Long Mekong

About Long Mekong

Comprehensive coverage of public concerns and power contradictions along the Mekong and analysis of the Greater Mekong Sub-Region and its geo-political interactions with the wider world. longmekong.substack.com (https://longmekong.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast)

Publisher

Rich analysis by Dr. Digby James Wren

Category

news · news

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

15 Jul 2024

Latest episode

15 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Jul 2026

   Honoring the Lasting Legacy of Chum Sora Savorot

   កល្យាណមិត្តដ៏ជិតស្និតបំផុតចុងក្រោយ របស់សម្តេចព្រះមហាក្សត្រី ព្រះវររាជមាតាជាតិខ្មែរ ជាទីគោរពសក្ការៈដ៏ខ្ពង់ខ្ពស់បំផុត លោកជំទាវ ជុំសរ សាវរ៉ុត បានទទួលមរណភាពក្នុងជន្មាយុ ៩៣ឆ្នាំ ដោយជរាពាធ នាទីក្រុងប៉ារីស នាព្រឹកថ្ងៃទី៥ ខែកក្កដា ឆ្នាំ២០២៦។លោកជំទាវ ជាឥស្សរជន និងជាព្រឹទ្ធាចារ្យមួយរូបដែលដង្ហែព្រះរាជកិច្ចដោយភក្តីភាពដ៏ស្មោះស្ម័គ្របំផុតថ្វាយព្រះករុណាព្រះបរមរតនកោដ្ឋ និងសម្តេចព្រះមហាក្សត្រី ព្រមទាំងព្រះករុណាជាអម្ចាស់ជីវិតលេីត្បូង គ្រប់កាលៈទេសៈ រហូតដល់វិនាទីចុងក្រោយរបស់លោកជំទាវ។សូមវិញ្ញាណក្ខន្ធលោកជំទាវ បានអញ្ជេីញទៅកាន់សុគតិភពកុំបីឃ្លៀងឃ្លាតឡេីយ 💐💐💐 English Translation The beloved and closest confidant of Her Majesty the Queen Mother of Cambodia, Mr. Chum Sora Savorot, has passed away at the age of 93. He died peacefully in Paris on the morning of July 5, 2026. Mr. Chum Sora Savorot was a distinguished elder and a venerable statesman who faithfully served the royal court with utmost sincerity and devotion. He offered his unwavering loyalty and prayers to His Majesty the King and the Queen Mother, as well as to the divine life force, until his final moments. May Mr. Chum Sora Savorot’s soul ascend to the celestial realm beyond, forever in serenity. 💐💐💐 Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

2. 

   15 Apr 2026

   US Blockade of Hormuz Fails Bigly

   Trump’s megalomania is the most recent sign of US as a “Paper Tiger” Mao Zedong’s famous “paper tiger” (纸老虎, zhǐlǎohǔ) quote states: “All reactionaries are paper tigers. In appearance, the reactionaries are terrifying, but in reality, they are not so powerful”. It signifies that powerful-looking enemies (like US imperialism or Jiang Jieshi - Chiang Kai-shek) are actually weak and will ultimately be defeated by the people because they are divorced from the masses. Mao famously stated, “U.S. imperialism has not yet been overthrown and it has the atom bomb, but I believe it too is a paper tiger and will be overthrown”. Key Aspects of the Quote: * Definition: “Paper tiger” refers to something that seems threatening or powerful but is ineffectual and unable to withstand challenges. * Strategic Meaning: Mao argued that while reactionaries are “real tigers” in the short term (tactically), they are “paper tigers” in the long term (strategically). * Origin: The concept was prominently discussed in a 1946 interview with American journalist Anna Louise Strong, where Mao described Jiang Jieshi (Chiang Kai-shek), Hitler, and US imperialism as paper tigers. * Usage: The quote was used to boost morale and confidence, reassuring his followers that powerful enemies could be overthrown. Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

3. 

