Military
Technology
China’s space rise is real — yet key gaps still keep the US ahead
Beijing is rapidly catching up to Washington in the global space economy, with China dominating key dual-use technologies. However, Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Li Kang finds out that China still lags behind in scale.
Li Kang
10 Jun 2026
Politics
Why the Philippines and Japan are preparing for a Taiwan contingency
As China’s maritime posture seems to be getting more muscular and the US’s intentions in the Indo-Pacific become less clear, the Philippines and Japan are seeking stronger security relations to safeguard all eventualities. Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill explains.
Don McLain Gill
08 Jun 2026
Politics
China’s new red line: Sanctioning foreign lawmakers over Taiwan visits
Following a visit to Taiwan, four New Zealand MPs have been banned from entering mainland China for one year. Is this truly justified as Beijing feels, or is it an overreaction that signals greater confidence on China’s part? Lianhe Zaobao associate China news editor Sim Tze Wei tells us more.
Sim Tze Wei
08 Jun 2026
Politics
Japan and Philippines harden stance against China amid US-China detente
As Washington softens its tone on Beijing, Japan and the Philippines are tightening defence ties to counter China, forging a potent middle-power coalition in Asian waters. Lianhe Zaobao associate editor Han Yong Hong tells us more.
Han Yong Hong
05 Jun 2026
Politics
Chan Chun Sing: Not pro- or anti-China or the US, ‘We are pro-ASEAN’
At his remarks in the panel discussion at Shangri-La Dialogue 2026 and after-event media interviews, Singapore Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing stressed “action and communication” as key to building defence trust, urged ASEAN unity and vigilance, gave his views on Chinese representation and reaffirmed a “pro-ASEAN” stance amid China-US rivalry. Lianhe Zaobao’s Tan Ke-Yang and Daryl Lim report.
Tan Ke-Yang, Daryl Lim
02 Jun 2026
Politics
[Video] Hegseth at Shangri-La Dialogue: Toning down US rhetoric
At the recent Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth seemed to tone down criticisms of China. Does this mean a more pragmatic, prudent approach going forward? Lianhe Zaobao China news correspondent Edwin Ong speaks to experts for their take.
Edwin Ong
02 Jun 2026
Politics
Why bombs don’t break Iran
The domestic issues and fragile regime in Iran would have led one to believe that an attack by the US would result in a quick defeat. Commentator Tao Ray offers a perspective on why Iran remains resilient: not because of its military strength or strategy, but the strong sense of “us versus them”.
Tao Ray
26 May 2026
Politics
After Trump and Putin, Xi turns to North Korea
Amid rumours of Xi Jinping visiting North Korea, analysts believe this is a calculated move by China to hold the strategic initiative and balance ties among the US, Russia and North Korea. Lianhe Zaobao associate China news editor Sim Tze Wei finds out more.
Sim Tze Wei
22 May 2026
Politics
Trump-Xi summit leaves Taiwan independence camp on edge
Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is reeling after US President Donald Trump, following his summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, bluntly warned against any push for independence. Lianhe Zaobao journalist Chuang Hui Liang notes that this signals a potential shift in US policy, forcing Taipei to urgently redefine its cross-strait strategy.
Chuang Hui Liang
19 May 2026
Politics
China’s forgotten role in shaping Japan’s pacifist constitution
Japan’s Constitution is set to mark its 80th anniversary in 2027 as debate over revision gains momentum. Yet Article 9 remains sensitive, with war-renunciation and armed forces limits still central to national consensus and contention, says Japanese academic Shin Kawashima.
Shin Kawashima
18 May 2026
Politics
Xi raises stakes over Taiwan, warns US of ‘clash or even conflict’
Chinese President Xi Jinping warned visiting US President Donald Trump that mishandling the Taiwan issue could trigger a “clash or even conflict”, as Beijing raised the stakes in US-China ties. Analysts said the wording signals heightened urgency in Beijing’s Taiwan stance. Lianhe Zaobao journalist Miao Zong-Han reports.
Miao Zong-Han
14 May 2026