ASLI INSIGHTS: Asia Unpacked | 16 November 2024

🌏 Stay ahead with Asia Unpacked! From North Korea’s military developments 🛩️ to climate talks in Azerbaijan 🌱 and South Korea’s unique diplomacy preparations ⛳, here’s your weekly roundup of key news shaping the region.

Stay informed. Stay ahead. Here’s what’s making headlines this week:

1. North Korea Unveils Killer Drones Expands Military Arsenal

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the mass production of suicide drones following a successful test of these weapons. During the test, drones destroyed mock targets, and Kim emphasised the importance of improving their capabilities for tactical, strategic, and special operations purposes. He also highlighted the need for integrating artificial intelligence into the drones’ development. This decision follows growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, raising concerns about potential technology sharing between the two nations. These drones, similar to those used in the Ukraine war, are seen as a cost-effective means to attack tanks and other targets.

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2. Qatar Suspends Mediation In Gaza Amid Lack Of Progress In The Region

Qatar has suspended its mediation efforts between Hamas and Israel due to frustrations over the lack of progress in peace talks. The Gulf nation, which has been central in facilitating negotiations, announced that it would halt its role until both sides demonstrate "seriousness and willingness" to pursue a ceasefire. Qatar's foreign ministry emphasised that it would resume mediation if meaningful progress is made. This move follows failed attempts to reach a ceasefire and the ongoing deadlock in Gaza peace talks​.

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3. South Asia Join Forces to Combat Pollution in the Region, Calls for Regional Action

India recently called for increased collaboration with neighboring countries Pakistan and Bangladesh to tackle cross-border pollution, which significantly affects shared ecosystems. This push comes amid worsening air quality in the region, as pollution and smog regularly travel across borders, worsening public health crises in each country. Officials in India emphasised that coordinated measures on air quality management, particularly addressing industrial emissions, agricultural burning, and vehicular pollution, are essential for meaningful change. Although initiatives like the Malé Declaration on air pollution exist, they have seen limited actionable impact. Strengthening cross-border data-sharing, policy alignment, and technology exchanges could enhance regional efforts to mitigate transboundary pollution and foster cleaner, healthier environments across South Asia.

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4. Azerbaijan Hosts COP29: What’s at Stake for Global Warming, Climate Change

The COP29 summit in Azerbaijan focuses on escalating global climate action, with nearly 200 nations working on climate financing, emissions reduction, and strategies to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Azerbaijan, despite its reliance on fossil fuels, aims to leverage its renewable energy resources, including solar and wind, to contribute to international goals. The summit also highlights the geopolitical dynamics of energy—particularly Azerbaijan's ties with countries like Israel, Gulf states, and Russia, which shape its environmental and economic ambitions.

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5. South Korean President Yoon Prepares for 'Golf Diplomacy' with Trump

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is practicing golf after an eight-year hiatus, preparing for a potential round with Donald Trump to build a personal rapport. Trump’s “America First” policies have sparked concerns in South Korea about trade and defense ties. Experts emphasise the importance of forging a personal connection during the transition period. Yoon recently discussed bilateral cooperation with Trump via phone, highlighting the need for adaptability in U.S.-South Korea relations. A senior official hinted that golf could facilitate dialogue, citing Trump's golfing expertise. This approach mirrors former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s successful use of golf diplomacy to strengthen ties with Trump during his presidency.

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