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ASEAN Beat
‘One Vision, One Identity, One Community.’ That’s the ASEAN motto. But what’s the reality? Our bloggers based around this diverse and strategically key region give you an insider’s perspective on politics, security and society in South-east Asia.
India-Vietnam Defense Relations in the Spotlight with Bilateral Visit
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Both sides continue to look for advances in this realm of ties in spite of remaining challenges.
Don’t Forget France in Laos
By Tae-jun Kang
The former colonial power continues to retain influence in the Southeast Asian state.
Sanctions Implicate Hun Sen’s Bodyguard Chief in Grenade Attack
By George Wright
Sanctions announced this week reference a 1997 grenade attack but illustrate souring modern relations between the US and Cambodia.
ASEAN and the New South China Sea Reality
By Mie Oba
The bloc maintains a balancing act as Beijing asserts control over disputed islands.
Who Will Be Timor-Leste’s New Prime Minister?
By David Hutt
Taur Matan Ruak, rather than Xanana Gusmao, is expected to be appointed the country’s new premier.
Indonesia's Unwelcome Eid Tradition: Counterfeit Money
By Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat and Dikanaya Tarahita
A surge in spending -- especially large this year -- means an increase in the circulation of fake money.
Marking the Trump-Kim Summit at a North Korean Restaurant in Cambodia
By Luke Hunt
On a historic night, the Pyongyang Restaurant was packed and in a celebratory mood.
What Does Thailand’s 2019 Defense Budget Mean?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
The government’s announced figure constitutes a modest increase but masks ongoing challenges and issues.
Indonesia’s Chance to Advocate Maritime Security Issues on the Security Council
By Pandu Utama Manggala
Indonesia has won a seat at the UN’s top body. Time to make good use of this chance to advance maritime security.
Is the Philippines Moving Closer to New Submarines Under Duterte?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Though the idea continues to be under consideration, the gap between aspiration and reality remains wide.
Five Power Defense Arrangements in the Spotlight With Land Exercise
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Drills spotlight the FPDA and ongoing efforts to bolster it to respond to ongoing security challenges.
In Vietnam, Protests Highlight Anti-Chinese Sentiment
By Gary Sands
"No leasing land to China even for one day," read a banner hoisted during the recent protests.