> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://middlepowers.fyi/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Asia-Pacific

> Week of April 6, 2026

## Regional Summary

**Each Country for Itself**

Asia-Pacific countries are building their own backup plans. The Middle East crisis showed them they cannot wait for Washington or international bodies to solve their problems. This week's moves show countries putting their own interests first — not because they planned together, but because they all learned the same lesson.

Taiwan shows how this works. Cheng Li-wun became the first opposition leader to meet Xi Jinping in a decade, calling her Beijing trip a "peace mission" and saying Taiwan should become "a symbol of peace jointly safeguarded by Chinese people on both sides of the strait." China responded with ten new policies and party channels. Yet even as the KMT courted Beijing, Lai Ching-te, the president, hosted three US congressional delegations, promising Taiwan's defence spending will reach 5% of GDP by 2030. The island is preparing for different futures at the same time.

Japan is moving just as fast. Sanae Takaichi, the prime minister, set a one-year timeline for constitutional amendments — the strongest commitment to changing the pacifist constitution in postwar history. She told the LDP to "stop debating and start deciding," backed by a supermajority that makes revision possible. But Japan is also looking beyond Washington: Ms Takaichi held talks with Iran's president about Strait of Hormuz security and positioned Japan as a potential US-Iran mediator. The country that once defined itself by its American alliance now sees itself as a broker between America and its enemies.

The energy crisis is driving similar shifts across the region. Anthony Albanese, the Australian prime minister, struck a deal trading gas for guaranteed Singaporean petrol imports — 32% of Singapore's gas for 55% of Australia's fuel — and plans similar deals with Brunei and Malaysia. Prabowo Subianto, the Indonesian president, flew to Moscow for energy talks with Vladimir Putin, calling the trip necessary to "secure oil" for Indonesia despite the diplomatic costs. These leaders are choosing practical needs over alliance loyalty, working with whoever can solve immediate problems rather than waiting for partners to help.

What emerges is not anti-American feeling but a more practical approach that puts national interests first. Mr Albanese criticised Donald Trump's threat that "a whole civilisation will die tonight" as inappropriate language from an American president. Lee Jae-myung, the president, won rare praise from Kim Jong Un for apologising over drone incursions, while building a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Indonesia that bypasses Washington entirely. These countries still value their American partnerships, but they are no longer willing to put alliance loyalty ahead of their own priorities.

## Country Summaries

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/tw.svg" alt="Taiwan flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> Taiwan

Cheng Li-wun became the first Kuomintang (KMT) chairwoman to meet Xi Jinping in nearly a decade, completing a six-day "peace mission" to China that highlighted Taiwan's cross-strait tensions.

At the Great Hall of the People, Mr Xi told Ms Cheng that China would "absolutely not tolerate" Taiwan independence and called for efforts to advance "reunification." Ms Cheng advocated "transcending political confrontation" and suggested the Taiwan Strait should not become a "chessboard for external forces." China announced ten new incentive measures for Taiwan after the visit.

Even as the KMT deepened its Beijing engagement, Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's president, was hosting American lawmakers. The president met delegations from both the Republican Study Committee and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, emphasizing Taiwan's defence spending of more than 3% of GDP and pledging to reach 5% by 2030. He outlined the \$40bn special defence budget and promised closer cooperation with defence partners.

The competing commitments sparked a public row at home. Cho Jung-tai, the premier, accused Ms Cheng of "playing with fire" and revealing "an erroneous strategy that panders to China." The KMT hit back, calling Mr Cho's comments Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) smear tactics and saying the ruling party could not handle cross-strait relations.

Meanwhile, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reported record first-quarter revenue of NT\$1.13 trillion (\$35.6bn), a 35% jump from last year that beat market forecasts. The surge came from strong artificial intelligence (AI) chip demand from Apple and Nvidia, with analysts predicting the company will exceed its 30% annual growth target.

Chinese military pressure continued at routine levels. Taiwan detected 17 aircraft and seven naval vessels on April 11th, with 15 aircraft crossing the median line. The pattern was similar the day before, consistent with established grey-zone operations.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **President Lai inaugurates AI robotics centre, outlines infrastructure plans** — Lai Ching-te, the president, officially opened the National Centre for AI Robotics in Tainan, calling it a crucial step towards Taiwan's goal of becoming a technology-oriented island. The centre operates under the government's Ten AI Initiatives Promotion Plan. *([focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/sci-tech/202604100020))*
  * **TPP expels at-large legislator Li Zhenxiu amid party controversies** — The Taiwan People's Party (TPP) expelled Li Zhenxiu, an at-large legislator, following a series of controversies, effectively stripping her of her legislative seat. She was referred for disciplinary action after making unsubstantiated claims during a livestream. *([taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2026/04/13/2003855529))*
  * **Ex-TV producer indicted for spying for China, faces 12-year sentence** — The Taipei District Prosecutor's Office indicted Lee Neng-chien, a former television producer, for allegedly collecting Taiwanese military intelligence for China and is seeking a prison sentence of at least 12 years. Mr Lee reportedly transmitted over 3,000 pieces of personal data to Chinese intelligence contacts. *([focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/cross-strait/202604100011))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="KMT leader Cheng Li-wun visits China, meets Xi Jinping in first such encounter in decade" type="April 10–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [Taiwan opposition leader calls for 'reconciliation' after meeting Xi — aljazeera.com](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/4/10/taiwan-opposition-leader-calls-for-reconciliation-after-meeting-xi)
      * [China will not tolerate independence for Taiwan, Xi tells island's opposition leader — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/chinas-xi-meets-taiwan-opposition-leader-beijing-state-media-says-2026-04-10)
      * [Cheng Li-wun: Taiwan opposition leader meets Xi Jinping in Beijing — bbc.com](https://bbc.com/news/articles/cj94y87k2ljo)
      * [Xi tells Taiwan opposition leader people on both sides of strait are Chinese in rare meeting — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/world/2026/apr/10/xi-jinping-cheng-li-wu-china-taiwan-meeting-bejing)
      * [China offers incentives to Taiwan following opposition leader's visit — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-offers-incentives-taiwan-following-opposition-leaders-visit-2026-04-12/)
      * [KMT chair welcomes China's Taiwan measures as party members urge pragmatic response — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/cross-strait/202604120013)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lai meets multiple US delegations, reaffirms defense commitment" type="March 30 – April 7, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Lai vows stronger Taiwan defense — taiwannews.com.tw](https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/6335816)
      * [U.S. Senator Jim Banks visits Taiwan, to meet President Lai — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202604070001)
      * [Republican congressional delegation visits Taiwan, to meet President Lai — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202604060006)
      * [President Lai meets bipartisan delegation from US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations — ocacnews.net](https://ocacnews.net/article/423904)
      * [President Lai meets Global Taiwan Institute media delegation — ocacnews.net](https://ocacnews.net/article/423908)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="TSMC reports record Q1 2026 revenue surge driven by AI chip demand" type="April 10–11, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [TSMC posts 35% jump in revenue to new record high as AI chip demand stays strong — cnbc.com](https://cnbc.com/2026/04/10/tsmc-q1-record-revenue-ai-chip-demand-strong.html)
      * [TSMC's first-quarter revenue surges as AI interest propels sales beyond market forecasts — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/tsmcs-q1-revenue-jumps-35-yy-beats-market-forecast-2026-04-10)
      * [TSMC Sales Beat Estimates After War Fails to Dent AI Demand — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-10/tsmc-s-sales-beat-estimates-after-war-fails-to-dent-ai-demand)
      * [TSMC sales beat estimates despite the conflict in Iran — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/biz/archives/2026/04/11/2003855384)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Taiwan detects increased Chinese military activity around island" type="April 11–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Taiwan detects 16 Chinese warplanes as Xi meets opposition leader — prismnews.com](https://www.prismnews.com/news/taiwan-detects-16-chinese-warplanes-as-xi-meets-opposition)
      * [15 Chinese military aircraft cross median line, enter Taiwan's ADIZ — newsable.asianetnews.com](https://newsable.asianetnews.com/world/15-chinese-military-aircraft-cross-median-line-enter-taiwans-adiz-articleshow-6zfga6b)
      * [Taiwan Detects Chinese Aircraft, Ships in ADIZ — newkerala.com](https://www.newkerala.com/news/a/taiwan-detects-sorties-chinese-aircraft-vessels-ships-around-859.htm)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Premier Cho criticizes KMT chair's Taiwan Strait remarks as 'playing with fire'" type="April 11–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [KMT chair's Taiwan Strait remark 'playing with fire': Premier Cho — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/cross-strait/202604110008)
      * [KMT's Cheng 'playing with fire,' Premier Cho says — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/04/12/2003855457)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lai inaugurates AI robotics center, outlines infrastructure plans" type="April 10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [President Lai inaugurates National Center for AI Robotics in Tainan — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/sci-tech/202604100020)
      * [President Lai unveils smart robotics center, outlines 3 expectations — rti.org.tw](https://www.rti.org.tw/en/news?uid=3\&pid=202319)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="TPP expels at-large legislator Li Zhenxiu amid party controversies" type="April 13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [TPP expels at-large legislator Li Zhenxiu — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2026/04/13/2003855529)
      * [EDITORIAL: TPP to sing its swan song — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2026/04/13/2003855480)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Ex-TV producer indicted for spying for China, faces 12-year sentence" type="April 10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Ex-TV producer indicted for spying for China, faces 12-year sentence — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/cross-strait/202604100011)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Han Kuang exercises to include US-style methods — news.ltn.com.tw](https://news.ltn.com.tw/news/focus/breakingnews/5401722)
      * [Mortgage repayments reach new high: ministry — news.ltn.com.tw](https://news.ltn.com.tw/news/focus/breakingnews/5401726)
      * [NSB chief takes indirect swipe at KMT chief's trip to China — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/cross-strait/202604080010)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/kr.svg" alt="South Korea flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> South Korea

Lee Jae-myung, the president, shared a video on social media allegedly showing Israeli soldiers abusing a Palestinian child, prompting Israel's foreign ministry to accuse him of playing down the Holocaust. Mr Lee defended his stance and accused Israel of failing to reflect on global criticism. The dispute shows his willingness to accept diplomatic costs for moral positioning.

