Japan

麻生氏、台湾有事答弁問題なし 中国反発も首相対応を評価

Tokyo Shimbun | Local Language | News | Dec. 5, 2025 | Shifting Geopolitical Alliances

Liberal Democratic Party Vice President Taro Aso stated on December 3rd in Tokyo that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s responses in the Diet concerning a Taiwan contingency situation are not problematic. He emphasized that despite China’s protests, it is acceptable to clearly state Japan’s stance as has been done until now, which he found reassuring. Aso also praised Takaichi for being the first female prime minister and highlighted her high approval rating, describing her as a symbol of the LDP’s new change.

In January 2024, Aso had remarked that if a Taiwan contingency were to arise, the Japanese government might consider it a threat to the survival of the state, which would justify exercising collective self-defense. Despite China’s critical comments, there was also recognition of Takaichi’s handling of the situation.

Additionally, the article includes brief mentions of ongoing political developments in Japan, such as internal LDP debates over reducing Lower House seats, local tax revenue distribution measures, and proposals for electoral reform by the Democratic Party for the People. There is also mention of legislation being considered regarding the use of maiden names alongside married couples maintaining the same surname, showing active engagement in various political reforms within the Japanese government.

NHK | English | News | Dec. 5, 2025 | Extreme Weather Events

Kanni Wignaraja, director of the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific at the UNDP, described the recent flooding in Sri Lanka as unprecedented in scale, causing devastating loss of life and extensive infrastructure damage. She attributed the severity of the disaster to inadequate preparedness and emphasized the need for flood management systems built with durable materials, advanced design, and technology capable of withstanding harsher climate conditions.

Wignaraja highlighted that Sri Lanka and other countries must enhance their infrastructure and disaster readiness to cope with increasingly severe climate events. However, she noted a decline in official development assistance due to cuts in foreign aid by some donor governments. She called for stronger regional cooperation to reduce inequalities and improve public goods at both local and global levels.

ประชุม คกก.ถอดบทเรียนอุทกภัยนัดแรกเล็งลอกการบ้านแดนปลาดิบ

Thai Post | Local Language | News | Dec. 5, 2025 | Extreme Weather Events

On 4 December 2025, the first meeting of the Committee to Review Lessons and Prepare for Handling a Major Flood was held at the Government House, chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The meeting was initially opened by Deputy Prime Minister Bawornsak Uwanno, who emphasized that despite Thailand’s comprehensive disaster laws and agencies, command authority and decision-making do not function effectively during sudden emergencies. The committee aims to study flood events, particularly from Songkhla province and 2011 floods, to develop practical manuals and systems for future disaster readiness.

Bawornsak highlighted the importance of learning from Japan’s disaster management approach, especially its regular rehearsals and training, to reduce damage. The committee involves deputy prime ministers, civil servants, and experts working as a technical team to create usable guidelines to be followed by public sector officials during emergencies. After Bawornsak’s introduction, Prime Minister Anutin took over the meeting leadership.

Additional points covered included the Prime Minister rejecting political rumors related to flood casualties, asserting transparency and trust in official death toll figures. He stressed the importance of national dignity and security regarding border issues with Cambodia and outlined the Internal Security Operations Command’s focus for 2026 on sustainability, modernization, and community cooperation. Furthermore, the Chinese ambassador donated over 30 million baht for southern flood relief, reaffirming strong Thailand-China ties and confidence in rapid recovery under Anutin's leadership.