FOCUS ASIA | IRSEA

IRSEA's FOCUS ASIA Programme addresses key political, economic and social developments, at local, regional and global level, related to the area.

FOCUS ASIA contributes to a robust interaction between Europe and Asia by creating original research and roundtables and by hosting events, in partnership with institutions and experts in the area.

The structure of the programme is designed around a permanent exchange of people and views and encourages the development of common solutions in the spirit of mutual respect, mutual benefit and constructive dialogue.

FOCUS ASIA encourages policy driven interdisciplinary approaches with strong practical focus and welcomes policy makers, professionals, academics and junior scholars to closely cooperate in order to address fundamental issues regarding the role of Asia in the 21st century.

If you or your institution would like to contribute to our FOCUS ASIA Programme, please send us an e-mail to programs@irsea.ro

Details of our previous FOCUS ASIA activities can be accessed by clicking on the relevant links in the menu below.

Japan’s International Strategy and the Challenges of Trump 2.0

INTRODUCTION: Japan has been conducting proactive and high-level diplomacy with the US since the inauguration of the Trump 2.0 administration.

Beijing Retains Considerable Weight in Regional Perceptions

INTRODUCTION: Despite some apprehension about its actions, Beijing continues to retain considerable weight among Southeast Asian elites.

From Paris to Tariffs: US Goals Risk Ceding Influence in Southeast Asia

INTRODUCTION: The Trump administration’s withdrawal from its climate commitments and dismantling of USAID have not only jeopardised Southeast Asia’s energy transition but also US soft power

Trump’s ‘Liberation’ Day Unlikely to End Well for Southeast Asia — or Anyone

INTRODUCTION: Trump’s “Liberation” day tariffs will hit Southeast Asia hard.

2025/22 “Assessing China’s Call for “Strategic Autonomy” in Southeast Asia: Origins, Objectives and Outcomes”

INTRODUCTION: In April 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron renewed his call on the EU to exercise its strategic autonomy in various areas

All’s not well between the US and Japan amid Trump’s return to power

INTRODUCTION: Japan’s ties with the US face uncertainty under Trump, with trade disputes, security tensions, and shifting global alliances.

India and the QUAD:  The Opportunities and Challenges of Trump 2.0

INTRODUCTION: Amid signs that the Trump administration is keen to bolster the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), Sinderpal Singh outlines India’s interests in the partnership and its concerns.

Vietnam-Ukraine Ties: More Engagement, More Balanced Approach?

INTRODUCTION: Vietnam, traditionally seen to be more allied with Russia, has recently increased its diplomatic engagements with Ukraine.

Productive partnership

INTRODUCTION: Given Donald Trump’s personality, maintaining good relations with him plays a crucial role. Addressing PM Modi as a friend, Trump also described him as a “tough negotiator

Southeast Asia must Prepare for Trump’s ‘Everything’s on the Table’ Approach to Trade

INTRODUCTION: Southeast Asia was spared in the initial flurry of Trumpian trade actions, but Trump’s introduction of expansive and unprecedented non-trade issues into trade relations will inevitably entangle the region.