Readers’ Thoughts

January 2025

Trump and the New World Order

This is with reference to the cover story that appeared in SouthAsia in its December 2024 issue. The rise of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency was already on the cards, and eyebrows should not be raised over his re-arrival to such an important position. However, it is high time for the rest of the world to foresee the emerging scenario and take pre-emptive measures as per the New World Order, which is about to take place soon. A superpower nation like the United States will keep putting the weaker nations under its thumb, and we cannot anticipate a favorable scenario once Donald Trump assumes the presidential office. Global peace is in more danger than before. At the same time, the Middle East seems to bear the brunt of its lethargic approach towards the emerging trend dotted with instability, disorder, and worsening law and order situations. Against this backdrop, only a visionary and sensible leadership can save from the impending disaster.

Shazia Butt,
Lahore, Pakistan.

Ominous Sign

Ominous SignThe downfall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad happens to be a pivotal moment for Syria as well as also for Islamist movements in the Middle East. The eventual collapse of the Assad regime has reverberated globally. At the same time, the rest of the Middle East watched these hasty developments with mixed feelings—an underlying hope for a positive change alongside concerns over latent instability. In marked contrast, the Taliban responded with apparent enthusiasm. The victory of Syrian rebels could inspire opposition movements in Afghanistan and encourage moderate Taliban members to challenge their leader’s hardline stance. For the Taliban, this development is a mix of emotions. While the fall of a rival regime offers a symbolic win, the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) presents a direct ideological and strategic threat. HTS’s emphasis on inclusivity, tolerance for minorities, and democratic reform stands in stark contrast to the Taliban’s regressive policies and authoritarian rule.

Ashraf Ali,
Kabul, Afghanistan.

Goodbye Ashwin

Goodbye AshwinRavichandran Ashwin, India’s renowned off-spinner and one of cricket’s most celebrated bowlers, recently announced his immediate retirement from international cricket after the third Test against Australia in December. The 38-year-old claimed 537 wickets in 106 Tests at an average of 24.00, ranking seventh on the all-time list and second only to Anil Kumble (619) for India. He also played 116 One-Day Internationals and 65 T20Is. Ashwin was known for his innovative bowling and sharp cricketing intellect, but his sudden departure amid a Test series against Australia sparked a fierce debate. Ashwin’s surprise announcement stunned the cricketing world, leaving fans and experts alike taken aback by the suddenness of his decision. Be that as it may, Ravichandran Ashwin will be remembered for immense contributions to cricket.

Aftab Ahmed,
Karachi, Pakistan.

Booming Tourism Sector

Booming Tourism SectorBhutan’s premier luxury travel company has recently unveiled a new division called MICE Bhutan, which is focused on creating bespoke event experiences for business and leisure travelers. MICE Bhutan offers customized event solutions for business meetings and corporate events, combining luxurious retreats, team-building activities, and cultural exploration to enhance travel experiences in the Himalayan country. The initiative will help travelers choose from highly personalized itineraries featuring unique touches such as personalized mementos, exclusive chef’s table dining, and private cultural performances. To attract more MICE events to Bhutan, the country’s Department of Tourism is offering a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) waiver for up to five nights for MICE participants, available to all visitors entering Bhutan. This initiative allows visitors to extend their trip and discover Bhutan’s beauty while supporting the nation’s sustainable tourism goals with a commitment to sustainability, being environmentally responsible, and creating unforgettable and meaningful experiences.

Tshering Dorji,
Thimphu, Bhutan.

New Import Policy

New Import PolicyThe Sri Lankan government recently announced the removal of the vehicle import ban that was implemented in 2020 to ease the pressure on foreign exchange reserves due to the COVID-19 pandemic. From this year, the import of public transport vehicles will be permitted for the first time since early 2020, a timely initiative welcomed by the country’s vehicle importers’ association, which has convinced the government to lift the ban. As part of its IMF bailout conditions, Sri Lanka must bolster its foreign exchange reserves to avoid a crisis similar to 2022, when a foreign reserve shortage led to a lack of fuel and essential goods. In recognition of Sri Lanka’s recovery, the IMF has allowed vehicle imports to help boost state revenue through import duties. The depletion of foreign reserves in April 2022 led to an unprecedented economic crisis, resulting in the country’s first-ever sovereign default.

S. V. P. Perera,
Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Vaping Ban

Vaping is banned in 34 countries, including India and Thailand. Of late, a comprehensive vaping ban has been implemented in the Maldives, making the import of vaping devices and related products illegal. The use, possession, manufacture, sale, advertising, and free distribution of e-cigarettes and vapes are also prohibited. The ban has been imposed in response to public calls to protect youth from vaping, though opinions remain divided. Maldivians on social media—approximately one in four believed to smoke—have expressed strong support and fierce opposition. The Maldives NCD Alliance and the Cancer Society raised alarms about the sharp increase in e-cigarette use in recent years, urging the government to take swift action. Studies have shown that nicotine and other chemicals in vapes heighten the risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, and type-2 diabetes.

Munnir P. Pannirayiram,
Addu City, the Maldives.

New Year, Old Fear

New Year Old FearNepal welcomes the New Year with the same fear and concerns the country experienced last year. The year 2025 will determine whether Nepal can prioritize its economic and geopolitical interests over global issues. Most importantly, Kathmandu’s economic ties with neighbouring countries should remain a top priority. While the Nepalese economy made strides in the previous year, the current government must assess the impact of this progress and devise strategies to advance its economic interests for greater sustainability and profitability, as a lack of a focused approach could hinder further progress and more development. More attention should be given to leveraging electricity for domestic growth, potentially utilizing power generated through Chinese investment. While a liberalized regional market is valuable, BRI projects must align with Kathmandu’s key interests and requirements.

Binod V. Pratibha,
Kathmandu, Nepal.