The first-ever ministerial strategic dialogue in the “3+3” format between Vietnam and China was held in Hanoi. The meeting brought together the ministers of foreign affairs, defense, and public security from both countries. The dialogue resulted in a commitment to expand cooperation across a range of key sectors, including trade, investment, the development of strategic infrastructure, as well as science and technology. A significant component of the discussions was also the deepening of collaboration in the field of security, encompassing efforts to combat transnational crime and cybercrime, enhance border management, and strengthen the protection of data and critical infrastructure. You can download the full report from March, along with commentary, here.

In the snap parliamentary elections held in Thailand, the conservative Bhumjaithai Party, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, emerged victorious, securing the largest number of seats in the 500-member House of Representatives. The reformist People's Party finished in second place, while the Pheu Thai Party ranked third. Thailand’s Election Commission has certified the majority of the voting results, paving the way for the formation of a new coalition government. The election outcome confirms a strengthening of conservative forces and parties aligned with the existing political establishment. You can download the full report from February, along with commentary, here.

The 14th Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) was held in Hanoi, bringing together nearly 1,600 delegates representing approximately five million CPV members. During the quinquennial event, 200 members of the Central Committee were elected, along with 19 representatives to the CPV’s highest decision-making body, the Politburo. The central figure in the new configuration remains To Lam, who was re-elected as General Secretary, thereby consolidating his dominant position within the party hierarchy. His re-election signals continuity in prevailing trends, including the concentration of power and the growing role of the security apparatus. The congress was not without significant surprises, however, most notably the exclusion of incumbent Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Luong Cuong from the Central Committee. You can download the full report from January, along with commentary, here.