prevent such incidents. Click here to read…

Jilin recorded 4,067 domestic COVID-19 infections on Tuesday, province vowed to cut off community spread within a week: Global Times
March 15, 2022

Northeast China’s Jilin Province recorded 3,076 domestically transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, 991 silent carriers on Tuesday. Officials said the cases haven’t peaked yet and that Jilin faces a “severe and complicated situation,” yet he vowed to clear transmission within communities within a week. Click here to read…

At least 6 Chinese provincial-level regions show declining population in 2021: Global Times
March 15, 2022

Data released by 16 Chinese provincial-level regions on Monday show that at least six regions have reported a decline in their permanent residents in 2021, including Beijing, provinces in North China and Central China, partly caused by decreasing births. Click here to read…

Chinese industrial design software companies rush to help DJI amid US ban: Global Times
March 14, 2022

US software firm Figma has reportedly started to sever ties with Chinese drone unicorn DJI in compliance with US sanctions, but multiple Chinese software companies have swiftly responded, vowing to give DJI a helping hand to minimize the impact of the US’ access ban. Still, contentions remain over whether Figma’s Chinese lookalikes would be powerful enough to meet DJI’s needs. Click here to read…

Xi Jinping on strengthening overall Party leadership: People’s Daily
March 15, 2022

At the just-concluded annual session of China’s national legislature, President Xi Jinping put forward five convictions that have been reinforced, of which the first is upholding the Party’s overall leadership. Click here to read…

U.S. warns China of “consequences” of aiding Russia on Ukraine war: Kyodo
March 15, 2022

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan warned during talks with top Chinese diplomat Yang Jiechi on Monday that Beijing will face “consequences” if it provides Russia with military and other assistance over its invasion of Ukraine, U.S. officials said. Click here to read…

China’s central bank unexpectedly keeps medium-term policy rates unchanged: Reuters
March 15, 2022

China’s central bank kept some of its policy rates unchanged in a liquidity operation on Tuesday, dashing expectations for a cut, although investors believe policymakers may resume monetary easing soon to prop up the cooling economy. Click here to read…

China’s coronavirus lockdowns could trigger ‘shock waves’ across global supply chains: South China Morning Post
March 14, 2022

Rising coronavirus cases in China, including in economic powerhouses Shenzhen and Shanghai, are stirring fears about severe disruptions to the global shipping industry and supply chain, according to industry insiders. As the country grapples with its most severe outbreak since the initial wave in early 2020, Beijing has doubled down on its “dynamic zero-Covid strategy”, prompting local governments to impose stringent prevention measures, including lockdowns. Click here to read…

Ukraine war provides ‘new motivation’ for China to seek tech self-reliance amid Russia sanctions: South China Morning Post
March 15, 2022

Russia’s increasing isolation from the West may reinforce China’s push for self-reliance in advanced technologies, according to analysts, with Western sanctions already leaving one joint venture “effectively dead”. Moscow is facing a barrage of restrictions from the United States and the European Union over its invasion of Ukraine, raising questions over the future of its advanced technology trade, development and investment relationship with China. Click here to read…

China’s advanced J-20 stealth fighters are getting an engine upgrade: South China Morning Post
March 15, 2022

China’s most advanced stealth fighter jet, the J-20, has a new engine that has significantly boosted its performance, according to a military source. The WS-15 afterburning turbofan engine was developed in China and has increased manoeuvrability and combat capability, said the source, who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.
That could take the J-20, or Mighty Dragon, a step closer to rivalling the American F-22 Raptor. Click here to read…

VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: March 15, 2022

Afghanistan
Islamic Emirate Must Take Steps for Recognition: Cavusoglu: Tolo News

Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu, at the closing of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum said the Islamic Emirate needs to take practical steps, mainly toward an inclusive government, in order to be recognized. Click here to read…

Afghanistan’s embassy in Washington may shut down next week: The Khaama Press

AFP has cited its sources in the US Department of State as saying, Afghanistan’s embassy in consulates in the United States are suffering from dire financial problems that will lead to their closure as soon as next week. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
‘My son has finally returned, but lifeless’- The Daily Star

Family members, relatives and neighbours were mourning as the body of Hadisur Rahman, third engineer of the Bangladeshi ship “Banglar Samriddhi”, who was killed in a rocket attack at a Ukraine port on March 3, reached home this noon. Click here to read…

