Cadence of Conflict: Asia, April 9, 2018

China has been a source of great change.

Taiwan has received a license from the United States to build its own submarines. Wang, a legislature who sits on the Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee said that friendliness from the US is the highest it has ever been. Japan just commissioned its first marine force since WWII. 1,500 troops are ready, specifically to repel invasion of Japan’s islands. Thanks to China’s inspiration and initiative, many nations in the region are also making their contribution to peace and stability in Pacific Asia.

The US is re-evaluating trade with China. While much is just talk, Trump maintains friendly rhetoric. The shakeup with trade will force countries to reinvent and reevaluate trade policy. While a looming “trade war” remains the talk of many so-called “experts”, the long-term benefit will be the overall rebirth of trade throughout the world. Everyone will need to rethink trade. Any kind of thinking is good, especially in these times.

Malaysia outlaws ‘fake news’; sets jail of up to six years | Yahoo – Reuters

China announces new tariffs on 106 US products, including soy, cars and chemicals | CNBC

Japan activates first marines since WW2 to bolster defenses against China | Yahoo – Reuters

Japan activates first post-WWII marine unit to counter China threat | Straits Times

Transitional justice is the next step for Taiwan, Tsai says | Taipei Times

US approves submarine license | Taipei Times

Trump softens on China as Beijing ramps up rhetoric in show of toughness over trade spat | SCMP

Amid Trade Fight, Trump Says China Will Do the ‘Right Thing’ | US News