Even as he created friction with Israel, Mr Lee opened an unexpected channel with North Korea. He expressed regret over civilian drone incursions, and Kim Jong Un and Kim Yo Jong responded positively, calling him "wise" and "broad-minded." This marks the first friendly language from Pyongyang toward Seoul in years, though conditions for broader engagement remain poor given North Korea's constitution calls South Korea its "principal enemy."

The government held interest rates steady and passed a cash-assistance budget to counter the Middle East war's impact. The Bank of Korea held its benchmark rate at 2.5% for the seventh straight meeting, with Rhee Chang-yong, the governor, warning that economic growth could fall below 2% this year and inflation may rise to the mid-to-upper 2% range. Rival parties agreed to pass a 26.2 trillion won budget providing cash to 35.8 million people — the bottom 70% of income earners. Payments of 100,000-600,000 won per person begin April 27.

At home, Mr Lee advanced reforms stemming from December's martial law crisis. The cabinet approved a constitutional amendment to tighten martial law requirements, demanding immediate parliamentary approval and automatic cancellation if the Assembly rejects within 48 hours. The amendment would include the 1980 Gwangju uprising and 1979 Busan-Masan protests in the constitution's preamble alongside the existing April 19 revolution.

Special counsel prosecutors sought a 23-year prison term for Han Duck-soo, the acting president, in his appeals trial. They argued that Mr Han contributed to political turmoil despite serving as acting president after Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment, with the appeals verdict expected May 7.

