January 14, 2025
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In the heart of Mongolia, where the chill of winter bites deep and unforgiving, lies Ulaanbaatar – the world’s coldest capital city. Amidst the snow-cloaked landscape, a battle against energy insecurity unfolds, casting shadows of uncertainty over its residents. Let’s delve into the intricate tapestry of challenges and changes that shape the power dynamics in this enigmatic land.

“As winter peaks in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolians brace themselves for potential electricity interruptions amidst rising tariffs.” The backbone of Mongolia’s power grid is woven with coal-fired thermal power plants, churning out 77.7% of the country’s electricity domestically. The remaining 22.3% trickles in from neighboring Russia, underscoring Mongolia’s fragile energy independence. The recent rumblings of disruptions by

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The Intrigue Unfolds: The Complex Web of the Allamjonov Case and Ramifications in Uzbekistan

Have you ever stumbled upon a story that seems straight out of a thriller movie, filled with twists, suspicions, and unexpected connections? Well, if not, let me introduce you to the unfolding saga surrounding the Allamjonov case in Uzbekistan. What initially appeared as a straightforward investigation into an assassination attempt quickly morphed into a tangled

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China’s Quest for AI Dominance: The Impact of Generative AI Patents on Global Power Dynamics

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has become the cornerstone of technological innovation in the 21st century, promising to revolutionize economies, societies, and even global power structures. Recently, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) released its inaugural “Patent Landscape Report – Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI),” shedding light on the surge of patent applications in this cutting-edge field.

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As we peer into the horizon of 2025 in the ever-evolving landscape of the Asia-Pacific region, it’s like experiencing a strange case of déjà vu. The feeling is uncanny, as if we are collectively navigating through uncharted territories that strangely feel familiar. It’s a mix of anticipation and anxiety that grips governments and societies across Asia as they brace themselves for what lies ahead.

“Deja vu is a French phrase for the eerie phenomenon of feeling that you’ve experienced something that you know you haven’t.” At the center of this swirling uncertainty stands the enigmatic figure of Donald Trump, poised to reclaim his seat in the U.S. presidency. The mere mention of his impending return sends ripples of speculation

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Amplifying Asian Voices at COP29: Insights from Meera Gopal

Picture this: a bustling conference hall in Baku, Azerbaijan, filled with delegates from around the globe, all gathered for one crucial purpose – to tackle the pressing issue of climate change. This was the scene at COP29, where the focus was on climate finance and how developed nations could support their developing counterparts in facing

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In a remarkable turn of events in the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, the Arakan Army (AA) has made headlines once again by seizing control of the strategic town of Gwa in Rakhine State. This bold move marks a significant development in the group’s campaign to establish an autonomous state in western Myanmar.

“Despite the military’s armored vehicles, air and naval support, we seized the town after a two-week offensive. Gwa has become the last town seized in 2024,” The Arakan Army, an ethnic Rakhine armed group, announced its successful takeover of Gwa through a statement on its Telegram account. This conquest comes after intense fighting that saw

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The Blossoming Friendship Between India and Kuwait

In a momentous occasion, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Kuwait in December 2024 marked a significant milestone in the evolving strategic partnership between the two nations. This visit, the first by an Indian prime minister in over four decades, underscored the growing importance of bilateral relations that have traditionally focused on crucial

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Listening to the Geography of the Moon

Have you ever stumbled upon a band that feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered? Well, let me introduce you to Geography of the Moon, an indie duo creating waves across East Asia and beyond with their unique sound. Imagine bluesy melodies intertwined with surf-guitar riffs reminiscent of Frank Zappa – that’s the

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Amidst Claims of Thai Banks Facilitating Arms Purchases for Myanmar, Government Denies Allegations

Thailand’s financial landscape has been stirred by recent allegations implicating Thai banks in facilitating arms purchases for Myanmar’s military junta. A report from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) pointed fingers at companies registered in Thailand, accusing them of utilizing Thai banks to transfer funds amounting to nearly $130

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The year 2024 unfolded in Southeast Asia with a tapestry of events and changes that shaped the region’s economic landscape. From the ebb and flow of clean energy initiatives to the gradual resurgence of tourism post-pandemic, the year was awash with developments. However, amidst this dynamic backdrop, one narrative stood out as the defining theme of the year: the surge of protectionism and economic nationalism.

“The biggest story of 2024 in Southeast Asia was undoubtedly the rise of protectionism and economic nationalism.” As nations grappled with fostering domestic industries and shielding them from international competition, a palpable shift towards insular economic policies took root across borders. This trend underscored a strategic move by countries to prioritize self-sufficiency and safeguard local

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