Evidence Act Amendment: Cabinet okays it in principle- The Daily Star

The Cabinet Division has approved the proposed Evidence (Amendment) Act 2022 in principle, keeping the provision that makes digital evidence admissible in court. Click here to read…

‘Restore rivers of Sundarbans’- The Daily Star

“Rivers and canals in the Sundarbans region are plagued by unplanned industrialisation, anti-environmental development activities, encroachment and pollution… Environmental and people-friendly development plans have to be adopted while safeguarding their flow”. Click here to read…

KSA keen on pumping $10b in 15 projects here- The Daily Star

Saudi Arabia has shown interest in investing more than $10 billion in 15 large- and small-scale projects in Bangladesh. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud is expected to discuss the projects on his two-day visit to Dhaka starting today. Click here to read…

Govt must rein in prices of essentials: HC- The Daily Star

The High Court yesterday observed that government machinery must be active throughout the year to control prices of daily essentials and appropriate legal action has to be taken against unscrupulous traders responsible for hoarding goods. Click here to read…

Prepare for German human rights law for supply chains- The Daily Star

German Ambassador to Bangladesh Achim Troster has advised Bangladeshi companies to prepare for challenges that may arise from 2023 when a German law comes into effect for enhanced human rights protection in supply chains. Click here to read…

No possibility of Chinese missile maintenance facility in Bangladesh: Shahriar- The Daily Star

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam today rejected the recent Nikkei Asia report that claimed China is preparing to set up a maintenance facility in Bangladesh for surface-to-air missile systems it had supplied in 2011. Click here to read…

Bangladesh seeks investment opportunities in Uzbekistan- The Daily Star

Bangladesh has sought investment opportunities for Bangladeshi entrepreneurs in Uzbekistan, a central Asian country rich in natural gas. Such a proposal was made to the Uzbek authorities during the first-ever Foreign Office Consultation between Bangladesh and Uzbekistan held in Tashkent today. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Bhutan to lose around Nu 17.5 bn in annual revenue with 1-year pandemic delay of P II- The Bhutanese

The Punatsangchu II project was supposed to commission its first unit by July 2022 and have all its six units commissioned by early 2023. Click here to read…

Gradual relaxations to prevent a surge in cases leading to severe cases and deaths: PM- The Bhutanese

The Prime Minister Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering said the relaxations are being done gradually to avoid a large surge in cases over a short period which will lead to a rush of cases to hospitals, the system being overrun and deaths. Click here to read…

Govt. announces lockdown relaxations- Kuensel

With the completion of exams on Saturday and preparation for phase two, the government announced a four-week transition period until fully lifting the movement restriction. Click here to read…

IFC appoints Martin Holtmann as Country Manager- Bhutan Times

To focus on developing new opportunities and stragegies for private sector investments as the region recovers from the impacts of Covid-19, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) has appointed Martin Holtmann as the new Country Manager for Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. Click here to read…

Vaccinated tourists to undergo 5-day quarantine in Bhutan from April 25- Daily Bhutan
Bhutan is opening up to international tourists. However, one is required to undergo a 5-day quarantine (for fully vaccinated with RT-PCR negative certificate) or a 10-day quarantine (unvaccinated). Click here to read…
Maldives
MMPRC exhibits Maldives as partner country of OTM Mumbai: Te Sun

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) is exhibiting Maldives at the biggest travel trade event held in India, OTM Mumbai, as the partner country, – a move aimed at further strengthening Maldives’ brand visibility in the Indian market. Click here to read…

The Maldives lifts health emergency and mandatory mask rule: The Hindu

The Maldives on Sunday lifted its health emergency, declared at the beginning of the pandemic two years ago, and relaxed the mandatory mask policy, amid wide vaccine coverage and a low positivity rate. Click here to read…

Myanmar
NIA nabs 6 for illegally settling Rohingyas in India – SentinelAssam

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested six persons and busted a human trafficking racket that was helping Rohingya Muslims enter India and settle down on the basis of forged documents. The gang was active and operating in border areas of Assam, West Bengal, Meghalaya and other parts of the country. Click here to read…

World needs to impose more sanctions on Myanmar military – Mizzima
Myanmar’s military government has been attacking civilians since the February 1 coup last year with weapons provided by China, Russia, and Serbia. This was stated in a report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council in February on the human rights situation in Myanmar. Click here to read…
China uses Pakistan to clandestinely supply defence hardware in Myanmar – The Print