   16 Apr 2025

   Xi Jinping in SEA: Crisis or Consolidation

   Xi Jinping's Strategic Southeast Asia Tour Amidst Trade War Tensions Strengthening Ties and Economic Resilience In a move to consolidate regional ties amidst the ongoing trade war, Chinese President Xi Jinping embarked on a pivotal three-nation tour of Southeast Asia, visiting Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia. This visit, set against the backdrop of escalating tariffs by the United States, signals China's commitment to bolstering economic and diplomatic relationships within ASEAN. "Every foreign visit is a charm offensive unless it's specifically for crisis management," noted Dr. Digby James Wren, a seasoned analyst on Southeast Asian affairs. "Xi Jinping's tour isn't just about charm; it's about strategic consolidation." Vietnam, the first stop on Xi's itinerary, is China's largest trading partner in the region. Despite this, a staggering 72% of Vietnam's exports are destined for the United States. The imposition of a 46% tariff on these exports threatens to deliver a severe blow to Vietnam's thriving economy. This scenario underscores the delicate balance Vietnam maintains between its economic engagements with the US and its robust trade with China. Historical Context and Economic Impact Vietnam's significant growth has been marked by a strategic interplay of trade relations. As Dr. Wren emphasized, "Vietnam has deftly balanced its trade relations, reaping benefits from the US while engaging closely with China." This balance is now at risk due to the looming tariffs which could potentially gut Vietnam's economy. In Cambodia, the situation is equally dire. Faced with a 49% tariff on its exports, Prime Minister Hun Manet quickly responded by reducing tariffs on US goods by 5%. "Although a small concession, this move aims to mitigate some of the economic impacts, which could result in the loss of around a million jobs, particularly in the garment industry," Dr. Wren explained. Malaysia, currently dependent on licensing technology and assembling components, is also under threat. As it transitions towards research and development and branding, the tariffs pose significant challenges. Malaysia's expressed interest in joining BRICS Plus reflects a proactive stance within ASEAN, aiming to fortify its economic resilience. Strategic Partnerships and Investments Xi Jinping's tour is not just about mitigating the impacts of US tariffs but also about strengthening strategic partnerships within ASEAN. China's "good neighbor policy" has maintained strong ties with regional neighbors since the early 90s, providing vital infrastructure investments and creating import markets. "China's recent law changes allow goods marked for export to remain in the country, boosting domestic competition and innovation," Dr. Wren highlighted. This strategic move is seen as a hallmark of Chinese manufacturing prowess. The Belt and Road initiative will play a crucial role in this strategy, supporting future economic growth through investments in AI, high-tech manufacturing, and digitalization. Notably, Cambodia's electric battery factory, utilizing Vietnamese lithium, will support Vietnam's burgeoning car market, with expectations of increased vehicle manufacturing in Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. Education and Sustainable Development Xi Jinping's tour also emphasizes educational and sustainable development initiatives. Vocational training, foreign university collaborations, and scholarships are set to uplift education standards in the region. Consolidating farming sectors through trading platforms, similar to Japan's rice trading platform in Cambodia, will enhance agricultural trade. "Promoting sustainable and green production, especially in key exports like cashew nuts, will be crucial," Dr. Wren stated. Electrifying processing areas for these exports aligns with the broader goal of sustainable development. Tourism and Economic Growth Tourism is another focal point, with expectations of increased Chinese tourist influx boosting local economies. "Education and services will significantly benefit from this, injecting much-needed funds into ASEAN economies," Dr. Wren observed. Language training and cultural shifts will further integrate ASEAN with its partners. Conclusion Xi Jinping's timely tour comes as the US seeks to extract wealth to pay its debts and sustain power. "The US cabinet's desperate and confused interviews highlight the necessity for Xi to strengthen regional relationships now," Dr. Wren remarked. The consolidation of ties with Cambodia, Malaysia, and Vietnam is poised to fortify ASEAN amidst the US tariff regime. Rapid completion of agreements on rail, highway, and power grid connections with China will contribute to renewable energy initiatives, ultimately bolstering regional stability and economic growth. In essence, Xi Jinping's strategic tour underscores China's commitment to fostering a resilient and interconnected Southeast Asian region, navigating through the complexities of global trade dynamics. Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

4. 

