12 Aug 2025
Cambridge Security Initiative explored “Intelligence and National Security in a Changing World"
Mark Logan Addresses Key Issues in East Asia Politics at Cambridge Security Initiative
Mark Logan, a long time East Asia politics watcher, recently shared his insights at the Cambridge Security Initiative (CSI), a distinguished organisation that connects business, government, and academic sectors to analyse security threats worldwide.
The CSi, headed by Sir Richard Dearlove, former Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service, featured a panel discussion on the pressing issue of Taiwan and the broader regional security landscape.
Logan’s extensive background includes serving as Vice-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary China Group and the Japan Group, where he worked to promote dialogue and understanding between the UK and these critical nations. His experience is further complemented by his tenure at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in China, where he gained valuable diplomatic insights into regional politics, security, and economic development.
During the discussion, Logan emphasised the importance of long-term strategic analysis in understanding the evolving security environment in East Asia. His remarks highlighted the complex political dynamics in the region, including China's expanding influence, Japan's security posture, and the ongoing tensions surrounding Taiwan.
The panel also featured Professor Olivia Cheung from King’s College London and Angus Cutler, a former senior executive at Deloitte and a spy thriller author. Their contributions enriched the debate by bringing academic and industry perspectives into the conversation. David Ludlow, who chaired the panel had: a career that spanned the public and private sectors. After stints in the British Embassy in Moscow at the end of the Gorbachev era, he spent two years working with David Owen at the International Conference on the Former Yugoslavia.
Logan’s participation underscores his commitment to providing nuanced insights into East Asia geopolitics, with a focus on fostering understanding and supporting informed policy decisions. As tensions and opportunities continue to shape the region, it remains vital for the UK to understand how best to shape strategic responses and to foster stability.