The military is adapting to demographic decline. Ahn Gyu-back, the defence minister, announced plans to replace border troops with AI-based systems and reduce conscripts from 220,000 to 160,000, responding to an expected fall in the eligible conscript pool from 230,000 to 130,000-140,000 by 2040.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Lee Jae-myung holds diplomatic meetings with Polish, Thai, and Japanese leaders** — Lee Jae-myung held several meetings this week, including a summit with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on defence cooperation and global security, a phone call with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on energy cooperation, and a meeting with former Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on bilateral relations. *([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korea-president-lee-hold-summit-with-polish-pm-tusk-april-13-media-reports-2026-04-10/))*
  * **Political parties intensify preparations for June 3 local elections** — The ruling Democratic Party of Korea and opposition People Power Party are finalising candidate selections and campaign strategies for the June 3 local elections. The Democratic Party has taken early momentum in key regions while the People Power Party faces delays and internal friction in several races. *([upi.com](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260412/ruling-party-rides-early-momentum-as-key-battlegrounds-take-shape))*
  * **Samsung posts record quarterly profits as union demands massive bonuses** — Samsung Electronics reported record first-quarter operating profits of 57.2 trillion won, driven by semiconductor market recovery. The company's union responded by demanding bonuses equivalent to 15% of operating profits, which would amount to about 620 million won per employee. *([chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/industry-en/2026/04/13/P6MW4URWAVGF3JF3WXOCJZDOCI/))*
  * **Yoon Suk-yeol draws criticism for Easter message comparing himself to Jesus** — Impeached former President Yoon Suk-yeol sent an Easter message from prison urging the public to 'hold onto the hope of salvation' and drawing parallels between his suffering and that of Jesus Christ. The message drew sharp criticism from opposition politicians and religious groups for showing lack of remorse. *([scmp.com](https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3349150/south-koreas-yoon-slammed-invoking-jesus-his-message-sent-prison))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Lee Jae-myung sparks diplomatic row with Israel over Palestinian video post" type="April 9–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (18)">
      * [South Korea's President sparks diplomatic row with Israel over Holocaust comparison remarks — jpost.com](https://www.jpost.com/international/article-892735)
      * [Israel in row with South Korean leader over Palestinian abuse concerns — aljazeera.com](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/4/11/israel-in-row-with-south-korea-leader-over-palestinian-abuse-concerns)
      * ['You don't even once reflect..' South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's post on Gaza draws Israeli irk — wionews.com](https://www.wionews.com/world/lee-jae-myung-israel-gaza-post-diplomatic-row-1775913271674)
      * [South Korea president clashes with Israel on rights and disinformation claims — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/11/asia-pacific/politics/south-korea-lee-israel/)
      * [South Korea President Lee Jae Myung vs Israel On Rights Abuses, Disinformation Claims — ndtv.com](https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/south-korea-president-lee-jae-myung-vs-israel-on-rights-abuses-disinformation-claims-11342073)
      * [Israel Condemns President Lee Jae Myung Over Controversial Video Post — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/world-en/2026/04/11/5BOIPQBQBJF67AN3QZUQM3WOZ4/)
      * [South Korea's president hits back at Israel in row over 'disturbing' video — scmp.com](https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3349733/south-koreas-president-hits-back-israel-row-over-disturbing-video)
      * [Lee reaffirms universal human rights, calls distortion of his remarks 'treacherous' — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10715217)
      * [TRT World - South Korea leader shares video of Palestinian child 'abused' by Israeli troops, enraging Tel Aviv — trtworld.com](https://trtworld.com/article/10ed8acd07cc)
      * [South Korea's Lee Jae-myung Posts Footage of Alleged Israeli Atrocities — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2097534/south-koreas-lee-jae-myung-posts-footage-of-alleged-israeli-atrocities)
      * [Lee reiterates commitment to upholding human rights following online exchange with Israel — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10715184)
      * [Korea-Israel ties unlikely to face serious strain over Lee's social media message: analysts — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/foreignaffairs/20260412/korea-israel-ties-unlikely-to-face-serious-strain-over-lees-social-media-message-analysts)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung issued a warning on the 12th, saying, 'Those who undermine national interest..' — mk.co.kr](https://www.mk.co.kr/en/politics/12014551)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Links Israeli Child Abuse Claims to Holocaust — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/04/10/FY5Q6EL7PFG47B3QLAYUZH7PQE/)
      * [Korean civil society also responds to President Lee Jae Myung remarks of 'Israel criticism' — khan.co.kr](https://khan.co.kr/en/article/202604121510017)
      * [Lee, Israel exchange social media barbs — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10714960)
      * [Lee says allegations of torture, murder in conflict zones must be investigated — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10714455)
      * [President shares video alleging Israeli soldiers abused Palestinian child — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/foreignaffairs/20260410/president-shares-video-alleging-israeli-soldiers-abused-palestinian-child)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="North Korea praises Lee Jae-myung as 'wise' for apologizing over drone incursions" type="April 6–10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [North Korea Fires Multiple Rounds of Missiles After Lee Apology — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-08/north-korea-fires-projectile-after-south-korean-leader-s-apology)
      * [North Korea's Kim Jong Un Praises South Korea's Lee Jae Myung for Drone Apology — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-07/kim-jong-un-praises-south-korea-s-lee-for-apology-over-drones)
      * [North Korea says South Korea's Lee is 'wise' for expressing regret about drones — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-koreas-lee-expresses-regret-north-korea-over-drone-incursion-2026-04-06/)
      * [North Korea's Kim Yo Jong calls Lee 'broad-minded' after drone apology — upi.com](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/07/Kim-Yo-Jong-Lee-Jae-Myung-frank-broad-minded-drone-apology/9931775550199)
      * [Seoul 'wise' to regret drone incursion, Kim's sister says — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2026/04/07/2003855157)
      * [Kim Yo-jong calls President Lee Jae Myung 'honest' over drone incident regret — koreaherald.com](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10711184)
      * [South Korea says Pyongyang's response to drone apology marks progress in easing tensions — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korea-says-pyongyangs-response-drone-apology-marks-progress-easing-2026-04-07/)
      * [Kim Jong Un waiting for Trump, but there's a path right in front of him — responsiblestatecraft.org](https://responsiblestatecraft.org/north-and-south-korea/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Bank of Korea holds rates steady at 2.5% amid Iran war uncertainty" type="April 6–10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (22)">
      * [BOK Keeps Benchmark Rate Unchanged as Iran War Creates Risks for Prices, Growth — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-10/bok-stands-pat-as-iran-war-creates-risks-for-prices-and-growth)
      * [Bank Of Korea Holds Policy Rate — rttnews.com](https://www.rttnews.com/story.aspx?Id=3638101)
      * [South Korean central bank stands pat as Middle East war fuels inflation, growth risks — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korean-central-bank-stands-pat-middle-east-war-fuels-inflation-growth-2026-04-10/)
      * [BOK freezes base rate on weak won, inflation concerns — koreaherald.com](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10714226)
      * [Korean won will gain against dollar when Iran conflict eases: BOK chief — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/economy/policy/20260410/bok-holds-key-rate-at-25-for-7th-time-amid-growing-inflationary-pressure-weakened-won)
      * [South Korea holds rates steady as Iran war fans inflation, growth risks — cnbc.com](https://cnbc.com/2026/04/10/south-korea-rates-steady-as-iran-war-fans-inflation-growth-risks.html)
      * [(3rd LD) BOK again holds key rate steady as Middle East war fuels inflation, growth risks — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260410002553320)
      * [BOK holds key rate steady for 7th straight meeting amid Middle East uncertainty — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260410002500320)
      * [South Korea Keeps Interest Rates on Hold — TradingView News — tradingview.com](https://www.tradingview.com/news/te_news:540744:0-south-korea-keeps-interest-rates-on-hold/)
      * [Bank of Korea 'This year, the growth rate in South Korea will fall below 2%, and inflation is also likely to rise to the mid-to-upper 2% range' — khan.co.kr](https://www.khan.co.kr/en/article/202604101530007/)
      * [BOK Warns of Considerably Stronger Inflation on US-Iran Crisis — financialpost.com](https://financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/bok-warns-of-considerably-stronger-inflation-on-us-iran-crisis)
      * [Forecasts matched as South Korea's Bank of Korea held interest rates steady at 2.5% — vtmarkets.net](https://www.vtmarkets.net/live-updates/forecasts-matched-as-south-koreas-bank-of-korea-held-interest-rates-steady-at-2-5/)
      * [BOK holds fire amid Iran war uncertainty; outgoing Gov. Rhee expects won's swift relief — kedglobal.com](https://www.kedglobal.com/central-bank/newsView/ked202604100001)
      * [Bank of Korea to hold rates at 2.50% as war-driven uncertainty persists: Reuters poll — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/bank-korea-hold-rates-250-war-driven-uncertainty-persists-2026-04-08/)
      * [7th consecutive rate hold looms as Middle East risks weigh on economy — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/economy/policy/20260407/7th-consecutive-rate-hold-looms-as-middle-east-risks-weigh-on-economy)
      * [BOK freezes rate on war-driven uncertainty — koreaherald.com](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10714663)
      * [Bank of Korea keeps base rate at 2.50% for the seventh straight time, inflation rate expected to exceed forecast — khan.co.kr](https://www.khan.co.kr/en/article/202604100951007/)
      * [After completing his final Monetary Policy Board meeting, Lee Chang-yong: ''Seohak ants are cool' was reported as if they were my words··· I wish I had not said it' — khan.co.kr](https://www.khan.co.kr/en/article/202604101416007/)
      * [BOK chief urges caution, cites Middle East risks over rates — upi.com](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/10/bank-of-korea/9571775862365)
      * [Korea posts largest-ever current account surplus in Feb.: BOK — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/economy/20260408/korea-posts-largest-ever-current-account-surplus-in-feb-bok)
      * [ADB raises Korea's 2026 growth forecast to 1.9% — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/economy/20260410/adb-raises-koreas-2026-growth-forecast-to-19)
      * [BOK Governor Says Rates Shouldn't Be Used to Counter Temporary Supply Shocks — en.bloomingbit.io](https://en.bloomingbit.io/feed/news/109669)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Lee Jae-myung holds diplomatic meetings with Polish, Thai, and Japanese leaders" type="April 5–10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [South Korea President Lee to hold summit with Polish PM Tusk on April 13, media reports say — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korea-president-lee-hold-summit-with-polish-pm-tusk-april-13-media-reports-2026-04-10/)