   16 Apr 2025

   Reviving Angkor's Royal Palace

   For decades, the preservation of #Angkor (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/angkor) - a #UNESCO (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/unesco) World Heritage Site - has been a global mission. Among the many contributors, #China (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/china) has played a vital and growing role. In this #documentary (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/documentary), Reviving Angkor’s Royal Palace, award winning documentary maker Miao Xiaojuan takes a journey deep into the jungles of northwest #Cambodia (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/cambodia) to uncover a long-forgotten treasure at the heart of Angkor Thom: the #RoyalPalace (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/royalpalace), once home to the #Khmer (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/khmer) kings. Today, a Chinese-Cambodian team is carefully bringing this sacred place back to life, one stone at a time. From the 9th to 14th century the Khmer Empire ruled much of mainland Southeast Asia, carving a monumental capital out of the jungle. This ancient wonder Ankor spans over 400 square kilometers in today’s Siem Reap, northwest Cambodia. Not only does it belong to Cambodia, the world site is for everyone. While the temples of Tapron, Ankor Wat, and Bayon are known to many, the true soul of the kingdom lies in the heart of Angkor Thom. Here in the royal palace at its center stands Phimeanakas, a 10th century Hindu temple once the residence of the Khmer kings, still revered as the most sacred site in local memory. You are working in the heart of Cambodia, the heart of the Khmer people. When this temple is very well restored it will be the most important, especially for the Cambodian people. Over 400 years after Angkor’s fall, French explorer Henri Mouhot discovered these ruins. But it wasn’t until 1992 when UNESCO listed Angkor as a world heritage site in danger that true rescue efforts began. Experts from around the globe have come together to preserve this treasure of human civilization one stone at a time. When you see each temple you will see different techniques using the international team come to help but at the same time to learn as well and to share to the world. Since 1993 China has played a vital role in this global undertaking restoring temples like Chau Say Tevoda and Ta Keo, and now reviving the royal palace. The consistency is the key here, it’s not on again off again and it doesn’t come with a whole package of conditions that have to be met. Cambodia and China are working together thousand years ago. You can find the evidence on different temple carvings. The Chinese bring back the story of the connection between Cambodia and China and also connect to the world as well through this culture at Angkor. The restoration project is a highlight for civilizational exchange and the Belt and Road initiative is to empower economies for their own development. A good example of that is the new airport at Siem Reap to protect Angkor Wat. The other airport was too close and so the turbulence from the aircraft was disturbing the sites. Without Chinese assistance that couldn’t have happened. It also opens up new travel routes for tourists here in the country. Here in Angkor the voices of travellers from around the globe echo among the ancient stones. They tell stories of wonder, connection, and shared humanity. It’s not only preserving the rich culture that they have here but also it’s just showing that other countries are willing to help in this modern day. One of the things you learn traveling especially maybe for a lot of Americans who haven’t is you learn pretty quickly that everyone is really the same deep down. It’s just good to come here and just to have a break and to go a little bit far away from every bad news and see that the world can be full of serenity and can be peaceful. While Trump champions America first, China’s quiet partnership-driven diplomacy is emerging as a stabilizing force in an increasingly fragmented world. For a more inclusive approach that focuses on development interdependence, infrastructure support is just going to naturally win over the hearts and minds of many countries around the world. The whole world is kind of waking up and realizing that this is very impressive governance and leadership and that there’s a lot that can be learned. To safeguard legacies like Angkor is never the task of one nation alone but a shared responsibility for all who cherish the memory and wisdom of ancient civilizations. When we study these ancient cultures what we see is that they’re not thriving through conflict. They’re thriving through peace, through development, through trade, through cultural exchange. Time gives us to learn and to share. At the same time, to receive new technology. The most important key place to do the work. The Khmer people pay a lot of respect. You have a lot of deep sayings the Khmer people say in the heart not the word. Two days of filming cannot possibly capture the essence of the royal palace’s restoration. Yet we look forward to returning in another five years to witness what time, trust, and collaboration can achieve. China major contributor to preserving Cambodia’s iconic Angkor: tourism minister The 401-square-km Angkor park, the kingdom’s most popular tourist destination, is home to 91 ancient temples, which were built from the ninth to the 13th centuries. Key temples include the Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Chau Say Tevoda, Ta Keo, Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, and Phnom Bakheng, among others. China had helped restore ruined temples in the park since 1997 by successfully restoring Chau Say Tevoda and Ta Keo. Currently, the Chinese experts have been restoring the Phimeanakas temple located inside the walled enclosure of the Royal Palace of the Angkor Thom. Hak said China took the lead in providing scholars, architectural experts, archaeologists, and technicians to help restore and preserve ruined temples in the Angkor park. “I’d like to thank the government and people of the People’s Republic of China for sacrificing time, physical and mental energies, materials and budget to help preserve, protect and restore ancient temples in Cambodia’s Angkor complex,” he told Xinhua in a recent interview. The minister praised the Chinese experts for helping restore ruined monuments in the Angkor park into their stunning original forms, saying that their great contributions were invaluable for the people of Cambodia. “I’d like to express my profound gratitude and record the merits of the People’s Republic of China, Chinese scholars, experts, and technicians in contributing actively to the mission of restoring, preserving and developing temples in this world heritage site,” he said. Hak said Cambodia has trust and confidence in China in helping restore the Phimeanakas temple within the Royal Palace of Angkor Thom. He added that China’s aid has not only contributed to ensuring the sustainable development of ancient temples in the Angkor park, but also helped train Cambodian experts and archaeologists on the work of safeguarding and preserving ancient temples. The Angkor park attracted a total of 1.02 million international tourists in 2024, generating a gross revenue of $47.8 million from ticket sales, according to the state-owned Angkor Enterprise. Speaking of Cambodia-China cooperation in the tourism sector, Hak said China is also a key supporter for tourism development in the Southeast Asian country, adding that Chinese-invested mega-infrastructure projects, such as the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway and the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, have laid a solid foundation for the kingdom’s development of economy and tourism. Sharing his view on building a community with a shared future for mankind, Hak said any initiative launched by China always aims to provide common interest for the whole world and help make the world more harmonious with shared prosperity and common development. “Cambodia and other countries alike are really happy to welcome and fully support it because this initiative is global in nature for common interest and win-win results for all,” he said. Xinhua https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501669581/china-major-contributor-to-preserving-cambodias-iconic-angkor-tourism-minister/#google_vignette (https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501669581/china-major-contributor-to-preserving-cambodias-iconic-angkor-tourism-minister/#google_vignette) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2)

5. 

