Political channels, chip exports and election order emerge in three developments
A lawmakers' visit, an indictment over server exports and the result of a new single-chamber election put political contact and technology controls into focus through three developments.
Geopolitics··Midday
A Japanese delegation goes to Beijing to reopen channels cut after Taiwan remarks
Japanese lawmakers from different parties left Tokyo for Beijing on Monday and will meet Chinese Communist Party officials through Thursday. AP reported that the delegation includes Gaku Hashimoto from the governing Liberal Democratic Party and one lawmaker each from Komeito and the Centrist Reform Alliance. Centrist Reform Alliance spokesperson Shinichi Isa said communication had been severed in all areas and its effects were becoming visible. Prime Minister Takaichi had said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could create a situation that would justify Japan's use of force.[1]
Taiwan prosecutors charge nine people over Nvidia-server exports to China
Keelung prosecutors filed charges against nine people, including employees of Nvidia and Super Micro. Taipei Times reported that prosecutors allege the defendants shipped high-end servers fitted with Nvidia chips subject to US export controls to China. Prosecutors said the companies had rigorous internal control procedures but alleged that the defendants acted together for large profits. Washington has restricted the export and sale of these semiconductors in China since 2022.[2]
Pro-government Adilet clears 71 per cent in Kazakhstan's new single chamber
Kazakhstan's electoral commission said Adilet won more than 71 per cent of Sunday's vote and turnout was 74 per cent. Al Jazeera reported that the new constitution replaced the two-chamber structure with a 145-seat single chamber. Adilet, created this year, absorbed the former ruling party Amanat. The four other parties entering parliament also support President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's administration, and the new legislature will sit as the Kurultai in a single house.[3]
