South and Central Asia
China’s growing presence ratchets tensions in Sri Lanka
Holding a key position along strategic maritime routes, Sri Lanka has drawn a high level of economic investment. China and India, long-time competitors for influence in the Indian Ocean, have brought their geopolitical competition to the ports of Sri Lanka – and raised social unrest risks locally in the process.
Will Trump’s Asia tour fix America’s Southeast Asia problem?
Trump’s Asia tour is a chance to present a more concrete US strategy, to reassure allies, and to shape the region’s geopolitics in America’s favor.
Kyrgyz elections stoke regional tensions
The Kyrgyz presidential elections are a positive sign for democracy, but a recent quarrel between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan threatens integration efforts.
Special Report: Grasberg mine talks signal Indonesia’s strengthening resolve
Despite issues concerning the Indonesian government’s divestment plans for Papua’s Grasberg mine, there are growing signs that Indonesia will get its way.
Trump’s new Afghanistan strategy faces first test
With recent bloody attacks showing the Taliban seemingly stronger than ever in Afghanistan, will Trump succeed where Obama failed?
The Week Ahead
Japan prepares for snap election amid heightened tensions with North Korea. Catalan parliament declares independence. Major exporters balk at Brexit WTO arrangements. International Contact Group discusses Afghan peace process in Russia. All
A stellar power in the making? The role of India in the global space economy
This year has been a milestone for India in terms of increasing its competitiveness in the growing global space industry.
Kaladan woes reflect frustrated Indian vision for Myanmar and Southeast Asia
India’s ambitions to establish a foothold in Myanmar and strengthen ties with Southeast Asia risk being jeopardised by the ongoing Kaladan project.
Indonesian and Malaysian palm oil at a crossroads
Europe’s war against palm oil and overall western pressure risks pushing Indonesia and Malaysia closer to less regulated markets.
Special Report: Property rights, corruption and infrastructure in Russia and Kazakhstan
Ownerless assets – roads in particular – are a prism through which development problems in Russia and Kazakhstan, and the attendant risks, become evident.