   6 Apr 2025

   The Fracturing Global Order

   The advent of the second Trump administration has sent shockwaves through the global economy and threatens to further destabilise the transition to a multipolar world order. Professors Warwick Powell and Felicity Dean discuss at length, and in a granular fashion, the implications and threats of the coercive practices of the US administration and the looming political, economic, security and social crises that are unfolding. Summary of Key Implications of US Tariff Measures Summary provided by Deepseek NB: The discussion between the host and Professor Felicity Dean examines the U.S. administration’s tariffs on steel, aluminium, and impending reciprocal measures, focusing on their implications for Australia and global trade systems. Economic Implications The tariffs threaten Australia’s export sectors, particularly beef and pharmaceuticals. Under the **Australia-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA)**, Australian beef has enjoyed zero tariffs in the U.S. since 2018, but new measures could breach this agreement, raising costs for U.S. consumers (e.g., fast-food chains like McDonald’s) and reducing demand for Australian exports. While the Australian red meat industry remains cautiously calm, prolonged tariffs could trigger legal action via WTO dispute mechanisms or AUSFTA terms. However, the WTO’s enforcement capacity is weakened by the paralyzed Appellate Body, which the U.S. has blocked from appointing new members since 2020. The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), Australia’s subsidised medication program, faces scrutiny from U.S. pharmaceutical lobbies as a “non-tariff barrier.” Though bipartisan Australian commitments aim to protect the PBS, tariffs on pharmaceuticals could inflate U.S. drug prices, disproportionately affecting low-income households. Australia, a net importer of U.S. goods, risks retaliatory tariffs harming its consumers amid a domestic cost-of-living crisis. Political Implications The U.S. shift toward protectionism undermines **post-WWII multilateral trade norms**, challenging Australia’s advocacy for rules-based systems. The Biden administration’s 2024 report framing the PBS as a trade barrier exemplifies politicization of domestic policies. Professor Dean highlights the fragility of international institutions, noting the WTO’s diminished authority due to U.S. obstructionism. Domestically, trade policies are increasingly weaponised in political discourse. In the U.S., stagnant wages and inequality (60% of Americans live paycheck-to-paycheck) fuel polarization, while Australia faces debates over balancing sovereignty (e.g., defending the PBS) with global trade obligations. Social Implications Tariffs risk deepening socioeconomic divides. In the U.S., higher beef costs could strain low-income families reliant on affordable food, exacerbating food insecurity. In Australia, threats to the PBS jeopardize equitable healthcare access. Both nations grapple with mental health crises linked to economic precarity, with rising pharmaceutical dependency reflecting systemic stress. Education’s role as a social equalizer is also at risk. Austerity in higher education funding, driven by scapegoating international students for housing shortages, threatens long-term workforce readiness and productivity—a trend mirroring U.S. declines in educational attainment. Security Implications While not explicitly addressed, indirect risks emerge from economic instability. Trade disputes could escalate into broader diplomatic tensions, undermining cooperation on **transnational challenges like climate change**. Social unrest, fueled by inequality and political polarization, poses internal security risks in the U.S., while Australia’s reliance on multilateral frameworks for global stability weakens as institutions erode. Future Outlook Professor Dean predicts that the next decade could see a fragmented global trade system, with nations prioritising short-term protectionism over collective action. Australia’s commitment to multilateralism faces tests, particularly in balancing sovereignty with international obligations. The erosion of trust in institutions and expertise threatens progress on global issues, emphasizing the need to reinvest in cooperative frameworks. Conclusion The U.S. tariffs signal a pivot from globalization to protectionism, with cascading effects on economic stability, political cohesion, social equity, and global security. Australia’s challenge lies in defending its interests while advocating for renewed multilateralism. Without systemic reforms, these trends risk entrenching division, weakening responses to global crises, and deepening inequalities. US tariffs will upend global trade. This is how Australia can respond By Felicity Deane (safari-reader://theconversation.com/profiles/felicity-deane-271855)(Published: April 3) US President Donald Trump has imposed a range of tariffs (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/regulating-imports-with-a-reciprocal-tariff-to-rectify-trade-practices-that-contribute-to-large-and-persistent-annual-united-states-goods-trade-deficits/) on all products entering the US market, with Australian exports set to face a 10% tariff, effective April 5. These import taxes will be charged by US customs on each imported item. The punitive tariffs on 60 countries range as high as 34% on imports from China and 46% on Vietnam, and exceed the rates agreed between the United States and other global trade partners. “For decades, our country has been looted, pillaged, raped and plundered by nations near and far, both friend and foe alike,” Trump said. The impact on Australian industries will be both direct and indirect. The largest Australian export to the US is meat products, totalling A$4 billion in 2024, and our farmers may divert some product to other nations. Direct and indirect impacts The larger economic risk is to our regional trading partners. While Australia faces only 10% tariffs, our