      * [Lee to receive Polish PM Monday — koreaherald.com](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10714534)
      * [Lee Jae Myung congratulates Thai Prime Minister on reelection in phone talks — koreaherald.com](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10711987)
      * [Former prime minister Ishiba meets with South Korean president in Seoul — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/08/japan/ishiba-south-korea-meeting/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Political parties intensify preparations for June 3 local elections" type="April 6–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (12)">
      * [Charges dropped against DPK Busan mayoral candidate; PPP cries foul — upi.com](https://upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/10/prosecution-controversy/2491775863431)
      * [PPP picks incumbent Mayor Park as Busan mayoral candidate — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260411/ppp-picks-incumbent-mayor-park-as-busan-mayoral-candidate)
      * [Ruling party rides early momentum as key battlegrounds take shape — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260412/ruling-party-rides-early-momentum-as-key-battlegrounds-take-shape)
      * [Jang Dong-hyuk heads to U.S., calls local elections 'front line' — upi.com](https://upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/12/people-power-party-leader-us-visit/4281776031141)
      * [Chong Won-o named DPK candidate for Seoul; Chun Jae-soo for Busan — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260409/chong-won-o-named-dpk-candidate-for-seoul-chun-jae-soo-for-busan)
      * [DPK far outpaces PPP in nominations for Daegu mayoral election — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260410/dpk-far-outpaces-ppp-in-nominations-for-daegu-mayoral-election)
      * [Why is DPK eager to recruit presidential AI secretary for local elections? — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260410/why-is-dpk-eager-to-recruit-presidential-ai-secretary-for-local-elections)
      * [Veteran lawmaker Choo Mi-ae nominated as DPK candidate for Gyeonggi governor — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260407/veteran-lawmaker-choo-mi-ae-nominated-as-dpk-candidate-for-gyeonggi-governor)
      * [DP to Field Candidates in All By-Election Districts Despite Rebuilding Korea Party's Demands — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/04/10/dp-to-field-candidates-in-all-by-election-districts-despite)
      * [Park Heong-jun Confirmed as PPP's Busan Mayoral Candidate — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/04/11/park-heong-jun-confirmed-as-ppps-busan-mayoral-candidate)
      * [PPP Spokesperson Son Su-jo Urges Unity: 'Time to Focus on Fighting the Ruling Party' — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/politics/2026/04/07/ppp-spokesperson-son-su-jo-urges-unity-time-to-focus-on)
      * [PPP Floor Leader Demands Lee Declare No Charge Dismissal During Term — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/politics/2026/04/07/ppp-floor-leader-demands-lee-declare-no-charge-dismissal)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Samsung posts record quarterly profits as union demands massive bonuses" type="April 8–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Samsung Union Demands 15% Operating Profit Bonuses — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/industry-en/2026/04/13/P6MW4URWAVGF3JF3WXOCJZDOCI/)
      * [Samsung's unionized workers demand 15% of profits as bonus — kedglobal.com](https://www.kedglobal.com/korean-chipmakers/newsView/ked202604120002)
      * [Samsung's Memory Business Alone Is Now More Profitable Than Amazon, Meta, And Microsoft — wccftech.com](https://wccftech.com/samsung-memory-business-alone-is-now-more-profitable-than-amazon-meta-and-microsoft/)
      * [Candidates tout Samsung chip plants as local election issue — upi.com](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/12/local-elections-pledging-bring-samsung-plant/3171776033748)
      * [Samsung Electronics Financial Results Reveal Record Profit Driven by Semiconductor Market Recovery — technobezz.com](https://www.technobezz.com/2026/04/samsung-electronics-financial-results.html)
      * [Samsung's Disappointing Price Update For Galaxy Phone Buyers — forbes.com](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jaymcgregor/2026/04/11/samsung-price-hike-galaxy-z-fold-7-galaxy-s25-2026/)
      * [Samsung quietly increased the price of two Galaxy Z Fold 7 models — 9to5google.com](https://9to5google.com/2026/04/09/samsung-increased-price-galaxy-z-fold-7/)
      * [Is Samsung planning to downsize its operations in China? — newsbytesapp.com](https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/samsung-may-exit-china-s-home-appliance-display-businesses/story)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Government advances constitutional amendments and Iran war relief budget" type="April 5–11, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [Cabinet approves motion to amend parts of the Constitution — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260406/cabinet-approves-motion-to-amend-parts-of-the-constitution)
      * [Rival parties agree on \$17.7 bil. extra budget bill to mitigate fallout from Mideast war — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/economy/policy/20260410/natl-assembly-to-vote-on-extra-budget-bill-to-mitigate-fallout-from-mideast-war)
      * [Lee calls for bipartisanship to overcome Iran war fallout in meeting with DP, PPP chiefs — koreajoongangdaily.joins.com](https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2026-04-07/national/politics/Lee-calls-for-bipartisanship-to-overcome-Iran-war-fallout-in-meeting-with-DP-PPP-chiefs/2563196)
      * [Opposition leader criticizes gov't cash handouts scheme; president rejects 'populist' label — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260407/opposition-leader-criticizes-govt-cash-handouts-scheme-president-rejects-populist-label)
      * [DP, PPP reach agreement 26.2 trillion won extra budget to moderate impact of Iran war — koreajoongangdaily.joins.com](https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2026-04-10/national/politics/DP-PPP-reach-agreement-262-trillion-won-extra-budget-to-moderate-impact-of-Iran-war/2566137)
      * [Lee urges PPP to back extra budget, constitutional revision in leaders' meeting — koreaherald.com](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10711783)
      * [South Korea to Start High Oil Price Relief Payments April 27: Up to 600,000 Won for Bottom 70% of Citizens — ibtimes.com](https://www.ibtimes.com/south-korea-start-high-oil-price-relief-payments-april-27-600000-won-bottom-70-citizens-3801139)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Special counsel seeks 23-year sentence for Han Duck-soo in appeals court" type="April 6–7, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [Special counsel wants 23-year sentence for Han Duck-soo in insurrection appeal — koreajoongangdaily.joins.com](https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2026-04-07/national/socialAffairs/Special-counsel-wants-23year-sentence-for-Han-Ducksoo-in-insurrection-appeal/2563311)
      * [Special counsel seeks 23-year sentence for ex-Prime Minister in insurrection appeal — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10711982)
      * [Special prosecutor urges 23-year sentence for Han Duck-soo in South Korea appeal — biz.chosun.com](https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-society/2026/04/07/IFVJ37Y6SRH23HTXQGSQSKFTEQ)
      * [Han Duck Soo to Deliver Final Statement and Special Prosecutor's Sentencing Recommendation at Appeal Today — asiae.co.kr](https://asiae.co.kr/en/article/2026040709003099103)
      * [S. Korea's special counsel seeks 23-year sentence for ex-PM Han in appeal for aiding insurrection — english.news.cn](https://english.news.cn/20260407/83a85b590db24a2fb5c609ca7b533b9e/c.html)
      * [South Korea special counsel seeks 23-year sentence for ex-PM in insurrection appeal — thestar.com.my](https://thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2026/04/08/south-korea-special-counsel-seeks-23-year-sentence-for-ex-pm-in-insurrection-appeal)
      * [ROK: Rebellion Special Prosecutor Seeks 23-Year Prison Sentence for Han Duck-soo on 'Engaging in Important Duties of Rebellion' Charge in Appeal Hearing — news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-04-07/news-1M9hmVZ8NoY/p.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Yoon Suk-yeol draws criticism for Easter message comparing himself to Jesus" type="April 6–7, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [South Korea's Yoon slammed for invoking Jesus in his message sent from prison — scmp.com](https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3349150/south-koreas-yoon-slammed-invoking-jesus-his-message-sent-prison)
      * [South Korea's ex-president accused of 'drawing parallels between himself and Jesus' — independent.co.uk](https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/news/south-korea-yoon-suk-yeol-easter-b2952938.html)
      * [Disgraced South Korean ex-president compares himself to Jesus in bizarre Easter message — independent.co.uk](https://independent.co.uk/asia/east-asia/south-korea-yoon-suk-yeol-jesus-easter-b2952748.html)
      * [Prosecutors seek 15-year prison term for ex-S. Korean first lady in appeal trial — chinadailyasia.com](https://www.chinadailyasia.com/article/631668)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Defense minister announces military restructuring to address troop shortage" type="April 7–8, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [Defense minister pushes military overhaul to address troop shortage — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/defense/20260408/defense-minister-pushes-military-overhaul-to-address-troop-shortage)
      * [Seoul plans to replace troops on North Korea border with AI-based systems — nknews.org](https://www.nknews.org/2026/04/seoul-plans-to-replace-troops-on-north-korea-border-with-ai-based-systems/)
      * [Ministry of National Defense Launches 11th Online Supporters Group 'M-Friends' — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/politics/2026/04/08/ministry-of-national-defense-launches-11th-online)
      * [Finland orders 112 more K9 howitzers in \$635 mil. follow-up deal — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/defense/20260409/finland-orders-112-more-k9-howitzers-in-635-mil-follow-up-deal)
      * [After \$9.6 mil. tax payment, Cha Eun-woo faces new petition seeking military role review — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/entertainment/20260409/after-96-mil-tax-payment-cha-eun-woo-faces-new-petition-seeking-military-role-review)
      * [Beating Stealth Without Stealth: How South Korea Can Blunt China's J-20 Surge — thedefensepost.com](https://thedefensepost.com/2026/04/08/south-korea-china-stealth/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [China/South Korea/United States • Lee Jae-myung's delicate balancing act to keep Beijing and Washington on side — intelligenceonline.com](https://www.intelligenceonline.com/asia-pacific/2026/04/10/lee-jae-myung-s-delicate-balancing-act-to-keep-beijing-and-washington-on-side,110700697-art)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung says AI in workplaces cannot be avoided — upi.com](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/10/labor-union-ai-job-loss/3821775862047/)
      * [Lee to head new national safety body, bolstering public protection efforts — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260412/lee-to-head-new-national-safety-body-bolstering-public-protection-efforts)
      * [Korea's debt-to-GDP ratio on track to hit 60% by 2030 — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10715238)
      * [IBK workers uneasy over politicians' push to relocate bank to Daegu — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/business/banking-finance/20260409/ibk-workers-uneasy-over-politicians-push-to-relocate-bank-to-daegu)
      * [Seoul stocks rise on foreign investor buying — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/economy/20260410/seoul-stocks-rise-on-foreign-investor-buying)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/au.svg" alt="Australia flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> Australia