Pakistan’s military partnership with Myanmar is changing post-military coup in the Southeast Asian nation that poses a serious regional security threat. According to sources, the Myanmar military is planning to purchase 60- and 81-mm mortars, M-79 grenade launchers and heavy machine guns from Pakistan. Click here to read…

China expects Rohingya return to begin in 2022 – New Age BD

Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Li Jiming on Sunday expressed hope that the repatriation of Rohingya people from Bangladesh to Myanmar would begin this year. ‘China is making relentless effort to speed up early repatriation of Rohingya people…this year we’ll achieve the goal,’ he said in a press conference styled as spring dialogue with China in Dhaka. Myanmar junta struggles with fuel supplies – Mizzima
The Myanmar police force looks set to escort a convoy of fuel delivered from Thailand entering through the Myawaddy border crossing, reports DVB. Myanmar is facing a growing fuel crisis and is looking to its neighbours for help.
Click here to read…

Former MP candidate in southern Rakhine charged under anti-terror law for ‘supporting’ armed resistance – Myanmar Now

A former parliamentary candidate is among two men in southern Rakhine State who were charged with terrorism offences on Wednesday for allegedly supporting the anti-junta People’s Defence Force (PDF), their lawyer has said. Click here to read…

Nepal
Deuba thanks Modi for evacuating Nepali nationals from Ukraine- Hindustan Times

Nepal prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Saturday thanked his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi for evacuating Nepali nationals who were stranded in the war-torn Ukraine. Click here to read…

Fringe parties threaten to boycott polls- Himalaya

Fringe parties have threatened to boycott upcoming local polls if the Election Commission fails to address their concerns about election symbols. Click here to read…

BRI to be in focus when Wang Yi visits Nepal this month- Kathmandu Post
Signing on at least two projects likely during the Chinese foreign minister’s trip, on the heels of ratification of American grant that Beijing has taken exception to. Click here to read…
Independent candidates hope to spark new hopes among the youth next local elections- OnlineKhabar
In recent decades, such ideas, especially among the youth, have been growing stronger in Nepal. Click here to read…
Visiting Saudi Foreign Minister to hold bilateral talks today- Republica
Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Fahran Al Saud, who arrived in Nepal on Monday evening on a two-day official visit to Nepal, is scheduled to hold delegation level talks with his Nepali counterpart Dr Narayan Khadka. Click here to read…
Nationwide vaccination against typhoid starting on April 8- Kathmandu Post

Doctors say without improving water and sanitation conditions, waterborne diseases including typhoid cannot be defeated. Click here to read…

Pakistan
US, China call for direct Pakistan-India talks: Dawn

The United States and China urged India and Pakistan on Monday to hold direct talks for reducing tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations. Click here to read…

Pakistan weighs options if India refuses joint probe into missile fiasco: The Express Tribune

Pakistan is contemplating different options in case India refuses to agree on a joint probe into a missile fiasco that could have triggered an accidental war between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Click here to read…

PM Imran says ‘not worried’ about no-confidence motion: The Express Tribune

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said he was not worried about the no-confidence motion against him as the situation leading up to the no-trust vote is “satisfactory”. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan finance minister to visit India today: ANI

Amid the worsening economic situation in his country, Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa will begin his India visit on Tuesday, hoping to seal a USD 1 billion line of credit (LoC). Click here to read…

Sri Lanka’s forex crisis hits tourism industry, Canada, UK warns travellers: Hindustan Times

“There may be long queues at grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies. Local authorities may impose the rationing of electricity, resulting in power outages,” the advisory saidClick here to read…

Sri Lanka tightens trade rules to boost currency reserves: The Economic Times

Sri Lanka is tackling its worst financial crisis in over a decade, struggling to pay for critical imports including fuel, food and medicines and with just $2.31 billion of reserves. Click here to read…

Sri Lankan FM to seek firming up of $1 billion credit line: Economic Times

The visit was finalised during a telephone conversation between minister Rajapaksa and external affairs minister S Jaishankar last week. Click here to read…

VIF Cyber Review: February 2022

NATIONAL

Government of India’s various measures to strengthen the mechanism dealing with cyber-crime