major trading partners China, Japan and South Korea all face much higher US tariffs under the new regime. So the risk of a manufacturing slowdown in those countries could dampen demand for Australia’s much larger exports – iron ore, coal and gas. Australian investors reacted swiftly, wiping 2.1% off the main stock market index, the S&P/ASX 200, in the first hour of trade. Another problem will be the disruption to global supply chains. It is not just finished products impacted. For instance, the 25% automobile tariff will be extended to auto parts (https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/car-parts-makers-plead-for-tariff-exemption-as-trump-fuels-trade-war-20250327-p5lmyj) on May 3. This means even if a car is entirely built in the US, it will still be more expensive because many components are imported. What sectors has the US complained about? On April 1, the US released an annual trade report that identifies what it describes as “foreign trade barriers”. There was a long list of grievances with both tariff and non-tariff (https://ustr.gov/sites/default/files/files/Press/Releases/2025/2025%20National%20Trade%20Estimate%20Report.pdf) barriers identified. The report identified Australia’s biosecurity restrictions on meat, apples and pears. The Australian biosecurity rules (https://theconversation.com/what-are-non-tariff-barriers-and-why-is-agriculture-so-exposed-252739) do not directly ban any products, although in practice raw beef products are excluded. Trump singled out Australian beef in his speech. “They won’t take any of our beef,” he claimed. In a speech riddled with inaccuracies and falsehoods, this was one of them. Australia take shelf-stable US products, but not raw products for which consumer safety can not be assured (https://nff.org.au/media-release/agriculture-sector-profoundly-disappointed-in-united-states-tariff-decision/). The US cited two other main Australian trade barriers. US drug companies have criticised the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (https://theconversation.com/will-the-us-trade-war-push-up-the-price-of-medicines-in-australia-will-there-be-drug-shortages-252728) approvals processes. The Albanese government’s plan to strengthen (https://theconversation.com/australias-coercive-news-media-rules-are-the-latest-targets-of-us-trade-ire-252806) the News Media Bargaining Code that requires tech companies to pay for news published on their platforms was also targeted. How can Australia respond? Both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-04-03/election-2025-albanese-responds-trump-tariffs-beef/105130768) and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton are in agreement over what we should do in response. They say Australian law and policy is not up for sale. We don’t negotiate on biosecurity, we don’t negotiate on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme process, and our local news media deserves protection from Big Tech. * All avenues start with negotiations The preferred option is for a negotiation with the US to secure an exemption. A dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO) (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-04-02/government-could-challenge-trump-at-world-trade-organisation-/105127142) sends a strong message to our trading partners and will also mean there’s an expert adjudication on this unprecedented move. However, the US has sidelined the WTO in recent years and Albanese has ruled out this route. * Consultation The second potential action is to initiate consultations under the Australia–US Free Trade Agreement. There is a formal process (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-04-03/election-2025-albanese-responds-trump-tariffs-beef/105130768) identified in the agreement to which Albanese referred, with a threat of “dispute resolution mechanisms”. Albanese has ruled out imposing “reciprocal tariffs” on US imports, noting this would only push up prices for Australian consumers. * Find new markets Third, we can find other markets. Australian agricultural products are some of the most desirable in the world. Australian producers will have other options. Indeed, the latest data for beef exports (https://www.beefcentral.com/trade/february-beef-exports-set-cracking-pace/) showed exports to China jumped 43% from January, to Japan up 27%, and to South Korea up 60% from the previous month. What has the government said? Albanese announced a response package (https://theconversation.com/australian-beef-targeted-by-donald-trump-in-liberation-day-trade-crackdown-253111), including $50 million to help pursue new markets. He said the tariff announcement was “not the act of a friend” and had “no basis in logic”: It is the American people who will pay the biggest price for these unjustified tariffs. This is why our government will not be seeking to impose reciprocal tariffs. Albanese’s response contains only one direct trade measure. That is the plan to strengthen anti-dumping (https://www.industry.gov.au/anti-dumping-commission) provisions on steel, aluminium and other manufacturing. This means countries looking to sell their products too cheaply in Australia will face countervailing duties. It is a measure that aligns with trade rules. The decision by the US to impose tariffs in this way shows complete disregard for the world trade order established after World War II. The rules that have existed since this time aimed to limit trade barriers (such as tariffs). They also recognised the importance of supporting developing countries to be part of the world economy. Some of the biggest US tariffs are to hit some of the lowest-income countries. This will impact their economies badly and disadvantage people already living in poverty. https://theconversation.com/us-tariffs-will-upend-global-trade-this-is-how-australia-can-respond-253621 (https://theconversation.com/us-tariffs-will-upend-global-trade-this-is-how-australia-can-respond-253621) Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