Anthony Albanese flew to Singapore this week to secure Australia's fuel supplies, extending his Asia tour to Malaysia and Brunei as the Middle East crisis threatens energy security.

The prime minister struck a deal with Lawrence Wong, Singapore's prime minister, to maintain fuel imports — Singapore supplies 55% of Australia's unleaded petrol and 22% of its jet fuel. But even as he pursued this urgent diplomacy, Mr Albanese criticised Donald Trump's threats against Iran, calling the American president's warning that "a whole civilization will die tonight" both "inappropriate" and "extraordinary." Australia is acting directly to protect its interests while distancing itself from American rhetoric that conflicts with those interests.

At home, the government is preparing the most ambitious economic reforms since superannuation expansion. Mr Albanese announced sweeping changes to the \$55 billion National Disability Insurance Scheme while ruling out means-testing. He also signalled potential limits on negative gearing and capital gains tax discounts for property investors. Both reforms, he said, are about "resilience" and what younger Australians can expect from government.

The security state is also expanding. The government introduced legislation to make the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation's (ASIO) compulsory questioning powers permanent, removing the sunset clause that required parliamentary review every three years. The spy agency can now question people about "promotion of communal violence" without having to justify renewal.

The opposition is fracturing along ideological lines. Angus Taylor, the Liberal leader, and Matt Canavan, the Nationals leader, took different approaches when asked about Mr Trump's Iran threats — Mr Taylor hedged with "not the words I would use" while Mr Canavan was direct, saying the American president "went way too far." The divide goes deeper than rhetoric: Mr Taylor favours free markets while Mr Canavan supports tariffs and industry protection. After the Coalition's collapse to 18% in primary polling, the anti-spill rules meant to provide stability cannot hide fundamental disagreements about economic policy.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Penny Wong calls for talks to resume after US-Iran negotiations fail** — Foreign Minister Penny Wong described the collapse of US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad as 'disappointing' and urged both countries to continue the ceasefire and return to negotiations quickly. She warned that further escalation would increase humanitarian and economic costs. *([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/12/penny-wong-calls-failed-peace-talks-between-us-and-iran-disappointing-and-urges-resumption))*
  * **Government launches \$20 million fuel conservation ad campaign amid opposition criticism** — The Albanese government rolled out a \$20 million advertising campaign encouraging Australians to conserve fuel during the global oil crisis. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor criticised the spending as 'propaganda' and called for greater transparency through a public fuel dashboard. *([abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-11/government-launches-multi-million-dollar-fuel-saving-campaign/106555004))*
  * **Reserve Bank rate hike expectations rise amid oil crisis and inflation concerns** — Financial markets increasingly expect the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to raise interest rates again as fuel price rises drive inflation higher. The RBA previously hiked rates to 4.10% in March, and analysts debate whether further increases are needed despite economic uncertainty. *([au.finance.yahoo.com](https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/rba-sift-jobs-data-world-020000502.html))*
  * **Australia appoints first female army chief as part of ADF leadership changes** — Susan Coyle was appointed as Australia's first female army chief, while Vice Admiral Mark Hammond was named as the new Chief of Defence Force. Defence Minister Richard Marles said the appointments were significant for women in the ADF and those considering military service. *([theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/australia-gets-its-first-female-army-chief-susan-coyle-280435))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Albanese launches Asia fuel diplomacy blitz amid Middle East crisis" type="April 7–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (10)">
      * [Albanese's petro-diplomacy can't overcome the pain of what may lie ahead — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-11/albanese-singapore-fuel-iran-hormuz-recession-us-prestige/106552818)
      * [Albanese didn't return with shiploads of diesel. That doesn't mean his Singapore visit wasn't a success — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/11/albanese-singapore-australia-fuel-supply-petrol-prices-diesel-analysis)
      * [Fuel crisis in Australia: Anthony Albanese deepens ties to South-East Asia rather than focusing on US to help — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/in-times-of-need-canberra-usually-phones-the-us-albanese-instead-called-beijing-20260409-p5zmoj.html)
      * [Official Visit of Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese, 9 to 11 April 2026 — mfa.gov.sg](https://www.mfa.gov.sg/newsroom/press-statements-transcripts-and-photos/official-visit-of-prime-minister-of-australia-anthony-albanese--9-to-11-april-2026/)
      * [Australia will underwrite fuel deals during supply concerns, Albanese says — apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/australia-singapore-fuel-albanese-wong-5889671a3f2bf3806a5d585c01322ccd)
      * [Anthony Albanese to fly to Malaysia in second dash to Asia in two weeks as PM secures fuel supplies — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15727089/Anthony-Albanese-Malaysia-Brunei-Singapore-fuel.html)
      * [Why is Anthony Albanese visiting Singapore amid Australia's fuel crisis – and what could come from it? — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/09/anthony-albanese-singapore-visit-australia-fuel-crisis-explainer)
      * [Anthony Albanese dashes to Singapore as Australia engages in a costly, complex fuel scramble — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-09/prime-minister-anthony-albanese-singapore-fuel-talks/106542828)
      * [Cutting fuel to Australia 'won't happen', says Singapore PM, as Albanese secures pledge from our largest petrol source — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/10/australia-singapore-fuel-supply-deal-agreement-albanese)
      * [Albanese Singapore trip: Australia strikes trade deal for 'maximum efforts' to boost fuel supply — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/albanese-strikes-singapore-deal-in-bid-to-boost-fuel-supply-20260410-p5zmsd.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Australia criticizes Trump rhetoric while welcoming Iran ceasefire" type="April 6–11, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Australia PM Albanese criticises Trump's rhetoric while welcoming ceasefire — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/australia-pm-albanese-criticises-trumps-rhetoric-while-welcoming-ceasefire-2026-04-08/)
      * [Anthony Albanese brands Trump's Iran threats 'extraordinary' in rare moment of criticism — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/08/australian-pm-anthony-albanese-trump-iran-threats-comments)
      * [Anthony Albanese's stern response after Donald Trump threatened to destroy 'whole civilisation' in Iran — dailymail.co.uk](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15714367/Anthony-Albaneses-Donald-Trump-civilisation.html)
      * [Albanese welcomes US-Iran ceasefire — thesaturdaypaper.com.au](https://www.thesaturdaypaper.com.au/post/2026/04/09/albanese-welcomes-us-iran-ceasefire)
      * [Penny Wong calls failed peace talks between US and Iran 'disappointing' and urges resumption — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/12/penny-wong-calls-failed-peace-talks-between-us-and-iran-disappointing-and-urges-resumption)
      * [Australia's Prime Minister: Trump's Threat Against Iranian Civilization Was Inappropriate — 8am.media](https://8am.media/eng/albanese-trump-iran-threat/)
      * [Trump's escalating rhetoric inappropriate for a United States president, Albanese says — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-08/albanese-denounces-trump-iran-rhetoric/106527034)
      * [Albanese's tactic with Trump has always been don't buy-in and don't bite back. Why has that changed? — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/09/trump-albanese-tactics-changed-foreign-policy)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Albanese flags NDIS overhaul and property tax changes in pre-budget signals" type="April 10–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Anthony Albanese rules out means-testing NDIS and signals housing tax changes in federal budget — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/policy/economy/albanese-rules-out-ndis-means-test-flags-housing-tax-overhaul-20260411-p5zn3h)
      * [Prime Minister Anthony Albanese flags NDIS overhaul, scrapping investor tax breaks in budget sneak peek — 9news.com.au](https://www.9news.com.au/national/federal-politics-anthony-albanese-flags-major-changes-to-ndis/b200d4e9-a4e8-4803-98c4-be2459601cc0)
      * [NDIS changes: Albanese flags major changes to maintain public support and viability, property tax breaks — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/pm-flags-major-changes-on-ndis-and-investor-tax-breaks-20260412-p5zn71.html)
      * [New relief for households being considered as Albanese government warns of 'long tail' from Iran war — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/12/new-relief-for-households-being-considered-as-albanese-government-warns-of-long-tail-from-iran-war)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Angus Taylor and Matt Canavan show contrasting opposition leadership styles" type="April 8–9, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Grattan on Friday: Taylor and Canavan are chalk and cheese – and that's a problem for Taylor — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-taylor-and-canavan-are-chalk-and-cheese-and-thats-a-problem-for-taylor-279766)
      * [Taylor and Canavan are chalk and cheese – and that's a problem for Taylor — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-10/michelle-grattan-two-different-reactions-to-trump-grandstanding/106548400)
      * [Michelle Grattan: A tale of two new leaders as Angus Taylor and Matt Canavan react differently to Trump threat — thewest.com.au](https://thewest.com.au/opinion/michelle-grattan-a-tale-of-two-new-leaders-as-angus-taylor-and-matt-canavan-show-difference-c-22122447)
      * [Michelle Grattan | Angus Taylor, Matt Canavan and Australian politics — canberratimes.com.au](https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/9218992/taylor-and-canavan-are-chalk-and-cheese-and-thats-a-problem-for-taylor/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Richard Marles announces new defense leadership appointments" type="April 7–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Federal politics: Australia has not been asked to participate in US's Hormuz blockade: PM — as it happened — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-13/federal-politics-live-albanese-fuel-iran-critical-minerals/106551548)
      * [Australia Turns to Asia for Fuel, Security as US Distracted — livemint.com](https://www.livemint.com/politics/australia-turns-to-asia-for-fuel-security-as-us-distracted-11775949473540.html)
      * [Australia gets its first female army chief, Susan Coyle — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/australia-gets-its-first-female-army-chief-susan-coyle-280435)
      * [Japan, Australia to step up defense ties, coordinate on strategy updates — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/japan-australia-to-step-up-defense-ties-coordinate-on-strategy-updates)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="ASIO pushes to make expanded surveillance powers permanent" type="April 8–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [ASIO's Permanent Power Grab — confidentialdaily.com](https://www.confidentialdaily.com/posts/asios-permanent-power-grab/)
      * [ASIO and the eternal police state — spectator.com.au](https://www.spectator.com.au/2026/04/asio-and-the-eternal-police-state/)
      * [Government set to make extreme police powers permanent — spectator.com.au](https://www.spectator.com.au/2026/04/government-set-to-make-extreme-police-powers-permanent/)
      * [Senator Antic warns against Labor handing ASIO extraordinary powers — londontimes.live](https://www.londontimes.live/state-and-affairs/senator-antic-warns-against-labor-handing-asio-extraordinary-powers/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="RBA expected to hike rates again amid persistent inflation pressures" type="April 9–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [RBA Rate Hike Predictions 2026: Economists Eye Possible May Increase to 4.35% Amid Sticky Inflation — ibtimes.com.au](https://ibtimes.com.au/rba-rate-hike-predictions-2026-economists-eye-possible-may-increase-435-amid-sticky-inflation-1866008)
      * [RBA to sift through jobs data as world watches Hormuz — au.finance.yahoo.com](https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/rba-sift-jobs-data-world-020000502.html)
      * [Australian Dollar Holds Range Amid RBA Hikes and Middle East Tensions — barchart.com](https://www.barchart.com/story/news/1241578/australian-dollar-holds-range-amid-rba-hikes-and-middle-east-tensions)
      * [Australian Dollar opens gap down as US, Iran fail to reach peace deal — fxstreet.com](https://www.fxstreet.com/news/australian-dollar-opens-at-a-gap-down-as-us-iran-fail-to-reach-peace-deal-202604122234)
      * [A ceasefire is good. But Trump's impact on rates is just starting — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/business/the-economy/a-ceasefire-is-good-but-trump-s-impact-on-rates-is-just-starting-20260409-p5zmpp.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Government launches \$20 million fuel conservation advertising campaign" type="April 7–11, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [The Albanese government is slammed for 'wasting' \$20million of taxpayer money on petrol 'propaganda' — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15726129/Australia-petrol-fuel-ad-Albanese.html)
      * [Government launches multi-million-dollar fuel saving campaign — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-11/government-launches-multi-million-dollar-fuel-saving-campaign/106555004)
      * [Angus Taylor: Coalition demands new fuel security dashboard — canberratimes.com.au](https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/9217990/angus-taylor-coalition-demands-new-fuel-security-dashboard/)
      * ['He gaslights people': Angus Taylor takes aim at Chris Bowen — 3aw.com.au](https://www.3aw.com.au/he-gaslights-people-angus-taylor-takes-aim-at-chris-bowen/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [One group of Aussies could be slugged with a new tax as Albanese government reveals it's been months in the works — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15725731/road-user-charge-Australia-electric-vehicles.html)
      * [Australia has a Serious Landlord Problem — jacobin.com](https://jacobin.com/2026/04/australia-housing-landlords-rba-parliament)
      * [Ben Roberts-Smith update: New details emerge of former soldier's first night behind bars after war crimes charges — 9news.com.au](https://www.9news.com.au/national/ben-roberts-smith-arrested-suspicion-of-war-crimes/eecd47fa-2781-4337-b032-1c4982c3c91b)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/jp.svg" alt="Japan flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> Japan

Japan downgraded China from "one of its most important ties" to merely "an important neighboring country" in its annual diplomatic bluebook, marking the sharpest decline in Tokyo-Beijing relations in years.

Sanae Takaichi, the prime minister, announced that her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) plans to propose constitutional amendments within one year. At the LDP's annual convention, she said she was willing to hold a referendum: "Let us boldly ask the people whether we should change course."

Japan is already shifting military resources from support duties to regional defense — the Maritime Self-Defense Force will withdraw from Antarctic research duties in the early 2030s, freeing up 180 personnel for security tasks as it faces personnel shortages.

Ms Takaichi announced the country has secured oil supplies until early 2027 from imports and stockpiles, with American imports expected to quadruple in May. Japan holds eight months of oil reserves and has bought more from Middle Eastern sources that avoid the Strait of Hormuz.