The Central government supplements the initiatives of the State Governments through various advisories and schemes for the capacity building of their law-enforcement agencies (LEAs). Along with, the Central Government has taken steps to strengthen the mechanism to deal with cyber-crimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. Following steps has taken in the regards[1]:
i) The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has set up the ‘Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to deal with all types of cyber-crime in India, in coordinated and comprehensive manner.
ii) The National Cyber Forensic Laboratory (NCFL) has been established at CyPAD, Dwarka, New Delhi, to provide early phase cyber forensic assistance to Investigating Officers (IOs) of State/Union Territory Police.
iii) ‘CyTrain’ portal—Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) platform, has been deployed under the I4C, for capacity building of Police officers, Judicial officers through online courses on critical aspects of cyber-crime investigation, forensics, prosecution, etcetera, along with certification.
iv) The National Cyber Crime reporting portal— www.cybercrime.gov.in has been launched as a part of I4C, to enable public to report incidents pertaining to all types of cyber-crimes.
v) Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud (CF2) reporting and management system, under I4C, has been launched for immediate reporting of financial frauds and to stop siphoning off funds by the fraudsters.
vi) Seven ‘Joint Cyber Coordination Teams (JCCT)’ have been constituted under I4C, covering the entire nation based upon cyber-crime hotspots/areas having multi-jurisdictional issues.

Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology released “National Strategy on Additive Manufacturing”

On 24 February 2022, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released a “National Strategy on Additive Manufacturing”, to cater next-generation digital manufacturing and mitigate immediate disabilities of local industries. On the occasion, the Union Minister of Electronics & Information Technology, Communications & Railways—Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that through the strategy, India is focusing on 50 ‘India-specific’ technologies, 100 new start-ups, 500 products, 10 existing and new manufacturing sectors, and one lakh new skilled human resource. “Manufacturing sector is an important part of Prime Minister’s vision for USD 1 trillion Digital Economy. Additive manufacturing is next-generation of digital manufacturing which allows the intersection of computer electronics, imaging, and the emerging areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Pattern Recognition, and will help in creating Intellectual Property (IP) & Export opportunities,” emphasised Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology and Skilled Development & Entrepreneurship.

With the release of strategy, innovation and Research & Development (R&D) ecosystem will be encouraged in PPP mode to transform existing research knowledgebase to develop Additive Manufacturing grade materials, 3D printer machines and printed indigenous products for vast domestic and international market in various sectors including electronics, photonics, medical device, agriculture, and food processing. The national strategy would postulate the tenets of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ that advocate self-reliance through technological transformation of the production paradigm.[2]

CERT-In issued advisory on ‘multiple vulnerabilities in Microsoft product’

On 09 February 2022, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued an advisory— CIAD-2022-0006, regarding multiple vulnerabilities found in various Microsoft products, including Windows Operating System, SharePoint, Developer Tools.[3]The vulnerabilities could be exploited by an attacker to escalate privilege, execute arbitrary code, disclose sensitive information, bypass security restrictions, spoofing attacks, and perform Denial of Service (DoS) attack on the targeted system. The advisory also suggested companies and individuals to apply appropriate security updates offered by the vendor—Microsoft.

CERT-In issued ‘LockBit 2.0 Ransomware’ alert

On 22 February 2022, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued an alert on spread of ‘LockBit 2.0 Ransomware’ malware. The LockBit 2.0 operates as an affiliate-based Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) ramped up its targeted attacks. According to the alert, the LockBit 2.0 spreads through various techniques, including, purchased access, unpatched vulnerabilities, insider access, and Zero-day exploits.

It is also reported that LockBit threat actors are actively exploiting existing vulnerabilities in the Fortinet FortiOS and FortiProxy products, identified as CVE-2018-13379, in order to gain initial access to specific victim networks. After compromising a victim network, LockBit 2.0 actors use publicly available tools such as Mimikatz to escalate privileges. LockBit 2.0 also abuses legitimate tools such as Process Hacker and PC Hunter to terminate processes and services in the victim system. [4]

Cabinet approved implementation of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission with a budget of ₹ 1,600 crore for five years

On 26 February 2022, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, has approved the Central Sector Scheme (CSS)— Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, with budget of ₹ 1,600 crore for five years. The National Health Authority (NHA) will be the implementing agency of ABDM. Over the years, digital health solutions across healthcare ecosystem have proven to be beneficial, with CoWIN, AarogyaSetu, and e-Sanjeevani, further demonstrating the role technology can play in enabling access to healthcare.