6. 

   30 Mar 2025

   Regional Tremors, AUKUS Sinks and Great Power Signals

   Ambiguous alignment: Australia navigating US–China rivalry in the post‑AUKUS era The central river plains of Myanmar are dominated by the Burmese ethnic group and they make up 60% or even more of the total population and they control all of the riverine networks and most of the food production in the country and it's always been thus. As Great Power rivalry in the Asia–Pacific has intensified, Australia has widely come to be seen as a prototypical Balancer. By lending its modest weight in support of its long-time security ally, the US, it seeks to offset the challenges to the regional order posed by China. Featured contributor Prof. Josef Mahoney joined CGTN Global Watch to discuss the continued fallout from Signalgate. Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

7. 

   8 Feb 2025

   China's resilience: Turning tariffs into driving force

   China's resilience: Turning tariffs into driving force First Voice A new chapter in global trade tensions is unfolding with U.S. President Donald Trump's latest move: A sweeping 10 percent additional tax on Chinese imports, igniting economic friction that's rippling far beyond Washington and Beijing. But this isn't just a story of tariffs and taxes; it's a test of resilience, strategy and global influence. How has China responded? In this video commentary, Yasir Masood, CGTN opinion editor and Pakistani political commentator, unpacks the big picture: Past, present and future. https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-02-07/China-s-resilience-Turning-tariffs-into-driving-force-1ANCxadK8UM/p.html (https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-02-07/China-s-resilience-Turning-tariffs-into-driving-force-1ANCxadK8UM/p.html) Long Mekong is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Japan PM, Trump play nice despite tariff threat Source: France 24 Heaping praise on each other at the White House, the two leaders pledged to stand together against Chinese "aggression" and said they found a solution for a blocked deal for troubled US Steel. Trump however pressed Ishiba to cut the US trade deficit with Japan to zero, and warned that Tokyo could still face tariffs on exported goods if it fails to do so. Ishiba, an avowed "geek" and model warship fan, has been under pressure to replicate Trump's close relationship with former premier and golf buddy Shinzo Abe. Both leaders insisted they had struck up a rapport during what was only the second visit by a foreign leader of Trump's new term. 'Frightening'? "I was so excited to see such a celebrity on television in person," Ishiba told their joint press conference -- while saying he was not trying to "suck up." "On television he is frightening and has a very strong personality. But when I met with him actually he was very sincere and very powerful." As they exchanged photographs, Trump praised the 68-year-old Japanese premier as "good looking" -- typically one of the former reality TV star's highest orders of praise. And the US president laughed and said "that's a very good answer" when Ishiba said he could not respond to a "theoretical question" about whether he would retaliate to any US tariffs. Trump meanwhile said that Japan's Nippon Steel will make a major investment in US Steel, but not take over the troubled company as previously negotiated. Trump said "they'll be looking at an investment rather than a purchase." His predecessor Joe Biden had blocked the deal. The two leaders also doubled down on decades-old US ties in security and trade -- despite fears that Trump could turn on Tokyo as he has with other US allies. Chinese 'aggression'? Trump said they had agreed to fight "Chinese economic aggression" and in a joint statement they condemned Beijing for "provocative activities" in the contested South China Sea. They also called for a denuclearised North Korea, although Trump -- who met its leader Kim Jong-un during his first term -- said he wanted to have "relations" with Pyongyang. Behind Trump's expressions of support were Japan's promises of a 1 trillion dollar investment in the United States and to boost Japanese purchases of US defense equipment. Ishiba said his country was the biggest investor in the United States and would step up its spending. The soft-spoken, cigarette-smoking Ishiba had rushed to Washington hoping to blunt the edge of Trump's "America First" policies. Under Abe, Japan was shielded from some of Trump's more punishing tendencies, such as sudden trade wars and pressure to increase financial contributions towards hosting US soldiers. Days after Trump's first election victory, Abe rushed to deliver to him a gold-plated golf club. Trump also hosted Abe's widow Akie for dinner at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida this past December. So far the US president has slapped tariffs on China and ordered them on Mexico and Canada before halting them for a month. He has also pledged tariffs on the European Union and said Friday that he would announce unspecified "reciprocal tariffs" next week. https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250207-trump-hosts-japan-pm-threatens-tariffs (https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250207-trump-hosts-japan-pm-threatens-tariffs) Full-Page Ad: Donald Trump - Letter on Foreign Policy - September 2, 1987 How Japan sparked Trump's 40-year love affair with tariffs By Nada Tawfik When Donald Trump's fortunes took a downturn in the 90s and he needed to raise cash fast, he sailed his 282ft (85m) super-yacht, the Trump Princess, to Asia hoping he could attract Japan's wealthy. It wasn't the first time the businessman had sought out Japanese buyers or lenders for his projects. In the cut-throat world of New York real estate, Trump had a front-row seat from his Fifth Avenue skyscraper of Tokyo's buying spree in the 80s of iconic US brands and properties, including Rockefeller Center. It was then that his worldview on trade and America's relations with its allies was formed, and his fixation on tariffs, a tax on imports, began. "He had a tremendous resentment for Japan," says Barbara Res, a former executive vice-president at the Trump Organization. He watched with jealousy as Japanese businessmen were viewed as geniuses, she says. He felt America wasn't getting enough in return for assisting its ally Japan with military defence. * What are tariffs and why is Trump threatening them? (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn93e12rypgo) Trump