Cadence of Conflict: Asia, April 11, 2016

Cadence

China was a major player in the Panama Papers scandal, including Hong Kong offices. British Prime Minister Cameron was involved. The British foreign secretary warned of threats to Hong Kong freedoms. Hong Kong’s CEO, Leung, hit back at calls for independence in the face of Hong Kong’s brand-new “National” party. China continues to crack down on corruption.

Japan send a sub and two destroyers to dock in Manila in the wake of the new Japan-Philipines defense pact. The US and Taiwan are drafting stronger ties affecting visitors. As Taiwan’s rising DPP political party gains popularity, the lame duck KMT-Nationalist party plays power against the DPP to the bitter end. North Korea tested a long-range nuclear missile engine to “guarantee” a strike on the continental US.

Friends and enemies are everywhere and everyone has a motive for everything.

Buck-passing, discord, and union across the Wester Pacific

How to Discipline 90 Million People | The Atlantic

China was largest market for Panama Papers law firm: ICIJ | Japan Times

Thousands of protesters storm Downing Street calling on David Cameron to quit amid Panama Papers row | Telegraph

Britain issues warning over threats to Hong Kong freedoms | Guardian

Hong Kong leader hits back at independence calls | Bangkok Post

North Korea ‘tests long-range missile engine’ | BBC

Japanese warships dock in Manila after defense pact signing | Inquirer.net

Japan Submarine, Destroyers Visit Philippines | The Diplomat

US and Taiwan announce expedited travel program | Taipei Times

Taiwan internal discord

Support for DPP hits record high | Taipei Times

Renewed call to pardon Chen Shui-bian rejected | Taipei Times

High Court summons Chen Shui-bian | Taipei Times