Based on foundations from various digital initiative, such as Jan Dhan, Aadhaar and Mobile (JAM) trinity and other digital initiatives of the government, ABDM will be creating a seamless online portal through the provisions of a wide-range of data, information and infrastructure services, duly leveraging open, interoperable, standards-based digital systems while ensuring the security, confidentiality and privacy of health-related personal information. The pilot project of ABDM was completed in the six Union Territories (UTs)—Ladakh, Chandigarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu, Puducherry, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep with successful demonstration of technology platform developed by the NHA. During the pilot, digital sandbox was created in which more than 774 partner solutions are undergoing integration. As on 24th February 2022, 17,33,69,087 Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts have been created and 10,114 doctors and 17,319 health facilities have been registered in ABDM. [5]

TSSC and DSEU signed MoU on skill developments in 5G, AI/ML, and IoT technologies

On 28 February 2022, Telecom Sector Skill Council (TSSC) and Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University (DSEU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver skills and relevant courses in technologies such as 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Internet of Things (IoTs), to DSEU students and other aspirants in Delhi/NCR region. “The partnership has a lot of potential to create a stir in the skill ecosystem and potentially lead to a long duration degree (usually of three years) course on telecom which will be wholeheartedly welcomed by the industry,” said Arvind Bali, CEO, TSSC. [6]

JCP recommendations on Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, may adversely impact India’s tech ambitions: IAMAI

A statement released by Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), on 24 February 2022, suggested that the Joint Committee of the Parliament (JCP)’s report on the Personal Data Protection (PDP) Bill 2019, is out of synchronisation with India’s ambitions for the current decade in the field of technology. In December 2021, the JCP report was submitted with recommendations, including stringent data localisation norms, expanded scope to non-personal data, new frameworks for Software and hardware testing.

In a recent interview to a publication, Minister of Communications, Railways, and Electronics & Information Technology— Ashwini Vaishnaw acknowledged on the subject and informed that there are few issues which are tricky and need resolution. The Parliamentary Committee has made some suggestions. [7]

“Regulation will be in place to put onus of cyber-crime reporting on organisation”: MoS IT

On 23 February 2022, Minister of State (MoS) for Electronics & Information Technology— Rajeev Chandrasekhar said that the government of India is bringing a resolution that will make organisations hit by cyber-attack to report or disclose it before the government. While speaking at the launch of the IBM Security Command Centre for Asia Pacific region established in Bangaluru, MoS Chandrasekhar informed that about 100 million-odd cyber incidents have been reported by Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) so far, and India is reportedly second-most attacked country as far as cyber-crime is concerned. “It is essential that at any given point, government and its agencies have absolute clarity on the threat matrix that is around and is active in cyberspace in India,” said MoS Chandrasekhar. [8]

INTERNATIONAL

Ukrainian networks were targeted hours before Russia’s military operations

Researchers at the Microsoft Threat Intelligence Centre (MSTIC) observed destructive cyber-attacks targeting Ukrainian digital infrastructure and spotted a malware strain—FoxBlade, several hours before Russia’s military operations over Ukraine on 24February 2022. On 23 February 2022, Symantec and ESET spotted the malware. “We immediately advised the Ukrainian government about the situation, including our identification of the use of new malware package (FoxBlade), and provided technical advice on steps to prevent the malware’s success,” said Microsoft President and Vice-Chair Brad Smith.[9]

Earlier in 2017, NotPetya malware attack had impacted Ukraine’s and other countries’ economies. The NotPetya attack was linked to Russia’s GRU Main Intelligence Directorate hacking group—Sandworm.

China targeted governments with their ‘most advanced’ backdoor—Daxin

According to the technical report released by Symantec’s Threat Hunter team, on 28 February 2022, Daxin— a China linked stealthy backdoor specifically designed for deployment in hardened corporate networks that feature advanced threat detection capabilities. Daxin is the most advanced backdoor program ever deployed by China-linked cyber actors. “Considering its capabilities and the nature of its deployed attacks, Daxin appears to be optimised for use against stealth networks, allowing attackers to burrow deep into target’s network and exfiltrate data without raising any suspicions,” read Symantec’s report.