often complained that he had difficulties doing deals with large groups of Japanese businessmen. "I'm tired of watching other countries ripping off the United States." That Trump quote could've been pulled from 2016, but it's actually from the late 80s when he made an appearance on CNN's Larry King Live, around the time he first floated his name as a potential presidential candidate. Fresh from sharing his business philosophy in his 1987 book, The Art of the Deal, Trump went on a tirade against America's trade policies in national interviews. In an animated interview with Oprah Winfrey before a live studio audience on The Oprah Show, he said he would handle foreign policy differently by making the country's allies "pay their fair share". He added that there wasn't free trade when Japan was "dumping" products into America's market but making it "impossible to do business" there. Jennifer Miller, an associate professor of history at Dartmouth College, said others shared his concerns about the economy at the time. Japan provided competition for US manufacturing, particularly in consumer electronics and cars. As US factories were shuttering and new Japanese brands entered the market, pundits were talking about Japan surpassing the US as the world's leading economy. "Trump is sort of symbolic of a lot of people who were kind of questioning American leadership in the American-led international order, and whether it actually served the United States," Prof Miller says. Before his Oprah appearance, Trump had spent almost $100,000 to release an "open letter" in full-page ads in three major US newspapers. The headline read: "There's nothing wrong with America's Foreign Defense Policy that a little backbone can't cure." In it, he said Japan and other nations had been taking advantage of the US for decades. He claimed "the Japanese, unimpeded by the huge costs of defending themselves (as long as the United States will do it for free), have built a strong and vibrant economy with unprecedented surpluses". Trump believed the obvious solution was to "tax" these wealthy nations. "The world is laughing at America's politicians as we protect ships we don't own, carrying oil we don't need, destined for allies who won't help," he wrote. Watch: Donald Trump opens up in 1998 BBC interview on surviving financial loss The ad served as a potent introduction to Trump's foreign policy vision, according to Prof Miller. One built on the zero-sum belief that allies are freeloaders and that the liberal internationalist approach which had dominated since World War II was weak and foolish in a competitive world. The solution, he argued, was a more aggressive, protectionist trade policy. "I think that's one reason he likes tariffs so much, is they fit not only with his transactional ideology but his sense of himself, which is very deeply rooted as this successful dealmaker," she said. "And the fact that tariffs can be threatened; they can be dangled over another country." Clyde Prestowitz headed negotiations with Japan during the Reagan administration as counselor to the secretary of commerce. A longtime critic of free-trade policies, he said nobody who was intellectually serious was affiliated with Trump or his simplistic approach at the time. He argues that the president hasn't offered a real solution to the problems he's raised. "Tariffs are kind of a showy thing that you can say, look what I did, I banged those guys… so you know, you can be a tough guy. Whether or not they are effective in any way is really open to discussion." Mr Prestowitz believes the real problem then and now is that the US doesn't have a strategic manufacturing policy, despite complaining about unfair trade. Of course, fears of Japan's rise calmed over time and now it's an ally. Instead it's China that is the US's fiercest corporate competitor. This week Trump welcomed Japan's prime minster into the Oval Office as one of his first foreign visitors. But Donald Trump's governing philosophy is still the same as when he was a young real estate developer. He still believes just as strongly in tariffs as a tool to pressure other countries to open their markets and reduce trade deficits. "He just says this all the time to anybody who will listen whenever anybody asks, and that's been true for 40 years. And in fairness to him, you know that is a very natural way to view international commerce," said Michael Strain, an economist with the conservative American Enterprise Institute. He says students often share Trump's intuitive thinking about the economy, and one of the big challenges that professors face is convincing them that their understanding is wrong. Mr Strain says despite Trump's hold on the party, with a stance that has upended decades of Republican embrace of free trade, he doesn't think he's convinced sceptical lawmakers, business leaders and economists. The sticking points remain that his views that foreign imports are bad, that the size of the trade deficit is a useful measure of policy success or that the ideal state for the US economy is to only import goods that cannot physically be made in the US. Mr Strain believes threats to increase tariffs on US allies could reduce business investment and weaken international alliances. Joseph LaVorgna, a chief economist of the National Economic Council during Trump's first term, believes there's been too narrow a focus on tariffs and not enough of an attempt to understand the big picture of what Trump is trying to accomplish. He says the president wants to galvanise domestic industry, in particular high-tech manufacturing. The administration, he explains, feels they can encourage more corporations to come to the US using tariffs, combined with deregulation, cheaper energy and lower corporate taxes, if enacted by Congress. "I think that President Trump understands something which is very important, being a businessman and being transactional, and that is free trade is great in theory but in the real world you need to have fair trade and that's a level playing field." He is betting Donald Trump is right. Few Republicans have publicly opposed the president as he demands loyalty to his agenda. Still, some who have remained silent understand that their constituents could be impacted by rising prices, and are hoping they can convince Trump not to follow through with his beloved tariffs. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gp5pw654lo (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gp5pw654lo) Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