Ms Takaichi communicates differently from her predecessors. She has spoken to press groups just 34 times in five months — far less than previous leaders — while posting to X 370 times in the same period. When she met British rock band Deep Purple at her Tokyo office, she told drummer Ian Paice "you are my god." The moment got widespread attention ahead of the band's Japan tour.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Imperial family visits Fukushima to mark 15 years since nuclear disaster** — Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Princess Aiko made a two-day visit to Fukushima Prefecture to inspect reconstruction efforts 15 years after the March 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear accident. They visited educational facilities and museums documenting the disaster. *([mainichi.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/06/japan/society/imperial-family-fukushima-visit/))*
  * **Takaichi pushes through record budget breaking Diet conventions** — The 122.31 trillion yen budget for fiscal 2026 was enacted after unusually brief 115 hours of deliberations as Sanae Takaichi rushed the process, breaking parliamentary conventions and bewildering her own party. *([asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16483290))*
  * **Bank of Japan Governor Ueda discusses monetary policy with new PM** — Kazuo Ueda, the Bank of Japan governor, met with Sanae Takaichi and told her the bank would gradually adjust monetary policy to guide inflation smoothly towards the 2% target. Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff urged respecting central bank independence at a government economic council meeting. *([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/harvard-economist-urges-japan-pm-takaichi-respect-central-bank-independence-2026-04-08/))*
  * **Japan's intelligence community reform proposals under Takaichi** — Sanae Takaichi is considering reforms to Japan's intelligence and counter-intelligence capabilities, with proposals for enhanced intelligence gathering and analysis systems to address regional security challenges. *([theowp.org](https://theowp.org/the-resurgence-of-special-services-how-takaichi-could-reform-japans-intelligence-community))*
  * **LDP faces internal divisions over retrial reform and membership decline** — The Liberal Democratic Party delayed a government bill on retrial system reform after internal disagreements, while also reporting membership fell by 25,000 in 2025 for the third straight year of decline. *([japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/ruling-ldp-membership-falls-by-25-000-declines-for-3rd-straight-year))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="PM Takaichi meets British rock band Deep Purple in viral diplomatic moment" type="April 9–10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (15)">
      * [Japanese PM Takaichi meets British rock band Deep Purple — bbc.com](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cre12n72nwno)
      * ['You are my god,' Takaichi tells Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/entertainment/'you-are-my-god-'-takaichi-tells-deep-purple-drummer-ian-paice)
      * [Deep Purple thrills Japan's superfan prime minister with a quick visit — japantimes.co.jp](https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/10/japan/sanae-takaichi-meets-deep-purple)
      * [Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi thrilled by Deep Purple's visit to her office — abcnews.com](https://abcnews.com/Entertainment/wireStory/japanese-prime-minister-takaichi-thrilled-deep-purples-visit-131909379)
      * [Deep Purple thrills Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi with a quick visit — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/lifestyle/deep-purple-thrills-japans-superfan-prime-minister-with-quick-visit-2026-04-10)
      * [Deep Purple Meet Their Biggest Fan: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi — consequence.net](https://consequence.net/2026/04/deep-purple-japanese-pm-takaichi/)
      * [PM Takaichi hosts British rock band Deep Purple in 'dream' Tokyo meeting — kyodonews.net](https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/73996)
      * ['You are my god', Japan's PM tells British rock band Deep Purple — trendingworld.info](https://www.trendingworld.info/you-are-my-god-japans-pm-tells-british-rock-band-deep-purple)
      * [Japan's Prime Minister SANAE TAKAICHI Meets DEEP PURPLE — bravewords.com](https://bravewords.com/news/japans-prime-minister-sanae-takaichi-meets-deep-purple-these-days-when-i-fight-with-my-husband-i-drum-%E2%81%A0to-burn-and-cast-a-curse-on-him-photos/)
      * [Deep Purple rocks Japanese PM's office — france24.com](https://www.france24.com/en/deep-purple-rocks-japanese-pm-s-office)
      * ['You are my god': Deep Purple thrill Japan's superfan prime minister with flying visit — independent.co.uk](https://independent.co.uk/asia/japan/japan-sanae-takaichi-deep-purple-b2955106.html)
      * [Deep Purple Meets Japan's Rock Fan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Epic Tokyo Moment — ad-hoc-news.de](https://ad-hoc-news.de/boerse/news/ueberblick/deep-purple-meets-japan-s-rock-fan-prime-minister-sanae-takaichi-in-epic/69118278)
      * [Deep Purple thrills Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi with a quick visit in Tokyo — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/world/archives/2026/04/11/2003855425)
      * [Woman in Tokyo: Deep Purple meets Japan's super fan PM — bendigoadvertiser.com.au](https://bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/9219653/woman-in-tokyo-deep-purple-meets-japans-super-fan-pm)
      * ['You are my god,' Japanese PM tells Deep Purple — thenews.pk](https://www.thenews.pk/print/1409438-you-are-my-god-japanese-pm-tells-deep-purple)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Takaichi pushes one-year timeline for constitutional amendment at LDP convention" type="April 9–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Takaichi seeks one-year timeline for constitutional amendment proposal — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/12/japan/politics/takaichi-ldp-annual-convention/)
      * [Takaichi rallies party to overhaul Constitution with 'New Vision' plan — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16493645)
      * [Sanae Takaichi pushes one-year timeline for constitutional reform — qazinform.com](https://qazinform.com/news/sanae-takaichi-pushes-one-year-timeline-for-constitutional-reform-691001)
      * [Takaichi Pushes Constitutional Revision for Self-Defense Forces — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/world-en/2026/04/12/WNLECJY4TZBHHC4F6PSV6T2JNE/)
      * [Japan's ruling LDP renews pledge to amend Constitution in new vision — kyodonews.net](https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/74005)
      * [LDP's renewed push for constitutional revision sparks public doubts in Japan — english.news.cn](https://english.news.cn/20260412/f044d735dfa84cafbb03e5e6a2e73f4b/c.html)
      * [Ruling bloc proposes constitutional amendment drafting panel — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/10/japan/politics/constitutional-amendment-drafting-committee/)
      * [LDP's new vision says constitutional revision 'critically needed' — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/10/japan/politics/ldp-constitution-revision)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan downgrades China from 'most important' to 'important neighbor' in diplomatic bluebook" type="April 9–10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [CGTN Poll: Over 80% of global respondents blame Japan entirely for tense China-Japan relations — news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-04-11/Poll-Over-80-blame-Japan-entirely-for-tense-China-Japan-relations-1Mgckh4EAwg/p.html)
      * [Root cause of current state of China-Japan ties lies in Takaichi's erroneous remarks on Taiwan question — news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-04-10/Takaichi-s-Taiwan-remarks-root-cause-of-woes-in-China-Japan-ties-1MekJgaHsJy/p.html)
      * [Japan downgrades China's status in 2026 Diplomatic Bluebook — assamtribune.com](https://assamtribune.com/international/japan-downgrades-chinas-status-in-2026-diplomatic-bluebook-1610509)
      * [China blames Takaichi's Taiwan remarks for strained ties with Japan — ankasam.org](https://www.ankasam.org/china-blames-takaichis-taiwan-remarks-for-strained-ties-with-japan/?lang=en)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan addresses energy security concerns amid Middle East tensions" type="April 5–10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [Japan Secures Oil Necessary until Early 2027: Takaichi — sp.m.jiji.com](https://sp.m.jiji.com/english/show/46912)
      * [Japan can secure enough oil into 2027, Takaichi says — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/Japan-can-secure-enough-oil-into-2027-Takaichi-says)
      * [Takaichi Asks UAE for Stable Crude Oil Supply — sp.m.jiji.com](https://sp.m.jiji.com/english/show/46913)
      * [Takaichi Cautious about Issuing Energy-Saving Request Soon — sp.m.jiji.com](https://sp.m.jiji.com/english/show/46899)
      * [Japan Taps Strategic Reserves Again as Middle East Tensions Force Accelerated Diversification — thecrudelife.substack.com](https://thecrudelife.substack.com/p/japan-taps-strategic-reserves-again)
      * [Spring Tourism Surges: This Week in Osaka April 3rd to 10th 2026 — osaka.com](https://www.osaka.com/uncategorised/spring-tourism-surges-this-week-in-osaka-april-3rd-to-10th-2026/)
      * [Takaichi hopes to speak to Iranian president about Strait of Hormuz — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260407_10/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Imperial family visits Fukushima to mark 15 years since nuclear disaster" type="April 4–6, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (9)">
      * [Japan's imperial family meet with children in Fukushima on 2nd day of trip — mainichi.jp](https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20260407/p2g/00m/0na/046000c)
      * [Japan's Imperial family visits school in Fukushima's Okuma Town — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260408_01/)
      * [Emperor and his family visit education facility in Fukushima Prefecture — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/08/japan/fukushima-imperial-family/)
      * [Japan's Imperial family observes police car swept away by 2011 tsunami — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260407_08/)
      * [Imperial family visits museum about 2011 quake, nuclear accident in Fukushima — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260406_17/)
      * [Imperial family visits Fukushima to inspect reconstruction efforts — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/06/japan/society/imperial-family-fukushima-visit/)
      * [Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Princess Aiko Visit Fukushima — newmyroyals.com](https://www.newmyroyals.com/2026/04/emperor-naruhito-empress-masako-and.html)
      * [La princesa Aiko de Japón hace su primer viaje a Fukushima, 15 años después del tsunami nuclear — 20minutos.es](https://www.20minutos.es/gente/princesa-aiko-japon-hace-su-primer-viaje-fukushima-15-anos-despues-tsunami-nuclear_6954684_0.html)
      * [Japan's Imperial Family visits Fukushima, marks 15 years since nuclear disaster — smninewschannel.com](https://smninewschannel.com/japans-imperial-family-visits-fukushima-marks-15-years-since-nuclear-disaster)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Takaichi reduces press interactions while increasing social media use" type="April 10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Takaichi speaking less to press; more active on social media — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/Takaichi-speaking-less-to-press-more-active-on-social-media)
      * [Data shows PM Takaichi eschewing press amid active social media use — kyodonews.net](https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/74012)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Takaichi pushes through record budget breaking Diet conventions" type="April 5–7, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Takaichi pushes through record budget, breaking Diet conventions — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16483290)
      * [Japan PM Takaichi's attendance in parliament down 40% from predecessor — asia.nikkei.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/japan-pm-takaichi-s-attendance-in-parliament-down-40-from-predecessor)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Bank of Japan Governor Ueda discusses monetary policy with new PM" type="April 8–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Harvard economist urges Japan PM Takaichi to respect central bank independence — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/harvard-economist-urges-japan-pm-takaichi-respect-central-bank-independence-2026-04-08/)
      * [Ueda outlines BoJ policy in first meeting with new PM — capital-media.mu](https://www.capital-media.mu/2026/04/ueda-outlines-boj-policy-in-first-meeting-with-new-pm/)
      * [World finance chiefs head to IMF with a sense of déjà vu — economictimes.indiatimes.com](https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/world-finance-chiefs-head-to-imf-with-a-sense-of-dj-vu/articleshow/130203150.cms)
      * [Dollar Rallies as US Prepares Iran Port Blockade, Peace Talks Falter — globalbankingandfinance.com](https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/dollar-strengthens-peace-talks-falter-us-blockade-irans/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan plans defense posture changes amid security challenges" type="April 8–9, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Japan to withdraw MSDF from Antarctic mission amid growing security demands — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/national/japan-to-withdraw-msdf-from-antarctic-mission-amid-growing-security-demands)
      * [Japan says N Korea weapons buildup increasingly urgent threat — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/japan-says-n.-korea-weapons-buildup-increasingly-urgent-threat)
      * [Operations Coordinator | Japanese Trading Company｜Houston — hr.aitworks.com](https://hr.aitworks.com/jobs/operations-coordinator-en/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan's intelligence community reform proposals under Takaichi" type="April 11, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [The Resurgence Of Special Services: How Takaichi Could Reform Japan's Intelligence Community — theowp.org](https://theowp.org/the-resurgence-of-special-services-how-takaichi-could-reform-japans-intelligence-community)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="LDP faces internal divisions over retrial reform and membership decline" type="April 6–8, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [LDP membership falls by 25,000; declines for 3rd straight year — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/ruling-ldp-membership-falls-by-25-000-declines-for-3rd-straight-year)
      * [Much-criticized retrial reform bill delayed by LDP lawmakers — asahi.com](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/16477545)
      * [LDP Demands Justice Ministry Reconsider Retrial System Reform — nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026040700900/)
      * [LDP Proposes Tues. Committee Vote on FY 2026 Govt Budget — nippon.com](https://nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026040600316)
      * [Japan Retrial Reform Clash April 6: LDP Uproar Puts Rule of Law in Focus — meyka.com](https://meyka.com/blog/japan-retrial-reform-clash-april-6-ldp-uproar-puts-rule-of-law-in-focus-0604/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [Takaichi to miss NPT conference; senior vice minister to join — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16480397)
      * [Sanae Takaichi: Japan's Rising Political Star Blends Tradition and Modernity — politics-government.news-articles.net](https://politics-government.news-articles.net/content/2026/04/09/sanae-takaichi-japan-s-rising-political-star-blends-tradition-and-modernity.html)
      * [Debt-laden Japan should review spending on gender equality, survey finds — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/11/japan/society/japan-spending-gender-equality/)
      * [Korea's strategic reality: Trust America, prepare for the future — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/opinion/20260412/koreas-strategic-reality-trust-america-prepare-for-the-future)
      * [Takaichi's Washington visit: Has Japan enhanced its Indo-Pacific posture? — indiasworld.in](https://indiasworld.in/takaichis-washington-visit-has-japan-enhanced-its-indo-pacific-posture/)
      * [The country that can't say no to Trump — ft.com](https://www.ft.com/content/2e685841-68fe-4ade-b80b-67844d8caa7c?syn-25a6b1a6=1)
      * [1 in 5 Japanese in their late teens see immigration as key issue — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/national/1-in-5-japan-late-teens-see-immigration-as-key-issue-triple-2-yrs-ago)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/id.svg" alt="Indonesia flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> Indonesia

