The combined GDP of the region’s five countries has grown by almost 2.5 times over the last eight years, whilst mutual investment has increased 5.6-fold. But even beyond the economic sphere, questions are mounting as to what unites these peoples, what they can achieve together in the face of today’s challenges, and what kind of future they envisage.
A law has been passed that will allow the government to designate an alternative city in the event of major natural disasters. The measure cites the risk of earthquakes, but also revives the project – championed by the Japan Innovation Party – to transform Osaka into an alternative administrative centre to Tokyo.
In response to a message of congratulations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, the White House expressed its hope for “significant progress” in relations with Tbilisi. But after negotiations on EU accession were put on hold, Prime Minister Kobakhidze is now also looking towards Xi Jinping’s China.
Emphasis on Islamic nationalism marked the celebrations. From presidentialism and emergency decrees to crackdown on media and Gülen’s followers, the coup d'etat reshaped the government and the president’s leadership.
The campaign for the parliamentary elections to the Kurultaj – the parliament provided for in the Constitution introduced by Tokaev – scheduled for 23 August, is getting underway. To mark the occasion, the formation of the new Adilet party has been announced; it has effectively absorbed the current ruling party, Amanat.
For the first time, the North Korean regime has made public a meeting of government leaders on corruption within the military. The dismissal of General Pak Hui-chol appears to confirm dictator Kim Jong-un's desire to reassert absolute control.
As Johor goes to the polls tomorrow, the result will reverberate far beyond the state, testing the prime minister and his Unity Government. It will also measure the reach of the Islamist party PAS, offering fresh clues about the future of Malaysia's multi-ethnic model.
The House of Representatives passed the “Act on Promoting a Peaceful Society”. Both royalists who led the 2008 protests and supporters of former Prime Minister Thaksin who laid siege to downtown Bangkok are expected to benefit from this cross-party measure. Those convicted of the controversial crime of lèse-majesté are excluded.
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