8. 

   28 Jan 2025

   A Journey Through Chinese Fine Arts: Ep 02 - Khmer Dub

   A Journey Through Chinese Fine Arts History, Periods, Materials, and Masterpieces Source: https://chat.deepseek.com (prompt: write a 500 word essay on the development of ink drawing in China and emphasis the importance of the horse and especially at scale or in Tang statuary. Also add mention of Shang and sites in Sichuan) The development of ink drawing in China is a profound reflection of the country's rich cultural and artistic heritage, spanning thousands of years. Ink drawing, or *shuimohua*, emerged as a dominant artistic medium during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), though its roots can be traced back to earlier periods, including the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BCE). This art form, characterized by its use of brush, ink, and paper or silk, became a vehicle for expressing philosophical ideas, natural beauty, and the dynamism of life. Among its many subjects, the horse holds a special place, symbolizing power, freedom, and spiritual vitality. The depiction of horses in ink drawing and Tang statuary, often at a monumental scale, exemplifies the artistic and cultural significance of this subject. The origins of Chinese ink drawing can be linked to the Shang Dynasty, where early forms of calligraphy and symbolic art were inscribed on oracle bones and bronze vessels. These early works laid the groundwork for the expressive potential of brush and ink. By the Tang Dynasty, ink drawing had matured into a sophisticated art form, influenced by Daoist and Buddhist philosophies that emphasized harmony with nature and the fluidity of life. Artists such as Wu Daozi and Han Gan elevated ink drawing to new heights, capturing the essence of their subjects with minimal yet powerful strokes. Han Gan, in particular, was renowned for his depictions of horses, which were celebrated for their lifelike energy and movement. His works, such as *Night-Shining White*, exemplify the Tang Dynasty's fascination with the horse as a symbol of imperial power and cosmic vitality. Long Mekong is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. The horse was not only a central subject in ink drawing but also a prominent motif in Tang statuary. Tang Dynasty pottery figurines, often created as tomb goods, frequently depicted horses at a large scale, reflecting their importance in both daily life and the afterlife. These sculptures, known for their realism and dynamism, captured the horse's muscular form and spirited demeanor. The scale of these statues, sometimes life-sized, underscored the horse's symbolic role as a bridge between the earthly and spiritual realms. The Tang elite, who prized horses for their role in warfare, trade, and diplomacy, commissioned such works to demonstrate their status and ensure their prosperity in the afterlife. In addition to the Tang Dynasty's artistic achievements, archaeological discoveries in Sichuan Province have shed light on earlier depictions of horses and other animals. Sites such as Sanxingdui, dating back to the Shang and Zhou periods, reveal a rich tradition of animal symbolism in Chinese art. While these artifacts are primarily bronze and jade rather than ink drawings, they demonstrate the enduring cultural significance of animals, including horses, in Chinese artistic expression. In conclusion, the development of ink drawing in China, particularly during the Tang Dynasty, represents a pinnacle of artistic achievement. The horse, as a subject, embodies the vitality and spirit of the era, whether rendered in ink on silk or sculpted at a monumental scale. From the Shang Dynasty's symbolic art to the grandeur of Tang statuary, the horse has remained a powerful motif, reflecting China's deep connection to nature, spirituality, and artistic innovation. * https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChair844 (https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChair844) * https://x.com/GalaLive8/ (https://x.com/DGB365/) * https://www.linkedin.com/in/dgb365/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dgb365/) Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

9. 

   17 Jan 2025

   Blacklist: Biden unleashes sanctions on China. The Chair Live Episode 9

   DGB365 and guests analyze how the Biden administration's sanctions on China trigger economic turmoil, rapid turnover of G7 leaders, and a global industrial investment shift.

10. 

    26 Dec 2024

    The Chair Ep 8 podcast

    Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

11. 

    18 Dec 2024

    The Chair Episode 8

    Cambodia's Techo Funan Canal and China's involvement and investment attitude in the Belt and Road initiative are scrutinized, revealing significant risks and challenges in West Asia, Red Sea, Mediterranean, and Africa.

12. 

    15 Jul 2024

    Panel: Does Asia Pacific welcome NATO’s footprint?

    NATO is boosting its visibility in the Asia Pacific region. For three years in a row, leaders or representatives of four Asia Pacific countries – Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand – have attended the annual summit of the military alliance. The outgoing NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has been an ardent advocator of Asia Pacific outreach, and his argument has been echoed by US officials as Washington, DC hosted this year’s NATO summit.What is behind NATO’s growing interest in Asia Pacific? Will NATO be a force for good if it establishes a sizeable footprint in the region? Host Ding Heng is joined by Digby James Wren, External Relations Advisor to the Royal Academy of Cambodia; Lee Pei May, Assistant Professor of Political Science at the International Islamic University Malaysia; Professor Shen Dingli from the Institute of International Studies, Fudan University. Listen to original here (https://radio.cgtn.com/podcast/news/1/Panel-Does-Asia-Pacific-welcome-NATOs-footprint/494754). Transcript below. Long Mekong is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

13. 

    15 Jul 2024

    Nato No No No !

    Good morning, Today is Wednesday the 10th of July 2024 and today we're going to explore the NATO Summit that's being held in Washington today and tomorrow. And, I think we're going to start with an article written by the the former Singapore ambassador to the United Nations, Kishore Mahbubani, who was actually appointed twice as Singapore’s UN ambassador. Now, he's a very, very well-respected figure, and he wrote in 2021 that... “that the Pacific has no need of the destructive militaristic culture of the Atlantic Alliance.” Now, what was he talking about? What he was talking about was the fact that NATO, which has existed since post-World War II and the Cold War era, basically has been involved in invasions and wars in Europe, in the Middle East, Central Asia, North Africa and other places. And now the United States wants NATO to be dragged in to Asia. Long Mekong is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Long Mekong at longmekong.substack.com/subscribe (https://longmekong.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

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