By hijacking TCP connections, the Daxin malware can hide malicious communication in what is perceived as legitimate traffic and thus remain undetected. Daxin also stands out due to its capability to establish intricate communication pathways across multiple infected computers at once, using a single command to a set of nodes. This allows threat actors to re-establish the connections and encrypted communication channels in well-guarded networks.[10]

New US export rules designed to freeze Russian technology

The United States (US) on 24 February 2022, restricted exports to Russia of a broad set of US-made products as well as foreign-produced goods built with US technology, following Russia’s military operation in Ukraine. The new rules will force companies making tech products overseas with US tools to seek a US license before shipping to Russia. The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), which represents US chipmakers, noted that “Russia is not a significant direct consumer of semiconductors; and Russia’s communications and tech spending was only about USD 25 million out of the multi-trillion global market in 2019.” [11]

“Users must be allowed to sue US-based tech giants under EU rules”: European Consumer Organisation

On 22 February 2022, a coalition of 31 groups and academics under the pan-European consumer group—BEUC, said that individual users should be allowed to sue United States (US)-base tech giants for breaching critical European Union (EU) rules. The draft Digital Market Acts (DMA) sets out a lot of ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’ for online watchdogs, in effect targeting Apple, Google, Facebook parent Meta, Amazon, and Microsoft. The DMA allows business users to sue violating companies. “The DMA must enable users, both individually and collectively, to bring enforcement actions for violation of DMA rules before national courts,” read the open letter to EU institutions.[12]

Endnotes

[1]Government of India. “Advance Centre for Cyber Security”, Press Information Bureau, 08 February 2022, Available from: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1796568
[2]Government of India. “Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Electronics and IT and Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State in Electronics and IT release ‘National Strategy on Additive Manufacturing’”, Press Information Bureau, 24 February 2022, Available from: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1800915
[3]CERT-In. “CERT-In Advisory CIAD-2022-0006: Multiple Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Product”, CERT-In, 09 February 2022, Available from: https://www.cert-in.org.in/
[4]CERT-In. “LockBit 2.0 Ransomware”, Cyber Swachhta Kendra, 22 February 2022, Available from: https://www.csk.gov.in/alerts/LockBit_2.0_Ransomware.html
[5]Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs. “Cabinet approves implementation of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission with a budget of Rs.1,600 crore for five years”, Press Information Bureau, 26 February 2022, Available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1801322
[6]ET Telecom. “TSSC, DSEU sign MoU to impart skills in 5G, AI/ML, IoT technologies”, ET Telecom, 28 February 2022, Available from: https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/tssc-dseu-sign-mou-to-impart-skills-in-5g-ai/ml-iot-technologies/89891798
[7]Majumdar, Romita. “JCP recommendations on PDP Bill will negatively impact India’s tech ambitions: IAMAI”, 24 February 2022, Available from: https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/jcp-recommendations-on-pdp-bill-will-negatively-impact-indias-tech-ambitions-iamai/89808830
[8]PTI. “Regulation coming to put onus of cyber-crime reporting on organisations: MoS IT”, ET Telecom, 23 February 2022, Available from: https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/regulation-coming-to-put-onus-of-cyber-crime-reporting-on-organisations-mos-it/89774913
[9]Smith, Brad. “Digital technology and the war in Ukraine”, Microsoft, 28 February 2022, Available from: https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/2022/02/28/ukraine-russia-digital-war-cyberattacks/
[10]Toulas, Bill. “Chinese cyberspies target govts with their ‘most advanced’ backdoor”, Bleeping Computer, 28 February 2022, Available from: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/chinese-cyberspies-target-govts-with-their-most-advanced-backdoor/ ; Threat Hunter Team. “Daxin: Stealthy backdoor designed for attacks against hardened networks”, Symantec Blog, 28 February 2022, Available from: https://symantec-enterprise-blogs.security.com/blogs/threat-intelligence/daxin-backdoor-espionage
[11]Reuters. “The new US export rules designed to freeze Russian tech”, ET Telecom, 25 February 2022, Available from: https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/the-new-u-s-export-rules-designed-to-freeze-russian-tech/89815175
[12]Reuters. “Users should be allowed to sue US tech giants under EU rules, civil groups say”, ET Telecom, 22 February 2022, Available from: https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/users-should-be-allowed-to-sue-u-s-tech-giants-under-eu-rules-civil-groups-say/89741797

West Asia Round Up – February 2022

Abstract:

February turned out to be a testing time for the Middle eastern countries as Russia’s so called ‘military operation’ against Ukraine was launched and the two break away parts were declared as Independent Republics by President Putin. Having witnessed the US perceived withdrawal from the region and its occasional insensitivity to their core concerns the regional powers ventured to diversify their risks and relationships. Russia, which is also an OPEC+ partner country as well as that of Gas Exporting Countries Forum, also began to regain its influence after its successful intervention in Syria. This year UAE is in the UNSC and on the US resolution to condemn Russian aggression it abstained along with India and China. Except Kuwait in the GCC other countries waited and watched and did not want to be a part of this ‘big boys’ war’ even as they felt the pinch due to rising food and fuel prices. Even Qatar a non-NATO ally wanted the path of dialogue and diplomacy and walked a thin line. Reports indicated that Saudi and UAE Crown Princes were not inclined to take President Biden’s calls to enhance their oil production to meet the increased demand due to Russia under sanctions. They are not inclined to get caught while they can fill their coffers. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Israel and UAE offered to mediate between Russia and Ukraine and spoke to both President Putin and President Zelensky .