"It's to secure oil, I have to go everywhere," Prabowo Subianto told critics as he left for Moscow to meet Vladimir Putin this week. The Indonesian president's blunt defence captures his government's approach: build partnerships with all major powers, depend on none.

The Putin meeting focused on energy cooperation, with Sugiono, the foreign minister, saying oil matters to Indonesia. The visit shows Indonesia's approach of courting all sides — keeping ties with Russia while preserving Western partnerships, striking deals issue by issue rather than choosing sides.

Even as Mr Prabowo courted Moscow, his government was flexing state power at home. The president said the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force had recovered \$21.65 billion in state assets from illegal logging — nearly 10% of the entire state budget. He ordered prosecutors to file criminal charges against companies resisting the crackdown and set aside the recovered funds for infrastructure and education.

Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the vice president, revealed another drain on state coffers: trade misinvoicing that has cost Indonesia an estimated \$401 billion in under-invoiced exports from 2014 to 2023. He called this a hidden threat to financial sovereignty and pushed for digitisation to improve transparency and close revenue gaps.

Mr Gibran also waded into judicial management, proposing ad hoc judges for the acid attack case of Andrie Yunus to protect public trust in the justice system. Legal experts expressed scepticism about the mechanism, but the proposal reflects the regime's focus on managing legitimacy around sensitive cases.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Prabowo departs for Moscow to meet Putin on energy cooperation** — Prabowo Subianto departed for Russia on Sunday evening to meet with Vladimir Putin. The meeting will focus on energy cooperation and global geopolitical issues, particularly oil supply stability amid Middle East conflicts. *([jatim.antaranews.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/indonesia-president-prabowo-visit-russia-meet-putin-minister-says-2026-04-11/))*
  * **Prabowo steps down as pencak silat chief, Sugiono takes over** — Prabowo Subianto concluded his multi-decade tenure as chairman of Indonesian Pencak Silat Association (IPSI), citing presidential duties. Foreign Minister Sugiono was unanimously elected as his replacement during the national conference. *([en.antaranews.com](https://en.tempo.co/read/2097763/sugiono-replaces-prabowo-as-chief-of-indonesias-pencak-silat-association))*
  * **US seeks blanket overflight access for military aircraft through Indonesia** — A classified US defence document reveals plans to secure blanket overflight access for American military aircraft through Indonesian airspace, following a February meeting between Prabowo and Trump in Washington. *([sundayguardianlive.com](https://sundayguardianlive.com/world/us-seeks-blanket-overflight-access-via-indonesia-183288/))*
  * **Golkar consolidates leadership with regional congresses across Indonesia** — Golkar party held multiple regional congresses across provinces including North Sulawesi, North Maluku, and other regions, with Bahlil Lahadalia, the party chairman, emphasising solidarity and preparation for 2029 elections. *([antaranews.com](https://www.antaranews.com/berita/5522607/bahlil-tekankan-soliditas-partai-di-musda-golkar-sulut))*
  * **Pertamina officials named suspects in corruption probe over oil procurement** — Indonesia's attorney general named seven people as suspects in a corruption case involving crude oil procurement between 2008-2015, including Pertamina executives and oil tycoon Tommy Suharto associate. *([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/indonesia-names-pertamina-officials-oil-tycoon-suspects-oil-procurement-probe-2026-04-10/))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Prabowo departs for Moscow to meet Putin on energy cooperation" type="April 11–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Putin siap sambut Prabowo di Moskow bahas kemitraan strategis — jatim.antaranews.com](https://jatim.antaranews.com/berita/1056661/putin-siap-sambut-prabowo-di-moskow-bahas-kemitraan-strategis)
      * [Indonesia President Prabowo to visit Russia, meet Putin, minister says — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/indonesia-president-prabowo-visit-russia-meet-putin-minister-says-2026-04-11/)
      * [Indonesian president Prabowo to meet Putin in Russia for oil talks — channelnewsasia.com](https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/indonesia-president-prabowo-subianto-visits-russia-talks-putin-oil-middle-east-war-6050566)
      * [Demi Agenda Besar Indonesia, Presiden Prabowo Kembali Terbang ke Rusia — mediaindonesia.com](https://mediaindonesia.com/politik-dan-hukum/878577/demi-agenda-besar-indonesia-presiden-prabowo-kembali-terbang-ke-rusia)
      * [Prabowo akan Bertemu Putin di Rusia — tempo.co](https://tempo.co/politik/prabowo-akan-bertemu-putin-di-rusia-2128429)
      * [Presiden Prabowo Bertolak ke Moskow, Bahas Energi dan Stabilitas Global — publikasionline.id](https://publikasionline.id/2026/04/13/presiden-prabowo-bertolak-ke-moskow-bahas-energi-dan-stabilitas-global/)
      * [Terbang ke Rusia, Presiden Prabowo bertemu Presiden Vladimir Putin — elshinta.com](https://elshinta.com/kategori/4/aktual-luar-negeri/terbang-ke-rusia-presiden-prabowo-bertemu-presiden-vladimir-putin-159678)
      * [Bertemu Putin, Prabwo Akan Bahas Stok Minyak — dnaberita.com](https://dnaberita.com/bertemu-putin-prabwo-akan-bahas-stok-minyak/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Indonesia recovers over \$21 billion in forest assets through PKH task force" type="April 10–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [Indonesia recovers over \$21 billion in forest assets: Prabowo — en.antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/411931/indonesia-recovers-over-21-billion-in-forest-assets-prabowo)
      * [Indonesia's Prabowo calls for criminal charges against firms resisting forest crackdown — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/indonesias-prabowo-calls-criminal-charges-against-firms-resisting-forest-2026-04-10/)
      * [Presiden Prabowo Apresiasi Satgas PKH — beritasulawesi.co.id](https://www.beritasulawesi.co.id/23237/news/berita-nasional/presiden-prabowo-apresiasi-satgas-pkh.html)
      * [Prabowo Ungkap Ada Pejabat yang Diberi Kekuasaan, Tapi Bantu Pencuri Uang Negara — liputan6.com](https://liputan6.com/news/read/6314351/prabowo-ungkap-ada-pejabat-yang-diberi-kekuasaan-tapi-bantu-pencuri-uang-negara)
      * [Kementerian Transmigrasi Dukung Satgas PKH Bentukan Presiden Prabowo — rakyat.news](https://rakyat.news/read/165884/kementerian-transmigrasi-dukung-satgas-pkh-bentukan-presiden-prabowo)
      * [Indonesia Recovers IDR31.3 Trillion, Prabowo Strengthens Crackdown on State Asset Losses — palmoilmagazine.com](https://www.palmoilmagazine.com/biodiesel/2026/04/13/malaysia-accelerates-b100-biodiesel-plan-to-cut-fossil-fuel-dependence/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Prabowo steps down as pencak silat chief, Sugiono takes over" type="April 10–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (11)">
      * [Pencak silat martial arts reflects Indonesian character : Prabowo — en.antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/411967/pencak-silat-martial-arts-reflects-indonesian-character-prabowo)
      * [Prabowo vows lifelong support for pencak silat development — en.antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/411989/prabowo-vows-lifelong-support-for-pencak-silat-development)
      * [Sugiono Replaces Prabowo as Chief of Indonesia's Pencak Silat Association — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2097763/sugiono-replaces-prabowo-as-chief-of-indonesias-pencak-silat-association)
      * [Prabowo berpesan ke pendekar silat bela kebenaran dan kaum lemah — antaranews.com](https://antaranews.com/berita/5522384/prabowo-berpesan-ke-pendekar-silat-bela-kebenaran-dan-kaum-lemah)
      * [Cerita Prabowo geluti silat sejak muda, ungkap masih ada bekas luka — antaranews.com](https://antaranews.com/berita/5522341/cerita-prabowo-geluti-silat-sejak-muda-ungkap-masih-ada-bekas-luka)
      * [Prabowo janji tetap setia dukung pencak silat seumur hidup — antaranews.com](https://antaranews.com/berita/5522743/prabowo-janji-tetap-setia-dukung-pencak-silat-seumur-hidup)
      * [Cerita Prabowo 34 Tahun Mengabdikan Diri Kembangkan Pencak Silat — jpnn.com](https://jpnn.com/news/cerita-prabowo-34-tahun-mengabdikan-diri-kembangkan-pencak-silat)
