Author: David Hutt

Vietnam’s President To Lam Delivers Speech at UN General Assembly Vietnam’s new president, To Lam, recently addressed the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism in tackling global challenges such as geopolitical tensions and climate change. As the first Communist Party chief of Vietnam to speak at the Assembly, To Lam’s speech marked a significant moment. During his visit to New York, To Lam is also expected to meet with US President Joe Biden, as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations in Southeast Asia. Analysts believe this meeting will help demonstrate Vietnam’s neutrality on the global stage as…

Addressing Global Challenges: Vietnam’s President To Lam Speaks at UN Assembly Vietnamese President To Lam recently addressed the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism in tackling global issues such as geopolitical tensions and climate change. As the first Communist Party of Vietnam chief to speak at the Assembly, To Lam’s speech marked a significant moment. During his visit to New York, President To Lam is expected to meet with US President Biden, showcasing Vietnam’s neutrality on the global stage amidst relations with China and Russia. Analysts believe this meeting will help strengthen Vietnam’s position as a key player…

Italian energy conglomerate Enel, known for its investments in renewable energy, is set to exit Vietnam, mirroring similar moves by Norway’s Equinor and Denmark’s Orsted. Enel had plans to invest in generating 6 gigawatts of renewable energy in Vietnam but the decision to withdraw reflects concerns about the country’s renewable energy sector. Experts believe Enel’s focus was on wind power, crucial for Vietnam’s energy transition away from coal. However, challenges like the lack of offshore wind development frameworks have hindered progress. Delays in project approvals and sea area allocations have frustrated investors, leading companies like Equinor and Orsted to pull…

Pope Francis Concludes 12-Day Tour Pope Francis wrapped up his 12-day visit to Southeast Asia and Oceania with stops in Singapore, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, and Papua New Guinea. His visit to Singapore, the second by a Pope, included addressing political leaders and celebrating Mass in front of 55,000 attendees. In Papua New Guinea, he called for sustainable development to benefit all citizens, while in Timor-Leste, he highlighted the country’s struggles and resilience. Expanding Vatican’s Global Outreach Pope Francis’ trip aligns with his focus on marginalized regions, connecting with diverse communities and emphasizing solidarity and inclusion. The visit underscores the Vatican’s pivot…

Chinese-Owned Solar Companies in Southeast Asia Facing Challenges Amid Rising US Tariffs Chinese-owned solar companies in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia, are encountering potential challenges due to increasing US tariffs. These countries represent 40% of solar module production capacity outside of China and may face additional tariffs amid accusations of assisting China in bypassing US import duties. Currently, many Chinese firms are downsizing their operations in Southeast Asia, affecting the European Union’s plans to expand its solar capacity. Despite Southeast Asia being second only to China in solar panel production, over 80% of US solar imports by…

Germany and the Philippines to Strengthen Defense Ties Amidst Rising Tensions in the South China Sea Earlier this month, Germany and the Philippines announced plans to finalize a defense pact by the end of the year. The agreement aims to enhance military cooperation through joint training exercises and potential sales of German weaponry to the Southeast Asian nation. The move comes at a time of escalating tensions in the South China Sea. Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro hosted German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius in Manila, marking the first visit by a German defense chief to the Philippines. Both leaders expressed…

To Lam, the newly appointed general secretary of the Vietnamese Communist Party, made his first foreign trip to Beijing on August 19. During his visit, he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Premier Li Qiang, emphasizing the importance of Vietnam’s ties with China and agreeing to enhance cooperation on defense and security. Despite historical tensions over the South China Sea, Vietnam has pursued a strategy of “bamboo diplomacy” to balance its relationships with major powers, including the US. To Lam’s visit to China has sparked speculation about a shift in Vietnam’s foreign policy, but analysts…

The €1.5 Billion Funan Techo Canal: Cambodia’s Mega Project A groundbreaking event on August 5 marked the start of a massive project in Cambodia – a 180-kilometer canal linking the Mekong River to two deep-water ports on the Gulf of Thailand. The government views this canal as a vital economic lifeline for the country, despite doubts about funding from China and concerns about environmental and security implications. The Controversial Project While the government promises economic benefits from reduced shipping costs and independence from Vietnamese ports, critics question the canal’s feasibility and environmental impact. Allegations of security risks and doubts about…

Vietnam’s New Leadership and the Future of Foreign Relations With the appointment of President To Lam, Vietnam’s foreign policy seems to remain consistent with a focus on balancing relationships with all global powers. Analysts believe that while Vietnam’s leadership lacks experience in international diplomacy, their potential increase in human rights violations may prompt European nations to reevaluate their ties with the country. Despite this, both Brussels and Hanoi are emphasizing continuity in their relations. The European Union has several significant agreements with Vietnam, including a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and a free trade deal. The EU is keen on strengthening…

In order to achieve global net-zero emissions goals by 2050, the annual supply of nickel and copper will have to drastically increase. A recent report from the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation revealed that a 208% increase in nickel supply and a 156% increase in copper supply are necessary relative to 2020 production levels. The report also emphasized the need for increased extraction of at least 15 other minerals and metals to meet climate targets. However, concerns have been raised about the sustainability and ethical implications of this large-scale extraction. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the importance of ensuring that…