Earlier several regional leaders visited China for the Beijing Winter Olympics after the China -Middle East Forum. They also conducted the discussions among themselves apart from the Chinese leadership. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi held talks with several world leaders on the side-lines of the luncheon hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping in honour of the heads of state and government participating in the opening ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games.

Sisi met with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and with Qatari Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

President Sisi also held talks with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said he spoke with US President Joe Biden and discussed ways to halt Iran’s nuclear programme. However, the negotiations are continuing and the US decided to lift partially some sanctions which the Iranians called ‘a goodwill gesture but inadequate’. Bennett also said he had congratulated Biden on the US raid that led to the death of ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Quraishi

Russia -Ukraine conflict and consequent gas crisis in Europe could expedite conclusion of the JCPOA, if Moscow stays on board.

The foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and Iraq discussed the reasons for the delay in holding the fifth round of Saudi-Iranian talks in Baghdad, the Iraqi foreign ministry said in a statement. “Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein spoke on the phone with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal Bin Farhan, and discussed bilateral relations as well as delays in holding the talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia,” The statement added that the Iraqi foreign minister stressed during the phone call that “the Iraqi government will make every effort and invest all its relations to create an appropriate opportunity for the understanding between Tehran and Riyadh.”According to the statement, the two ministers stressed the need to continue communication during this sensitive period.
In a record time, India and UAE signed the historic Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at boosting the merchandise trade between the two countries to US$ 100 billion over next five years. The deal was signed during the virtual summit meeting between Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi and H.E. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

Addressing the joint press conference with Mr. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy (UAE) and Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Shri Piyush Goyal said that India, celebrating its 75 years of independence and UAE, celebrating 50 years of its foundation were at an appropriate time to reset the relationship between two nations and take it to greater heights than ever before.

India supplied medical assistance to Iran consisting of anti-Tuberculosis as part of ongoing humanitarian help.
PM Modi spoke to Bahraini Prime Minister Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa as the two countries celebrated golden jubilee of the bilateral relations. He also thanked the Bahraini govt for providing all assistance to Indians during the Covid period.

More Details ……
Iranian President’s visit to Qatar

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi visited Qatar in Late February and met with Qatari Emir. Both states signed 14 agreements covering trade, economy, energy, investments, tourism, education, sports and youth, cultural cooperation including television and radio cooperation. The Free trade zone authorities and the Institute of Standards and Industrial Research between both states signed agreements. In terms of ports and maritime affairs, three agreements i.e. maritime transport, port authorities and underwater tunnel were signed. Both states signed agreements encompassing visa waivers for diplomatic trips; political consultations between foreign ministers on issues of joint interest and foreign policy research centres focused on political education and research. Iranian President also met with Qatari businesspersons, investors and both states agreed to establish joint business centre in Doha facilitating investments. Iranian President was accompanied by Energy Minister Javad Owji and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian. The Iranian leaders also participated in the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) summit in Doha.

Gas Exporting Countries Forum Meeting in Doha

Qatar in the background of Russia- Ukraine tensions hosted two day forum of 11 members Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF). Notably, the forum also includes Russia. The member states discussed the progress about negotiations over the 2015 JCPOA. The US asked Qatar to prepare emergency supplies to supply gas to Europe in case of escalation. Qatar and other gas producing states however insisted that they would not be able to provide gas in case sanctions against Russia do affect Western Europe. The gas exporting states have suggested the need for significant investment in gas infrastructure and long-term contracts to guarantee supplies to European states. Qatar during the meeting talked about ensuring credible and reliable supply of natural gas to global markets that preserves market and supply stability. Russia while ignoring tensions with Ukraine only mentioned that their gas firms are committed to existing contracts for gas supplies. For the UAE, the oil price rally is not an issue of supply and demand but driven by geopolitics.

