NK News: Top US officials set to visit South Korea, Japan next week: source

Two Trump administration officials that have played senior roles in US-DPRK diplomacy will travel to Seoul and Tokyo on Monday. The trip notably comes following recent inter-Korean tensions and President Moon Jae-in’s suggestion that the US and North Korea hold another summit ahead of November’s Presidential elections.

Focus Taiwan: Taiwan stages drill simulating response to an invasion by China

Taiwan staged a large-scale anti-landing drill ahead of it’s annual Han Kuang military exercises.

Straits Times: Vietnam protests Chinese military drills in South China Sea

Vietnam’s foreign ministry lodged a complaint with China, claiming recent military drills were “detrimental” to Beijing’s relationship with ASEAN.

Nikkei Asian Review: Bill targeting banks over Hong Kong security law passes US Senate

The US Senate passed legislation to penalize banks that do business with Chinese officials implementing Beijing’s new national security law.

Straits Times: Taiwan sets up office to help Hong Kongers relocate

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council unveiled a new office to help Hong Kongers migrate to the island following the imposition of Beijing’s new national security laws.

Asia Times: Australia defense spending hike aims at China

Australia unveiled a new $185 billion defense budget to challenge China’s threat in the Indo-Pacific.

Nikkei Asian Review: US bill grants refugee status to Hong Kong protesters

US lawmakers introduced a bipartisan bill that would grant refugee status to Hong Kongers fearing political persecution from Beijing.

South China Morning Post: National security law: thousands of protesters return to Hong Kong streets, openly defying ban on July 1 rally

Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Hong Kong to oppose Beijing’s newly imposed national security law.  At least 10 people were arrested by police exercising their new powers under the contentious legislation.

Japan Times: New swine flu found in China has pandemic potential, study says

Researchers in China discovered a new type of swine flu that is highly adapted to infect humans.

South China Morning Post: Indian and Chinese commanders meet as tensions remain high after deadly clash

Chinese and Indian commanders met on the Indian side of the disputed frontier for a second round of talks following a deadly clash earlier this month.