      * [Prabowo: Pencak Silat Budaya Indonesia, Bagian Ilmu Kesatria — liputan6.com](https://liputan6.com/news/read/6314606/prabowo-pencak-silat-budaya-indonesia-bagian-ilmu-kesatria)
      * [Sugiono Gantikan Prabowo Jadi Ketua Umum Ikatan Pencak Silat — tempo.co](https://tempo.co/politik/sugiono-gantikan-prabowo-jadi-ketua-umum-ikatan-pencak-silat-2128386)
      * [Prabowo Minta Maaf Belum Bisa Bawa Silat RI ke Olimpiade — cnbcindonesia.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/news/20260411160813-4-725962/prabowo-minta-maaf-belum-bisa-bawa-silat-ri-ke-olimpiade)
      * [Fokus Tugas Presiden, Prabowo Pamit dari Ketua Umum PB IPSI — goriau.com](https://goriau.com/berita/baca/fokus-tugas-presiden-prabowo-pamit-dari-ketua-umum-pb-ipsi.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="US seeks blanket overflight access for military aircraft through Indonesia" type="April 10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [US seeks blanket overflight access via Indonesia — sundayguardianlive.com](https://sundayguardianlive.com/world/us-seeks-blanket-overflight-access-via-indonesia-183288/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Gibran highlights trade misinvoicing threat to Indonesian economy" type="April 11–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [Gibran Soroti Praktik Misinvoicing: Kebocoran Pajak yang Rugikan Negara Ratusan Miliar Dollar AS — nasional.kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/04/11/13465511/gibran-soroti-praktik-misinvoicing-kebocoran-pajak-yang-rugikan-negara)
      * [Wapres Gibran Bicara Kedaulatan Keuangan, Ini Isi Lengkapnya — liputan6.com](https://www.liputan6.com/bisnis/read/6315006/wapres-gibran-bicara-kedaulatan-keuangan-ini-isi-lengkapnya)
      * [Gibran Ungkap Skandal Trade Misinvoicing, Dana Ratusan Miliar Dolar Mengalir ke Luar Negeri — liputan6.com](https://www.liputan6.com/bisnis/read/6314923/gibran-ungkap-skandal-trade-misinvoicing-dana-ratusan-miliar-dolar-mengalir-ke-luar-negeri)
      * [Gibran Ungkap Trade Misinvoicing Bikin Penerimaan Pajak Hilang Triliunan — liputan6.com](https://www.liputan6.com/bisnis/read/6314929/gibran-ungkap-trade-misinvoicing-bikin-penerimaan-pajak-hilang-triliunan)
      * [Gibran Ungkap Negara Rugi Besar akibat Kecurangan Misinvoicing: Kekayaan RI Lari ke Luar Negeri — inews.id](https://www.inews.id/news/nasional/gibran-ungkap-negara-rugi-besar-akibat-kecurangan-misinvoicing-kekayaan-ri-lari-ke-luar-negeri)
      * [Gibran Menjelaskan Trade Misinvoicing — inews.id](https://www.inews.id/news/nasional/gibran-ungkap-negara-rugi-besar-akibat-kecurangan-misinvoicing-kekayaan-ri-lari-ke-luar-negeri)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Gibran proposes ad hoc judges for Andrie Yunus acid attack case" type="April 10–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Babak Baru Kasus Andrie Yunus: Gibran Usul Hakim Ad Hoc hingga Dorongan Pemerintah Bentuk TGPF — nasional.kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/04/11/09191631/babak-baru-kasus-andrie-yunus-gibran-usul-hakim-ad-hoc-hingga-dorongan)
      * [Gibran's ad hoc judges proposal in acid attack case draws legal doubt — thejakartapost.com](https://www.thejakartapost.com/indonesia/2026/04/13/gibrans-ad-hoc-judges-proposal-in-acid-attack-case-draws-legal-doubt.html)
      * [Today's Top 3 News: Facts Behind Jakarta's Sudden Blackout on Thursday Night — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2097653/todays-top-3-news-facts-behind-jakartas-sudden-blackout-on-thursday-night)
      * [Koalisi Sipil Desak TNI Ikuti Arahan Gibran soal Kasus Andrie Yunus — cnnindonesia.com](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20260410163956-12-1346608/koalisi-sipil-desak-tni-ikuti-arahan-gibran-soal-kasus-andrie-yunus)
      * [Hukum sepekan, Gibran soal Andrie Yunus hingga JK laporkan Rismon — antaranews.com](https://www.antaranews.com/berita/5522857/hukum-sepekan-gibran-soal-andrie-yunus-hingga-jk-laporkan-rismon)
      * [Gibran Usul Libatkan Hakim Ad Hoc di Kasus Air Keras Aktivis KontraS, Yusril Pastikan bakal Dikaji — inews.id](https://www.inews.id/news/nasional/gibran-usul-libatkan-hakim-ad-hoc-di-kasus-air-keras-aktivis-kontras-yusril-pastikan-bakal-dikaji)
      * [Kata Komnas HAM soal Usul Gibran Libatkan Hakim Ad Hoc di Kasus Andrie — tempo.co](https://www.tempo.co/politik/kata-komnas-ham-soal-usul-gibran-libatkan-hakim-ad-hoc-di-kasus-andrie-2128248)
      * [Gibran Usul Hakim Ad Hoc Dilibatkan dalam Kasus Andrie Yunus, Yusril: Akan Dikaji Bareng MA — news.okezone.com](https://news.okezone.com/read/2026/04/11/337/3211849/gibran-usul-hakim-ad-hoc-dilibatkan-dalam-kasus-andrie-yunus-yusril-akan-dikaji-bareng-ma)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Golkar consolidates leadership with regional congresses across Indonesia" type="April 9–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (12)">
      * [Bahlil tekankan soliditas partai di Musda Golkar Sulut — antaranews.com](https://www.antaranews.com/berita/5522607/bahlil-tekankan-soliditas-partai-di-musda-golkar-sulut)
      * [Bahlil minta Musda Golkar Sulut perkuat soliditas partai — manado.antaranews.com](https://manado.antaranews.com/berita/311507/bahlil-minta-musda-golkar-sulut-perkuat)
      * [Bahlil Lahadalia di Musda Golkar Sulut: Jangan Ada Kubu Sana dan Sini — liputan6.com](https://www.liputan6.com/news/read/6314957/bahlil-lahadalia-di-musda-golkar-sulut-jangan-ada-kubu-sana-dan-sini)
      * [Pasang Target Besar di Sulut, Bahlil Perintahkan Golkar Tambah Raihan Kursi Legislatif Daerah — jawapos.com](https://www.jawapos.com/berita-daerah/2604120116/pasang-target-besar-di-sulut-bahlil-perintahkan-golkar-tambah-raihan-kursi-legislatif-daerah)
      * [Musda XI Golkar Sulut, Bahlil Ungkap Strategi Kemenangan Partai kepada Kader — jpnn.com](https://www.jpnn.com/news/musda-xi-golkar-sulut-bahlil-ungkap-strategi-kemenangan-partai-kepada-kader)
      * [Bahlil Tantang Pengurus Baru DPD Golkar Sulawesi Utara Tambah Kursi di Eksekutif dan Legislatif Daerah — nasional.sindonews.com](https://nasional.sindonews.com/read/1695621/12/bahlil-tantang-pengurus-baru-dpd-golkar-sulawesi-utara-tambah-kursi-di-eksekutif-dan-legislatif-daerah-1775999096)
      * [Bahlil Dorong Konsolidasi dan Kinerja Kader, Jadi Kunci Penguatan Golkar di Daerah — news.republika.co.id](https://news.republika.co.id/berita/tdd8mn522/bahlil-dorong-konsolidasi-dan-kinerja-kader-jadi-kunci-penguatan-golkar-di-daerah)
      * [Gubernur Soroti Ketimpangan Ekonomi Maluku Utara di Musda Golkar — merdeka.com](https://www.merdeka.com/uang/gubernur-soroti-ketimpangan-ekonomi-maluku-utara-di-musda-golkar-562004-mvk.html)
      * [Terpilih Kembali, Alien Mus: Partai Golkar Akan Selalu Berkibar di Maluku Utara — portalmalut.com](https://www.portalmalut.com/terpilih-kembali-alien-mus-partai-golkar-akan-selalu-berkibar-di-maluku-utara/)
      * [Musda ke-VI Partai Golkar Maluku Utara — antarafoto.com](https://www.antarafoto.com/id/view/2770873/musda-ke-vi-partai-golkar-maluku-utara)
      * [Diskresi, Kompetisi, dan Kompromi: Ketika Golkar Kehilangan Nafas Demokrasi Internalnya — cermat.co.id](https://www.cermat.co.id/diskresi-kompetisi-dan-kompromi-ketika-golkar-kehilangan-nafas-demokrasi-internalnya/)
      * [Politisi Perempuan Partai Golkar Terpopuler Berdasar Kuantitas Pemberitaan Periode Maret 2026 — golkarpedia.com](https://golkarpedia.com/politisi-perempuan-partai-golkar-terpopuler-berdasar-kuantitas-pemberitaan-periode-maret-2026/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Pertamina officials named suspects in corruption probe over oil procurement" type="April 10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Indonesia names Pertamina officials and oil tycoon as suspects in oil procurement probe — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/indonesia-names-pertamina-officials-oil-tycoon-suspects-oil-procurement-probe-2026-04-10/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Analysis: Death of peacekeepers forces Prabowo to rethink Middle East strategy — thejakartapost.com](https://www.thejakartapost.com/opinion/2026/04/13/analysis-death-of-peacekeepers-forces-prabowo-to-rethink-middle-east-strategy.html)
      * [Saiful Mujani accused of treason for calling to overthrow Prabowo — megapolitan.kompas.com](https://megapolitan.kompas.com/read/2026/04/11/16141781/saiful-mujani-dituduh-makar-gulingkan-prabowo-pakar-hukum-tafsiran-lebay)
      * [Bank Indonesia opens recruitment for Special Hire and PKWT positions — money.kompas.com](https://money.kompas.com/read/2026/04/12/174621226/rekrutmen-bi-special-hire-dan-pkwt-april-2026-dibuka-simak-syaratnya)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>