Iran talked about its high capacity for gas production not only for domestic consumption but also exports. President Ebrahim Raisi appealed to the forum to ignore international sanctions against their oil and gas industries which are ineffective. Iran blamed the US for continuing with gruelling sanctions affecting the state. Iraq hinted its interest to shift its investment policy from oil sector to gas as well as increase production of LNG and distillates.

Turkish President’s visit to African states

Turkey is seeking to extend its foray into African states. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in February visited Senegal and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In Kinshasa, President Erdogan was received by Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula Apala Pen’Apala and Turkish Ambassador Murat Ulku. Erdogan also met with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi. In Senegal, Turkish President Erdogan met with his counterpart Macky Sall. Both leaders talked about increasing ties between Turkey and African states on the basis of sincerity and solidarity. The volume of bilateral trade between Turkey and Senegal has steadily increased to US$ 540 million in 2021. Both states have agreed to increase trade to US$ 1 billion. The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) has completed 186 projects since 2007 valuing US$ 12 million. Erdogan was forced to postpone his trip to Guinea-Bissau to attend emergency NATO’s Leaders’ Summit on Ukraine in light of Russia’s move to recognise breakaway Luhansk and Donetsk regions.
Houthi drone attacks on Saudi Arabia
Houthi fighters continued its drone attacks on Saudi civilian assets. On 10 February, Qasef 2 drone attacked civilians near Abha International airport injuring around 12 people including citizens from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Philippines and Sri Lanka. The US condemned the attack and expressed support towards defending Saudi people and their territory.

The Saudi led military coalition retaliated by destroying a telecommunication system required for controlling drones in Sanaa on 14 February. The attack destroyed ground station for satellites close to telecommunication ministry in North Sanaa. The Houthi fighters have been utilizing the Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technology for attacks against Saudi and coalition targets.

Houthi fighters in a drone attack on 22 February at King Abdullah Airport in Jizan province injured 16 people including foreign nationals. The US on 23 February issued new sanctions on key Houthis members who are allegedly part of illicit financial network. According to the US, the network has transferred millions of dollars to Yemen through complex international network of intermediaries to support the group. The sanctions are also aimed at targeting front companies and ships linked to Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp. (IRGC) smuggling oil and gas to fund the Yemeni rebel group.

Street protest in Sudan

Street protest in Sudan has continued in February demanding restoration of civilian rule and calling for release of prisoners. Sudan’s military chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has dismantled the transitional government and removed the civilian Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok in late October. The military due to domestic pressure and international condemnation was forced to restore the military-civilian arrangement. The restoration of Hamdok failed to satisfy Sudanese public who are demanding civilian rule and accountability for actions by the military. Al Jazeera has estimated that around 82 people have been killed by the military since street protest began in October 2021. Moreover around 200 people including political figures and anti-coup activists have been detained.

Israeli Airstrikes in Syria

Israel has carried out number of missile strikes inside Syrian territory in February. On 9 February, Israeli attack using surface to air missile and radar and anti-aircraft batteries killed one Syrian soldier and five others near Damascus. Israel stated that the attack was conducted in response to anti-aircraft missile strike towards northern Israel. Israel repeated its missile attack on 17 February that hit military targets south of Damascus near the town of Zakiya. On 23 February, Israel launched missiles at the province of Quneitra causing substantial damage. Israel has targeted government positions and Iran backed forces and Hezbollah.

US Navy announces plan to launch Middle East drone force

The US Navy in February announced its plan to launch a new joint fleet of unmanned drones in the West Asian region with its allies to patrol the maritime routes. Vice Admiral Brad Cooper that leads the 5th Fleet expressed hope that 100 unmanned drones will multiply surveillance capacities of the US Navy and allow it to monitor the sea routes critical for flow of global oil and shipping. The drones would utilise artificial intelligence which will be operational by mid-2023. The drone force is aimed at limiting Iran’s naval activities.

Iran returns US made vaccines

Iranian government returned 820,000 doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines donated by Poland since they were manufactured in the US. Iranian Health Minister, Bahram Einollahi writing letter to customs authority has claimed that the vaccines were sent from unauthorized source. The suppliers in Poland have assured that it would replace the vaccines. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei in 2020 had forbidden the supply of British and US made vaccines from entering the state. Notably, Iran only imports vaccines from other states provided they are not manufactured in the US or UK.

Iran has the highest deal toll due to COVID-19 and it has relied on Sinopharm as well as Covaxin, Sputnik V, Astra Zeneca and home grown COVIran Barekat to vaccine its citizens.